NewsDrop-February-2024

ISSUE 1 - FEBRUARY 2024

Autumn Sage ( Salvia greggii )

TABLE OF CONTENTS

W A T C H EAA BOARD MEETING ON FACEBOOK LIVE:

AQUIFER UPDATE

An aquifer conditions update is reported every month at the EAA board meeting to inform board members and the public about the status of the J-17 Index Well, J-27 Index Well, the Comal Springs

and the San Marcos Springs springflows. These index wells and springs are indicators of the health of the aquifer and critical to drought management.

EAA GENERAL MANAGER’S MESSAGE THERE IS HOPE

FEATURE STORY ROOTING FOR A TEXAS NATIVE PLANT LANDSCAPE

FIELD RESEARCH A QUINTET NETWORK

DATA MANAGEMENT EAA WEATHER STATIONS DEBUT ON GLOBAL SYNOPTIC DATA VIEWER For over 25 years, the EAA has maintained a network of weather-related data collection stations.

OF WELLS IS ONLINE AT THE EAA FIELD RESEARCH PARK

We started 2024 like we did 2023 - in a drought.

Monitoring groundwater quality and quantity has always been an important aspect of the Edwards Aquifer Authority’s

Tall and shortgrass prairies were once abundant throughout the state; however, only a fraction of these remnant grasslands now remain.

mission and a core value of science-based policy. PAGE 10

PAGE 12

PAGE 4

PAGE 6

The EAA board meeting takes place every second Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. You can watch the meetings on Facebook Live or click the link below:

https://edwardsaquifer.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

2024 Critical Period Calculators for EAA Permit Holders

During times of drought our agency implements a drought management plan also known as the EAA Critical Period Management (CPM) Plan, which helps sustain aquifer and springflow levels during times of drought by tempo rarily reducing the autho rized withdrawal amounts of Edwards groundwater permit holders. By curbing pumping from the aquifer during peri ods of little or no rain, this program is designed to slow the rate of decline in aquifer levels and spring discharges until such time that it does

rain and the aquifer can recharge itself.

critical period management by entering different critical period stages. In 2023, the deadline to submit a transfer application changed from December 31, 2023, to January 31, 2024; Therefore, we made the 2023 Critical Period Calculators available on our website until January 31, 2024, as permit holders continued to acquire water rights for their 2023 use. The 2024 Calculators are now available on our website as of February 1, 2024.

EDUCATION OUTREACH CENTER

HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN

EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVANCY

EAA OUTREACH SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE IN THE EAA REGION A little over 50% of Edwards Aquifer permits are for agricul ture irrigation and support the growing of cash crops and the raising of livestock in the region. PAGE 14

To assist permit holders with calculating or forecast ing reductions of authorized withdrawal amounts we pro vide a calculator to determine the current authorized amount available during times of man datory critical period manage ment. Additionally, we have a second interactive calculator which allows a permit holder to forecast and plan their authorized groundwater with drawal amount available for use during times of mandatory

THE EOC: YOUR AQUIFER EDUCATION DESTINATION A scavenger hunt that creates interactions with nature...

INCIDENTAL TAKE PERMIT RENEWAL RECAP

IN THE RHYTHMIC PULSE OF COMMUNITY COLLABORATION

Critical Period Calculator: https://www.edwardsaquifer.org/ critical-period-calculator/

The ITP will manage and mitigate the protection of listed species and associated habitats found in the Edwards Aquifer system. PAGE 15

A heartfelt interview with Damon Childs.

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

Critical Period Forecast Calculator:

https://www.edwardsaquifer.org/ critical-period-forecast-calculator/

2

3

GENERAL MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Roland Ruiz General Manager

We started 2024 like we did 2023 - in a drought. Although aquifer and springflow conditions have improved from a year ago thanks to some early year rains, we still have a significant rainfall deficit to overcome if we are to fully emerge from drought. There is hope.

THE EAA’S WORK IS NOT TO PREVENT OR END DROUGHTS BUT TO HELP MANAGE THE EDWARDS AQUIFER THROUGH DRY TIMES SUCH THAT THE NATURAL SYSTEM REMAINS SUSTAINABLE AS A WATER SUPPLY OVER THE LONG TERM.

To this end, we’ve a proven history of utilizing both regulatory and non-regulatory conservation measures to help lessen drought impacts to the aquifer and its two major springs – the Comal and San Marcos. These programs have worked. Amid excessive heat and prolonged dry spells, our conservation measures have helped to slow the rate of decline of aquifer levels and springflows to enable us to sustain until the rains come again. And with every drought, when beneficial rains do return, nature does its work by recharging the aquifer to bolster groundwater and springflows back to more robust levels.

We have learned we cannot out think or outwork nature; but we can work with nature to extend the sustainability of the aquifer through dry, hot times such as we have experienced recently. This is the paradigm around which we have envisioned the Next Generation of our mission: to find ways to better protect and enhance the natural envi ronment, especially across the vast watershed to the aquifer, so we can better ensure the highest

quantity and quality of water in the Edwards over generations to come.

natural filtration of stormwater before it runs off into streams that infiltrate the groundwater below thereby maintaining and perhaps even improv ing historic aquifer recharge. When paired with our tried-and-true drought conservation measures, these approaches carry enormous potential for ensuring the Edwards remains drought resilient well into the future.

Stewardship practices like preserving sensitive properties on the recharge and contributing zones along with restoring a balanced mix of native vegetation on these lands can help improve soil ecological health. Improved soil across the Texas Hill Country can lead to better water retention and

4

5

ROOTING FOR A TEXAS NATIVE PLANT LANDSCAPE

By: Casey Cowan , Aquifer Sustainability Supervisor

Many authors have dedicated their writing to reminiscing on the prairies of recent history; swaths of grass and wildflowers so vast they appeared never-ending. Expansive it was, the original Texas Blackland Prairie stretched twelve million acres from San Antonio, north beyond Dallas and past the Texas border. Tall and shortgrass prairies were once abundant throughout the state; however, only a fraction of these remnant grasslands now remain. These prairie systems, with their rich soils and deep-rooted plants, provide valuable ecosystem functions that support humans and wildlife. Throughout the centuries, countless natural prairie landscapes have transitioned into residential neighborhoods, where most homes are seamlessly connected through carefully maintained non-native turf lawns—an idea originating from eighteenth-century Europe. During this era, the English and French, experimented with sprawling lawns of closely mowed grass. This practice eventually garnered popularity across America where it remains common today. However, while many people find them aesthetically pleasing, turf lawns do not provide the same ecosystem functions as a diverse prairie. The upkeep of a non-native turf lawn commonly involves the use of chemicals, which can have implications for water quality and affect the health of both humans and wildlife. Non-native turf lawns also require a significant amount of water for maintenance. In fact, a publication from Texas Agriculture Extension Service sug gests that to keep your St. Augustine grass in good condition, you should “wet the soil to a depth of 6 inches” every five to ten days (Taylor & Gray, Maintaining St. Augustine grass - Texas A&M Uni versity). For perspective, a yard of five thousand square feet (which is the equivalent to three bowling lanes), would require over three thousand gallons of water for just one watering.

MANY FOLKS ARE TURNING TO WILDSCAPING

& FOR GOOD REASON.

NATIVE PLANTS HAVE ALSO EVOLVED WITH LOCAL WILDLIFE, FOSTERING CRITICAL ECOLOGICAL RELATIONSHIPS. NOT ONLY DO NATIVE PLANTS THRIVE WITHOUT CHEMICALS, BUT ONCE ESTABLISHED, THEY REQUIRE LITTLE TO NO SUPPLEMENTAL WATERING.

Not only do native plants thrive without chemicals, but once established, they require little to no supplemental watering. Native plants have also evolved with local wildlife, fostering critical eco logical relationships. Take the iconic monarch butterfly for example, this butterfly lays her eggs exclusively on milkweed (host plant). Whilst laying her eggs, the monarch will also feed on the flowers, aiding in pollination of the milkweed plant. These plant and ani mal relationships can be replicated throughout the kingdoms. From beetles to birds, wildlife thrives on diversity so having plants of dif ferent shapes, colors, heights, and genera, support far more wildlife (and the ecosystem services they provide to humans) than a mono culture of non-native turf grass.

6

7

ROOTING FOR A TEXAS NATIVE PLANT LANDSCAPE

( Pavonia lasiopetala ) ROCK ROSE

( Leucophyllum frutescens ) CENIZO/ TEXAS SAGE Sun, Part Shade Up to 10’ tall Does Not Spread Easily Drought tolerant; attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

( Malvaviscus arboreus ) TURK’S CAP

By: Casey Cowan , Aquifer Sustainability Supervisor

Choosing native plants can get confusing quickly and the idea of replacing a whole lawn may be daunting. Some may consider starting with an existing bed, or just a portion of the lawn. This is a good start and a great learning experience through the process. Taking time to plan and prepare the space will save time and money. Some basic things to consider when choosing native plants are: Will this plant thrive in the location type (ecotype)? How big will the plant grow? What time of year does the plant bloom? How much light does the plant require? How much will the plant spread? Many of these questions can be answered by nursery pro fessionals but some online sleuthing or picking up a book on the subject is helpful. There’s also the matter of preparing the space. Aside from new construction, there will be some amount of grass and other herbaceous vegetation needing to be removed and there are many ways to go about the process. Some methods include, solarization, sheet mulching, or old-fashioned digging. Each method has pros and cons, and some are much easier in smaller areas. It’s important to do research on the available methods to determine which suits preference and location. Whichever native plants are selected, whatever size is chosen, and however long it takes, the choice to transition from tradi tional lawns to native plants fosters a deeper connection with the environment. Native plants contribute to the preservation of local ecosystems, support biodiversity, and mitigate the environmental impact associated with conventional lawn maintenance. The myriad of benefits, ranging from reduced water consumption and chemical use to increased habitat for native wildlife, make this transition a sustainable and responsible choice for homeowners.

Sun, Part Shade Up to 4’ tall Spreads Easily Drought tolerant; attracts hummingbirds.

Sun, Part Shade, Shade dependent on light, 3’-10’ tall Spreads Easily Drought tolerant; attracts hummingbirds.

GREGG’S MISTFLOWER

MEALY BLUE SAGE

( Asclepias tuberosa ) BUTTERFLY WEED

( Conoclinium greggii )

( Salvia farinacea )

Sun, Part Shade Up to 3’ tall

Sun, Part Shade Up to 2’ tall Spreads Easily Drought tolerant; attracts butterflies (especially Queens butterflies) and other pollinators.

Sun, Part Shade Up to 3’ tall Does Not Spread Easily Attracts butterflies* and other pollinators. *Host plant for Monarch butterfly.

Does Not Spread Easily Drought tolerant; attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

LANDSCAPE IS REDEFINED AS THE CONCEPT OF THE IDEAL

POPULAR NURSERY PLANTS & SEEDS THAT DO WELL IN BEXAR AND ADJACENT COUNTIES

Sun Up to 4” tall Spreads Easily Drought tolerant; An alternative to a traditional non-native turf lawn. BLUE GRAMA ( Bouteloua gracilis )

Sun Up to 12” tall Spreads Easily Drought tolerant; An alternative to a traditional non-native turf lawn. BUFFALO GRASS ( Bouteloua dactyloides )

Garden Inspiration: Visit our EAA Education Outreach Center’s award winning Native Plant Demonstra tion Garden to see the types of drought-tolerant plants suitable for your home yard or garden. - Schedule your free visit at www.eaaeoc.org.

the adoption of native plants emerges as a harmonious and conscientious way to enhance both the aesthetic appeal of suburban America and the collective commitment to environ mental stewardship.

photos: Lady Bird Johnson website | wildflower.org

8

9

A QUINTET NETWORK OF WELLS IS ONLINE AT THE EAA FIELD RESEARCH PARK

By: Brent Doty , P.G. Research Manager

Newly drilled monitoring well at the FRP.

FRP monitoring well network.

Close-up of the rock core section.

This is now the fifth well in the FRP monitoring net work, joining the two existing water wells on the FRP property, and two other wells supplied by neighboring partners. Special instruments are used to continuously monitor water levels, and water quality samples are col lected routinely in the FRP wells. The FRP monitoring well network offers a sophisticated glimpse into how the aquifer system behaves in a geologically complex environment and provides clues on how the aquifer sys tem may function across the entire region.

Installing a new monitoring well also provided EAA scientists with a unique opportunity to collect core samples during the well installation. Core sam pling is the collection of an intact cylindrical section of natural material during the drilling process. The water well drilling contractor assisted EAA researchers with the collection of more than 250-feet of rock core samples, extending from the Edwards Limestone at the surface down to the Upper Glen Rose Limestone, the unit associated with the Upper Trinity Aquifer.

The core samples provide one of the most complete sections of its kind in the region.

EAA scientists hope to use data from the well and the FRP monitoring network to further regional aquifer research and provide the best available science to decision makers.

MONITORING GROUNDWATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THE EDWARDS AQUIFER AUTHORITY’S MISSION AND A CORE VALUE OF SCIENCE-BASED POLICY.

The addition of the EAA’s Field Research Park property in 2019 provided a unique opportunity to closely study the behavior and characteristics of the aquifer system over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone. In 2023, the EAA installed a new monitoring

well at the FRP, which provides additional insight into the interactions between the Edwards and Trinity Aquifers, the quality of water in the system, and the effects of drought on aquifer water levels.

10

11

EAA WEATHER STATIONS DEBUT ON GLOBAL SYNOPTIC DATA VIEWER

By: Bryan Anderson Director of Data Management

FOR OVER 25 YEARS , THE EAA HAS MAINTAINED A NETWORK OF WEATHER-RELATED DATA COLLECTION STATIONS.

As of 2024, the network has grown to feature 18 weather stations and 62 rain gauges across 11 counties where the weather data are collected continuously to monitor the most elusive input to the Edwards Aquifer… rainfall. This information is used by the agency to create regional calibrated

rain maps and as inputs for numerical models that assist in aquifer management. Knowing there were many other uses for the data externally, the EAA was one of the first enti ties to contribute to the TexMesonet statewide climate data network in 2015. Adding to this network was made possible through the public

benefit corporation, Synoptic Labs. With roots back to the original MesoWest Program started at the University of Utah in 1997 and the National Mesonet Program in 2009, Synoptic Labs acts as a hub to easily share weather information from around the globe.

To request custom data sets or reports, send an email to data@edwardsaquifer.org. Check back often as more improvements are coming to the Synoptic Data Viewer and the TexMesonet in the coming year.

With information coming in from over 120,000 stations worldwide, the recently launched Synoptic Data Viewer (https://synopticdata.com/data-viewer/) enables easy access to weather information from the backyard and beyond.

The tools in the viewer allow for the creation of custom dashboards and views so the most used station information is instantly accessible. Always have EAA station data available by clicking Networks on the side menu, then Cus tom. Type “EAA” to find the Edwards Aqui fer Authority network and apply the selection.

Along with rainfall, 16 of the stations collect air temperature, dew point, relative humidity, wind speed, wind gust, wind direction, air pressure, solar radiation, and soil moisture. The EAA Data Management Department maintains all data col lection sites in the network and processes all the continuous data.

13

12

INCIDENTAL TAKE PERMIT RENEWAL RECAP 2024: A PIVOTAL YEAR FOR THE EAHCP FEDERAL PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS

SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE IN THE EAA REGION

JUMPSTARTING THE YEAR WITH AGRICULTURE JUNIOR LIVESTOCK AND YOUTH SHOWS

By: Olivia Ybarra EAA Habitat Conservation Program Coordinator II By: John Boggess EAHCP Steward Newsletter or EAHCP Staff

By: Isabel Martinez EAA Senior Permit & Conservation Coordinator

Photo credit: sullivansupply.com

Two years ago, Scott Storment did an inter view about the kickoff of the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan’s (EAHCP) Inciden tal Take Permit (ITP) renewal process. With the actual deadline six years away from 2022, Stor ment presciently forecasted that time would pass quickly and there was a full schedule of work to accomplish before the EAHCP submitted a permit renewal application. Despite the relatively long lead time, there seemed to be a feeling of having an impending deadline to meet. The headline of the 2022 article read, “Time Flies.” It has and as usual, it will continue to do so. And that feeling of a tight project timeframe persists as well. “The current ITP was approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for 15 years and that permit expires in 2028,” Storment, the EAHCP’s pro gram manager said. “Due to our success so far in meeting all aspects of the current permit, we are expecting to apply for a 30-year permit for the

upcoming renewal. Because of that, we wanted to do a thorough public involvement program, take a deep dive into existing science and data, coor dinate proposed changes to existing programs with our stakeholder and leadership committees, and then take a look at new science such as how our naturally changing climate might impact our programs over a three-decade horizon. So, while six-year planning period seemed a bit lengthy to some, there were others who felt we were cutting it a bit close.” The EAHCP federal permit is an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser vice (USFWS) which authorizes the “take” of a threatened or endangered species from lawful activities. The EAHCP describes how program per mittees of the ITP will manage and mitigate the protection of listed species and associated habi tats found in the Edwards Aquifer system, primar ily in the Comal Springs and San Marcos Springs.

Storment said the team, which includes nation ally-recognized consultant ICF, is on track with the four-phase timeline being used to develop the 2028 permit renewal application: • Listen and Learn Phase - a stakeholder involvement process that ran throughout 2022. • Analyze Phase - a means to identify need for more data gathering through studies. • Sign Off Phase - a period of time for EAHCP partners to review and ultimately approve the components of the comprehensive permit renewal document. • Document Phase - a comprehensive document will be written and submitted to the USFWS. ICF project leader Lucas Bare noted at the end of 2022 he was very pleased to see that people attending the Listen and Learn sessions under stood the inherent importance of protecting the overall Edwards Aquifer ecosystem. He said that their experience shows that long-term success

The Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) region has a strong history in agriculture and ranching. A little over 50% of Edwards Aquifer permits are for agriculture irrigation and support the grow ing of cash crops and the raising of livestock in the region. Communities in the western part of the EAA’s jurisdiction are thriving agricultural industries with some originating as far back as the 1800’s, when the area was first settled. The Union Stockyards near downtown San Antonio served as a successful market where breeding and market livestock were showcased and sold. The success of production agriculture instilled a sense of tradition in South Central Texas and this is evi dent in the popularity of the junior-level livestock shows within the region. Livestock shows were originally created by rail road conglomerates in the early 1900’s to mar ket livestock from various parts of the country.

The shows featured various livestock breeds for sale and helped build the reputation of livestock breeders. Cattle, pigs, goats and sheep were fea tured at the shows and were marketed as food or for breeding purposes. Over time, Livestock shows transitioned into events which featured livestock that were bred, raised, and trained by upper ele mentary, middle school, and high school students, thus becoming Junior Livestock Shows. The EAA proudly supports youth and junior livestock shows to bring awareness of the role water plays in agriculture and the importance of conserving the Edwards Aquifer for the future of production agriculture. A popular junior level livestock shows in our region is the San Anto nio Stock Show & Rodeo. This event was created in 1950 to support youth agriculture and live stock. The success of the San Antonio Show led to the creation of various Junior Livestock Shows within the region. These organizations include

the Bexar County Junior Livestock Show; Comal County Junior Livestock Show; Guadalupe County Youth Livestock & Homemaker Show; the Medina County Junior Livestock Show, and the Uvalde County Junior Livestock Show. Students who par ticipate in these shows are members of their local 4-H club or a Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter. FFA and 4-H members who enter a live stock project for their respective Junior Livestock Show develop skills they carry into their profes sions, earn scholarship monies, and become the new face of agriculture.

14

15

INCIDENTAL TAKE PERMIT RENEWAL RECAP 2024 A PIVOTAL YEAR EAHCP FEDERAL PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS

To stay up to date with the EAHCP Permit Renewal Process, please visit: https://www.eahcprenewal.org/

By: EAHCP Staff

• review and provide feedback on draft Conservation Measures developed and provided by EAHCP staff; and, • finalize and approve Conservation

“We have constructed a transparent, interactive process for how the drafting of our permit appli cation renewal will play out,” Storment concluded. “We wanted all stakeholders and the Implement ing Committee to have the opportunity to review and comment on major components of the new application over a period of time. That way, no one is inundated with a huge data dump at the end of the process and required to make serious decisions on very important documents under time constraints pressures. Additionally, we have been and will continue to work very closely with the USFWS staff to ensure we don’t surprise them with any part of our application. Their charge is to balance human socio-economic needs with nature’s needs in these permits, so it only makes sense for us to work together step by step to pro duce a well-vetted, science-based application that benefits us all. At this point, I feel confident that when we complete our application renewal pro cess, we will have a well-circulated, scientifical ly-sound document the EAHCP permittees can be confident in signing.”

The Conservation Measures Subcommittee members include:

for these types of federal programs requires the building of solid relationships so the group can tackle tough issues together. “We heavily relied on the Listen and Learn report to help us navigate through the Analyze Phase that occurred in 2023,” Storment explained. “At the conclusion of the public workshops, ICF drafted some general memos regarding stakehold ers and public input on the perceived strengths, weaknesses, successes, failures of the existing biological goals and objectives, and springflow protection measures. ICF also documented which program elements should be enhanced or deleted. In a parallel process, staff worked with various sub committees to draft a series of recommendations for the EAHCP Implementing Committee (IC), spe cifically the HCP’s permittees, to review. One sub committee developed a list of biological goals and a subsequent subcommittee produced objectives based on the previous subcommittee’s goals.”

Storment said that by the fall of 2024, the staff and subcommittees will produce a overall “Con servation Strategy”, for ICF to consider in its ini tial preparation of an actual application document that in 2025 the permittees and IC will review, comment on and eventually approve for submittal to USFWS. “The Conservation Strategy will be made up of the biological goals, objectives and conservation measures subcommittee recommendations. As mentioned, two of the subcommittees have com pleted their work. The Conservation Measures Subcommittee will start up toward the end of February and produce a final report by October of this year. They will be using the previous subcom mittees’ biological goals and objectives IC-ap proved recommendations to guide their work.”

Recently, the Implementation Committee pro duced a guiding document for the Conservation Measures Subcommittee to follow in its work over the next several months. The document’s main charges advise the committee should: • review the HCP Handbook as it pertains to Conservation Measure purpose and structure; • receive an overview of the Biological Goals and Biological Objectives Subcommittee recommendations; • use the best available science and knowledge of the current HCP experience to determine the needed Conservation Measures; • review the current EAHCP Conservation Measures (EAHCP § 5.0); • consider the effects of climate change and other potential variables relative to the proposed HCP period;

• Texas State University:

Measure recommendations to be provided to the EAHCP Implementing Committee before submission to the EAHCP Permit Renewal con tractor (ICF). The Conservations Measures are truly the heart of the EAHCP. They include the springflow pro tection measures which are key to the Edwards Aquifer Region’s ability to protect endangered spe cies and habitats during a repeat of the drought of record. Essentially, as water levels in the Edwards Aquifer decline and reach different trigger points, the springflow protection measures curtail aquifer pumping in varying degrees. Nearly three years ago, the Edwards Aquifer Authority’s computer models verified that the ASR, VISPO and Critical Period Management measures were effective in helping the Comal and San Marcos Springs continue to flow even under extremely low-flow conditions. Conser vation Measures also include activities for habitat protection and supporting research.

Represented by Kimberly Meitzen

• City of San Marcos:

Represented by Mark Enders

• City of New Braunfels:

Represented by Phillip Quast • San Antonio Water System: Represented by Linda Bevis • Edwards Aquifer Authority: Represented by Marc Friberg • Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority: Represented by Daniel Large • EAHCP Stakeholder Committee Member (Bexar County Interest): Kerim Jacaman • EAHCP Stakeholder Committee Member (Recreational Interest): Melani Howard • EAHCP Stakeholder Committee Member (Agricultural Interest): Adam Yablonski • EAHCP Stakeholder Committee Member (Environmental Interest): Myron Hess

16

17

EAC | EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVANCY A DEEP LOVE OF VOLUNTEERING

NY: Coming to the EAA with a lengthy history in volunteerism, how have you been able to integrate your passion for community service into your role here?

By: Nikki Young , Sr. Community Engagement Administrator

DC: Fortunately, the EAA has provided a supportive environment for my passion for volunteerism. I’ve been able to continue my previous volunteer efforts and even bring forth initiatives like the Workplace Mentoring program with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the annual Salvation Army Angel Tree project. It’s a privilege to contribute to the com munity while working for an organization that values and encourages such endeavors. NY: Your active and long-term involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Salvation Army Angel Tree project is truly remarkable. Can you please share how these specific volunteer/philanthropic efforts have impacted both the community and your colleagues at the EAA? DC: These initiatives have been fulfilling on multiple levels. The Workplace Mentoring program fosters personal development and establishes a connection between the EAA and the younger generation. The Angel Tree project brings joy to families in need during the holiday season. Witnessing my colleagues pour out their support for these efforts not only strengthens our company culture but also showcases the very best in each of them.

IN THE RHYTHMIC PULSE OF COMMUNITY COLLABORATION NIKKI YOUNG ENGAGES IN A HEARTFELT INTERVIEW WITH DAMON CHILDS, EAHCP CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR WHERE THEY EXPLORE DAMON’S COMMITMENT TO VOLUNTEERING AND THE IMPACT IT HAS ON BOTH THE EAA AND THE BROADER COMMUNITY.

Inspired by his uncle, Damon Childs, Oliver Foster age 14, volunteers annually at the H-E-B Feast of Sharing event through “EAA Gives Back”.

Nikki Young (NY): Damon, it’s a pleasure to visit with you for a special Valentine’s Day-themed conversation about your ‘love of volunteering’ at the EAA. Let’s start by exploring the roots of your dedication to volunteering. What does the concept of leaving something better than when you started mean to you, and how does it apply to your work in our community? Damon Childs (DC): Nikki, thank you for inviting me to share with you my thoughts and experiences about serv ing our community. The idea of leaving something better is a guiding principle in my life, and when it comes to our community, it’s about making a positive impact that extends beyond personal endeavors. Working for an agency with service at its core, like the Edwards Aquifer Authority, allows me to align my personal values with my professional life.

NY: As part of the “EAA Gives Back” initiative, you’ve been actively involved in the H-E-B Feast of Sharing event, a longstanding tradition at the EAA since 2018. Can you please recount one of these events, sharing the impact of witnessing over 10,000 people being served by a dedicated team of volunteers? Additionally, could you please elaborate on what this event personally means to you? DC: Volunteering at the H-E-B Feast of Sharing event was truly a sight to see, especially in the spirit of giving during the holiday season. Being there with my teenage nephew and our EAA staff, experiencing the collective effort to serve thousands of people a holiday meal was awe-inspiring. The sole intent was to provide them with a great day of food and fellowship. It not only showcased the power of volunteering but also left a lasting impression on everyone involved, especially my nephew, Oliver, whom this experience inspired him to sow into others as they have done for him. Oliver now regularly volunteers at the community kitchen at Haven for Hope which is ran by the San Antonio Food Bank.

NY: Your passion and enthusiasm for volunteering is obviously contagious, and as we embrace the season of love, it’s heartening to hear about your positive impact. Looking ahead, what are your anticipations for more opportunities to serve alongside your EAA family?

NY: Your perspective on community service is genuinely thoughtful and heartwarming, particularly as we embrace the sea son of love. In what ways has the EAA’s commitment to safeguarding the Edwards Aquifer shaped your approach to making a meaningful impact on the 2.5 million individuals we serve in other meaningful ways? DC: The primary duty of the EAA is to steward the Edwards Aquifer, an exceptional water resource. The metaphorical sig nificance of the Contributing Zone in the Edwards Aquifer system beautifully illustrates our active involvement and ongo ing “contribution” to the community through volunteerism. This approach underscores a holistic impact, assuring that our service extends to various aspects of our community, positively shaping the lives of our constituents in meaningful ways.

DC: I look forward to many more opportunities to serve alongside my EAA family. The spirit of volunteerism not only enriches our community but also brings us closer together. It creates lasting bonds and memories that define the heart of the Edwards Aquifer Authority. I’m eager to continue making a positive impact in the lives of our constituents and reinforcing the sense of community within our organization and encourage those reading this to sign up to volunteer today!

Learn more about future volunteer opportunities by visiting https://www.eaconservancy.org and exploring the Contributing Zone page under the “Get Involved” tab.

Edwards Aquifer Authority staff members serve as Big Brothers and Big Sisters through the Workplace Mentoring program.

Damon Childs (pictured center in red sweater) facilitates the EAA’s annual participation in the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.

18

19

THE EOC: YOUR AQUIFER EDUCATION DESTINATION

By: EOC Staff

A magic show that’s secretly about science. A scavenger hunt that creates interactions with nature. A chemical experiment that identifies limestone. This past year, 6,000 guests — that’s triple the number of visitors from our first year—visited the Education Outreach Center and participated in these and other activities. From kindergartners to senior citizens to differently-abled adults, we have received guests from all walks of life. Yet, no matter their walk of life, each EOC visitor shares one thing in common: we all rely on water. And upon visiting the EOC, they leave feel ing empowered and excited to protect our region’s shared water resource: the Edwards Aquifer. Given the diversity of visitors, the EOC’s exhibits and activities are designed to be accessible to all learning levels and styles. Trained educators provide dynamic and adaptable presentations. Students find themselves jumping up from their seats to be the first to answer the water mastery questions at the end. The Flag Art activity encour ages student creativity, and a fun puppet show introduces young students to the zones of the Edwards Aquifer. Every day, visitors and schools can partake in activities like these. In addition to these year-round activities, our special programming of 2023 included Movie Mondays, Summer Saturdays, and a Holiday Jam boree. Our biggest event was the Holiday Jam boree. One hundred guests came to meet Santa, paint their own ornaments, listen to carolers, and watch a science puppet show. Families walked

away with treats, holiday ornaments, pictures with Santa, and big smiles. However, even our non-festive activities are spe cial. In fact, it is in the day-to-day school field trip activities that the education team, with the help of dedicated volunteers, shines most brightly. In 2023 alone, we hosted 70 different school and homeschool groups—almost triple the number of schools as in 2022. K-12 students participated in TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) aligned presentations and activities, visited our three live Texas Blind Salamanders, and learned to think about water in a different way. Updates for 2024 As the EOC approaches its second anniversary, visitors can look forward to even more activities and updates. A new exhibit is nearing completion outdoors. Garden beds will feature native versus non-native grasses, emphasizing the importance of native grasses in preventing soil erosion, provid ing habitat for wildlife, and conserving water. These grass beds will be featured alongside our existing Native Plant Demonstration Garden which captures Texas’ natural beauty and pro vides an example of a drought-tolerant collection of plants that visitors can implement in their own backyards. Excitingly, a new flagstone path has

been installed in the garden. Visitors will find the Native Plant Demonstration Garden more accessi ble and the landscaping neater. Thirdly, the education team is working to incor porate a small hike to our outdoor pavilion into school field trip programming. This will provide students with an up-close, personal, nature-based learning experience in our local San Antonio eco system—with plants and animals that rely on the Edwards Aquifer, just like them. Potential activ ities will include nature journaling, observation and hypothesis creation, and plant identification. The EOC is also working on providing more Spanish translations for our exhibits and activities. Teachers, please note that the EOC education team has two Spanish-speaking presenters on staff. 2023 was an exciting year full of growth, innovation, and learning at the EOC. We look for ward to welcoming even more visitors in 2024 and we especially encourage teachers to bring their students on a field trip! After all, the EOC is the place to be! Support for School Field Trips The EOC is free to attend. We also offer travel support for school field trips. Please apply on the EOC website at https://www.eaaeoc.org/travel-support/ Call us with questions at (210) 547-2222. We look forward to your school field trip! Language Options We have Spanish and ASL speakers on staff. If you would like to schedule a field trip to the EOC in a language other than English, please do not hesitate to ask!

Edwards Aquifer Authority 900 E Quincy St • San Antonio, TX, 78215 www.edwardsaquifer.org

BOUT US A

Visit the EOC website: https://www.eaaeoc.org/

The mission of the EAA is to Manage, Enhance, and Protect the Edwards Aquifer. The Edwards Aquifer Authority is a regional water management agency that regulates with integrity, transparency, respect, and commitment to sustainability of the aquifer. NewsDrop is a production of the EAA Communications and Development Department with helpful assistance from EAA Staff.

20