AUGUST 31 DEADLINE FOR WATER, TEXAS FILM FESTIVAL — There’s still time to submit entries for the Water, Texas film festival sponsored by the Texas Water Foundation. The event gives filmmakers the opportunity to create diverse, informative, and thought-provoking films that explore our relationship with water. CLICK HERE for contest rules and entry information!

DEATH — Ferrel Wheeler of Lubbock passed away July 19. He was 90. Wheeler was involved in farming and ranching near Southland for more than 65 years. He served as Board President of the Garza County Underground Water Conservation District from its creation in 1996 until his retirement in 2020. Survivors include his wife, four children, a sister, 12 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. HPWD sends its sincere condolences to the Wheeler family.

RESEARCHERS DEVELOP NEW DESALINATION TECHNOLOGY — WaterWorld Magazine reports that Ural Federal University (UrFU) researchers have developed a new desalination technology that will significantly reduce treatment costs and quadruple the volume of production. The University is located in Yekaterinburg, Russia. LEARN MORE!

TEXAS ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS — The Texas Environmental Excellence Awards honor achievements in environmental preservation and protection. Applications for awards are due by Friday, Sept. 30, 2021. CLICK HERE for applications, instructions, and other information!

TREES STILL RECOVERING FROM WINTER STORM URI — Almost six months have passed since Winter Storm Uri blanketed Texas in a week-long freeze and, despite ample rain, many Texas trees are still showing signs of stress. Tufts of leaves give some a patchy, inverted look – while others are losing vast amounts of bark, or seemingly dying overnight – leaving many Texas home and land owners wondering what they should do. CLICK HERE for Texas A&M Forest Service recommendations about keeping or removing trees following the winter storm.

TWDB LAUNCHES IMPROVED TEXASFLOOD.ORG WEBSITE — The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has reorganized the TexasFlood.org website to provide a user-friendly resource for Texans wanting to increase their flood awareness and preparedness. CLICK HERE to read the TWDB announcement.