In this edition of news from HPWD:

• Annual Water Level Observations Completed
• South Plains Science Fair Awards
• Water level recorders
• 4-H Water Ambassador Applications Now Open
• Conservation Reminders
• Upcoming events
• Texas water news and drought updates

 Annual water level observations completed

The final results of the 2024 water level observations are now available on the interactive map.  All layers are updated with 2024 data including saturated thickness, 1-year change (NEW), 5-year change, and 10-year change.  Infographic summaries are also shared here.

Students Receive Carmon McCain Memorial Award at South Plains Science Fair

HPWD staff judged water-related projects at the 2024 South Plains Regional Science and Engineering Fair held February 22, 2024, at the United Supermarkets Arena at Texas Tech University. In memory of Carmon McCain, the board has designated $500 each year for the top water-related projects that are judged in the special awards category. Over 280 projects were entered in this year’s fair by 25 schools with a wide variety of physical and biological topics.

The top award from HPWD went to Lucas Higgins and Jaxson Ferran for “The Effects of Water from the Dockum Aquifer on Crops and Soil Health." Other recipients of the Carmon McCain Memorial included one elementary project, two middle school projects, and five high school projects.

Water level recorders

HPWD has invested tens of thousands of dollars in continuous water level monitoring equipment.  Our field staff can remove this expensive equipment when the subject well is being serviced.  Recently, we have experienced damaged equipment when a pump installer has removed the equipment while servicing a pump. The loss of data is also a risk when the transducer or cable is damaged.  Field Technician Supervisor Billy Barron says, "Please call our office before attempting to remove this equipment.  One of our technicians can quickly respond and remove all items so the pump may be serviced.  If anyone has questions about this process, please call me at the district office." 806-762-0181 x1016

 4-H Water Ambassadors Program Applications Open March 15 - May 1

Applications for the 8th cohort of Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors are being accepted March 15 through May 1.  Students within HPWD who are accepted to the program are eligible for a tuition gift of $300.

 Conservation Reminders

How much water do you use outdoors?  As the spring weather arrives, many of us look forward to caring for outdoor areas.  Before irrigating this season, please consider using the WaterMyYard program HPWD offers.

 Please contact Jennifer McClendon at our office to schedule a conservation program.

Upcoming Events

Texas Water News and Drought Updates

• Produced water in the Permian Basin is of great interest as an alternate water supply.  According to the Texas Produced Water Consortium, the potential for treating produced water could approach 256,000 ac-ft per year.  Several articles of interest describe the issue, and suggest some benefits of the produced water.
• The drought conditions map and the monthly outlook are updated.