NewsDrop-Jan-Feb-2026

GENERAL MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Roland Ruiz General Manager

DROUGHT AGAIN BRIDGES ONE YEAR IN THE EDWARDS REGION TO THE NEXT

ALSO GIVES US OPPORTUNITY TO PROVE THE VALUE OF OUR WORK. THE PROLONGED ABSENCE OF RAIN ACROSS SOUTH-CENTRAL TEXAS, WHILE CHALLENGING ON MANY DIFFERENT FRONTS TO MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE,

such as LiDAR uses drones equipped with three-dimensional geospatial scanning capabilities to more accurately and easily map and track changes in aquatic surface and sub-surface habitats as conditions change in the aquifer’s spring ecosystems. Additionally, programmatic efforts to secure, protect and improve the natural recharge occurring on lands within the aquifer’s vast watershed (the contributing and recharge zones) will ultimately contribute to the region’s drought resilience by augmenting the aquifer’s long-term sustainability. To help in this regard, the EAA’s supporting non-profit organization, the Edwards Aquifer Conservancy is primed to further solidify

its place as a means to supplement funding of such conservation-oriented programs and other initiatives in support of the EAA mission.

So, we enter 2026 with optimism; not because rain is assured, but because we have proven tools in place to help tolerate and, to some degree, mitigate the burdens of the drought to the extent possible under our enabling statute, the EAA Act. Within the pages of this publication, you will find evidence of just some of these tools at work. Automated Meter Reading technology, for example, can make monitoring and reporting pumping amounts virtually seamless for permit holders enrolled in the program. Other technology

Finally, following a record-breaking attendance year in 2025, the EAA Education Outreach Center continues to help illustrate and articulate the value of Edwards Aquifer stewardship to stakeholders of all ages through engaging and innovative exhibits and interactive presentations. COLLECTIVELY, WHETHER IN DROUGHT OR NOT, THESE TOOLS HELP OUR ABILITY TO MANAGE, ENHANCE, AND PROTECT THE EDWARDS AQUIFER TO THE BENEFIT OF ITS MANY USERS.

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