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31 Document(s) [ Subject: Water conservation ]

Committee: Senate Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Austin Water | Centennial Parks Conservation Fund | Electricity transmission and distribution | Electronic security | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | Groundwater | Information Resources, Texas Department of | Licensing and Regulation, Texas Department of | Parks and Wildlife, Texas Department of | Public Utility Commission of Texas | Public Utility Counsel, Office of | Ransomware | Rio Grande Compact | Rio Grande River | State parks | State Water Implementation Fund for Texas | Terrorism | Texas Water Fund | Veterinarians | Veterinary Medical Examiners, Texas State Board of | Wastewater management | Water and sewer utilities | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water Development Board, Texas | Water service | Workforce |
Library Call Number: L1836.88 W291A
Session: 88th R.S. (2023)
Online version: View report [319 pages  File size: 45,972 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Water System Reliability: Evaluate water systems in Texas and identify opportunities to better equip those systems to serve the public. Review the coordination of relevant state agencies dealing with Texas water issues and identify opportunities for improved coordination and effectiveness.
2. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs passed by the 88th 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 28,88th R.S., relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board;
  • SB 1289, 88th R.S., relating to the disposal of reclaimed wastewater;
  • SB 1414, 88th R.S, relating to the temporary regulation of the practice of veterinary medicine by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; and
  • SB 1648, 88th R.S., relating to the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund.
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 Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Agriculture | Agriculture, Texas Department of | Emergency management | Irrigation | Litter | Livestock | Property taxes | Soil pollution | Water conservation | Water planning | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 Ag86
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [25 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Evaluate policy challenges to the state’s agriculture and livestock industry, including long-term impacts of price declines in oil and natural gas; the availability of natural resources, including water, necessary to operate the industries; and the mitigation of and preparation for potential future hazards to the industries caused by natural disaster, drought, or disease.
2. 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 Natural Resources)
3. Evaluate ways in which Texas can continue to promote our domestic agricultural products, across the nation and internationally, and to strengthen our state's international ties for the purpose of exporting Texas food and fiber. (Joint charge with the House Committee on International Trade & Intergovernmental Affairs)
4. Study the impacts of windblown trash on agriculture and ranching.
5. Study the appraisal of agricultural land for taxation and related issues, including the change-of-use "rollback" provision. Examine the impact of the current appraisal system of agricultural land for taxation on rural economic development.
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 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; 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
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 Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Agriculture | Agriculture, Texas Department of | Animal diseases | Border crossings | Nuisance abatement | Right to Farm Act, Texas | Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas | Swine | Urban sprawl | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 Ag86
Session: 83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version: View report [42 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the feasibility of the creation of a border agricultural inspection training program and the authority of Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) employees to augment federal inspectors at Texas border land ports of entry. The study should include similar subject matter to HB 3761, 83rd R.S.. Measure and estimate the increase in state revenue and secondary economic benefits that could be created from implementing the efficiency measures in HB 3761, 83rd R.S. as a way to offset costs for additional state inspectors.
2. Evaluate the Texas Right to Farm Act and determine if certain recommendations and updates to the law should be made in efforts to protect agricultural operations.
3. Examine current statutes and rules to determine any necessary enhancements that can assist in the eradication of feral hogs by using practical solutions and effective eradication techniques. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Culture, Recreation and Tourism)
4. 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 Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Agriculture | Agriculture, Texas Department of | Brush control | Drug testing | Firefighters | Forest Service, Texas A&M | Horse racing | Horses | Hunger | Racing Commission, Texas | Rural Affairs, Texas Department of | Urban areas | Veterinarians | Water conservation | Wildfires |
Library Call Number: L1836.82 Ag86
Session: 82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version: View report [56 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Evaluate the role of community gardens and urban farming efforts that increase access to healthy foods and examine the possible impact that state and local policies have on the success of programs of this type. Determine the feasibility of policies to support these efforts, especially in high-population areas. (Joint with the House Committee on Urban Affairs)
2. Study the wildfire response performed by the Texas Forest Service and cooperating state agencies. Examine specifically how state laws and regulations could be enhanced to improve response effectiveness across the state. Study both the available causes of wildfires and mitigation and make recommendations as needed.
3. Study the adequacy of access to veterinarian care in rural areas of the state. Determine the impact that a lack of access may have on the agriculture business in Texas.
4. Examine the current enforcement system for performance-enhancing drug testing show horses, performance horses, and race horses in Texas. Specifically, review currently prohibited drugs and quantities to determine if any changes should be made to existing law. Compare the state's current regulations to other systems around the country and make specific recommendations on how the state's system could be improved.
5. Study the viability of cedar eradication as a means to enhance resource conservation.
6. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 82nd Legislature. Specifically, monitor the consolidation of the Texas Department of Rural Affairs into the Texas Department of Agriculture's Rural Economic Division, ensuring that rural communities are not negatively affected by the consolidation.
Committee: Senate Agriculture, Rural Affairs, and Homeland Security
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Agriculture | Aquaculture | Diet and nutrition | Droughts | Fire prevention | Firing ranges | Food safety | Food stamps | Grain elevators and warehouses | Horse slaughter | Horses | Land conservation | Obesity | Ranches and ranching | Rural areas | Small farms | Texas A&M AgriLife Research | Veterinarians | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.82 Ag86r
Session: 82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version: View report [47 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review the impact of the drought on the Texas agricultural and ranching industry.
2. Develop methods and legislative recommendations to minimize the effects of drought and respond to the challenges for farmers and ranchers.
3. The committee should focus on the following:
  • Implementation of best management practices for agricultural conservation
  • Alternatives to federal assistance due to drought losses
  • Long-term economic impact of the drought on the agricultural sector of the Texas economy
  • Better management of federal, state, and local parkland/preserve-land to reduce fire risk, including cooperative fire mitigation efforts with surrounding properties and neighborhoods
  • Analysis of Texas forest service and land management recommendations and options from other states for mitigating risk
4. Study and make recommendations for ways to increase investment, employment and production in Texas agriculture. Include a review of current land use and market trends as they relate to agricultural use and make recommendations for ways to support and enhance small farm and ranch operations.
5. Study current federal, state and local safeguards regarding seafood consumption in Texas. Review existing academic studies, and federal, state, and private data relating to the safety of imported seafood, and provide recommendations on the need for additional studies and testing related to safety advisories for the public.
6. Assess the current veterinary medical workforce, and make recommendations to address any disparities between small animal (companion) and large animal (food/fiber) veterinarians. Review the Rural Veterinary Medical Loan program (RVML) and make recommendations to enhance the use of RVML funds and other funding sources to increase the veterinary medical workforce.
7. Review the impact of state laws relating to the closure of horse slaughter facilities across the United States. Analyze the impact on the equine industry and agricultural sector of the Texas economy.
8. Examine ways to increase the use of Texas agricultural products in healthy foods readily available to Texas consumers. Evaluate the role of community initiatives in reducing obesity and diet-related diseases and make recommendations to support state and local efforts.
9. Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Affairs, 82nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the implementation and effects of current and proposed federal laws and regulations, including Environmental Protection Agency initiatives that may impact the Texas farming and ranching industry.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Coal mining | Droughts | Electric power plants | Electricity supplies | Environmental Quality, Texas Commission on | General Land Office, Texas | Hydraulic fracturing | Irrigation | Natural gas production | Oil production | Parks and Wildlife, Texas Department of | Uranium mines | Water conservation | Water desalination | Water Development Board, Texas | Water planning | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.82 N218h
Session: 82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version: View report [184 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor the ongoing statewide drought and the performance of state, regional, and local entities in addressing it. Examine the impact of the drought on the state water plan, including an evaluation of how well the state's existing water resources can meet demand, the need for additional funding sources to implement the plan, and the effectiveness of current drought planning and drought management policies. Identify short-term and long-term strategies to help the state better cope with drought and assess any obstacles, including state and federal regulations, to implementation of these strategies.
2. Examine the interplay of water and energy resources and needs in the state. Study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of water use in energy production and exploration, including the impacts of this use on regional and state water planning. Determine the current and likely future water needs of power generation and energy production, and evaluate options to develop new or alternative supplies. Include an evaluation of current issues involving water use for oil and gas production and related water quality issues.
3. Evaluate the status of desalination projects in Texas. Include an evaluation of the regulation of brackish groundwater and whether opportunities exist to facilitate better utilization of this groundwater to meet future needs.
4. Study ways to enhance incentives for water conservation in agricultural irrigation.
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.
Supporting documents
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Testimony, Aquifer Group, LLC, A Discussion of Solutions, March 9, 2010 (Subject: Aquifer Storage and Watershed Restoration Can Sustainably and Economically Augment Groundwater Supplies and Environmental Water Flows if the State Provides an Adequate Regulatory Framework)
Library Catalog Title: Minutes
Library Call Number: L1801.9 N218H 81 2010: MAR 9
Session: 81st R.S. (2009)
Online version: View document [17 pages  File size: 26,248 kb]
Committee: House State Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on State Affairs, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2010
Subjects: Alternative energy | Climate change | Electric power plants | Electricity supplies | Electricity transmission and distribution | Energy conservation | State buildings | Undocumented immigrants | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.81 St29h
Session: 81st R.S. (2009)
Online version: View report [74 pages  File size: 1,777 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review state compliance with federal law regarding undocumented immigrants. Evaluate the costs of services and benefits provided to undocumented immigrants by state agencies and local governments.
2. Examine state policy on "green" technologies for all state buildings and costs associated with such implementation.
3. Monitor federal legislation and regulatory initiatives pertaining to climate change and its effects on utilities and consumers. Consider Texas' response to proposals and make recommendations as to any further preparations.
4. Examine the state's portfolio of electric generation resources, including traditional sources, emerging renewable technologies, and energy efficiency. Determine whether the existing state regulatory programs and incentives are adequate to meet the energy needs of the future. Consider factors relating to reliability, requirements for additional transmission, or auxiliary services. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Energy Resources
5. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: House House Administration
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on House Administration, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2008 : a report to the House of Representatives, 81st Texas Legislature
Subjects: Energy conservation | Historical monuments | Proxy voting | Public officials' security details | Rules of the Texas House of Representatives | Texas State Capitol | Texas State Capitol grounds | Voting systems | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.80 AD65h
Session: 80th R.S. (2007)
Online version: View report [14 pages  File size: 710 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study and make recommendations with assistance from the State Energy Conservation Office on ways to conserve electricity and water at the Texas State Capitol.
2. Review potential sites for monuments on the Texas State Capitol grounds.
3. Make recommendations for additional security measures within the Texas State Capitol, the Capitol Extension, and the Texas House Chamber.
4. Study and make recommendations for alternative voting devices in the Texas House Chamber.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report - Air Quality
Subjects: Air pollution | Air pollution control technology | Air quality | Arsenic | Barton Springs | Edwards Aquifer | Electric power plants | Mercury | Surface water pollution | Texas Emissions Reduction Plan | Water conservation | Water planning | Water quality management | Water quality protection zones |
Library Call Number: L1836.80 N219i
Session: 80th R.S. (2007)
Online version: View report [165 pages  File size: 1,439 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review Texas' current air emissions inventory and evaluate the need for additional data to enhance or improve the inventory. Review current federal, state and local incentive programs related to emissions reductions and recommend improvements.
2. Study and assess the use of advanced control technologies for the reduction of point source pollution emissions, including, but not limited to:
  • Identifying state-of-the-art pollution control technologies;
  • Identifying facilities which could benefit from state-of-the-art control technologies;
  • Identifying mechanisms for implementing state-of-the-art controls in Texas;
  • Reviewing the ability of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to regulate the use of pollution control technologies, including possible legislative options to grant, improve, or mandate TCEQ actions to implement state-of-the-art control technologies; and
  • Investigating the use of different approaches or methods in regulating emissions based on geographical/regional locations around the state.
3. Assess the environmental impact of new electric generation sources and technologies. Collect and evaluate data related to use and conservation of water used in the production of energy. Examine the need to include electric generation facility water needs in regional water plans.
4. Study and assess issues concerning mercury and arsenic emissions, including, but not limited to:
  • identifying the sources of mercury and arsenic pollution in air and water;
  • investigating the status of drinking water, reservoir, river, estuary, and fish and wildlife mercury and arsenic monitoring programs in Texas;
  • investigating the implementation by TCEQ of the Federal Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR) on power plants in Texas;
  • studying the potential costs and benefits of including all coal/lignite burning sources in Texas, not just power plants, into the State's CAMR program; and
  • determining the legislative and regulatory mechanisms and advisability of including all coal/lignite burning sources into the State's CAMR program.
5. Study the need for regional water quality standards, particularly in the Edwards and Barton Springs recharge zones.
Committee: House Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Agriculture & Livestock, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2006 : a report to the House of Representatives, 80th Texas Legislature
Subjects: Alternative energy | Biofuels | Forest Service, Texas A&M | Horses | Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas | Veterinarians | Veterinary Medical Examiners, Texas State Board of | Water conservation | Water Development Board, Texas | Wildfires |
Library Call Number: L1836.79 Ag86
Session: 79th R.S. (2005)
Online version: View report [36 pages  File size: 6,015 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Explore the need for both the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) program and the Program for Assessment of Veterinary Medical Education (PAVE) for certification of students who graduate from foreign veterinary colleges.
2. Assess the need for new rules and regulations to govern non-veterinary practitioners of animal care, specifically equine dentistry, as well as the potential need for veterinary supervision of certain practices.
3. Research and determine the potential contributions of Texas agriculture to energy supply, including examination of the role of ethanol, biodiesel, and biomass.
4. Determine if a new comprehensive water conservation program is needed within the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board focusing on water conservation and water supply enhancement. (Joint interim charge with the House Committee on Natural Resources.)
5. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: House Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Natural Resources, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2006 : a report to the House of Representatives, 80th Texas Legislature
Subjects: Environmental flows | Irrigation | Municipal utility districts | Soil erosion | Special utility districts | Wastewater management | Water conservation | Water districts | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.79 N218h
Session: 79th R.S. (2005)
Online version: View report [68 pages  File size: 8,003 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Explore the benefits and concerns associated with Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs), including as assessment of the appropriateness of granting districts the additional powers of other special districts. Evaluate the impact of MUDs on economic growth and development, as well as the overall tax implications, including and evaluation of the provision of municipal and county services on residents lining in MUDs. Review public disclosure and notification requirements associated with MUDs, as well as bonding authority of some districts.
2. Consider the potential for increased outdoor water savings through landscape water conservation, including irrigation audit requirements, turf replacement programs, and the provision of certain landscape options for prospective home buyers.
3. Examine state wastewater re-use policies, including an assessment of potential changes or clarifications to the Texas Water Code.
4. Continue the study of the Commission on Water for Environmental Flows, and further evaluate options for providing adequate environmental flows.
5. Determine if a new comprehensive water conservation program is needed within the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, focusing on water conservation and water supply enhancement. (Joint interim charge with the House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock)
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim Report - Water Issues
Library Catalog Title: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources interim report to the 80th Legislature : water issues
Subjects: Droughts | Interbasin water transfers | Texas State Water Plan | Water conservation | Water marketing | Water planning | Water rights |
Library Call Number: L1836.79 N219w
Session: 79th R.S. (2005)
Online version: View report [381 pages  File size: 47,137 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Study and assess 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, including river authorities and other water management entities, and their jurisdiction, authority, and coordination in setting consistent, nondiscriminatory water policies;
  • the statutory, regulatory, and/or economic impediments to implementing key water management strategies recommended in the Regional and State Water Plans;
  • the role of groundwater conservation districts;
  • conjunctive use of both ground and surface water resources;
  • rule of capture;
  • historic use standards;
  • water infrastructure and financing, including financing sources for new water resources;
  • interbasin transfers;
  • water rights, including environmental flows, junior water rights;
  • the transition of water rights from agricultural to municipal and industrial uses and coordination among transitioning water management authorities;
  • conservation;
  • drought preparedness;
  • and water marketing.
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: Joint Water Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: The Texas Joint Committee on Water Resources interim report to the 78th Legislature.
Subjects: Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Texas | Natural resources conservation | Off-road vehicles | Rivers | San Marcos River Foundation | Water conservation | Water Development Board, Texas | Water planning | Water rights | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.77 w291
Session: 77th R.S. (2001)
Online version: View report [94 pages  File size: 527 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. The Committee shall conduct an interim study and make recommendations regarding: (1)increasing the efficient use of existing water resources; (2)developing sufficient long-term financing strategies; (3)improving existing water conveyance systems; (4)water marketing; (5)determining the appropriate role of environmental and wildlife concerns in water permitting and water development; and (6)protection of the natural condition of beds and banks of the state-owned watercourses.
2. The Committee shall: (1) meet at least annually with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission and the Texas Water Development Board; and (2) receive information relating to: (A)encouraging the effective development of water marketing and water movement; (B)prioritizing the use of state funds for financing the development and conservation of water resources; and (C)measures for encouraging donation of water rights, for protecting instream uses.
Committee: House Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1998 : a report to the House of Representatives, 76th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Agricultural subsidies | Agriculture | Boll weevils | Natural resources conservation | Rural issues | Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas | Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Program | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.75 ag83
Session: 75th R.S. (1997)
Online version: View report [113 pages  File size: 5,209 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the vertical integration and value-added processing opportunities for Texas products.
2. Study the implementation and effects of boll weevil eradication legislation.
3. Monitor the implementation of federal farm legislation and report its effects on Texas.
4. Conduct active oversight of agencies under committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report to the 71st Legislature / Senate Committee on Natural Resources.
Subjects: Aquaculture | Artificial reefs | Beaches | Coastal erosion | Coastal protection | Colonias | Cotton production | Drinking water | Environmental protection | Exotic species | Fish | Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. | Fishing | Insects | Land conservation | Natural resources conservation | Offshore structures | Property rights | Rivers | Sewer service | Solid waste disposal | Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Program | Texas Open Beaches Act | Water conservation | Water rights | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.70 n219
Session: 70th R.S. (1987)
Online version: View report [158 pages  File size: 5,126 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Initiate an interim study of a statewide artificial reef plan and further study various uses of abandoned oil and gas rigs. Give careful consideration to reef design, preparation, and component grouping and spacing, siting, and fisheries resource management and analyze and compare biological effectiveness, cost factors, and long-term benefits for various design options and preparation techniques.
2. Review proposals for a protection system for Texas rivers, similar to the federal Wild and Scenic rivers program. *
3. Study current efforts to control the boll weevil in Texas, including integrated pest management (IPM) programs. *
4. Review the problems associated with colonias; make recommendations for legislative action to halt the growth of illegal subdivisions and to provide water and sewer service to existing developments. *
5. Study the issues associated with aquaculture and fish farming. *
6. Study coastal erosion; consider the advantages, disadvantages and economic impacts of beach erosion control methodologies. *
7. Review the definitions of wetlands used by state and federal government agencies. Study the potential impact on wetlands management of the definition used in the Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetlands Inventory project. *
Committee: House Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report to the 70th Texas Legislature / Texas House of Representatives, Committee on Agriculture and Livestock.
Subjects: Agricultural loans | Agriculture, Texas Department of | Animal Health Commission, Texas | Brush control | Cotton production | Liens | Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas | Structural Pest Control Board, Texas | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service | Texas A&M AgriLife Research | Water conservation | Water planning | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.69 ag83
Session: 69th R.S. (1985)
Online version: View report [52 pages  File size: 2,281 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the effects on agriculture of the water plan enacted in HB 2, 69th R.S..
2. Study the efficacy of current commodity buyer registration requirements.
3. Study federal and private sources of financing and interagency contracting practices of the State's agricultural agencies.
4. Study the State's role in the provision of credit for agricultural enterprises.
5. Study the effects of HB 1741, 69th R.S., relating to agricultural liens.
6. Study the implementation of the Texas Brush Control Program.
7. Monitor all activities and to have budget oversight responsibilities for the following agencies: State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners; Structural Pest Control Board; Texas Rodent and Predatory Animal Control Service; Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory; Natural Fibers and Food Protein Commission; State Soil and Water Conservation Board; Texas Animal Health Commission; Texas Agricultural Extension Service; Texas Agricultural Experiment Station; Texas Department of Agriculture. *
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, 70th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Agricultural Loan Guaranty Program | Agricultural loans | Agriculture | Bond issues | Irrigation | Junior water rights | Occupational licenses | Reservoirs | Water conservation | Water planning | Water rights | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.69 n219
Session: 69th R.S. (1985)
Online version: View report [44 pages  File size: 1,356 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. To study and analyze the effectiveness of techniques employed in promoting the constitutional propositions of HJR 6, 69th R.S., and the concerns of the electorate when voting on major water legislation.
2. To study the effectiveness of the pilot agricultural loan program.
3. To study the effectiveness of the bond insurance program.
4. To study and recommend enabling legislation for an agricultural loan program if the Texas Agricultural Water Conservation Bonds approved by HJR 6, 69th R.S., are approved by the electorate.
5. To study the availability of measures to reduce reservoir construction costs to the state and in particular the advisability of enacting legislation to defease outstanding water development bonds.
6. To study the need for, and the provisions that should be included in, legislation requiring certification of water and waste analysis.
7. To study the availability of water for future appropriation in major basins of the state in light of the Texas Supreme Court's decision in No. C-1620.
8. To study the need to define "unappropriated water" and to amend other statutes pertaining to water rights.
Committee: House Agriculture and Livestock
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report to the 69th Legislature, Texas House of Representatives / Committee on Agriculture and Livestock.
Subjects: Agriculture | Agriculture, Texas Department of | Animal diseases | Animal Health Commission, Texas | Brucellosis | Exotic species | Insects | Irrigation | Rural economic development | Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service | Texas A&M AgriLife Research | Veterinary Medical Examiners, Texas State Board of | Water conservation | West Texas |
Library Call Number: L1836.68 ag83
Session: 68th R.S. (1983)
Online version: View report [29 pages  File size: 687 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. To monitor all activities and have budget oversight responsibilities for those agencies, boards and commissions as listed in Rule 3, Section 3.
2. To study contagious animal diseases including Laryngotracheitis (poultry), Pseudo-rabies (swine), and Brucellosis (cattle).
3. To study the cane borer infestation in the Rio Grande Valley.
4. To examine the economic feasibility of the conversion irrigated farmland in West Texas to water-efficient crops and/or dryland farming.
5. To examine the role of the state in the development of farm industries in Texas, including shrimp and catfish farming.
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.
Committee: Senate Natural Resources Subcommittee on Agriculture
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Genetic engineering, predatory animals, energy for agriculture, soil and water conservation : interim report to the 69th Legislature / Senate Natural Resources Subcommittee on Agriculture.
Subjects: Biotechnology industry | Electric utility rates and charges | Farms and farming | Genetic research and testing | Hazardous substances | Irrigation | Natural gas utility rates and charges | Ranches and ranching | Water conservation |
Library Call Number: L1836.68 ag83s
Session: 68th R.S. (1983)
Online version: View report [38 pages  File size: 1,422 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review the potential agricultural benefits of research in the areas of biotechnology and genetic engineering. Make recommendations regarding funding for continued research in these areas. *
2. Study the effects of major predators on Texas farmers and ranchers; consider the effectiveness of predation abatement methods, including predacides and poisons, hunting, and fencing. *
3. Study the impact of current energy pricing system on agricultural users. Make recommendations regarding the regulation of natural gas sold to agricultural users and the electricity rates for cotton gin operators. *
4. Review ways to promote water conservation, to increase the availability of water for agricultural purposes, and to control soil erosion. *
Committee: House Urban Issues, Select
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: To the speaker and members of the Texas House of Representatives, 66th Legislature : report / of the Select Committee on Urban Issues, the Texas House of Representatives, 66th Legislature.
Subjects: Counties | Disaster relief | Education | Emergency management | Flooding | Higher education | Land use regulations | Municipal annexation | Municipalities | Natural disasters | Natural resources conservation | Outdoor recreation | Property taxes | Solid waste disposal | Urban sprawl | Water conservation | Water planning |
Library Call Number: L1836.66 ur1
Session: 66th R.S. (1979)
Online version: View report [275 pages  File size: 9,908 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Determine the governance needs of Texas' urban areas in the 1980s, including ordinance making authority, property taxes, and annexation as related to growth patterns.
2. Identify critical issues and potential long-range solutions regarding natural resources, educational, and governance needs of Texas cities in the 1980s.
3. Review factors, including urban expansion and drainage practices, which may have contributed to the increasing frequency and severity of urban flooding. Suggest state and local flood management activities which would reduce the risk of floods. *
4. Study natural resources issues facing local governments, including urban flooding, disaster assistance, emergency preparedness, hazardous waste disposal, low-level radioactive waste, water conservation, water supplies, air pollution, urban recreation and solid waste disposal. *
5. Review education issues facing local governments, including teacher shortages, vocational education, student attendance and discipline, public school finance, and higher education *
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.
Committee: Joint Multiple Use and Pollution of All Waters of Texas (Cont. of Bays of Texas, 58th)
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Report / of the Committee for the Study of Pollution-Multiple Use, Texas Waters to the Sixtieth Legislature.
Subjects: Surface water pollution | Water conservation | Water supplies |
Library Call Number: L1836.59 p765
Session: 59th R.S. (1965)
Online version: View report [22 pages  File size: 1,595 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. WHEREAS, This Committee was appointed for the purpose of making a study of all matters concerning, or in any way pertaining to, the development and use of bays of the State of Texas and the inlets and tributaries thereto, for hunting, fishing, boating, and recreational purposes; the mining and producing of mudshell, clam shell, sand, clay, and marl from such bays, the inlets and tributaries thereto; and the transportation by pipeline or otherwise of oil, gas, and other minerals across such bays, the inlets and tributaries thereto; and all matters pertaining to the pollution and contamination by all users of such bays, the inlets and tributaries thereof; and WHEREAS The Committee is of the opinion that because of lack of time to cope with the enormity of this study, only a very temporary and preliminary report can be offered as of the convening of the 59th Legislature, and the further fact that the Committee believes that the study should be a continuing attempt to evaluate the benefits and to offer initial solutions to the many problems rising from the multiple use of all the waters of Texas, both surface and subsurface, and that since the entire state is confronted with a serious water and water pollution problem, its study should be expanded to include all the waters of Texas; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, by the Senate of the State of Texas, the House of Representatives concurring, that the committee be continued and shall be authorized to continue this necessary study, but to extend over the entire State of Texas and to include all of the multiple uses of all of the waters of the state whatsoever, and the Committee shall be known as The Legislative Study on Multiple Use and Pollution of All Waters of Texas.
Supporting documents
Committee: Joint Multiple Use and Pollution of All Waters of Texas (Cont. of Bays of Texas, 58th)
Title: Recommendations for legislation that will enable local authorities to better deal with water and air pollution / Office of County Attorney, Harris County
Library Catalog Title: Recommendations for legislation that will enable local authorities to better deal with water and air pollution / Office of County Attorney, Harris County
Library Call Number: L1836.59 p765r
Session: 59th R.S. (1965)
Online version: View document [12 pages  File size: 445 kb]
Committee: Joint Multiple Use and Pollution of All Waters of Texas (Cont. of Bays of Texas, 58th)
Title: [Working papers].
Library Catalog Title: [Working papers].
Library Call Number: L1836.59 765w
Session: 59th R.S. (1965)
Online version: View document [164 pages]
Committee: House Conservation of Soil and Water Resources
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Report to the House of Representatives of the Fifty-ninth Legislature/ House Interim Committee to Study Conservation of Soil and Water Resources.
Subjects: Abandoned oil wells | Soil erosion | Water conservation | Water planning |
Library Call Number: L1836.58 c765
Session: 58th R.S. (1963)
Online version: View report [31 pages  File size: 1,377 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Study the problem of expediting planning and policy in connection with the protection and development of water and soil resources.

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

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