Austin Region Eases Watering Restrictions as Lake Levels Rise

Residents of the Austin region may finally breathe a sigh of relief as local authorities have reduced watering restrictions on account of rising lake levels. The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) announced a move from Stage 2 to Stage 1 watering restrictions effective immediately.

Understanding the Changes

Stage 1 watering restrictions invite residents and commercial users to reduce their regular water use by 10% and limit outdoor watering to twice weekly. This decision, enacted on June 3, concludes that the recent rains have considerably alleviated the drought-like conditions previously gripping Central Texas.

Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan, two major water reservoirs supporting over 1.4 million people in the region, noted a considerable surge in their water levels. Numbers increased from 42% recorded capacity on May 1 to a more reassuring 56% combined capacity now.

What This Means for Residents

The newly implemented watering restrictions regulate LCRA customers, including cities and utility districts. While these entities can impose their customized restrictions within the boundaries of Stage 1, LCRA recommends checking with local providers for precise information on the most recent limitations.

John Hofmann, LCRA’s Executive Vice President of Water, commented on the situation. He welcomed the rains and the visible improvement in reservoir levels, yet emphasized the necessity of continued judicious use of water resources. With summer right around the corner, we all need to continue using water wisely and cutting back on discretionary water use.

Historical Context

Lakes Buchanan and Travis, forming a chain of the Highland Lakes on the northwestern Colorado River of Austin, have been the region’s water supply since the 1940s. However, enduring drought conditions have prevented these lakes from reaching full capacity since July 2019.

It’s been nearly two years since the last introduction of Stage 1 drought response. Since then, LCRA enacted a more stringent Drought Contingency Plan in April 2024 that addresses conditions for each stage.

Looking To The Future

The LCRA evaluates drought response measures based on the combined water levels of Lake Buchanan and Lake Travis. Given how drought conditions evolve, if the combined storage falls to 45% capacity, Stage 2 restrictions will be reinstated. Conversely, if the storage ascends to 60% of capacity, the region will bail out from Stage 1 restrictions.

With the onset of summer and increased water consumption, Hofmann reiterates that outdoor watering could account for up to 70% of home water use. He concluded, We can’t control how much it rains or where it rains. The only thing we can control is how much water we use, and each of us has a say in that. We especially can control how much water we put on our yards.