Montgomery County Drought Status
Due to persistent high temperatures and a significant shortage of rainfall, 40.69% of Montgomery County is now under D4 Exceptional Drought conditions.
Lone Star GCD's Response
In light of the D3 Extreme Drought Conditions reported by the TWDB and U.S. Drought Monitor, the Lone Star GCD Board of Directors convened for a Special Board of Director meeting on Monday, August 28, 2023. The board unanimously approved Resolution No. #23-006, which introduced a Temporary Drought Buffer for 2023.
Updated Temporary Drought Buffer Details
Given the escalation to D4 Exceptional Drought status:
The Temporary Drought Buffer has been increased to 15%, up from the original 10% set on August 28, 2023.
This adjustment is automatically applied to the Annual Production Limitations for all permits and is effective retroactively from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023.
Permittees who utilize the Temporary Drought Buffer under Resolution #23-006, are still required to pay water use fees for additional water pumped over their Annual Production Limitations.
Over-pumping beyond the permit’s annual allocation and the 15% Drought Buffer, is a violation of District Rules. Any permit holder exceeding the Temporary Drought Buffer will face penalties as detailed in the District Rules
Recommendation for Permit Holders
LSGCD strongly recommends that all permit holders implement their drought contingency plans. This proactive approach will help prevent over-pumping and ensure sustainable water usage during the current severe drought conditions.
For ongoing updates and further information, visit the official Lone Star GCD website: http://www.lonestargcd.org.
About LSGCD: LSGCD is led by a seven-member elected board of directors, whose primary interests are to regulate and conserve groundwater in Montgomery County while protecting the property rights and economic interests of the citizens who own the groundwater.