In parts of the Permian Basin, less than 0.2 inches of rain has fallen since September. As the drought grows increasingly dire, officials and residents are taking more drastic measures to reduce water use.
Environment
Coverage of climate, conservation, natural resources, and environmental policy shaping the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Energy
Fun (Actually in the Water) on the Trinity River
The Trinity has never been much-loved like the Guadalupe, the San Marcos or the Frio. For the first time, both Dallas and Fort Worth are making efforts to revitalize it and make it a destination for recreation.
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Criminal Justice
Poll: Obama Almost as Popular as Perry in Texas
Likely voters in Texas approve of President Barack Obama almost as much as they approve of Gov. Rick Perry, according to the third and final release of poll results from the Texas Lyceum, a nonprofit, nonpartisan group of civic leaders.
Posted in
Energy
Updated: Water Deal for Proposed Coal Plant Postponed
In a victory for environmental groups, the L.C.R.A. board decided to delay the decision on whether to grant a large water contract to the proposed White Stallion coal plant near Bay City.
Posted in
Guides
Texplainer: Does TWIA Have Enough Money?
Hey, Texplainer: Does the Texas Windstorm Industry Association have enough money for this year’s hurricane season?
Posted in
Energy
Midland Approves First-Ever Water Use Penalties
Faced with extreme drought, the Midland City Council approved a plan today to fine residents $500 for violating watering restrictions, the first time the city has ever enacted such restrictions.
Posted in
Energy
LCRA Moves Swiftly to Name New Boss
The board of the Lower Colorado River Authority wasted no time in naming a long-time staffer to take over as the organization’s general manager, following the resignation of Tom Mason a week ago.
Posted in
Energy
This Session, Water Policy Rode on One Word
With the Big Dry upon us, the fight over the water percolating under the surface in Texas’ underground aquifers was bound to get contentious before the end of the legislative session. And it did, at least for a while, because of one modifier.
Posted in
Energy
LCRA Boss Resigns
The general manager of the Lower Colorado River Authority announced his resignation Tuesday, setting off a potential battle over the future of the enormous Central Texas wholesale electricity and water supplier.
Posted in
Energy
82nd Lege Session a Good One for Energy Efficiency
The Legislature passed a handful of energy-saving measures this session, ranging from allowing churches access to an energy-efficiency loan program to recalibrating a statewide efficiency program.
