The Edwards Aquifer Authority officially declared Stage 5 pumping restrictions for users of the Uvalde Pool. This stage of the EAA Critical Period Management Plan requires permit holders to reduce their authorized annual pumping from the aquifer by 44 percent.
The EAA declared Stage 5 based on declining water level readings at the J-27 monitoring well in Uvalde. It has been officially confirmed that the 10-day average is below the threshold of 840 feet above sea level.
The purpose of pumping reductions is to stabilize aquifer levels and spring flow until rainfall replenishes the aquifer.
Stage 5 restrictions are for water permit holders who pump from these pools and are not watering restrictions for residents, though those water permit holders may pass on restrictions to customers.
The flow rates at the San Marcos and Comal springs are also below historical monthly averages.
Residents and businesses who receive their water from a water utility are encouraged to contact their provider directly to find out how Stage 5 reductions may affect them. Stage 2 restrictions are still in effect in the San Antonio pool.
All affected permit holders must report their pumping totals to the EAA on a monthly basis. More information on Stage 5 is available at www.edwardsaquifer.org or by calling the EAA Critical Period Management Team at (866) 931-3239.
