Trinity Aquifer Levels

Both the Trinity and Edwards Aquifers fluctuate during dry and wet periods—similar to water supply reservoirs like Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan.  Since January of this year, water levels in both aquifers have been on the decline due to drought. For a closer look at regional Trinity Aquifer trends, the graph below shows hydrographs (water-level measurements over time) for an Upper Trinity and two Middle Trinity monitor wells in Hays County.  These wells show 2 to 46 foot declines since January.  While this is a limited set of wells, it follows trends we are seeing across the region. Until the area receives significant rainfall, water levels in the aquifers will continue to drop. The District declared Stage II Alarm Drought in late July 2018 (press release), and all permitted wells are required to reduce pumping by at least 20%.  The current hot and dry weather pattern coupled with high water use has water levels throughout the area on the decline. Localized pumping can influence water levels in surrounding wells, so all groundwater users should conserve and reduce water use. Useful links: Protect Your Well During Drought (Texas Well Owner Network) Tree Care (Grow Green) Drought Triggers and the Trinity Aquifer (BSEACD) Drought Status page (BSEACD)