Save Texas Rivers
Every day, waterways across the state are drying up. Recent rainfall doesn't excuse corporations from continuing to waste our water. State leaders should protect our rivers and streams from abuse and overuse.
At stake: the lifeblood of Texas
Rope swinging into the cool waters of the Guadalupe. Watching turtles in the Comal. Floating the San Marcos on a hot summer afternoon.
Our rivers help make Texas special. But amid one of our worst droughts, corporate interests continue to draw staggering quantities of water from our rivers—then waste it through highly inefficient practices. As a result, there’s barely enough water for recreation and wildlife, from fish to whooping cranes.
We have the technology to save water
Most electric companies still use water-intensive energy sources and cooling methods. Most gas drilling companies choose not to recycle the water used for fracking. And developers continue to install new residential landscaping that requires extensive watering to maintain.
One of the worst droughts in history
2011 was the worst single-year drought ever and we’ve seen little improvement since. In response to our bone-dry rivers, half-full reservoirs and blistering heat, many Texans are pitching in to save water in their own homes and businesses. But Texas’ biggest corporate water consumers, from developers to drilling companies, are still allowed to waste water with few restrictions— despite existing technology that could save Texas rivers billions of gallons of water.
Together, we can save Texas rivers
Our staff has been knocking on doors across the state to educate Texans about what’s at stake. We’re also testifying in the Legislature, researching water conservation solutions, and shining a spotlight in the media on the need to keep our rivers full and flowing with water. But the real key to winning this fight is you.
Across the state, thousands of our supporters have called or emailed state legislators, signed petitions, spread the word to friends and family, and attended hearings at the Capitol. With your support, we can force corporations to start saving water and stop draining our rivers. If enough of us speak out, we can save Texas rivers.
Click here to join the campaign.
Tell state leaders to require our worst water hogs to stop the waste.
Key Facts
- In Austin, Lakes Travis and Buchannan, Central Texas' main water supply, are still half-empty.
- It is estimated that 5,000 gallons of water per foot of unlined ditch are lost every irrigation season.
- In July 2012, 11 reservoirs across the state were still less than 10 percent full.