NewsDrop-May-June-2026

CRITICAL PERIOD MANAGEMENT [CPM] In times of declining groundwater levels, the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) implements a Critical Period Management (CPM) Plan to help sustain aquifer and springflow levels. This program helps slow the rate of decline in aquifer levels and spring discharges during periods of little or no rain by reducing the amount of groundwater EAA permit holders may withdraw.

REGULATORY AFFAIRS

Please note: Residents and businesses who receive their water from a public water system are encouraged to check with their water provider to determine how stage reduction could impact them.

Please note: *Stage 5 Comal Springs springflow - to enter this stage based on the springflow, the reading must be less than 45 cfs on a ten-day rolling average, or less than 40 cfs based on a three-day rolling average. To leave this stage, the ten-day rolling average must be 45 cfs or greater.

ft. amsl = feet above mean sea level | (cfs) = cubic feet per second

THE DROUGHT PERSISTS but the Springs are Still Flowing

In practical terms, this may mean: • Lower pumping limits during drought, which can require increased conservation, use of alternative water supplies, or operational adjustments. • Monthly reporting requirements for municipal, industrial, and irrigation users so the EAA can track withdrawals and ensure fairness and compliance across all permit holders. • Greater predictability and equity, since reductions apply region-wide and are enforced consistently. While CPM reductions can be challenging in the short term, they help protect springflows, preserve aquifer levels, and ensure a reliable water supply over the long term — benefiting both current users and future generations across South - Central Texas. | edwardsaquifer.org 4/29/2026 12:03:34 PM

As mentioned in the previous article, central to this effort is the EAA Critical Period Management (CPM) Plan . During drought, the plan temporarily reduces authorized groundwater withdrawals to slow declines in aquifer levels and spring discharges until recharge conditions improve. How does this affect water users? CPM reductions apply to all permit holders authorized to pump more than three acre-feet annually, including municipal, industrial, and irrigation users. To ensure compliance, these entities submit monthly pumping reports, which are reconciled annually by the EAA. During drought, the CPM Plan requires certain water users to temporarily reduce how much water they pump from the Edwards Aquifer. If you are authorized to withdraw more than three acre-feet per year—such as municipal utilities, industries, or irrigators —your allowable pumping is reduced based on the current CPM stage. 900 E Quincy, San Antonio, TX 78215 Questions? Please email us at info@edwardsaquifer.org

210.222.2204

By: Larry Jackson Executive Director External & Regulatory Affairs

EAA Fact Sheet_APRIL_2026 - Copy.indd 2

Last summer, we shared an update in News Drop on how the EAA manages Edwards Aquifer withdrawals during drought—an especially timely discussion amid ongoing dry conditions. So, what’s changed since then? Very little. The drought persists and, in some respects, conditions are worse than this time last year. Aquifer levels remain low, and rainfall has been insufficient—particularly in recharge and contributing zones—to make a meaningful difference.

Despite these challenges, San Marcos and Comal Springs continue to flow. While both remain at precariously low levels, their continued springflow supports critical threatened and endangered species. This outcome reflects the strength of regional partnerships and sustained efforts to protect springflow while ensuring a reliable water supply for South-Central Texas.

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