Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Nears Historic Lows Amid Drought

Officials warn groundwater levels could trigger Stage 4 emergency response if conditions persist.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After nearly four years of drought, the aquifer that feeds Barton Springs and supplies drinking water to thousands in the Austin area is nearing historic lows. The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District is warning that groundwater levels within the district are approaching record-breaking levels, and if current conditions continue, a Stage 4 emergency response could be declared for the first time in the district's 39-year history.

Why it matters

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer is a critical water source for over 100,000 people in the region and also feeds the iconic Barton Springs. Prolonged drought and rapid growth have put a strain on the aquifer, raising concerns about water security and the potential impact on the local ecosystem and recreational activities.

The details

The district oversees groundwater from South Austin down to south San Marcos. Currently, Barton Springs is flowing at only about a quarter of its average rate, and the Lovelady Monitor Well in South Austin is about 30 feet below the average groundwater level. Officials say the low levels could force residents who rely on wells to lower their pumps, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

  • The area has been operating under Stage 3 Exceptional Drought conditions since October 2022.
  • The district has experienced 43 consecutive months of drought as of January 2026.

The players

Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District

The government agency that oversees groundwater in the Austin-San Marcos region and manages the Barton Springs aquifer.

Shay Hlavaty

A spokesperson for the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're almost missing an entire year's worth of rainfall.”

— Shay Hlavaty, Spokesperson, Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (FOX 7 Austin)

“Folks in the area who rely on wells to get their water, they're going to start experiencing issues where their well may not be low enough to get to that water. Luckily, they can lower the pump in a lot of instances, but that can be expensive and time-consuming.”

— Shay Hlavaty, Spokesperson, Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (FOX 7 Austin)

“Groundwater is hard to see, it's beneath our feet. But it's really a lifeline for our community. And it's the soul of the hill country. And so it's important that all of us think that every gallon of water that you use on your lawn, or perhaps you waste, is one less gallon that somebody gets to use to drink or that we get to enjoy and recreate.”

— Shay Hlavaty, Spokesperson, Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (FOX 7 Austin)

What’s next

If current conditions persist, the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District could declare a Stage 4 emergency response as early as late March 2026.

The takeaway

The prolonged drought and rapid growth in the Austin area have put a significant strain on the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer, a critical water source for the region. This highlights the need for increased water conservation efforts and long-term planning to ensure the sustainability of the aquifer and the communities it supports.