Water allocation systems in Texas

Abstract

Allocation of water resources among nations, states, regions, water management organizations and numerous water users is a governing concern in water management in Texas as well as throughout the world. Water allocation practices in Texas have evolved historically over centuries, with significant improvements occurring in recent years that continue to be refined. Texas shares water with Mexico and several neighbouring states in the United States. Thousands of government agencies, cities, private companies and citizens within Texas hold rights to use the waters of the state. Legal rights to use surface water differ from those for groundwater. Surface water allocation for the Lower Rio Grande is different to that for the rest of the state. With growing demands on limited water resources, expanding and refining water allocation systems has become a central governing concern in water management. The Texas experience illustrates fundamental principles, issues, management strategies and complexities involved in developing and administering water allocation systems.

Notes

Correspondence address: Ralph A. Wurbs, Civil Engineering Department, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA. Email: r‐[email protected]

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ralph A. Wurbs

Correspondence address: Ralph A. Wurbs, Civil Engineering Department, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA. Email: r‐[email protected]