Why we are still at Stage-IV drought level despite all the recent rain in July.
July 26, 2025
In assessing drought conditions, we evaluate two primary factors. The first is the status of our well system, comprising of three wells. The second is the drought assessment provided by the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD). See CTGCD Drought Stage.
Double Horn Well Status:
Central Texas is currently facing prolonged drought conditions. The combination of these circumstances and continued community demand has led to historically low well levels, compromising the wells' ability to meet present demand and potentially affecting their structural soundness and long-term productivity. In response, as of February, we have begun sourcing water from certified external suppliers to augment well output and fulfill consumption requirements. This initiative has successfully reduced pressure on the wells, with preliminary data showing signs of recovery in wells #1 and #2. Nevertheless, well #3, which supplies most of our water, has not shown comparable progress and remains critical. Well status is posted on our website at DHCWSC Well Depth Data.
While early July saw substantial rainfall, providing temporary relief - especially to surface water sources - it is still too soon to determine the overall effect from this on groundwater resources, including the primary aquifer supplying our water. Due to varying hydrogeological conditions, changes in groundwater levels may not become evident for several weeks. Although we are optimistic about the potential recovery of all three wells, the available data advises caution. We have particular concerns about well #3's capacity to recharge at its historical rates and resume its primary role in supplying the majority of our water. The second concern is that, despite the significant rainfall received in early July, there remains a considerable risk that ongoing drought conditions throughout the rest of the year could negate any benefits gained from this recent precipitation.
What's Next
The board remains committed to exercising prudent management of well health. Insight into the impact of recent rainfall on groundwater levels will be provided by the forthcoming assessment from CTGCD on July 28, 2025, as well as the August well depth readings.
These findings will be thoroughly reviewed during the upcoming board meeting scheduled for August 26, 2025. At that time, decisions will be made regarding;
- The appropriate drought condition stage level;
- The quantity, if any, of supplemental water to procure.
Non-Profit Corporation
The Double Horn Creek Water Corporation (DHCWSC) is a non-profit entity committed to serving the Double Horn community. In compliance with its by-laws, DHCWSC is organized to recover only its operating costs while sustaining an adequate operating reserve. By law, DHCWSC does not generate profit from procuring supplemental water. Additionally, it remains our objective to eliminate the reliance on supplemental water as soon as it is prudent to do so.
