In this edition of news from HPWD:

• Annual Water Level Measurements in Progress
• HPWD Welcomes Two New Field Technicians
• Awesome Aquifer Kit Donation 
• Conservation Reminder
• Waste Reminder
• Administratively Complete Permit Applications
• Upcoming Events
• Texas Water News and Drought Updates

Annual Water Level Measurements in Progress

High Plains Water District field technicians are measuring annual water levels in observation wells to determine changes since last year. After each county is completed, the preliminary results are posted on our website.

The final results of the 2025 water level observations will be available soon.

HPWD Welcomes Two New Field Technicians

Jared Watkins and Malachi Wilhite joined the HPWD staff in January, working in the Lubbock office as Field Technicians. We are excited to have them join our team! 

Jared Watkins, Field Technician
Jared was homeschooled and graduated from high school while living in North Texas. He also completed training at the American Home Inspectors Training School. Jared has experience working as a manager at an animal feed and supply store and as a professional real estate inspector. In his free time, he enjoys playing bluegrass music with his parents and two sisters, being actively involved in his church, and spending time outdoors. His hobbies also include Taekwondo and woodworking.

Malachi Wilhite, Field Technician
Malachi is the oldest of twelve siblings and spent most of his life in Japan as a missionary kid, where he graduated from high school. He has experience working as a fire alarm technician and a security officer. His hobbies include wildlife photography, enjoying the outdoors, and reading. Malachi is also passionate about spreading the gospel.

Awesome Aquifer Kit Donation

HPWD recently donated Awesome Aquifer Kits to schools in our service area. The kit provides access to the Awesome Aquifer 360 virtual laboratory, where students can experience and interact with the 3D models. This makes it easy to bring hands-on STEM experiences to the classroom!

Each complete kit in the tub we donate includes five groundwater kits. The lessons incorporate topics such as the environment, water cycle, scientific modeling, and human impacts. They are easy to insert directly into your existing curriculum.

Contact Jennifer McClendon, Education Coordinator, for more information on receiving a kit for your school.

Conservation Reminder

Check faucets, pipes, and hot water heaters for signs of leaks. Even a minor leak can contribute to significant water loss, and a leaking water heater can cause considerable damage if not fixed as soon as possible.

Waste Reminder

Water waste is prohibited pursuant to Chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code and HPWD rules.  What is waste? This month we will look at Chapter 36.001(8)(B), waste is defined as the following:

(8)(B) The flowing or producing of wells from a groundwater reservoir if the water produced is not used for a beneficial purpose;

If you need assistance or have questions about preventing water waste, contact the High Plains Water District office at (806) 762-0181.

Administratively Complete Permit Applications

Upcoming Events

Texas Water News and Drought Updates

• The House Natural Resources Committee Interim Report released its interim report to the 89th Legislature. You can view the full report here.
• The drought conditions map and the monthly outlook are updated.