Opinion: Restoring Jacob’s Well Springflow Is a Multi-Faceted Process

by The Wimberley Valley Watershed Association

Friends of the watershed, as stewards of Jacob’s Well, we are compelled to keep you informed about the current status of Jacob’s Well Spring and the current conditions of our aquifers, creeks and rivers.

Sadly, our beloved spring is experiencing zero flow of water for the sixth time since the summer of 2000. We understand how upsetting this news may be and we want to share the most up-to-date information with you, along with ways the Watershed Association is working with local leaders and the community to raise awareness, and how you can help.

There are multiple factors contributing to Jacob’s Well’s near-dry condition, and it’s crucial to recognize that it’s not just one issue at play.

Central Texas is still in extreme-and-exceptional drought conditions and excessive groundwater pumping that violates Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District rules is contributing to the unprecedented drawdown of aquifer levels.

The increased groundwater demand to accommodate rapid population growth is resulting in more and more water being withdrawn in Woodcreek North, across the region.

Our community is collectively pumping out more water than is being replenished under the current drought conditions. The 30-foot drawdown policy and overpumping of permitted allotments in the Trinity Aquifer have caused Jacob’s Well to cease flowing.

Now more than ever it is essential for all of us to come together to conserve groundwater during this emergency drought period.

The Watershed Association is diligently working to address the over-pumping and has been convening stakeholders including, elected officials, regulators, water utilities, landowners, and developers into a regional watershed task force.

This emergency situation requires increased attention to assessing our water shortages and developing an integrated land, water, and transportation plan that balances our water budget and focuses on implementing more efficient water conservation strategies.

Restoring Jacob’s Well springflow is a multi-faceted process. Our community and the many visitors from around the world all share the desire to see crystal-clear flowing water from this ancient and cherished spring once again.

However, raising awareness and encouraging our community and developers to consider the impacts of their development’s design on aquifer health and spring flow is essential.

So, how can you help?

If you live in the Texas Hill Country or specifically in the Woodcreek-Woodcreek North, Cypress Creek Watershed areas, please consider ceasing all outdoor watering to help maintain current aquifer levels until sufficient rains return. If you live outside of Texas, show gratitude for your water, as it reminds us of its value and importance.

For those who wish to support Jacob’s Well and our conservation efforts, visit our website to learn more about how you can contribute and make a difference.

Together, we can protect this precious natural wonder and ensure it thrives for generations to come.

Let’s unite and keep Jacob’s Well in our hearts and minds.

Come on El Nino, make it rain!