Like others across the globe, HPWD personnel are adapting work schedules and procedures to avoid the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) during the current pandemic.

Administration

COVID-19

The regular hours for the HPWD Lubbock office remain unchanged. Several staff members are working in office to answer phones, accept deliveries, and continue work projects.

Until further notice, the HPWD Lubbock office and Canyon field office have temporarily suspended walk-in visits by the public. Many HPWD services, such as water well permit applications, well logs, and depletion requests, can be accessed at www.hpwd.org. However, if an office visit is crucial, people are asked to call 806-762-0181 (Lubbock) or 806-318-3834 (Canyon) to schedule an appointment.

Several staff members are working from home and are checking email/voicemail regularly. A list of staff email addresses is available at www.hpwd.org/contact-us

HPWD outreach efforts, such as presentations and workshops, are temporarily suspended.

Field Data Collection

Requests for well flow testing and water level measurements are still being accepted during this time. Persons need to call or email to schedule an appointment.

When doing so, it is helpful to visit the HPWD website and find the corresponding District number for the well to be tested or measured. There is no need to meet the field technician at the site. They will conduct the test and provide results to the well owner when completed.

As a reminder, wells to be flow tested need to be running prior to the visit. Wells should not be running prior to a water level measurement being made.

Water Well Permits

HPWD continues to accept applications for water well permits. However, there have been some changes to procedure to minimize personal contact with clients.

Persons are encouraged to complete the “Pre-Permit Request Application” form found at www.hpwd.org/well-compliance. Once completed, the form should be emailed to Permit Supervisor Juan Peña at permit@hpwd.org.

Previously, a field technician would make an appointment to meet the applicant or their designee at the proposed well site. Now, the applicant/designee must be available by phone when the field visit is made, in case questions arise. Also, they must agree to the permit terms via phone. If so, the field technician will sign the permit for the applicant/designee.

Checks for permit fees are to be mailed to the HPWD office, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499.

The HPWD Board of Directors and Staff appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding during this time.