Photo by: Matthew Guthrie

The Texas Hill Country stands as a vital ecological cornerstone for Central Texas, where its distinctive karst limestone formations serve as natural filtering systems that replenish underground aquifers, sustain spring flows, and provide clean drinking water to surrounding communities. This delicate hydrogeological network faces mounting pressure as development expands. Conventional development converts natural recharge zones into impervious surfaces, allowing pollutants to enter our aquifers and preventing rainfall from replenishing our precious groundwater resources.

Central Texas is grappling with a volatile drought-flood cycle and warmer temperatures, where unsustainable groundwater pumping and rapid development continue to threaten vital water sources like the Trinity Aquifer and iconic springs like Jacob's Well. To ensure water resources endure for future generations, increased investment in conservation methods such as source water protection, integration of groundwater-surface water management policies, incentives for conservation development, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater reuse are essential.

Through ongoing conservation initiatives, the Watershed Association works to protect these essential landscapes that recharge our aquifer and feed our springs and rivers. According to the State of the Hill Country report, over half a million acres (546,301) had been preserved by the end of 2020, creating a network of protected lands that safeguard water quality, wildlife habitat, and drinking water sources.

2025 Impact Area Highlights

Photo by: Matthew Guthrie

The intricate network of springs, creeks, rivers, and aquifers forms the vital circulatory system of the Texas Hill Country. When any part of this interconnected water system falters, the entire ecological balance is threatened. Dissolved oxygen levels decline in waterways, pollutants from wastewater and runoff accumulate, and our fragile aquatic ecosystems and our drinking water face increased pressure. The health of one water source directly impacts the others in this delicate interconnected hydrogeological cycle.

For over three decades, the Watershed Association has been a protector of Hill Country waters. The Watershed has conducted research and developed robust conservation partnerships to evolve our comprehensive approach to conservation and environmental responsibility. Our water quality monitoring programs, established in 2003, have documented water quality, flow rates, and ecological indicators throughout this sensitive watershed.

This long-term commitment allows us to track meaningful changes, identify emerging concerns, and measure the effectiveness of conservation efforts across the entire water system. Through science-based advocacy and community engagement, we work to ensure that the life-giving waters of the Hill Country, from underground aquifers to surface springs, creeks, and rivers, continue to sustain our communities for generations to come.

Photo by: Matthew Guthrie

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