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As Central Texas braces for population growth and future droughts, Austin Water is looking underground in Bastrop County for a new way to secure its supply.
The utility has proposed an Aquifer Storage and Recovery project that would allow treated drinking water to be stored in the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer south of Paige, then pumped back out during drought or emergencies. Officials said the approach would protect Austin against water shortages and extreme weather while offering safeguards and benefits to area residents.
“This phase is about trust and transparency,” Austin Water officials said in a release. “We’re asking for three years to study water compatibility and show that we’re good neighbors.”
Field testing would involve collecting groundwater and core samples, then mixing them in a lab with Austin’s treated water to check for chemical interactions. Based on results, engineers would design treatment processes for a small-scale pilot project.
Officials said no native groundwater would be removed and that state law requires the project to return at least as much water as it injects. Landowners above the aquifer could be compensated if the project requires use of their property.
Austin Water will hold open houses and office hours throughout September to explain the project and gather feedback.
More on the project and responses from local leaders and water authorities to come in the Courier.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
BASTROP
• Sept. 3: Open House, 4 p.m., Bastrop County Community Center
• Sept. 5: Office Hours, 11 a.m., Casa Chapala
ELGIN
• Sept. 11: Open House, 6 p.m., 702 Bull Run Road
SMITHVILLE
• Sept. 15: Open House, 6 p.m., Smithville Recreation Center
• Sept. 19: Office Hours, 9 a.m., Smithville Recreation Center
PAIGE
• Sept. 9: Open House, 6 p.m., Paige Community Center
• Sept. 13: Open House, 10 a.m., Paige Community Center
