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25 Document(s) [ Subject: Groundwater ]

Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Coastal barrier systems | Flood control | Groundwater | Groundwater pollution | Gulf Coast Protection District | Interbasin water transfers | Water desalination | Water districts | Water supplies |
Library Call Number:
Session: 87th R.S. (2021)
Online version: View report [38 pages  File size: 2,424 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following:
  • SB 1160, 87th R.S., relating to the creation of the Gulf Coast Protection District and providing the authority to issue bonds; and
  • SB 2185, 87th R.S., relating to restrictions on certain water improvement districts.
2. Explore ways in which the state can further support the construction of a coastal barrier system.
3. Examine the condition of Texas’ water and flood mitigation infrastructure capabilities and consider future infrastructure needs. Evaluate sustainable funding sources to provide for water project development and infrastructure repair and replacement. Examine and make recommendations for cost-effective improvements that enhance the state’s available water supply and improve the state's ability to desalinate seawater.
4. Examine the state’s groundwater management policy and regulatory framework. Include a review of large-scale water transfers and their impact on groundwater resources. Make appropriate recommendations for legislation or state agency action to:
  • promote the achievement of planning goals under Chapter 36, Water Code, including those involving desired future conditions;
  • provide adequate transparency to the permit application process;
  • further the state's groundwater quality protection efforts, including an assessment of risks posed to groundwater by abandoned and deteriorated water wells and orphan oil and gas wells; and
  • promote conservation and waste prevention.
Supporting documents
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Committee meeting testimony, August 24, 2022
Library Call Number:
Session: 87th R.S. (2021)
Online version: View document [34 pages  File size: 188 kb]
Committee: Senate Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Border security | Cattle | Daylight saving time | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | Flood control | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Hydraulic fracturing | Infrastructure | Meat processing plants | Produced Water Consortium, Texas | Reservoirs | Rural areas | Rural economic development | Texas State Water Plan | Theft | Undocumented immigrants | Wastewater management | Water conservation | Water Development Board, Texas | Water recycling | Water supplies | Winter Storm Uri | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number: L1836.87 W291A
Session: 87th R.S. (2021)
Online version: View report [88 pages  File size: 4,475 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Water Utility Infrastructure: Evaluate the state's water infrastructure. Study and make recommendations on options to upgrade and update water infrastructure to address deferred maintenance, disasters, and water loss.
2. Water Supply: Review and make recommendations to complete specific projects identified in the 2022 State Water Plan. In light of recent changes to the global economy, consider the current regulatory process regarding innovative technology solutions to water supply needs, such as marine desalination, and make recommendations for their improvement.
3. Groundwater Management and Protection: Evaluate the status and effectiveness of the State's groundwater management process, including data used to support regional water planning and conservation goals. Report on the effectiveness of the State's groundwater protection efforts and whether statutory changes are needed to protect groundwater quality.
4. Rural Employment: Study and make recommendations on rural small business development and workforce needs. Consider and recommend innovative methods for business development in rural parts of the state.
5. Daylight Savings Time: Examine and report on how permanently maintaining daylight savings time impacts the agricultural community.
6. Rural Immigration: Consider the Federal government's open border policies and practices of releasing illegal immigrants in rural areas of the state. Report on the impact to rural Texas, and their local ability to address social, health, and law enforcement needs.
7. Meat Packing Facilities: Study the need for additional meat packing facilities in Texas. Evaluate and report on the increased cost to Texas ranchers and revenue lost in the Texas economy when meatpacking facilities are utilized outside of Texas.
8. Agricultural Theft: Study the impact of cattle theft on farming and ranching operations throughout Texas and recommend cost-effective measures to mitigate loss and increase security.
9. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs passed by the 87th Legislature, as well as relevant agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction. Specifically, make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, or complete implementation of the following:
  • SB 8, 86th R.S., Relating to state and regional flood planning;
  • SB 601, 87th R.S., Relating to the creation and activities of the Texas Produced Water Consortium;
  • SB 905, 87th R.S., Relating to guidance on the regulations applicable to the potable reuse of wastewater; and
  • HB 3516, 87th R.S., Relating to the regulation of the recycling of fluid oil and gas waste.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Aquifers | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | Flood control | Groundwater | Public Utility Commission of Texas | Springs | Surface water | Water Development Board, Texas | Water marketing | Water planning | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.86 N218h
Session: 86th R.S. (2019)
Online version: View report [76 pages  File size: 2,823 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 86th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following:
  • HJR 4, SB 7, and SB 8, which relate to statewide and regional flood planning and mitigation. Monitor the progress of the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) and other entities to provide for the planning, development, and financing of drainage, flood mitigation, and flood control projects statewide to strengthen the state's infrastructure and resiliency to future floods.
  • HB 720, which relates to appropriations of water for recharge of aquifers and use in aquifer storage and recovery projects. Monitor the rulemaking process for the permitting of unappropriated flows for aquifer storage and recovery projects by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
  • HB 721, which relates to reports on aquifer storage and recovery and aquifer recharge projects. Monitor the implementation by the TWDB of legislation to encourage the development of aquifer storage and recovery and aquifer recharge projects, including the completion of a statewide study of the state's aquifers' suitability for aquifer storage and recovery and aquifer recharge projects.
  • HB 722, which relates to the development of brackish groundwater. Monitor the designation of Brackish Groundwater Production Zones by the TWDB and the adoption of rules by groundwater conservation districts for the production of brackish groundwater from those Zones.
  • HB 807, which relates to the state and regional water planning process. Monitor the appointment of the Interregional Planning Council by the TWDB and the Council's progress toward increasing coordination among Regional Water Planning Groups.
2. Study the efforts of the TCEQ, the TWDB, and the Public Utility Commission of Texas to incentivize, promote, and preserve regional projects to meet water supply needs and encourage public and private investment in water infrastructure. Identify impediments or threats to regionalization with special emphasis on: prioritization in planning and implementing the State Water Plan, Regional Water Plan, and other recommended water supply projects; barriers to private investment and the development of public-private partnerships to implement needed water supply projects, including the retail water and wastewater industry, to address the state's growth challenges; public water and wastewater systems that are unable to meet federal and state standards due to inadequate operational capacity and factors that prevent such systems from being integrated into larger systems and processes that more easily facilitate the sale, transfer, or merger of systems; and state agency authority to regulate regional water supply pricing.
3. Monitor the joint planning process for groundwater and the achievement of the desired conditions for aquifers by groundwater conservation districts.
4. Monitor the State Auditor's review of agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The Chair shall seek input and periodic briefings on completed audits for the 2019 and 2020 fiscal years and bring forth pertinent issues for full committee consideration.
5. Study emerging issues related to groundwater-surface water interactions and the ongoing challenges associated with the bifurcated regulatory regimes for each of these water sources. *
6. Study the role of water markets in Texas. *
Committee: Senate Water and Rural Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Dams and levees | Emergency management | Groundwater | Hemp | Infrastructure | Penalties and sentences (Criminal justice) | Public demonstrations | River authorities | Water and wastewater utility rates and charges | Water planning | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.86 W291R
Session: 86th R.S. (2019)
Online version: View report [71 pages  File size: 254 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Future Water Supply: Examine current laws, processes, and water storage options and availability. Make recommendations promoting the state's water supply, storage, availability, valuation, movement, and development of new sources.
2. River Authority Infrastructure: Examine the roles and responsibilities of river authorities in maintaining their managed assets including, but not limited to, dams. Evaluate the impact on the economy, water supply, and flood control due to deferred maintenance. Make recommendations to promote infrastructure stability and maintain the usability of these bodies of water.
3. Groundwater Regulatory Framework: Study the state's groundwater regulatory framework and make recommendations to improve groundwater regulation, management, and permitting.
4. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committees on Natural Resources and Economic Development and Water and Rural Affairs passed by the 86th Legislature, as well as relevant agencies and programs under each committee's jurisdiction. Specifically, make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, or complete implementation of the following:
  • SB 6, SB 7, SB 8, and SB 500, relating to disaster response and recovery, disaster funds, state-wide flood planning, and dam maintenance;
  • SB 698, related to expedited permitting;
  • SB 700, relating to water utility ratemaking reform;
  • SB 2272, relating to certain amendment and revocation procedures;
  • HB 1325, relating to the production and regulation of hemp; and
  • HB 3557, relating to civil and criminal liability for engaging in certain conduct involving a critical infrastructure facility.
Committee: Senate Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Addicks Reservoir | Agriculture | Barker Reservoir | Dams and levees | Emergency communications | Emergency management | Environmental permits | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | Flood control | Flooding | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Occupational licenses | Rain and rainfall | Reservoirs | River authorities | Texas State Water Plan | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.85 Ag86r
Session: 85th R.S. (2017)
Online version: View report [36 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study and make recommendations on how to move forward with water infrastructure projects in the State Water Plan that will help mitigate floods through flood control, diversion, and storage projects. Evaluate plans for a possible third reservoir in addition to Addicks and Barker to control and alleviate additional flooding in the region. Additionally, review the current status of reservoir projects in Texas. Examine opportunities for coordination between federal and state agencies to develop flood mitigation infrastructure, and the ongoing maintenance and restoration of critical dam infrastructure.
2. Study and identify ways to improve the capacity and maintain the structure of the Addicks and Barker Reservoirs. Report on mechanisms that would ensure the public has access to timely and transparent release figures from reservoirs across the state.
3. Evaluate current state data-sharing standards for rainfall and stream gauges and whether regional flood management projects and flood warnings should be hosted in a centralized location, such as a state agency web page. Determine whether a statewide real-time flood warning system could be developed and coordinated through mobile devices, TxDOT electronic signage, communication devices and whether existing local and regional forecasting infrastructure could be integrated into a centralized inclement weather forecasting system.
4. Streamlining Water Permitting: Study and recommend changes that promote streamlining of water right permit issuance and the amendment process by the TCEQ for surface water, and that promote uniform and streamline permitting by groundwater conservation districts for groundwater. Evaluate more transparent process needs and proper valuation of water.
5. Regulatory Framework of Groundwater Conservation Districts and River Authorities: Study and make recommendations on the regulatory framework for managing groundwater in Texas to ensure that private property rights are being sufficiently protected. Study the role of river authorities and groundwater conservation districts including the state's oversight role of their operations and fees imposed.
6. Agricultural Fees: Review licensing, permitting, or registration requirements and fees imposed on the agriculture industry by licensing agencies within the committee's jurisdiction. Make recommendations for state licenses and fees that should be reduced, repealed or transitioned to private-sector enforcement.
7. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs during the 85th R.S., including, but not limited to: • SB 1511 (prioritization in the regional water plan); • SB 1538 (Floodplain Management Account uses); • SB 864 (GCD application of state water); • HB 2004 (Texas economic development fund for TDA); and • HB 3433 (adoption of rules affecting rural communities. Make recommendations for any legislative improvements needed to improve, enhance, or complete implementation including regional water planning, flood planning, and groundwater production.)
Committee: Senate Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Agriculture, Texas Department of | Animal diseases | Chronic Wasting disease | Deer | Flooding | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Interbasin water transfers | Junior water rights | Liens | Litter | Surface water | Texas State Water Plan | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 AG86r
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [98 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Surface Water/Groundwater: Study and make recommendations regarding the ownership, production, and transfer of surface water and groundwater in the state of Texas.
2. State Water Plan: Study and make recommendations on improving the process of developing and executing the State Water Plan.
3. Agricultural Liens: Study and make recommendations on improving the law in this state regarding agricultural liens under Chapter 70, Agricultural Code. The study should include whether sufficient safeguards exist to protect the financial interest agricultural producers have in their product.
4. Water Litter: Study and make recommendations on the effects of windblown and waterborne litter. The study should include an analysis of the economic effects of litter, any necessary methods to prevent and remediate litter, and an assessment of state and local programs to reduce litter.
5. Game & Ag. Product Safety: Study and make recommendations on improving the laws regarding the management of game animals, production of domestic fowl, and development of agricultural products in the State to reduce the occurrence and spread of disease and harmful pests.
6. Promotion of Texas Agriculture: Study the economic benefits the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Market Development Services provide to the state through promoting Texas Agricultural products. Review the current marketing services and strategies available to Texas producers and determine additional resources necessary to increase the Market Development Services capabilities. Make recommendations for legislative action, if needed.
7. Monitoring Charge: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs during the 84th R.S., and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically monitor the Texas Water Development Board's process in the identification and designation of brackish groundwater zones.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Coastal restoration | Environmental flows | Groundwater | Gulf Coast | Oil spills | Texas State Water Plan | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water marketing | Water planning |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 N218h
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [51 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Examine the regional and state water planning processes, with emphasis on the following: a. the integration of HB 4, 83 RS; b. the appropriate role of the state in ensuring that the process both supports regional goals and priorities and the water needs of the state as a whole, and how the state might encourage strategies to benefit multiple regions; c. the structure and operation of the regional planning groups; d. the interaction between the planning process and groundwater management; e. whether the "drought of record" remains the appropriate benchmark for planning; and f. any impediments to meeting the conservation, agricultural, and rural project goals set by HB 4, 83rd R.S., and possible new approaches to help meet these goals.
2. Evaluate the status of water markets in Texas and the potential benefits and challenges of expanded markets for water. Include an evaluation of greater interconnections between water systems through both engineered and natural infrastructure. Examine opportunities for incentives from areas receiving water supplies to areas providing those supplies that could benefit each area and the state as a whole.
3. Analyze the factors contributing to freshwater loss in the state, including evaporation, excess flows into the Gulf of Mexico, and infrastructure inefficiencies, and examine techniques to prevent such losses, including aquifer storage and recovery, off-channel storage, and infrastructure enhancements.
4. Evaluate the progress of seawater desalination projects near the Texas coast as a means of increasing water supplies and reducing strain on existing supplies, building on the work of the Joint Interim Committee to Study Water Desalination (83rd session). Examine the viability of the use of public-private partnerships and of methods by which the state might facilitate such a project.
5. Monitor the use of funds made available to Texas in relation to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Consider approaches to maximize the benefit of these funds for the long-term stability of the coastal economy and ecosystems.
6. Evaluate the status of legislation to encourage joint groundwater planning, including HB 200 (84R), and monitor ongoing legal developments concerning ownership and access to groundwater and the impact of these developments on property rights and groundwater management.
7. Determine the sources of water used by Texans in the production of food and fiber, and examine current water delivery methods and water conservation goals for agricultural use. Evaluate whether there are more efficient and effective water-usage management practices that could be employed in the agricultural industry, and determine the impact of crop insurance requirements on producers. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Agriculture & Livestock)
8. Determine if sufficient safety standards exist to protect groundwater contamination from disposal and injection wells. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Energy Resources)
9. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs; and e. review the surface water permitting process in Texas, including previous legislative attempts to modify the process, and assess the potential effects of these and other changes.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Aquifers | Environmental flows | Groundwater | Oil spills | Texas State Water Plan | Water finance | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.83 N218h
Session: 83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version: View report [112 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor the implementation of HB 4, 83rd R.S. and SJR 1, 83rd R.S. and the progress of the Texas Water Development Board and other entities in implementing this legislation to provide a stable, long-term funding source for the State Water Plan.
2. Evaluate the availability, management, and development of groundwater in the state. Consider the economic, environmental, and social impacts of groundwater usage and production in the agricultural, municipal, and energy sectors. In particular, examine methods to facilitate further development of brackish groundwater resources and to improve the consistency and certainty of permitting by groundwater districts without undercutting reasonable regional and local regulation of groundwater.
3. Explore opportunities to encourage voluntary protection and stewardship of privately owned lands in support of the state’s water supply and to protect environmental flow needs in Texas rivers. Examine methods in which state agencies, water rights holders, and non-governmental organizations can work together through programs like the Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Program and the Texas Water Trust.
4. Examine strategies to enhance the use of aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects, including a review of existing ASR facilities in Texas and elsewhere.
5. Monitor the use of funds provided or made available to Texas in relation to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and make recommendations on the appropriate use of these funds in the future. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
6. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Natural Resources, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2010 : a report to the House of Representatives, 82nd Texas Legislature
Subjects: Droughts | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Texas State Water Plan | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water planning | Water service |
Library Call Number: L1836.81 N218h
Session: 81st R.S. (2009)
Online version: View report [89 pages  File size: 879 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Evaluate groundwater regulations and permitting processes throughout the state, including the role of state agencies in groundwater management, the development of desired future conditions, and the adoption of groundwater management plans in relation to regional and state water planning.
2. Monitor the effects of current and proposed federal initiatives that could impact the implementation of the State Water Plan. Evaluate the policies and investments developed by other states dealing with water issues similar to the State of Texas.
3. Monitor ongoing drought conditions and initiatives to promote water conservation through the review of the following: state requirements for the submittal of water conservation plans and annual reporting; the "trigger" for use of drought contingency plans; recommendations by state agencies and the Water Conservation Advisory Council; and progress toward the development of recycled water resources and desalination projects.
4. Evaluate the regulatory model for investor-owned water and sewer utilities, including rate case process and timing, consultant fee recovery, overall cost reductions, and more effective consumer participation.
5. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report - Groundwater Management
Subjects: Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts |
Library Call Number: L1836.80 N219g
Session: 80th R.S. (2007)
Online version: View report [26 pages  File size: 1,317 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Monitor the implementation of HB 1763, 79th R.S., including progress by Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs) on joint planning within Groundwater Management Areas (GMA) and collaboration with entities within a GMA in joint planning including areas not covered by a GCD. Study the impact of HB 1763 on the following:
  • GCD creation within areas not covered by a GCD;
  • single or partial county GCDs;
  • consolidation with existing GCDs, and within priority groundwater management areas.
Investigate issues related to groundwater use in areas of the state without a Texas Water Development Board defined aquifer, such as the Barnett Shale. Evaluate the impact of permitting the increase of the cap on export fees by GCDs.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report - Oil, Gas and Alternative Fuel Issues
Library Catalog Title: The Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources interim report to the 80th Legislature : oil, gas, and alternative fuel issues
Subjects: Alternative energy | Biofuels | Groundwater | Liquefied natural gas | Mineral rights | Natural gas | Natural gas drilling | Natural gas industry | Oil drilling | Property rights | Water contamination | Water rights | Water wells |
Library Call Number: L1836.79 N219o
Session: 79th R.S. (2005)
Online version: View report [167 pages  File size: 21,935 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Identify areas of the state where surface or groundwater was contaminated by petroleum operations. Determine the appropriate regulatory and technical requirements to remediate the contamination and prevent future contamination, and recommend appropriate agency jurisdiction for preventing, responding and remediating such incidents.
2. Study the increasing use of liquefied natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane. Examine the way those products fit into a diverse fuel mix. Review the current status of LNG terminals on the Texas coast. Study mineral owners and surface owners rights and obligations for the manner in which they enter and use property. Make recommendations on ways in which surface and mineral owners could communicate more effectively. Monitor the Railroad Commission study of competition in the Texas natural gas pipeline industry.
3. Study and make recommendations relating to investment needs and economic barriers to developing bio-diesel, bio-fuels, ethanol, and other renewable products in Texas. Compare agriculturally-developed renewable fuel initiatives in other states.
4. Study the permitting exemptions and water well regulations in Sec. 36.117, Water Code. Review the jurisdiction over the regulation of groundwater pumping in conjunction with drilling and production of oil and gas.
5. Review mineral owners and surface owners rights and obligations for the manner in which they enter and use property. Make recommendations on ways in which surface and mineral owners could communicate more effectively.
Committee: Senate Water Policy, Select
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: The Senate Select Committee on Water Policy interim report to the 79th Legislature.
Subjects: Edwards Aquifer Authority | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | Groundwater | Junior water rights | Rule of capture | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water marketing | Water planning | Water quality management | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.78 W291p
Session: 78th R.S. (2003)
Online version: View report [166 pages  File size: 5,373 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study all issues related to ground and surface water law, policy and management, including, but not limited to: the role of federal, state, regional and local governments, and their coordination in setting consistent, nondiscriminatory water policies; the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) as it relates to water contracts; the role of the Edwards Aquifer Authority; the role of groundwater conservation districts; regional water planning process; conjunctive use of both ground and surface water resources; rule of capture; historic use standards; water infrastructure and financing; interbasin transfers; junior water rights; conservation; water quality standards; drought preparedness; and water marketing.
2. Monitor the three on-going demonstration desalination projects by the Texas Water Development Board as one step toward securing an abundant water supply to meet Texas' future water supply needs. Study regulatory barriers that impair cost effectiveness of desalination (coastal and brackish) and how to facilitate use of this water source by municipalities.
Committee: Senate Water Policy, Select, Subcommittee on Lease of State Water Rights
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report to the Senate Select Committee on Water Policy, 78th interim.
Subjects: General Land Office, Texas | Groundwater | State land | Water marketing |
Library Call Number: L1836.78 W291pw
Session: 78th R.S. (2003)
Online version: View report [120 pages  File size: 8,848 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Study proposals to lease permanent school fund and permanent university lands and their water rights for the purposes of developing and marketing water. Analyze the present and future effects of such proposals on local aquifers, historic stream flows, local underground water conservation districts, and other public and private water interests. Study the process by which the General Land Office considers proposals to lease state water rights, including methodology for holding open meetings, obtaining public input, meeting competitive bidding requirements, and coordination with TCEQ and other governmental units with possible regulatory oversight. Study and evaluate the current and future value of water rights that may be leased to private entities, including the value to the state, residential and commercial interests.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Natural Resources, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2000 : a report to the House of Representatives, 77th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Groundwater pollution | Rule of capture | Water planning | Water supplies | Water wells | Wetlands |
Library Call Number: L1836.76 n218h
Session: 76th R.S. (1999)
Online version: View report [91 pages  File size: 4,882 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study all issues related to groundwater availability, including the role and needs of groundwater conservation districts to ensure effective management of the resource. Consider the effectiveness and feasibility of aquifer-based management, and the adequacy of data and modeling for regional water planning efforts. Assess the implementation of SB 1911, 76th R.S..
2. Assess the condition of abandoned or deteriorated water wells and the need for state and local involvement to address potential problems.
3. Study the state's criteria and regulations for determining potential sites for wetlands mitigation efforts.
4. Conduct active oversight of the agencies under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Texas Groundwater Resources
Library Catalog Title: The Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources interim report to the 77th Legislature : Texas groundwater resources.
Subjects: Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Rule of capture | Water planning | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.76 n219g
Session: 76th R.S. (1999)
Online version: View report [85 pages  File size: 2,131 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Develop a comprehensive study of the state's groundwater resources, keeping a strong focus on the need for conservation. The Committee shall examine a regional approach to groundwater management, inventory the availability of groundwater, and consider the future regulation of groundwater and the role of groundwater districts.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Natural Resources, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1998 : a report to the House of Representatives, 76th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Concentrated animal feeding operations | Dams and levees | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Legislative process | Surface water pollution | Wastewater management | Water districts | Water quality management | Weather modification |
Library Call Number: L1836.75 n218h
Session: 75th R.S. (1997)
Online version: View report [75 pages  File size: 3,487 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Conduct active oversight of agencies under the committee's jurisdiction.
2. Study issues related to dam safety, including the condition of dams and the legal authority and financing necessary to make needed repairs.
3. Monitor the implementation of HB 1542, 75th R.S., including the use and effectiveness of wastewater facility general permits and the potential for expanding the types and number of facilities that could be regulated by such permits.
4. Evaluate the benefits of the House Rules requirement that a committee chair send certain bills and joint resolutions creating water districts to the Legislative Budget Board for a water development policy statement.
5. Review the continued need for exemptions and exceptions to permitting found in Section 36.117, Texas Water code, and potential impacts on groundwater supplies and groundwater conservation districts.
6. Study the success of rainfall enhancement programs in Texas and evaluate the role of the state's participation in such weather modification efforts.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Committee on Natural Resources, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1992 : a report to the House of Representatives, 73rd Legislature.
Subjects: Edwards Aquifer | Edwards Aquifer Authority | Groundwater | Petroleum storage tanks | Solid waste disposal | Special taxing districts | Water districts | Water planning | Water quality management | Water supplies | Water wells |
Library Call Number: L1836.72 n219h
Session: 72nd R.S. (1991)
Online version: View report [80 pages  File size: 3,830 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor and oversee legislation enacted during the 72nd Regular and Special Called Session that was considered by the Natural Resources Committee; Performance Audit Review Recommendations; and any agency-initiated changes.
2. Continue studies on the regulation and protection of the Edwards Aquifer, including but not limited to: A. Examining implications of future legal judgements to be entered regarding the Edwards; B. Searching for an equitable solution for all regional interest, including downstream users of the Edwards; C. Studying ways to create a high quality and dependable water source for San Antonio and surrounding areas; D. Looking at possibility of a mandatory region-wide uniform conservation program/voluntary demand reduction program.
3. Continue work on the revision of the Water Code.
4. Investigate the best methods for financing water quality initiatives and other environmental protection programs. Include studying cost of environmental programs in terms of property taxes, fees or economic development.
5. Study the creation and role of solid waste management districts.
Committee: Joint Edwards Aquifer, Special
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Committee report to the 72nd Legislature / Special Committee on the Edwards Aquifer.
Subjects: Edwards Aquifer | Edwards Aquifer Authority | Groundwater | Groundwater conservation districts | Water rights | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.71 ed85
Session: 71st R.S. (1989)
Online version: View report [218 pages  File size: 8,858 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. The committee shall be assigned to: (a) review and study scientific data on the Edwards Aquifer from various public agencies, including the Bureau of Economic Geology, The Texas Water Development Board, the Texas Water Commission, the Edwards Underground Water District, and the United States Geological Survey; (b) consider priorities for the uses of the Edwards Aquifer, considering its storage capacity, its recharge and retention capabilities, and its ability to transmit water and provide water of high quality; (c) explore and suggest alternatives for supplying adequate water for regional needs at reasonable costs; (d) determine the effects of limiting groundwater withdrawals from the Edwards Aquifer to an amount less than average annual recharge; (e) consider allocation mechanisms for the aquifer; (f) consider whether amendments to existing water law are needed; (g) determine the feasibility of pumping to augment or replace springflow for the purpose of meeting downstream need without waste, the impact on downstream needs, and whether additional studies should be contracted for as funds are available; (h) examine present institutional arrangements for water resource management in the region of the Edwards Aquifer and hydrologically connected river basins, and examine alternative institutional arrangements; (i) examine alternative methods of managing the aquifer, with and without imposing limits on pumping; (j) review the costs, benefits, and feasibility of recharge and other projects, including consideration of fair methods of funding such projects; (k) review and consider modifications to water rights and policies affecting development of surface water in the western part of the Edwards Aquifer region, and (l) investigate and make recommendations on any other aspects of groundwater management, that, in the judgment of the committee would be useful to the legislature's decision making.
Supporting documents
Committee: Joint Edwards Aquifer, Special
Title: Proclamation
Library Catalog Title: Proclamation
Library Call Number: L1800.1 p926
Session: 71st R.S. (1989)
Online version: View document [1 pages  File size: 116 kb]
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report to the 70th Legislature / Senate Committee on Natural Resources.
Subjects: Alternative energy | Colonias | Drinking water | Gambling | Groundwater | Hazardous waste | Horse racing | Houston, Texas | Natural gas | Natural gas industry | Oil industry | Solid waste disposal | Texas Panhandle | Wastewater management | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.69 n219s
Session: 69th R.S. (1985)
Online version: View report [152 pages  File size: 4,482 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the problems associated with inadequate water and wastewater systems in colonias. Examine some of the resources and funds outside the Water Development Board that could be used to improve water and sewer service in the colonias. *
2. Study issues associated with water supplies in Houston, including groundwater availability, subsistence, flooding, urban runoff and non-point source water pollution. *
3. Study groundwater use, quality and protection in the El Paso area. *
4. Review alternatives to landfills and injection wells for the disposal of hazardous wastes. Consider methods to treat or destroy hazardous wastes, as well as efforts to reduce waste production.
5. Review the history of horse racing in Texas; consider the possible economic and social costs and benefits of pari-mutuel betting on horse races. Study the predicted effects of legalizing pari-mutuel betting the Texas farm economy. *
6. Review development of alternative energy sources and renewable energy sources; consider methods to encourage the development of renewable energy sources in Texas.
7. Hold public hearings on issues related to the production of white oil (chilled, condensed natural gas) in the Texas Panhandle. Consider the effects of the Railroad Commission's ruling on white oil on the oil and gas industry and the economy of the Texas Panhandle. Review federal court actions related to the dispute.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Report of the Texas House of Representatives, Natural Resources Committee : a report to the House of Representatives, 69th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Flooding | Groundwater | Special taxing districts | Surface water | Water conservation | Water districts | Water policy | Water quality management | Water rights | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.68 n219h
Session: 68th R.S. (1983)
Online version: View report [35 pages  File size: 1,065 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor all activities and have budget oversight responsibilities for those agencies, boards and commissions as listed in Rule 3, Section 23.
2. To investigate and determine the advisability and constitutionality of enacting a single statute authorizing governing body members of conservation and reclamation districts created by special legislation to serve up to four year terms.
3. To investigate and monitor all efforts being made in Texas with regard to, and determine the potential for, increased ground water production and supplies through enhanced recovery methods.
4. To investigate the need to enact legislation relating to surface water rights.
5. To assist the House-Senate Joint Committee on Water Resources in its study of Texas water problems.
6. To assess and investigate the need for state action to ensure the future environmental quality of Clear Lake and to preserve the sensitive ecosystems of said Lake.
7. To investigate and identify appropriate and workable state responses to the problem of non-localized flooding.
8. To investigate and recommend legislation for management of ground water.
Supporting documents
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: SR 719
Library Call Number: SR 719
Session: 67th R.S. (1981)
Online version: View document [4 pages  File size: 1,047 kb]
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim update - redfish, hazardous waste, coastal annexation, marine traffic safety, energy, and marine accretion, August 10, September 10, and November 16, 1981
Library Catalog Title: Minutes
Library Call Number: L1803.9 N219 67
Session: 67th R.S. (1981)
Online version: View document [19 pages]
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Report of the Texas House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee : a report to the House of Representatives, 65th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Edwards Aquifer | Groundwater | Rule of capture | San Antonio, Texas | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water Development Board, Texas | Water districts | Water marketing | Water planning | Water Quality Board, Texas | Water rights | Water Rights Commisssion, Texas | Water supplies | Weather modification |
Library Call Number: L1836.64 n219
Session: 64th R.S. (1975)
Online version: View report [60 pages  File size: 1,912 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study resouce depletion and the need for water within the state.
2. Study underground water laws as they relate to withdrawal and sale.
3. Review water rights adjudication act procedures.
4. Consider the need for revision in the laws governing groundwater districts, levee improvement districts, water control and improvement districts and irrigation districts.
5. Study San Antonio Water Supply problems.
6. Consider the possibility of amalgamating the water agencies.

* This represents an abstract of the report contents. Charge text is incomplete or unavailable.

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