In this edition of news from HPWD:

• National Cotton Council Multi-Commodity Education Program Visit
• Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show
• Education  Updates
• Research and Demonstration Grant Applications 
• Conservation Reminder
• Waste Reminder
• Administratively Complete Permit Applications
• Upcoming Events
• Texas Water News and Drought Updates

National Cotton Council's Multi-Commodity Education Program visits HPWD

Leading grain producers in the U.S. recently visited our area as part of the National Cotton Council’s Multi-Commodity Education Program (MCEP).  The group toured this area to observe cotton, peanut, and other agricultural operations. The 2024 tour participants are from Idaho, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, and Washington.  The fourteen participants visited HPWD to learn about the groundwater in our area and the challenges our producers have.

This exchange program helps agricultural producers form relationships and connections with other commodity organizations and leaders.  

Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show 

For more information about the 2024 Amarillo Farm & Ranch Show, click here.

 Education Updates  

During the past month, HPWD has given interactive presentations to local school groups concerning the importance of water conservation. 

If you need a program or presentation for a school, civic club, or other group, contact Jennifer McClendon at our office to schedule.

 Research and Grant Applications

The High Plains Underground Water Conservation District (HPWD) is accepting grant applications for 2025 water conservation research, demonstration, and education projects. HPWD is looking for innovative ideas that will help conserve water.  The form is available on our website here.

Proposals are due no later than Monday, February 3, 2025, by 5:00 p.m.

Conservation Reminder

Winter and freezing temperatures will soon be here.  You may practice water conservation by disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses, covering faucets, and insulating exposed exterior pipes. It is important to ensure that faucets and pipes will not freeze and develop leaks when they thaw.

Waste Reminder

If you see water escaping or running down the alley in your neighborhood, the source of the water needs to be identified so the water can be stopped or repaired. 

Water running down the alley is considered a waste of water according to State Law.

 Administratively Complete Permit Applications

 Upcoming Events

Texas Water News and Drought Updates

• Depleting well water threatens the future of South Plains agriculture; experts offer tips on conserving water. See the story here.
• Panhandle PBS will debut the Ogallala Aquifer series on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in November on "The Rain We Keep."  For more information, visit the Panhandle PBS website.
• The drought conditions map and the monthly outlook are updated.