JANUARY 2016 Vol. 62 - No. 1 THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Well paperwork turned in? 2 Conservation conferences 2 JANUARY 2016 ISSUE Bessent to join PCG staff 3 Address Service Requested Goliath brings blizzard 3 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News

SECOND YEAR IN A ROW:

WWW.HPWD.ORG CROSBYTON STUDENTS WIN H2YOU CONTEST For the second year in a row, students from Crosbyton High School are winners of the CONSERVATION CONVERSATION High Plains Underground Water NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION Conservation District’s H2YOU conservation awareness contest. Q: I need to report my water use APPOINTMENT -- Due to the retirement of Senator Troy Fraser, Sean Gonzales, Tyriece on several properties. Do I need to Senator Craig Estes (R-Wichita Falls) was recently appointed Mooring, Noah Rubalcado, and exit out of the online reporting tool Chairman of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Hunter Silva presented their urban each time I add a property? Economic Development. “Senator Estes has served as vice-chairman water conservation campaign to of the Senate Natural Resources and Economic Development a panel of judges at the HPWD A: In order to save time when Committee for the past eight years. He has the ability to lead this office. reporting water usage on multiple important committee by protecting our most important natural Sharon West and Ben Stokes Congratulations to Noah Rubalcado, Tyriece Mooring, Sean Gonzales, and Hunter Silva properties, the user can click the resources while preserving the free market principles that make of Crosbyton Independent School (L-R) of Crosbyton High School, who are the 2016 winners of the High Plains Water plus sign “+” at the end of the Texas great,” Lt. Governor Patrick said in making the appointment. District are the students’ teacher District’s H2YOU conservation awareness contest. (Photo courtesy Crosbyton ISD). property description line. and sponsor. This allows the submission of CRMWA PIPELINE REPAIRED -- The Canadian River Judges were Vikram Baliga, change and conserve water, we will in late January. an unlimited number of properties Municipal Water Authority (CRMWA) pipeline is repaired Texas A&M AgriLife Extension be destined for consequences-such They will also give their without the need to re-enter the following two blowouts which occurred in December and January. Agent for Horticulture-Lubbock as harsh water restriction laws-and presentation to the five-member user’s contact information or The blowouts, located south of Fritch, forced several member cities County; Mary Jane Buerkle, soon, no water at all,” the students HPWD Board of Directors at exiting the website. to use CRMWA reserves or their own water while the pipeline was Director of Communications wrote in their proposal. their February 9 regular meeting. Water use reporting for 2015 repaired. and Public Affairs, Plains Cotton The team concluded their Cash prizes were awarded to should occur during the period Growers, Inc.; Stephanie Pruitt, presentation by saying “…we have members of each of the top three from January 1 to March 1, 2016. HIRED -- Dr. Seth Byrd is the new Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Communications Director, Texas provided 11 simple ways to help in teams. Questions? Please contact Jed Service cotton agronomist at Lubbock. He is responsible for leading Corn Producers; and Aubrey the everyday struggle that is water Second place honors Leibbrandt at (806) 762-0181 or by the agency’s educational programming efforts in cotton production Spear, P.E., Director of Utilities conservation. Follow the Proverb: went to Emma Rich, Lillian email at [email protected]. across the agency’s 20-county South Plains District. Byrd may be for the City of Lubbock. Waste Not…Want Not.” Scheffel, Payton Tolbert, and HPWD appreciates those who reached at (806) 723-8417 or at [email protected]. Using the theme of “Waste One aspect of their campaign Victoria Wright of Sudan High have already submitted their Not…Want Not,” the group pro- was to help youth teach other youth School. Third place winners groundwater use for the 2015 WOTUS RULE DEBATE KEEPS ON FLOWING -- On January duced an urban water conserva- about water conservation. This were McKenna Bush, Hannah production year using the new 19, President Obama vetoed a Congressional Resolution that would tion proposal to help area resi- was accomplished by producing Hawkins, and Bailey Hugnagle reporting tool (www.hpwd.org/ have overturned the Waters of the United States (“Wotus”) rule. dents be more informed about the a video, featuring Crosbyton of Canyon High School. reporting) added to the district SJR 22 passed 53 to 44 in the Senate and 253 to 166 in the House ways they can reduce water use in Elementary School students, which “Our Board of Directors website in late December. of Representatives. Yet, there are not enough votes in each chamber their daily lives. highlighted the 11 simple tips. and staff commend the student DID YOU KNOW? to overturn the veto. The resolution’s sponsor, Sen. Joni Ernst “Water conservation has been The Crosbyton High School teams from Crosbyton, Sudan, (R-Iowa) will continue to look for ways to undermine the rule. “We a touchy subject when it comes to students earned an all-expense and Canyon for their hard An acre-foot of water is all want clean water (but) this rule is not about clean water. Rather, it Texas. Everyone knows we need paid trip to Austin, where they work, insight, and dedication in equivalent to 325,851 gallons. is about how much authority the Federal Government and unelected water—but some do not want to will present their urban water addressing water conservation bureaucrats should have to regulate what is done on private land,” make the changes necessary to conservation campaign to their issues,” said HPWD Education An acre-inch of water is Ernst said in a press release. protect our water for the future. If state representative and/or the and Outreach Coordinator equivalent to 27,154 gallons. we, as a society, cannot learn to Texas Water Development Board Adeline Fox. IS YOUR WATER WELL PAPERWORK TURNED IN?? KODY BESSENT TO JOIN PLAINS COTTON GROWERS STAFF Applicants for water well the applicant’s responsibility to ing some type of associated paper- Kody Bessent will serve as the and friendships developed while organizational objectives of PCG. permits are reminded to check with make sure all paperwork has been work. I visit with the landowner/ new Vice President of Operations serving as the district’s legislative Prior to joining the HPWD staff, their respective well drillers and submitted within 240 days of the operator to remind them that they and Legislative Affairs for Plains affairs director. Both will be of Bessent was the Vice-President of pump installers to make sure all date the permit is issued,” said need to follow up on this. While Cotton Growers, Inc., (PCG) great value as I begin my new role Legislative Affairs and Producer paperwork has been submitted to HPWD Permit Supervisor Juan we prefer use of the electronic beginning Feb. 1. with PCG,” he said. Relations for the Texas Wheat Pro- HPWD following well completion. Peña. forms, we will provide paper forms Since Jan. 2014, Bessent has Bessent’s new responsibilities ducers & Board. He also served as The district uses a separate Failure to do so will make the for those who need them. We want served as legislative affairs director include administration and a legislative assistant to U. S. Rep. electronic form for the driller’s log well non-compliant with HPWD to make this as easy as possible to for the High Plains development of the newly- Mac Thornberry in 2007. and the pump equipment. rules. provide the necessary information Water District, established PCG Political Action A graduate of West Texas A&M In the past, this information had HPWD Field Technician to the district,” he said. working in various Committee, and continuing to University, Bessent is active in been provided on a single paper Andres Villareal follows up with All future water well permits by capacities to fur- increase PCG’s political presence several organizations and initia- form. applicants regarding missing an applicant will not be considered ther enhance and in order to enhance their legislative tives. He is also a graduate of Class “Many presume that the well paperwork. until all paperwork for the previ- develop legisla- activities and influence at both the XIII of the Texas Agricultural Life- driller or the pump installer has “At present, we have a good ous well has been properly filed tive efforts locally state and federal level. He will also time Leadership (TALL) program. taken care of this matter. It is number of permits that are miss- with the district as per Rule 6.3(b). and throughout the provide operational assistance to We thank Kody for his dedicated state. the Executive Vice President, the service to HPWD and wish him AREA WATER CONSERVATION CONFERENCES SCHEDULED BESSENT “I am very PCG Board of Directors, and staff all the best in his new position at humbled by the knowledge gained in carrying out the mission and Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. Residents of the Panhandle- Additional information about “Both conferences will South Plains region are invited to the conference, including registra- showcase water conservation learn more about the economic tion, is available at http://www. success stories from individuals, “GOLIATH” BRINGS BLIZZARD CONDITIONS TO REGION impacts and success stories of water h2oblueideas.com. businesses, and industry. Area The aptly-named winter storm Commissioner Sid Miller to urge ear tags in an attempt to locate the conservation at two conferences in Although admission is free, residents are encouraged to attend “Goliath” brought thunder sleet, the USDA to grant a disaster missing livestock. February and March 2016. persons are strongly encouraged and join in the discussion of water snow, and wind gusts of 55-65 designation for 11 counties. Blizzard conditions also to register for the conference in saving ideas for the Panhandle- miles an hour to the Panhandle- The requested designation wreaked havoc in area towns and Amarillo order to obtain a head count for South Plains region,” said HPWD South Plains region on Dec. 26 and includes: Bailey, Castro, Cochran, cities. Hundreds of vehicles were The third biennial Texas the optional catered meal. General Manager Jason Coleman. 27. Deaf Smith, Hale, Hockley, Lamb, stranded. In addition, there were Panhandle-South Plains Water Preliminary snow accumulations Lubbock, Parmer, Terry, and several reports of carports and Conservation Symposium is set reported to the National Weather Yoakum Counties. All but Terry other flat roofs that collapsed due for Feb. 24 from 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. THE CROSS SECTION Service (NWS) forecast office and Yoakum Counties are within to the weight of the snow. in the North Exhibit Hall of the CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS ranged from three inches in the HPWD service area. Amarillo Civic Center. This year’s Information/Education Group Supervisor Floydada, 11 inches in Denver Texas and Southwestern Cattle Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock City and Lubbock, and 20 inches Raisers Association officials symposium is titled “Slow the Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield Telephone: (806) 762-0181 in Friona. NWS officials said estimate 4,000 feedlot cattle Flow: Keys to Successful Water Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Conservation.” Fax: (806) 762-1834 exact measurements were nearly died as a result of the storm. An Web: www.hpwd.org Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo impossible due to extensive snow estimated 6,000 - 8,000 stocker Additional information about the E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg conference, including registration, blowing and drifting. cattle may have also perished. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF The 11.2 inches of snow was the The Texas Association of is available at http://pgcd.us/2016- monthly publication of the High Plains Underground water-conservation-symposium/ Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager third largest snow event officially Dairymen estimates that about five Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor recorded at Lubbock Preston Smith percent of mature dairy cows and Tickets are free to those who at Lubbock, Texas. register on or before Feb. 19. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator International Airport. The largest an unknown number of calves/ Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copy- Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor was 16.9 inches in 1983, and the heifers were killed as a result of the However, those who register after righted and may be reproduced without permission if the deadline will pay $20 per ticket. proper credit is given to the High Plains Water District Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant second largest was 12.1 inches in blizzard. This number is expected as the source of the article. Billy Barron ...... Field Technician 1961. to increase as the snow/ice thaws Kody Bessent ...... Legislative Affairs Lubbock The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Although the storm helped and producers are able to examine send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant improve soil moisture conditions their herds. Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Amarillo) The first Water Advancement, No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician throughout the region, it did so at In addition, there were Technology, Training, and Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach a substantial cost to livestock and numerous instances of missing Snow cover from winter storm “Goliath” property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician Solutions (WATTS) conference their use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. property. cattle resulting from snow drifts persisted for weeks in the Texas Panhandle. Greg Holder ...... Field Technician is slated for March 22 from 1:30 Heavy livestock losses resulting burying fences or loss of power This made county roads, such as this one, POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Lubbock Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist from the storm prompted Governor to electric fences. Many turned impassable. (TX A&M AgriLife Extension Memorial Civic Center. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician Greg Abbott and Texas Agriculture to social media to post photos of Service photo by Dr. Ted McCollum.) FEBRUARY 2016 Vol. 62 - No. 2 THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 H2YOU students visit Austin 2 Science Fair projects honored 2 FEBRUARY 2016 ISSUE WATTS Conference March 22 3 Address Service Requested Conservation Conversation 4 THE CROSS SECTION Panhandle Symposium held 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News USDA-NRCS FUNDS PROPOSED RCPP PROJECT The USDA-Natural Resources voluntary. Interested producers how it works,” Coleman said. WWW.HPWD.ORG Conservation Service (USDA- can sign up for the program at their In addition to HPWD, partners NRCS) has provided $2 million to local USDA-NRCS service center. include: Hemphill County fund a limited applied irrigation Participating groundwater districts Underground Water Conservation PANHANDLE assistance program sponsored will not receive any funding for the District (UWCD); Llano Estacado CONSERVATION CONVERSATION by several commodity groups, program—but will be providing in- UWCD; Mesa UWCD; North NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION area groundwater conservation kind services to assist with water Plains GCD; Sandy Land UWCD; SYMPOSIUM districts, Texas A&M AgriLife conservation efforts,” said HPWD South Plains UWCD: Texas Extension, Texas Alliance for General Manager Jason Coleman. A&M AgriLife Extension; Texas HELD FEB. 24 HONORED – A group of area researchers received the Texas A&M Water Conservation, and Texas He added that HPWD received Alliance for Water Conservation; AgriLife Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in the collaboration Tech University. notice on Feb. 12 that the RCPP Texas Tech University; Plains “Slow the Flow: Keys to awards team category on Jan. 14. The Lubbock Cropping Systems Research Team was honored for several notable achievements, High Plains Underground proposal was funded. Cotton Growers, Inc.: Texas Corn Successful Water Conservation” Water Conservation District “This is great news for produc- Producers Board; Texas Organic was the theme of the 3rd biennial including a recent four-year study that showed limiting early season cotton irrigation could potentially reduce annual water requirements (HPWD) will serve as the lead ers in the area. Additional informa- Cotton Marketing Cooperative; Texas Panhandle-South Plains by more than 27 million gallons of water per year on the High Plains partner for the five-year project tion will be available in the coming Texas Peanut Producers Board; Water Conservation Symposium with only a relatively small decline in lint yield. Team members are (2016-2020). weeks after HPWD executes a fi- Texas Seed Trade Association; held Feb. 24 at the Amarillo Civic Dr. Wayne Keeling, James Bordovsky, Dr. Terry Wheeler, Dr. Megha Center. More than 300 persons This project addresses nal agreement to carry out the pro- Texas Sorghum Producers Board; Parajulee, Dr. Jason Woodward, and Dr. Jane Dever. irrigation water management posal. By then, we’ll have a better and Texas Wheat Producers attended the day-long event. Presenters covered a wide PREPARE FOR FIRE SEASON – Winds, heavy grass and brush within the area underlain by understanding of the program and Board. range of subjects including water growth, and numerous ignition sources should prompt homeowners the Ogallala Aquifer in the legislation, water policy, new in- and landowners alike to take time now to prepare before the flames Panhandle-South Plains region. It REMINDER TO REPORT novations in drip irrigation, use of of a wildfire are at their back door, said Dr. Ted McCollum with Texas will encourage agricultural water satellite imagery to evaluate ag- A&M AgriLife Extension in Amarillo. Tips and other specific actions users to leave water in the ground 2015 GROUNDWATER USE ricultural water use, climate and that landowners and rural homeowners can take can be found at http:// through adoption of on-farm stewardship, municipal water con- tinyurl.com/h2huo6l water conservation strategies, Persons interested in participating in the High Plains Water District’s (HPWD) groundwater conservation reserve program are servation rates, and direct potable REGENTS FELLOW – Dr. J. D. Ragland has been named a Regents improved irrigation efficiencies, reuse projects. Fellow by the Texas A&M University Board of Regents. He is an or converting to non-irrigated reminded that they should report their 2015 water use before March Long-time groundwater AgriLife Extension Service agriculture and natural resources agent production for the life of the 1, 2016. conservation district manager in Randall County. Ragland previously served in Floyd and Castro project. Since December 2015, a web tool for reporting groundwater use Richard Bowers was posthumously Counties during the past 28 years. Our congratulations to J. D. on this The RCPP project builds upon has been active on the HPWD website (www.hpwd.org/reporting) honored with the “Crown of Texas well deserved honor! existing USDA-NRCS programs Conservation Award.” such as EQIP, CSP, and AWEP to This tool provides options to persons to select either a simple Bowers, who passed away RETIREMENT – Wayne Halbert, long-time manager of the Harlingen address water conservation needs or detailed reporting method depending upon their choice for Nov. 15, had a 32-year career and Adams Gardens Irrigation Districts, retired Dec. 31, 2015 after 30 participating in the groundwater conservation reserve program. years of service. During his retirement party, Halbert was honored as in the region. in groundwater management. An educational component It replaces older forms that were previously used for reporting a “statewide leader in water management.” He was recognized for purposes. He served as general manager his service as president of the Texas Water Conservation Association, will help promote adoption of best of the Panhandle Groundwater legislative director for the Texas Irrigation Council and the Lower management practices to improve It is especially important to report 2015 groundwater use prior Conservation District (GCD) Rio Grande Valley Water District Manager’s Association, chair of the irrigation application efficien- to the start of production in 2016. for eight years, manager of the Rio Grande Watermaster Advisory Committee, and director of the cies as well as use of more water- Please contact the HPWD office at (806) 762-0181 if you North Plains GCD for 20 years, Southwest Soil and Water Conservation District. We wish Wayne all efficient and drought resistant and manager of the Central Texas the best on his retirement. need additional information about use of the new web tool or the GCD for four years. seed varieties. groundwater conservation reserve program. “This program is entirely HPWD AWARDS STUDENTS FOR COUNTY SECRETARIES RECEIVE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND MARCH 22 SCIENCE FAIR WATER PROJECTS HPWD WEB TOOL TRAINING WATTS CONFERENCE Approximately 600 area students detergent concentration for his competed in the annual South Plains next experiment. The first Water Advance- Regional Science & Engineering ment, Technology, Training, and Fair held Feb. 5 at the United Tenth Grade Solutions (WATTS) conference Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock. is set for March 22 from 1:30 High Plains Water District staff “Drinkable Rainwater” - p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Lubbock awarded certificates to six students Deborah de Farias of Southcrest Memorial Civic Center. for their outstanding water-related Christian School. Deborah col- projects. Congratulations to each lected rainwater and designed a fil- A trade show, held in con- of the winners! tration device made of household junction with the conference, objects. She filtered 360 gallons of begins at 12:30 p.m. Sixth Grade rainwater through the device. Additional information, in- cluding the agenda and registra- “What’s in your water?” - Eleventh Grade tion, is available at www.h2o- Layla Alalawi of All Saints Epis- copal School. Layla evaluated blueideas.com. “The Effect of Application Although admission is free, different types of drinking water Rate of the Growth and Yield of H2YOU Contest winners Hunter Silva, persons are strongly encouraged samples to determine which source Gossypium hirsutum (cotton)” Manager Jason Coleman (top left) discusses the groundwater reporting tool on the Noah Ribalcado, Sean Gonzales, and contained the most bacteria. HPWD website with County Secretaries Wayne Butler, Cochran County (back to camera); to register for the conference in - David Mendoza of Christ the Tyriece Mooring of Crosbyton High Judy Thayer, Floyd County; Linda Smith, Hockley County; Karleen Hoelting, Castro and order to obtain an accurate head King School. David irrigated four School (L-R) are shown at the Texas Swisher Counties; Deann Martin, Deaf Smith County; and Christina Gutierrez, Bailey “Water you waiting for?” - Mia cotton cultivars with varying rates Capitol during their recent trip to Austin. count for the optional catered County. This training will allow the County Secretaries to assist visitors who want to Williams of New Home Middle of water application. He irrigated During their visit, the students presented meal. report 2015 groundwater use while visiting the respective HPWD county offices. School. Mia tested a desalination one plot daily at 50 percent of the their water conservation ideas to several theory by creating an evaporation normal amount then irrigated the water industry leaders and legislative process in three plastic containers other plots at 17.5 percent of the staff members. CITY OF ABERNATHY DRILLS DOCKUM TEST WELL with different colored bottoms. She normal amount weekly. calculated which container and col- During late January and early February, the City of Abernathy drilled a test well to learn more about the or produced the greatest amount of Dockum Aquifer and its potential as an additional municipal water supply for the future. HPWD provided freshwater after evaporation took THE CROSS SECTION cost-share assistance for construction of this test well and the accompanying depth/salinity study conducted place. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS by the Texas Tech University Water Resources Center. The well was completed to a depth of 1,245 feet. (This Information/Education Group Supervisor Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock is 495 feet deeper than the underground lunch room at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.) Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield “The Effect of Resonant Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Energy Technology (RET) on Fax: (806) 762-1834 Seed Germination” - Pace Ritz of Web: www.hpwd.org Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo New Home Middle School. Pace E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg examined irrigation water quality THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF from the Ogallala Aquifer and the monthly publication of the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager Dockum/Santa Rosa Aquifer. He Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor irrigated corn and sunflowers with at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator untreated and treated water samples Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copy- Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor to determine if RET treatment was righted and may be reproduced without permission if proper credit is given to the High Plains Water District the best option. as the source of the article. Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant Billy Barron ...... Field Technician The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant Eighth Grade send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Amarillo) LEFT: The driller must first bore through the Ogallala Formation to reach the Dockum Aquifer below. No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician “Recycle the Cycle” - Ali Arain Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach MIDDLE LEFT: Cuttings from the well drilling were collected at 10 foot intervals. The driller encountered caliche, sandstone, brown property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician of Lubbock Cooper Bush Middle their use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. clay, sandy clay, blue clay, and red clay in the Ogallala Formation segment of the well. School. Ali tested grey water Greg Holder ...... Field Technician POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician MIDDLE RIGHT: Hi Plains Drilling personnel weld the seam on a steel casing for the Dockum Aquifer test well. irrigation on a residential lawn. Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist He plans to reduce the amount of District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician RIGHT: Drilling mud and water are pumped down through the pipe to help bring well cuttings to the surface. MARCH 2016 Vol. 62 - No. 3 THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Public comment - State Water Plan 2 MARCH 2016 ISSUE Former Director Sisson dies 2 April RWH workshops scheduled 3 Address Service Requested THE CROSS SECTION Cost-share funding approved 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News SUCCESS STORIES SHARED AT WATTS CONFERENCE Success stories in water reuse, WWW.HPWD.ORG water treatment, use of new technologies, and reduction of water use were showcased at the COST-SHARE FUNDING APPROVED FOR LUBBOCK March 22 Water Advancement, Technology, Training & Solutions BRACKISH GROUNDWATER EVALUATION PROJECT (WATTS) Conference. At their March 8 regular meeting, the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District (HPWD) More than 150 attended the Board of Directors unanimously approved a request by the City of Lubbock for cost-share funding to assist conference & trade show at the with a brackish groundwater evaluation project. Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. 655 relating to aquifer storage and director of wastewater services for The Dockum Aquifer lies beneath the Ogallala Formation in the Panhandle-South Plains region. Senator Charles Perry of recovery; HB 200 relating to the the City of Levelland, discussed Groundwater in the Dockum Aquifer is generally brackish. However, some communities are able to use it for Lubbock gave the keynote appeals process for Desired Future use of recycled wastewater for use drinking water purposes after blending it with water stored in the Ogallala Aquifer. address, which included a brief Conditions (DFCs); HB 30 relating by local industries. In 2015, the HPWD Board of Directors approved a study to gain a better understanding of this deep overview of key water-related to development of seawater and Russell Schreiber, director aquifer. Since then, District staff have devoted a great deal of time on the study, including geophysical legislation passed during the 84th brackish groundwater; and HB of public works for the City logging of Dockum wells, establishment of a Dockum water level observation well network, use of pressure Texas Legislature. 2031 allowing for funding for of Wichita Falls, provided an transducers to monitor depth-to-water levels in selected Dockum wells, and providing cost-share assistance Perry cited four specific bills marine seawater desalination. overview of the city’s direct to communities wanting to drill test wells into the Dockum Aquifer. as the primary water legislation Scott Johnson, production potable reuse project that gained Aubrey Spear, director of the City of Lubbock Water Utilities, told the HPWD Board that there are four passed during the last session. manager with Diamond Ethanol components to the brackish groundwater evaluation project. They are House Bill (HB) in Levelland, and Amy Northam, SEE CONFERENCE PAGE THREE ▪ Evaluation of the hydrogeology of the study area. ▪ Construct a test well located on the City of Lubbock’s South Water Treatment plant property on FM 1585 between Highway 87 and Slaton. The test well would be completed at an approximate depth of 1,500 feet into HPWD ACCEPTING RFPS FOR RESEARCH FUNDING the Santa Rosa portion of the Dockum Aquifer. After drilling and casing of the test well, groundwater samples The High Plains Underground Coleman said the highest priority funding recommendations to will be collected from the on-site detention basins and sent to a laboratory for water quality analysis. Water Conservation District will be given to proposals relating the five-member HPWD Board ▪ Evaluate the field data collected to determine the feasibility of using the brackish groundwater asa (HPWD) is accepting requests to the Dockum Aquifer, rainwater of Directors. potable water supply after appropriate treatment. for proposals for funding of harvesting, agricultural water The committee approved the ▪ Prepare a report of the findings. water conservation research, conservation, and groundwater following for funding during “The City of Lubbock was interested in obtaining cost-share funding to assist with this brackish groundwater demonstration, and educational reuse. fiscal year 2016: project. This planned project is expected to cost approximately $300,000. A capital improvement budget of efforts in fiscal year 2017. HPWD Board President Lynn ▪An economic analysis to $200,000 was approved by the Lubbock City Council. We would not be able to complete the planned scope “The HPWD Board of Tate of Amarillo will appoint the determine feasibility of ground- of work without the $100,000 in cost-share funding from the High Plains Water District,” Spear said. Directors encourages persons 2017 Research and Demonstration water supplementation from the During the past few years--and especially with the recent drought, there has been a great deal of interest in working in these respective areas Committee in May. Dockum Aquifer. use of the Dockum Aquifer as an alternative water supply. to submit proposals for funding The committee consists of the ▪A depth and salinity study “The HPWD Board of Directors believes it is the district’s obligation to assist communities in their efforts no later than May 2. This will General Manager, two HPWD of the Dockum Aquifer. to learn more about the Dockum Aquifer. Together, we will obtain valuable data and learn more about this allow consideration of the Board Members, two HPWD ▪An economic analysis of water resource,” said HPWD Board President Lynn Tate of Amarillo. projects for the following budget County Advisory Committee residential irrigation habits and Last year, the HPWD Board of Directors approved a similar project by the City of Abernathy to drill a cycle that begins October 1,” members, and two members- test well into the Dockum Aquifer. The well was recently completed and water quality tests are underway to said Manager Jason Coleman. at-large. This group will make SEE MAY PAGE TWO determine the salinity of the groundwater in that area. PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN ON DRAFT STATE WATER PLAN APRIL RAINWATER HARVESTING WORKSHOPS SCHEDULED The Texas Water Development Persons may view the submitted via email to Public- We all know “April showers 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Persons are encouraged to Board is accepting public comments plan at www.twdb.texas.gov/ [email protected] or to bring May flowers.” However, following locations: register for the workshops at rsvp. on the draft 2017 State Water Plan waterplanning/index.asp Connie Sanders, TWDB, PO Box rainfall from April showers can be ▪ April 7: Mallet Events Center, hpwd.org or by calling the district until 5:00 p.m. on April 25, 2016. Written comments may be 13231, Austin TX 78711-3231. used to irrigate flowers later in the 2320 U.S. Highway 385, Levelland office in Lubbock at (806) 762- year with proper use of rainwater ▪ April 14: Ollie Liner Center, 0181. harvesting techniques. 2000 S. Columbia, Plainview. FORMER BOARD MEMBER BILLY WAYNE SISSON DIES The High Plains Underground ▪ April 28: Cole Community Former HPWD Board Vice- first team honors in 1951. Sisson from 1973-1975 and Secretary- Water Conservation District Center, 300 16th Street, Canyon. President and Secretary-Treasurer was inducted into the McMurry Treasurer in 1976. (HPWD) is hosting a series of “Each workshop features a Billy Wayne Sisson of Hereford University Athletic Hall of Fame He was also a member of the workshops in April to share panel of local experts who will died March 5. He was 86. in 1989. Wheat Growers Association, the rainwater harvesting information share their experience with design, Funeral After graduation from Texas Cattle Feeders Association, with area residents. The cost of installation, and maintenance of services were held McMurry, he served as manager Pioneer Natural Gas Association, each workshop is $20 at the door. rainwater harvesting systems. We March 9 in Friona. of a cotton gin in Plainview for Friona Cotton Gin Board of In addition, the first 25 persons to look forward to sharing this ‘hands- Burial was in the a brief period before becoming a Directors, and the Hereford Lions RSVP will receive a free rainwater on’ information with workshop City of Lubbock farmer/rancher near Hereford. Club. harvesting barrel—courtesy of participants,” said Adeline Fox, Cemetery. Sisson first became involved Sisson was also a member of HPWD. HPWD Education and Outreach Born in Tahoka, with the High Plains Water the Golf Association and enjoyed Workshops will be held from Coordinator. Sisson was a multi- District in 1965 through service coaching Little League baseball talented athlete SISSON as a County Committee member. and softball. CONFERENCE SPEAKERS SHARE NEW INNOVATIONS who played football, He was elected to the Board of Survivors include his wife, two basketball, and track for McMurry Directors in 1971 to succeed John daughters, and a grandson. FROM PAGE ONE University from 1949-1953. Pitman, who did not seek re- The HPWD Board of Directors national attention during the 2011 “Wichita Falls was truly impacted by the He earned numerous honors, election. and staff send their heartfelt drought. 2011 drought. We had 100 days with including all Texas Conference During his time on the HPWD condolences to the Sisson family Darrell Newsom, city temperatures above 100 degrees. second team honors in 1949 and the Board, he served as Vice-President during this time of loss. manager of Wolfforth TX, shared information about the city’s This, coupled with no rain and declining lake MAY DEADLINE THE CROSS SECTION electrodialysis reversal (EDR) levels, caused the city to revisit an earlier water treatment facility which is proposed direct/indirect potable reuse CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS under construction. project. In addition, we had 1,395 days of NEARS FOR RFPS Information/Education Group Supervisor Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock Scott Ahlstrom with BW water restrictions (3 years and 300 days) FROM PAGE ONE Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield Primoris gave an overview of before the project came on line.” Telephone: (806) 762-0181 landscape design. Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Fax: (806) 762-1834 the desalination plant project at ▪ Purchase and demonstration Web: www.hpwd.org Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo Seminole, TX. Water conservation works -- we were able of a soil moisture meter. E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg Dr. Susan O’Shaughnessy, to reduce the city’s water use from 35 million ▪Enhanced irrigation research. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF research ag engineer, with the gallons per day to 11 million gallons per day.” ▪An evaluation of precision monthly publication of the High Plains Underground USDA-ARS at Bushland discussed Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager mobile drip irrigation systems. Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid -- Russell Schreiber Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor recent innovations in agricultural ▪Playa basin educational at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator water conservation, including workshops. Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copy- Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor precision mobile drip irrigation Additional information is righted and may be reproduced without permission if proper credit is given to the High Plains Water District (PDMI). Edge plants in Canyon, shared Eddie Wilcut with Alan available by clicking on the as the source of the article. Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant Dr. Katie Lewis, Texas A&M information about water wise Plummer Associates wrapped Billy Barron ...... Field Technician 2017 Research Proposal Request The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant AgriLife Extension, shared recent plant varieties that can help reduce up the conference with insights Criteria link at www.hpwd.org/ send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Amarillo) research into use of recycled the amount of water applied to into the water savings that can be grants/ or by calling the district No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician oilfield water to irrigate non- landscapes. achieved though water audits and office at (806) 762-0181. Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician commercial cotton at Pecos, TX. Jessica Patterson with Patterson other conservation measures. their use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Email delivery of proposals is Greg Holder ...... Field Technician Vikram Baliga, Lubbock Water Systems in Amarillo spoke Presentations are available preferred and should be sent to POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician County horticulture agent, and about the basics of rainwater for online viewing at www. . Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist [email protected] District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician Neil Hinders, owner of Canyon’s harvesting. h2oblueideas.com/presentations APRIL 2016 Vol. 62 - No. 4 THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 2016 WATER LEVEL RESULTS 1 APRIL 2016 ISSUE HPWD PROPOSES DFCs 2 Address Service Requested RAINWATER USED AS THE CROSS SECTION ALTERNATIVE WATER SOURCE 3 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News ANNUAL WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENTS INDICATE

WWW.HPWD.ORG AVERAGE INCREASE OF + 0.37 OF A FOOT WITHIN HPWD Annual water level measure- can help people understand the presented in a 78-page report ments indicate an average in- variability in saturated thickness available for online viewing/ COLLECTING RAIN crease of + 0.37 of a foot in the and groundwater levels within the downloading at www.reports. groundwater levels of the Ogal- district’s 16-county service area,” hpwd.org. CAN HELP EXTEND lala Aquifer within the 16-county said HPWD General Manager A limited number of printed High Plains Underground Water Jason Coleman. copies are available by contacting WATER SOURCES Conservation District (HPWD) Results of the 2016 HPWD the HPWD office at (806) 762- FROM PAGE THREE service area from 2015 to 2016. water level measurements are also 0181. Above-average rainfall, which the storage tanks or collapsing fell in a timely manner, helped in- the gutters,” said Fullingim. “In a crease groundwater levels during strong West Texas downpour, we 2015-2016. This compares to the must manage gravity water flow of average change of – 0.56 of a foot up to 7,200 gallons per minute into recorded in 2014-2015. the tanks.” The 10-year district average As for encouraging others to change (2006-2016) is – 9.29 feet invest in rainwater harvesting while the five-year district aver- practices, Jackson believes age change (2011-2016) is -5.94 collaboration is important. LEFT: Mark Fillinghim, owner of Llano Estacado Construction, and Chris Jackson, feet. “Rainwater collection is not president of Samuel Jackson, Inc., stand in front of one of the 15,000 gallon fiberglass tanks used for rainwater catchment at the Lubbock manufacturing plant. RIGHT: The Water level measurements are a complete solution to the water addition of four 15,000 gallon tanks in February now gives Samuel Jackson, Inc., the challenges that West Texas ability to capture 90,000 gallons of rainwater for use as an alternative water supply. made from December to March residents face, but it is definitely each year in 1,400 privately- one important component toward owned water wells completed making our traditional water into the Ogallala/Edwards-Trinity sources stretch farther than we can (High Plains) Aquifer. presently imagine. If we can start In addition, the district made the discussion and show how the water level measurements in 24 process works, then we can lead by wells as part of the newly-estab- example to help others get started,” lished Dockum Aquifer observa- said Jackson. tion well network. “We encourage area residents DID YOU KNOW? to visit the interactive web map at map.hpwd.org to view The maximum water level rise charts of water levels as well recorded by the district in 2016 was as the saturated thickness for + 16.64 feet in Floyd County while Dr. Joseph Cepeda, professor of geology at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, and each of the observation wells in his graduate students visited the HPWD office on April 1. Field Staff Supervisor Keith the maximum water level decline Whitworth (left) tests groundwater from different area wells to determine total dissolved our network. The online tools was - 5.77 feet in Castro County. solids as Travis Dangerfield, Dr. Cepeda, Ashley Fenix, and Kennisha John look on. provided on the district’s website HPWD PROPOSES DFCS FOR AQUIFERS IN DISTRICT RAINWATER USED AS ALTERNATIVE WATER SOURCE After meeting with groundwater A 90-day public comment years. This is only the second time conservation district representa- period now begins, and will that groundwater conservation TO MEET NEEDS OF LUBBOCK MANUFACTURING PLANT tives in Groundwater Management include a public hearing in each districts have established DFCs. By Adeline Fox Rainwater Harvesting pure than groundwater. Areas (GMAs) 1 & 2, the High groundwater conservation district Comments regarding the Education & Outreach Coordinator The water evaporators that Jack- Plains Underground Water Con- within the management areas. The proposed DFCs should be mailed to Inspired by Richard Heinichen of Tank Town, a popular rainwater son manufactures are benefited by servation District has completed date for the HPWD public hearing HPWD, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, When the most important harvesting company in Dripping the high purity water, which leaves the process of proposing desired is yet to be determined. The DFC TX 79411-2499 or emailed to resource for running a business Springs, TX, Chris Jackson pursued no scale or water spots during the future conditions (DFCs) for rel- process is specified in Chapter 36 [email protected] no later starts to deplete, immediate the concept of rainwater harvesting extensive testing process. In fact, evant aquifers within its 16-county of the Texas Water Code. than 5:00 p.m., Monday, July 25, attention is required. to supply the industrial plant with water from the wells near the plant service area. A draft explanatory report of 2016. Water supply became an issue an adequate water supply. contain more than 1,000 parts per At their April 12 regular meet- the proposed DFCs is available for following the great drought of The company installed two million total dissolved solids in ing, the HPWD Board of Directors review at the HPWD office, 2930 2011 for a Lubbock manufacturing 15,000 gallon fiberglass tanks comparison to collected rainwater approved a proposed desired fu- Avenue Q, in Lubbock. It is also plant when their groundwater wells in September 2015. Lubbock with only five parts per million. ture condition based upon average available on the HPWD website at began pumping less water than the recorded several inches of rain “We don’t even have to wipe the drawdown of water levels in the www.hpwd.org/proposeddfcs. plant needed for operation. soon after installation. glass viewing windows to the spray Ogallala / Edwards-Trinity (High “We encourage interested Choosing rainwater as an Because of the amount of chamber following testing,” said Plains) and Dockum Aquifers. persons to use this reference alternate water source provided rainfall collected, the plant did not Jackson. “Our customers receive A proposed DFC of average document to learn more about both the quantity required as well need to pump groundwater from products that have been thoroughly drawdown ranging from 23 to 27 the factors that were considered as a significantly increased water their wells until early 2016. tested but appear completely feet in the Ogallala / Edwards- during the joint planning process,” quality for improved operations. In February, four additional pristine because the water we are Trinity (High Plains) Aquifers for Tate added. using is about ten times more pure the next 50 years was discussed The process of adopting a The Water Issue 15,000 gallon tanks were installed About 500 children created their own increasing total capacity to 90,000 than reverse osmosis could provide and accepted in GMA 2. DFC was established by the Texas personalized rain stick at the HPWD Established in 1948, Samuel gallons. from our traditional raw water In addition, a proposed DFC legislature in 2005, and requires activity booth at the National Ranching Jackson, Inc. manufactures moist sources.” of 27 feet average drawdown in Heritage Center’s 46th annual Ranch Day “We can now sustain our opera- groundwater conservation districts air generators used in the cotton Additional benefits include the Dockum Aquifer for the next in Lubbock. HPWD Outreach Coordinator tions on a total annual rainfall of to establish DFCs for relevant Adeline Fox (right) assists Jenna Reid and ginning process. sustainability and efficiency. 50 years in GMA 2 was approved. aquifers at least once every five only six inches, “ said Jackson. son Atticus as they build a rain stick. Moist air generators optimize “We know exactly how much Both DFCs are based upon the Rain is collected from the cotton moisture content to preserve 48,000 ft2 roof surface area of the water we are using because we can results of simulations using the monitor our tanks carefully,” said High Plains Aquifer System THE CROSS SECTION yield and fiber properties while industrial plant. Water flows from reducing the gin press cycle time the gutters into three 550-gallon Jackson. “We know we reduced groundwater availability model. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS water use by 30 percent and when The majority of HPWD lies Information/Education Group Supervisor for more profitable gin operations. “eliminator” tanks, which collect Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock The company has four locations we can use 100 percent rainwater, within GMA 2, while portions of Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield any undesirable particles from the Telephone: (806) 762-0181 nothing is wasted in a purification Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona nationwide and one in Paris, roof surface. Once these smaller HPWD in Armstrong, Potter, and Fax: (806) 762-1834 process, saving even more. There Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo France. tanks are filled, water begins Randall Counties are in GMA 1. Web: www.hpwd.org are also no harmful chemicals Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg Operating a manufacturing flowing into the fiberglass tanks. The GMA boundaries were estab- E-mail [email protected] involved.” lished by the TWDB. plant making and testing water THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF Using Rainwater Indoors “Our constituents are familiar monthly publication of the High Plains Underground evaporators requires a predictable Construction Considerations Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid supply of high quality water. Collected rainwater is used with the average annual drawdown Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor System installer Mark Fullingim at Lubbock, Texas. However, water wells near the indoors, which requires a more presented in the results of our an- Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator of Llano Estacado Construction nual water level measurements,” Articles printed in The Cross Section are not Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor plant became less reliable last year. advanced filtration system than mentions design challenges when copyrighted and may be reproduced without permission “We cannot function as a factory said HPWD Board President Lynn if proper credit is given to the High Plains Water District landscape use. After collecting building such a large collection Tate of Amarillo. as the source of the article. Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant without high quality water,” said in the tanks, rainwater is pumped Billy Barron ...... Field Technician system. The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Company President Chris Jackson. through a five micron filter to “We shared the proposed DFCs Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant “The sheer volume of water send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High remove any fine particles. From with the district’s County Advisory Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Amarillo) “We have a number of water running off of the roof is a challenge No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician supply options available, but there, the filtered rainwater travels Committee members at our April 12 Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach because we have to design a meeting. In addition, our technical property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician nothing compares to the quality of through an ultraviolet Sanitron their use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. system that controls flow of the consultant explained the results of Greg Holder ...... Field Technician filtered rainwater and it is certainly treatment, which purifies the water water while not overwhelming POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician the most responsible choice when for safe consumption. different model scenarios,” Tate Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist said. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician all things are considered.” Rainwater is naturally more SEE COLLECTING PAGE FOUR THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT MAY 2016 VOLUME 62 NO. 5 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 DFC Hearings Scheduled 1 Keep Conservation In Mind 1 MAY 2016 ISSUE H.P. Brown Honored by TWDB 2 State Water Plan Adopted 3 Address Service Requested Proposal for Database Upgrade 4 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News HPWD BOARD SCHEDULES TWO DFC PUBLIC HEARINGS

WWW.HPWD.ORG The High Plains Underground A 90-day public comment The process of adopting a DFC Water Conservation District period is currently in progress. was established by the Texas Leg- (HPWD) is currently receiving Written comments will be islature in 2005, and requires HPWD ACCEPTING public comments on the proposed accepted by HPWD until 5:00 groundwater conservation districts CONSERVATION CONVERSATION Desired Future Conditions (DFCs) p.m., Monday, July 25, 2016. to establish DFCs for relevant aqui- PROPOSALS FOR NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION for relevant aquifers recently They can be mailed to the fers at least once every five years. adopted by Groundwater Manage- HPWD office, delivered during This is only the second time that DATABASE UPGRADE DEDICATION CEREMONY -- North Plains Groundwater ment Areas 1 & 2, under Chapter regular business hours, or emailed groundwater conservation districts Conservation District will dedicate the “Richard S. Bowers 36.108 of the Texas Water Code. to [email protected]. have established DFCs. HPWD is accepting proposals Conservation Learning Center” at 11 a.m., June 14. The center is to update capabilities of its located at 6045 County Rd E at Etter, TX. (1/4 mile east of the Moore The HPWD Board of Directors current SQL database and existing County Gin.) The center is named in memory of longtime district will receive comments at two KEEP WATER CONSERVATION interactive map tools. manager Richard Bowers, who passed away Nov. 14, 2015. RSVP upcoming public hearings: The deadline to submit by June 1 to Patsy Long at [email protected] or call (806) Hearing # 1 IN MIND THIS SPRING AND SUMMER 2:30 p.m., June 14, 2016, at proposals to the HPWD office is 935-6401. Area residents are reminded to will occur. Because of this, it is Plains Land Bank, 5625 Fulton Dr., June 3 at 5:00 p.m. use water wisely without waste important for each of us to be aware “It is important to be aware HONOR -- Kay Ledbetter of Amarillo has been named Science Amarillo, TX. during late spring and early of how we use water in our daily of the latest technologies and use Communicator of the Year by the Texas A&M University chapter of Hearing # 2 summer. lives and to reduce this amount them to collect data and make the Sigma Xi. Ledbetter has been writing news stories 1:30 p.m., July 12, 2016, at “Spring 2016 had been fairly whenever possible. This can help resulting information available to about science for Texas A&M AgriLife Research HPWD office, 2930 Avenue Q, dry until some welcome rain was reduce demand upon the region’s the public,” said Manager Jason since 2005. As a media relations specialist, she Lubbock, TX. serves the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and received in mid-May. We never surface water and groundwater Coleman. GMA # 1 includes the follow- Extension centers at Amarillo and Vernon, as well know when our next rainfall event supplies, which are still recovering “The district has received many ing water conservation districts: as 46 Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service from extreme drought conditions in favorable comments about its Hemphill County UWCD, HPWD, county offices in the Panhandle and Rolling Plains 2011,” said HPWD Manager Jason interactive map feature at map. North Plains GCD, and Panhandle and several academic departments at Texas A&M Coleman. hpwd.org. Our staff is dedicated to GCD. University in College Station. Her news articles He added that there are many making this an even better resource appear in AgriLife Today, the news outlet for Texas GMA # 2 includes the following LEDBETTER opportunities to conserve water for groundwater information for A&M AgriLife, as well as in local, state, national water conservation districts: Garza in the agricultural, industrial, and our constituents,” Coleman said. and international publications. Our congratulations to Kay on this County UWCD, HPWD, Llano urban sectors. Additional information about well-deserved honor! Estacado UWCD, Mesa UWCD, the current SQL database, desired Permian Basin UWCD, Sandy For example: features, and how to submit a RESEARCH COMMITTEE APPOINTED -- HPWD Board Land UWCD, and South Plains ■ Agricultural producers can proposal is available at www. President Lynn Tate recently appointed the research/demonstration UWCD. consider irrigation scheduling tools hpwd.org/news evaluation committee for fiscal year 2017. They include: Precinct Three Director Mike Beauchamp, chairman; Precinct Five Director The proposed DFCs for the to determine when and how much Ronnie Hopper; Manager Jason Coleman; County Advisory relevant aquifers and other water to apply to crops. DID YOU KNOW? supporting materials are available Committee members Charles Allison, Kelly Kettner, and Kevin ■ Keeping a close watch on The Ogallala Aquifer underlies for public viewing at the HPWD Riley; Dr. Dana Porter, and Todd Pope, at-large members. The irrigation systems can help reduce an area of approximately 174,000 office, 2930 Avenue Q, in Lubbock, group will evaluate 10 research proposals/demonstration projects for instances of irrigation water waste, square miles in portions of eight possible funding at the June 14 HPWD Board meeting. They are also available online at states. www.hpwd.org/proposeddfcs. SEE REMEMBER PAGE THREE CONSULTANT SELECTED FOR 2021 REGIONAL WATER PLAN 2017 STATE WATER PLAN ADOPTED REMEMBER TO During their May 11 meeting, members of the Llano Estacado Texas Water Development tion, communities across Texas CONSERVE WATER Regional Water Planning Group Board members unanimously have developed other innova- FROM PAGE ONE (“Region O”) selected a technical voted to approve the 2017 State tive solutions to ensure that they consultant to help prepare the 2021 Water Plan during their May 19 have adequate water supplies in or “tailwater.” regional water plan, appointed meeting in Austin. the future,” said TWDB Board ■ Companies may consider three new members, and honored “The new state water plan Member Kathleen Jackson. replacing or retrofitting exist- its former chairman for 15 years of projects that Texas’ population “Aquifer storage and recovery ing plumbing fixtures, installing service. will increase more than 70 percent and direct potable reuse, in more efficient landscape irrigation HDR Engineering Inc. of by the year 2070,” said TWDB particular, increased significantly systems, using fewer water inten- Austin was chosen to serve as the Board Chairman Bech Bruun. in this plan as compared to the sive maintenance procedures, or technical consultant for the fifth “The 2017 plan is our most 2012 State Water Plan,” she said. reclaimed water, when feasible, to cycle of regional water planning. comprehensive effort to date to The capital costs associated reduce water use. The firm previously assisted with make sure we adequately address with implementing the 2017 State development of the 2001, 2006, the water needs of our growing Water Plan are $62.6 billion, with ■ Homeowners can turn water and 2011 Region O water plans. population. The plan contains water providers estimating they faucets off when not in use, take Kevin Kluge, manager of the more than 5,500 strategies that will need about $36.1 billion in shorter showers, rework landscapes Water Use, Projections, and Plan- to be more “water-friendly,” and ning section at the Texas Water help us conserve the water state assistance. we have while also creating In other business, the TWDB avoid watering streets, sidewalks, Development Board (TWDB) gave and driveways. an overview of projections devel- additional water supplies.” Board Members named Jeff opment for the 2021 regional water Conservation strategies are Walker as the new Executive Ad- Other water conservation tips plans. the most frequently recommend- ministrator. He succeeds Kevin are available at www.hpwd.org. Jeff Sammon with Brazos ed strategy in the plan -- account- Patteson in the position. Walker Just click on the “conservation” River Authority was appointed Former Region O Chairman Honored For Service ing for more than one quarter of is the former Deputy Executive link and then select your choice to represent river authorities. He TWDB Board Member Peter Lake of Tyler (left) presents an award to H.P. (Bo) Brown the strategy supplies in 2070. Administrator of Water Supply of urban, agricultural, or industrial succeeds Michael McClendon, for 15 years of dedicated service as chairman of the Llano Estacado Regional Water “In addition to conserva- and Infrastructure at the TWDB. conservation information. who resigned. Planning Group. Shane McMinn with Golden Spread Electric Cooperative STAFF BUSY WITH EDUCATION AND OUTREACH EFFORTS was appointed as the electric THE CROSS SECTION generating utilities representative. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS He succeeds Bill Harbin, who Information/Education Group Supervisor James Powell, Vice-President ...... Lubbock resigned. Brad Heffington, Member ...... Littlefield Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Ben Weinheimer with Texas Fax: (806) 762-1834 Cattle Feeders Association was Web: www.hpwd.com Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo appointed as an agriculture E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg representative. He succeeds H. P. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF (Bo) Brown Jr., who resigned. monthly publication of the High Plains Underground During a special presentation, Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor TWDB member Peter Lake at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor presented Brown with an award Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted in appreciation for 15 years of and may be reproduced without permission if proper credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the dedicated leadership as Region O source of the article. Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant chairman. Billy Barron ...... Field Technician The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant The next Region O meeting send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern will be held in Fall 2016. Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) South Plains Association of No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach (LEFT) HPWD Field Technician Ray Eads shares rainwater harvesting information and other water conservation techniques with property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Governments (SPAG) is the Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. New Deal High School freshmen during a May 5 presentation at the Ogallala Commons Playa Classroom at Nazareth. (RIGHT) political subdivision administering Greg Holder ...... Field Technician Canyon Elementary School students gather around Walter Drop--the South Plains Water Expo mascot. HPWD Education and POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician the Llano Estacado Regional Water Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist Outreach Coordinator Adeline Fox and Lubbock County Horticulture Agent Vikram Baliga accompanied Walter on his recent Randall Planning Group. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician County visit. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT JUNE 2016 VOLUME 62 NO. 6 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Research Funding 1 DFC Public Hearing 1 JUNE 2016 ISSUE Pressure Transducers 2 Managing Corn Irrigation 2 Address Service Requested Learning Center Dedication 3 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News DIRECTORS APPROVE RESEARCH FUNDING

WWW.HPWD.ORG More than $150,000 in funding requests for water-related research and demonstration projects were HYBRID SELECTION approved by the HPWD Board of CONSERVATION CONVERSATION Directors at their June 14 meeting IS IMPORTANT NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION in Amarillo. FROM PAGE THREE Research concerning ground- water quality and quantity in the water to pump, a conventional DEATH -- Dr. Don Ethridge, 73, died June 13 in Lubbock. He began his tenure with the Texas Tech Agricultural Dockum Aquifer topped the list of new hybrid will yield the same requests to be considered for fund- as drought-tolerant hybrids. Economics Department in 1985. Ethridge served as chairman of the department from 1997-2005. ing. Some hybrids showed excellent In addition, he served as a member of the Llano ears without any disease damage An eight member committee, Estacado Regional Water Planning Group (“Region consisting of the HPWD general but some hybrids had moderate O”). During his career, he received numerous Reviewing Research to severe damages, which manager, two Board Members, Dr. Dana Porter, Chairman Mike Beauchamp, Kevin Riley, and Kelly Kettner listen to honors for his research and outstanding service to three County Advisory Committee significantly reduced the grain the agricultural industry. He retired as Professor discussion concerning one of the 10 research project proposals evaluated at the June 8 quality,” Xue said. members, and two members-at- research and demonstration committee meeting at the HPWD office. ETHRIDGE Emeritus in April 2009. Survivors include his wife, large from the public, evaluated the daughter, stepson, brother, and granddaughters. HPWD sends its deepest condolences to the Ethridge family. 10 proposals. Of these, seven were ▪ Soil Endoscope for Subsurface a progress report from Dr. Susan recommended for funding. Irrigation Uniformity Testing. O’Shaughnessy with the USDA- LOW LEVELS – According to a May 23 TIME Magazine article, The approved projects are: In other business, the district’s ARS about HPWD funded Lake Mead is at the lowest level on record due to ongoing drought ▪ Brackish Groundwater Quality Board of Directors approved research relating to Precise Mobile in California and surrounding states. The current water level is at Monitoring in the Dockum Aquifer. applications for water well permits Drip Irrigation (PMDI) in corn 1,074 feet above sea level or 37 percent of capacity. Lake Mead is ▪ Bushland Elementary School received in May 2016, and heard production. considered full at 1,219.6 feet. The Bureau of Reclamation expects Native/Xeric Landscape Demon- lake levels to drop to 1,071 feet during the summer peak demand stration Garden. period before rising to 1,078 feet at the end of the year, the article PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR JULY 12 states. The lake, which is the largest manmade reservoir in the ▪ Evaluation of the Depth and United States, was impounded Feb. 1, 1935. Water Quality of the Dockum HPWD is accepting public comments on the proposed Desired Aquifer in Southwestern Potter Future Conditions (DFCs) for relevant aquifers that were recently HPWD Honored RETIREMENT – Dr. Dick Auld retired May 31 as Rockwell County. adopted by Groundwater Management Areas 1 & 2. Endowed Chair and Professor of Plant and Soil Science at Texas ▪ Inclusion of Alternate Crops The public is invited to comment on the proposed DFCs at a public Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Tech University. He joined the Texas Tech faculty in 1991 as into Cropping Systems to Extend hearing at 1:30 p.m., July 12, 2016, at the HPWD office, 2930 Avenue Chairwoman Beth Bridges (R) is shown professor and department chairman. Much of his research and other with HPWD Information and Education the Life of Limited Ground Water. Q, in Lubbock. The first public hearing was held June 14 in Amarillo. related work concentrated on developing cultivars of canola, cotton, ▪ Plant-based Polymers as The proposed DFCs for the relevant aquifers and other supporting staff members Adeline Fox and Carmon and minor oilseed crops. “Dick Auld is one of our iconic figures McCain following presentation of the Effective Treatment Agents in materials are available for public viewing during regular business Chamber’s Spring 2016 Water Smart in genetics and plant breeding. He has had a profound impact during the past 25 years,” said Dr. Michael Galyean, dean of the Removal of Dissolved Solids and hours at the district office or online atwww.hpwd.org/proposeddfcs . Business Award to the water district. Other Materials from the Dockum A 90-day public comment period is currently in progress. Written HPWD was honored for actively promoting TTU College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Auld water conservation since 1951, as well is a Fellow of both American Society of Agronomy and the Crop Aquifer. comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m., Monday, July 25, 2016. as hosting the Water Advancement, Science Society of America. HPWD wishes Dr. Auld a very happy ▪ Small and Medium Scale Rain- They can be mailed to the HPWD office, delivered during regular Technology, Training, and Solutions and healthy retirement! water Harvesting Best Practices for business hours, or emailed to [email protected]. (WATTS) Conference earlier this year. Maximum Economic Value. PRESSURE TRANSDUCERS DEPLOYED AT NEW SITES NORTH PLAINS GCD DEDICATES LEARNING CENTER The June 7 installation of map.hpwd.org. pressure transducers in Castro, Coleman said data from pressure Hale, Lubbock, and Swisher transducers, such as the one Counties added four more water shown at right, provide valuable level data collection points to the information about depth-to-water HPWD observation well network. and the resulting drawdown when Manager Jason Coleman, Field a well is pumped. Technician Supervisor Keith “Since its debut in October Whitworth, and Information 2013, the interactive map feature Technology Administrator Gray has become the most popular Sanders deployed the transducers content on the HPWD website with as part of the district’s ongoing an average 888 views per month. efforts to provide additional real We appreciate all feedback and time water level information to the comments. This guides the staff public. in expanding the observation well Annual and daily observa- network and how we present our tion well data are available at findings to the public,” he said. Family, friends, and colleagues gathered June 14 to dedicate a conservation learning center in memory of Richard S. Bowers. IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT KEY TO CORN PROFITABILITY Bowers, who passed away Nov. 14, 2015, served as manager of the North Plains Groundwater District from 1987-2007. An estimated 150 persons attended the ceremony, featuring keynote remarks from former State Representative David Swinford (left) and tours of By Kay Ledbetter Texas A&M AgriLife Research physiologist at Amarillo, said most the North Plains Water Conservation Center at Etter, TX. HPWD Board members and staff attended the event prior to the June 14 Texas A&M AgriLife Extension studies are determining a formula corn in the High Plains has already Board of Directors meeting in Amarillo. for finding the right amount for been planted, but producers can AMARILLO – Too much water the right results with other best still affect their bottom line with MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IMPACT CORN WATER USE AND YIELDS doesn’t help corn producers make management practices. proper management practices. more crop; too little water also Dr. Qingwu Xue, Texas A&M FROM PAGE TWO 100 percent ET demand in years 15, June 1, June 15 and July 1. The takes away from yields. Ongoing AgriLife Research crop stress SEE MANAGEMENT PAGE THREE with an average or above average results from this study indicated Xue and his colleagues have seasonal rainfall,” he said. that high yield can still be achieved been conducting field research in Xue said the water-use with a longer-season hybrid when THE CROSS SECTION corn management for years, along efficiency is generally maximized planted in the middle of May and with other AgriLife Research and at this irrigation level. Cutting back early June. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS Information/Education Group Supervisor Texas A&M AgriLife Extension any more, unless there is good “When the planting date was Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock Service faculty, in the areas seasonal rainfall and excellent delayed to late June and early Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield of irrigation, hybrid selection, soil water storage at planting, will July, mid and short-season hybrids Fax: (806) 762-1834 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona planting dates and seeding rates. reduce corn yield. showed the yield advantage over Web: www.hpwd.com Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo Each of these management Research has also shown late the long season one. However, E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg practices plays a role in the overall planting can potentially save some delaying planting to late June or THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF water use and yield determination irrigation water while maintaining early July generally will reduce monthly publication of the High Plains Underground of the corn crop, but irrigation the high water-use efficiency, he yield potential.” Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor management remains the most said. So producers who were held Xue said hybrid selection is at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator important issue in corn production, off by wet fields into June won’t be another important factor for corn Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted he said. hurt. producers. With drought still the and may be reproduced without permission if proper The average seasonal irrigation Corn planting in the Panhandle No. 1 concern in corn production credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the source of the article. for corn is about 20 inches, he said. typically ranges from late April to in the High Plains, the newly Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant However, irrigation demand can be late May, but in field trials during developed drought-tolerant corn Summer Intern The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Billy Barron ...... Field Technician send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant much higher in a drought year like the 2013, 2014 and 2015 growing hybrids provided significant yield HPWD welcomes Jessica Dunbar of Del Plains Underground Water Conservation District Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern 2011. seasons, Xue had some hybrids benefits, 10-15 percent increase, Rio as its summer 2016 communications No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) intern. She is a junior agricultural Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician “Based on our multiple-year planted in June and early July. under lower irrigation levels in the property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach communications major at Texas Tech use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. studies, we found using irrigation “We evaluated planting date study. University. Jessica has a passion for Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician to meet only 75-80 percent of and hybrid interaction for corn “However, if you have sufficient POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician agriculture and intends to work in the ag Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist evapotranspiration demand can yield and water use,” he said. “The industry when she graduates in May 2017. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician result in the same yield as meeting planting dates we used were May SEE HYBRID PAGE FOUR THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT JULY 2016 VOLUME 62, NO. 7 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Playas Benefit Wildlife 1 JULY 2016 ISSUE Filing Period Begins for Precinct 3 & 4 Election 2 Address Service Requested HPWD Staff Changes 3 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News PLAYAS BENEFIT HUMANS AND WILDLIFE ALIKE By Adeline Fox WWW.HPWD.ORG Education & Outreach Coordinator

After a big rain event, dry playa CONSERVATION CONVERSATION basins across the High Plains fill NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION with water. Eventually, their clay lining seals, which keeps water in H2O4TEXAS STATEWIDE TOUR -- The H2O4TEXAS Coalition place. These depressions in the land is hosting events across Texas throughout 2016 to raise awareness of the are called playa lakes or wetlands. State Water Plan. A meeting for the Region A water planning area is set Playa wetlands and agricultural July is typically the month when for August 1 in Amarillo and the Region O meeting is set for August 2 in crops add life to the land surface the most water is used for land- Lubbock. Times and locations of these meetings have not been announced by providing food sources to birds scape irrigation. as yet. As additional details are released, they will be posted on the tour’s passing through in each migration As a result, the Irrigation event page at TexasWaterTour.info Jewels of the Plains Association (IA) names each July season, but playas are even more as Smart Irrigation Month. NEW ADVISORY COUNCIL CHAIR – Karen Guz, Director of important to residents in this Sunlight glimmers off water collected in playa basins following a rainfall event. The irrigation industry uses this Conservation for San Antonio Water System (SAWS) was elected chair region. These shallow wetlands are important for life on the Texas High Plains. time to emphasize the importance of the 23-member Texas Water Conservation Advisory Council at the group’s June 30 meeting. The council was created in 2007 to provide state of efficient irrigation and to Why Are Playas Kraai monitors migratory birds represent six states overlying the promote the use of water saving officials, state agencies, political subdivisions, and the public with the Important For Birds? products, practices, and services. resource of a select council with expertise in water conservation. throughout the winter and summer Ogallala Aquifer. Mike Carter “Proper maintenance of land- seasons. Duck species like northern serves as the PLJV Coordinator. scape irrigation systems is impor- RETIREMENT – Leatrice Adams retired June 30 as manager of Texas is home to about 18,000 pintails, blue-winged teal, green- He oversees day-to-day operations, tant. Without regular maintenance, the Permian Basin Underground Water Conservation District at Stanton. to 20,000 playa wetlands. Floyd winged teal, mallards, and other and maintains partnership relations your water-stingy irrigation system Former Administrative Assistant Donna Springer is the new manager. County, northeast of Lubbock, birds rely on water collected in across the United States. could soon turn into a water guz- HPWD wishes Leatrice a happy and healthy retirement and congratulates contains 1,707 playa basins -- more the playas in order to survive their “Our goal is to balance the zler. Irrigation systems are exposed Donna on her new position. than any other place in the world. travels. importance of wildlife conservation to the elements year-round as well These wetlands can range in size Organizations like the Playa with the interests of landowners,” as everything from lawnmower TAGD GROUNDWATER SUMMIT – The Texas Alliance of from one quarter of an acre to over Groundwater Districts (TAGD) will hold the 5th annual Texas Ground- Lake Joint Venture (PLJV) and says Carter. blades to the family dog. Because 800 acres. Ogallala Commons strive to PLJV works to spread educa- of this, systems need to be in- water Summit, August 23-25, at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in San Marcos. Registration information and a detailed agenda is available Kevin Kraai is a Waterfowl educate the public about the benefit tion and awareness about playa spected and adjusted at least once a Program Leader with Texas Parks playas provide to wildlife and the wetlands. With support from sev- year,” stated the Irrigation Associa- at www.texasgroundwater.org. and Wildlife Department. He sees Ogallala Aquifer. eral partnerships, PLJV focuses on tion in a news release. TALL XV CLASS NAMED – Several area residents have been the benefits of playas first-hand. Proper maintenance and opera- maintaining playa existence and named to the Texas Agricultural Lifetime Leadership (TALL) Class “The Ogallala Aquifer is the Playa Lake Joint Venture communicating their importance to tion of landscape irrigation systems XV. They include: Brett Bamert of Muleshoe, Bamert Seed; Jennifer not only saves money--but it helps only reason humans can live in the rural and urban populations. Blackburn of Shallowater, National Sorghum Producers; Clifton Southern High Plains,” Kraai says. Starting in 1989, PLJV began “There are about 100,000 playa reduce waste of the region’s limited Castle of Lubbock, Kunafin “The Insectary”; Sarah Cortese of surface and groundwater resources. Without playas, recharge to the as part of the North American wetlands out there. It’s challenging Lubbock, Capital Farm Credit; Grant Groene, DuPont Pioneer; Ogallala is little to none, meaning Waterfowl Management Plan. HPWD encourages persons to use g of Lubbock, Bayer Museum of Agriculture; and to make them seem special when Lacee Hoeltin these wetlands are just as important water wisely without waste each Scott Irlbeck of Lubbock, agricultural producer. PLJV is self-directed, but managed day. to humans as they are wildlife.” by a board of directors who SEE PLAYAS PAGE THREE FILING PERIOD BEGINS FOR PRECINCT 3 & 4 ELECTION PLAYAS ARE MAIN RECHARGE ZONES FOR OGALLALA

Candidates for Precinct 3 & 4 respective offices may be filed in FROM PAGE ONE a range of wildlife. Grain crops According to the TPCI fact District Director of the High Plains person Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to are an additional food source to sheet, research shows recharge Underground Water Conservation 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the there are so many. That is why migratory birds. rates in playa basins to be from District No. 1 (HPWD) can file High Plains Water District office, PLJV serves as a platform to Because of this connection, 10 to 100 times higher than under applications for place on the ballot 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX discuss and solve playa wetland TPWD is partnering with other other areas without playas. beginning July 23 and ending at 79411-2499. issues,” says Carter. entities to directly work with land- The project will begin in Castro 5 p.m., Monday, August 22, 2016. The documentation will also One of the key issues Carter and owners to restore playa wetlands. and Floyd Counties, and hopefully District Director Precinct Three be accepted by mail at the above PLJV address is the connection Additional partners include expand from there, Kraai says. consists of Bailey County, the address. However, all applications between playas and the Ogallala NRCS Floydada Service Center, “Protecting the playa wetlands portion of Castro County within must be received by 5 p.m. on Aquifer. Floyd County Texas A&M AgriLife does not only benefit wildlife, but the district, and Parmer County. August 22. Extension, Ducks Unlimited and it benefits every person relying on Mike Beauchamp of Friona is the Candidates for HPWD District Playas and the Ogallala Aquifer U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service the Ogallala Aquifer for water,” current director. Director must meet all eligibility Partners in the Texas Playa says Kraai. District Director Precinct requirements found in Chapter Playas are the primary recharge Conservation Initiative (TPCI) For more information about Four consists of the portions of 141.001 of the Texas Election zones for the Ogallala Aquifer. will fund, educate and rehabilitate the Playa Lake Joint Venture and Armstrong, Deaf Smith, Potter, Code. According to a study conducted playas that have been tilled, pitted the Texas Playa Conservation and Randall Counties within the For more information or to by the United States Geological or filled over time. Initiative, visit www.pljv.org. district. Lynn Tate of Amarillo is request a candidate packet, please Survey (USGS), average recharge the current director. contact Carmon McCain at info@ rates are about three inches per Applications for the two hpwd.org or call (806) 762-0181. year beneath playas. HPWD STAFF CHANGES Water filters through the outer A new hiring and a resignation provides communication services edges of playa wetlands to travel brought changes to the High Plains and strategies for the water BOARD COMPLETES HEARINGS ON PROPOSED DFCS below ground to the water table. Water District staff this month. industry. However, recharge rates vary Prior to joining the HPWD staff The HPWD Board of Directors comments will be accepted until HPWD office, delivered during Vance Porter New Field Tech in Sept. 2013, she was Education conducted a public hearing June 14 5:00 p.m., Monday, July 25, 2016. regular business hours, or emailed depending on the depth of the aquifer formation. For instance, if HPWD welcomes Vance and Public Relations Coordinator in Amarillo and July 12 in Lubbock They can be mailed to the to [email protected]. for the Southern Ogallala Conser- the depth of the aquifer formation Porter, who joined the district staff to receive comments on proposed as a field technician July 1. vation & Outreach Program. Desired Future Conditions (DFCs) is about 200 feet, recharge could “Working for HPWD has THE CROSS SECTION take decades. His duties include assisting for relevant aquifers recently ad- with water well permitting--plus connected me with many great opted by Groundwater Manage- CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS While playa wetlands help people and helped me better Information/Education Group Supervisor recharge the Ogallala Aquifer, they investigation of cave-ins, open ment Areas 1 & 2. Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock wells, and irriga- understand state The proposed DFCs for the Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield also act as a natural filter. Plants tion water waste groundwater issues. Telephone: (806) 762-0181 I cannot express Fax: (806) 762-1834 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona and soils near the recharge zones (“tailwater”). relevant aquifers and other enough gratitude Web: www.hpwd.com Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo help naturally filter water as it Vance was supporting materials are available E-mail [email protected] to all of the people for public viewing during regular Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg travels below the surface. born and raised in Kraai explains that the who helped me business hours at the district office THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF Paducah. He and with projects and monthly publication of the High Plains Underground connection between the playa his wife, Shanna, in Lubbock or online at www. Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager events during my Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid have two married hpwd.org/proposeddfcs. Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor wetlands and Ogallala Aquifer is time here. at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator dynamic and important to urban daughters and eight A 90-day public comment period Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor PORTER FOX “The tremen- Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted and rural interests. Together, both grandchildren. dous opportunities I is currently in progress. Written and may be reproduced without permission if proper Prior to joining the HPWD credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the groups can help spread awareness. was given by HPWD prepared me source of the article. staff, Porter was employed as a Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant to take the next step in my career,” Walmart manager in three states DID YOU KNOW? The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Billy Barron ...... Field Technician Texas Playa she said. send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant for 26 years. By the time a person feels Plains Underground Water Conservation District Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern Conservation Initiative (TPCI) Her last day at the district is thirsty, his or her body has lost No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) Adeline Fox Resigns July 29 July 29. Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician The HPWD Board of Directors over one percent of its total water property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Adeline Fox ...... Education & Outreach From a local perspective, use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Adeline Fox is accepting a and Staff wish Adeline all the best amount. (Source: AllAboutWater.org) Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician agriculture is the lifeblood of the Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician position as Project Manager for in her new venture. We will miss Please stay hydrated if outside in POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Texas Panhandle economy, but Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist WaterPR in Austin. The firm her! the record-breaking temperatures! District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician it also provides a food source to THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT AUGUST 2016 VOL. 62, NO. 8 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Rancher Conserves Water 1 AUGUST 2016 ISSUE YALL Tour makes stop 3

Address Service Requested State Water Plan Touted 3 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News RAINWATER HARVESTING:

WWW.HPWD.ORG RANCHER INSTALLS SYSTEM TO CONSERVE WATER

By Jessica Dunbar Communications Intern STATE WATER PLAN CONSERVATION CONVERSATION ESSENTIAL FOR NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION When one thinks of water conservation, applying less water TEXAS’ SUCCESS DEATHS -- HPWD sends its sincere condolences to the families to the yard may come to mind. However, when Bob Durham FROM PAGE THREE and friends of these two long-time associates. of Abernathy thinks of water and Rural Affairs. Keffer is the Don L. Harris of Lubbock, 83, passed away July 29. A conservation, he thinks about his chairman of the House Committee loyal Texas Tech graduate, Harris was an appraiser who held livelihood. on Natural Resources. membership in the Appraisal Institute, the Counselors Durham grew up on a ranch In a statement, the two of Real Estate, the American Society of Farm in northeast Floyd County and legislators said “Implementing Managers and Rural Appraisers, and the Institute of graduated from Floydada High our State Water Plan (SWP) is Business Appraisers. Harris and wife Barbara were School. Showing and raising cattle essential to public health and the responsible for cotton being designated as the “State has been a part of the Durham Bob Durham is shown with three of the four tanks that collect rainwater (Photo: Jessica Dunbar) continued success of our economy. Fiber and Fabric of Texas.” In addition, he worked family for years. from the large barn on his ranch at Abernathy. The 83rd Texas Legislature – tirelessly to have a cotton boll and the slogan placed Being around livestock his mind for several years and decided the system,” Durham said. “I have and the Texans who voted for on license plates. He was also a Board member for entire life, working cattle and to move forward with it after no objection to anything they’ve Proposition 6 in November of 2013 HARRIS the Bayer Museum of Agriculture. riding horses was an everyday job considerable research. done for me—they’re great.” – approved a $2 billion investment for him and his family. “Besides, at age 83, I thought I The process took about three in the implementation of our SWP. Dr. Sam E. Curl of Granbury, 79, passed away Aug. 2. Dr. Durham moved to Hale County better get to it,” Durham said. months to complete -- given some This investment was a critical step Curl served 31 years at Texas Tech University, where he was in the mid-1990s where today he Robert Unterkircher is the delays caused by heavy rainfall. towards securing a water future for Associate Vice-President for Academic Affairs continues to raise cattle on his NRCS District Conservationist The project was built in 2015 and Texas, but our work is not done. As as well as Dean of the College of Agricultural ranch. in Plainview that helped Durham finalized in 2016. drought continues to threaten our Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) from Every rancher knows that water with his project. Unterkircher There are six rainwater state and as our population grows, 1979-1997. He later became Dean of the College in large or small amounts can mean said his main focus was to make collection tanks on the Durham we must continue to work together of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources a plentiful or desolate lifestyle. sure Durham had a long lasting, ranch at Abernathy. Four tanks are and build on the momentum of at Oklahoma State University, Director of the He learned at a young age that properly installed system. filled with the runoff water from 2013. Throughout the tour...we Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, and every cow and every drop of rain Several engineers and a con- the largest barn measuring 10,000 will spread the word that investing Director of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension matters when trying to provide for tractor participated in the project ft2, and the other two tanks are in our State Water Plan is good for CURL Service. a family. to make sure all material installed filled with water from a smaller Texans today--and critical for the About a year ago, Durham met NRCS specifications. barn measuring 8,450 ft2. success of generations to come.” DID YOU KNOW?? Texas will need more than $50 billion worth contacted the USDA-Natural Greg Sokora was the lead Each polyethylene tank is Additional information about of water and wastewater infrastructure during the next 15 years to Resources Conservation Services engineer, but several others were designed to hold 5,000 gallons of the H2O4Texas Coalition and address municipal and industrial water issues. (NRCS) about his rainwater on site to help with the design. water, but Durham had an elbow the statewide tour is available at harvesting idea. “They helped me both financially http://h2o4texas.org/ He said he has had the project in and with the design/installation of SEE RAINWATER PAGE TWO RAINWATER HARVESTING CONSERVES GROUNDWATER STATE WATER PLAN YALL TOUR MAKES SECOND VISIT FROM PAGE ONE PROMOTED AT AREA TOWN HALL MEETING overflow pipe added to increase the capacity to 5,500 gallons. All As part of a statewide together, the six tanks will fill up educational initiative, the on a little more than four inches of H2O4Texas Coalition held an rainfall. August 2 town hall meeting at the Durham explained that the Texas Tech International Cultural amount of water the cows drink Center to promote awareness of the depends completely on the weather State Water Plan. Texas is divided into 16 regional and the moisture in the grass. On water planning group areas. Each average, one rainwater harvesting Rainwater harvesting helps Abernathy rancher Bob Durham reduce his water planning group consists tank can provide water to 18-20 dependence upon groundwater for cattle needs. (Photo: Jessica Dunbar) of representatives of water user cows for about 20-25 days. groups, who develop and revise Crop production and irrigation practices used in the Texas High Plains The water is delivered through “I never give up on drought, and watch the cattle eat,” Durham their region’s respective water plan were discussed with participants in the 2016 Youth Agricultural Lifetime an underground pipeline and feeds but now we know how to handle said, smiling. every five years. Leadership (YALL) Tour during their July 25 stop in Lubbock. The group into six of the 10 pastures where it better,” Durham said. “We can’t In time, Durham would like The Lubbock town hall meeting included twenty 4-H members and six advisors from Central and South Durham’s cattle graze. Durham wait till drought hits us to start to install four more tanks on his was for the Llano Estacado Texas. This is their second annual visit to the Panhandle-South Plains area. does not have dirt tanks on his planning for it.” property and save more water. He Regional Water Planning Group With a passion for cattle and said more people should consider (“Region O”). A similar meeting Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agronomist Dr. Calvin Trostle ranch so all water is fed into metal for the Panhandle Regional Water (at far right) shares information about crops grown at the Randy McGee and fiberglass tanks. water conservation. Durham said installing their own rainwater Planning Group (“Region A”) was farm near Idalou. HPWD Field Staff Supervisor Keith Whitworth made a “No pump is used to deliver the his favorite thing to do is go out harvesting system. held August 1 in Amarillo. water level measurement in one of McGee’s wells. Information/Education water— it is all through gravity to the pasture and watch his cattle “It is so important that we have The H2O4Texas tour has visited Group Supervisor Carmon McCain spoke briefly about HPWD programs flow,” Durham explained. graze. food and water,” Durham ended, six of the 16 water planning group and activities. Unterkircher said everyone can “If I had my way, I would go “You can’t have food without areas to date. do their part to save our ground- out there on that Polaris and just sit water.” The four key messages HPWD DIRECTOR & STAFF TOUR PLANT water. He said every gallon saved promoted by the tour are: will add up over time whether the ▪ Texas’ economic success THE CROSS SECTION depends upon an adequate water system is big or small. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS supply. Durham’s tanks can catch over Information/Education Group Supervisor ▪ We can’t afford to put water 200,000 gallons of water on a nor- Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield “on the shelf.” mal rainfall each year. Telephone: (806) 762-0181 ▪ Don’t be complacent about Durham reflected on how his Fax: (806) 762-1834 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Web: www.hpwd.com Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo rain. Drought and heavy rain are rainwater collection system has E-mail [email protected] Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg cyclical. Don’t let recent heavy positively affected his family. rain and current reservoir levels THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a DISTRICT STAFF He said this system has helped monthly publication of the High Plains Underground lull you into complacency. financially as well as helped him Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager ▪ Texas is a diverse state in terms Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor at Lubbock, Texas. of climate, population distribution, become more of a conservationist. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator Not only does Durham conserve Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor and water resources. A “one size and may be reproduced without permission if proper fits all” plan will not work. water for agricultural needs, he credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant Precinct Three District Director Mike Beauchamp and several HPWD staff also has other ways of conserving source of the article. Senator Charles Perry of members toured the Cargill Sweet Bran plant facility at Bovina to learn Billy Barron ...... Field Technician Lubbock and Representative Jim around the house. His home is built The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant more about the feed product as well as its handling and distribution to send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High Keffer of Eastland are the honorary feedyards in the Panhandle and eastern New Mexico. so when rain comes, the water runs Plains Underground Water Conservation District Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) co-chairs. off the concrete and onto his lawn. Shown at the conclusion of the July 27 tour are (L-R) Juan Pena; Raoul Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician Perry is chairman of the Senate Although a little rainfall goes a property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Fossi with Cargill; Carmon McCain; Jane Dupay with Cargill; Adeline Fox; use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician Committee on Agriculture, Water, long way when watering his cattle, Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician Ray Eads; Jessica Dunbar; Mark O’Rear with Cargill; Mike Beauchamp; POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Durham said he will always be Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist Gray Sanders; Keith Whitworth; HPWD Manager Jason Coleman; and Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Timothy Sabins with Cargill. concerned about drought. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician SEE STATE WATER PAGE FOUR THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT SEPTEMBER 2016 VOL. 62, NO. 9 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Board Cancels Nov. 8 Election 2 SEPTEMBER 2016 ISSUE New HPWD Staff Members 2 Dockum Aquifer Research 3 Address Service Requested TAGD Groundwater Summit 4 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News

HPWD ADOPTS STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO ENTER LOWEST TAX RATE WWW.HPWD.ORG H2YOU CONSERVATION CONTEST IN 20 YEARS Students in grades 9-12 are During their Sept. 13 meeting, encouraged to participate in the GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION CONVERSATION the High Plains Underground third annual H2YOU contest SUMMIT NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION Water Conservation District sponsored by the High Plains (HPWD) Board of Directors Underground Water Conservation DEATHS -- The High Plains Underground Water Conservation approved a resolution reducing District (HPWD). District Board of Directors and Staff send their heartfelt condolences the 2016 ad valorem tax rate to Deadline for entries is Decem- to the families of Nelda Laney of Hale Center and former State $.0075 per $100 valuation for ber 5. Participating students must Senator Bill Sims of Paint Rock. operation and maintenance of attend school or reside within the Mrs. Laney, wife of Former Texas House Speaker Pete Laney, the district. 16-county HPWD service area. passed away August 24. She was 73. Mrs. Laney started the Persons with $100,000 in commemorative Capitol Christmas ornament program in 1996 and property value will pay $7.50 “The H2YOU Contest early 2017. They will present their headed the project until 2003. in taxes to HPWD under the encourages students to share water conservation project to their Former Senator Sims passed away August 29. He was 84. Sims approved rate, compared to innovative ideas about water local State Representative and/or served four terms from 1983-1995 as State Senator for District 25 conservation. Each two to four representatives of various water- and a term from 1995-1997 as State Senator for District 24. HPWD $8.03 in 2015. Overall, the lower tax rate will decrease tax member team will design a related agencies, including the had the opportunity to work with Sims in his position as Chairman detailed conservation campaign Texas Water Development Board of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources. revenue by about six percent as compared to 2015. that proposes at least two new (TWDB). The students will also “I am pleased to announce ways to reduce water use by either be recognized during the 85th HPWD Field Technician HONOR -- Rick Kellison, project director of the Texas Alli- agriculture, municipalities, or local Texas Legislature which convenes ance for Water Conservation (TAWC) has been selected to receive that the HPWD Board of Supervisor Keith Whitworth residents. The students have the in January 2017. the Texas Tech Chancellor’s Award of Excellence on Nov. 15. The Directors have adopted the (center) makes a point during the option of selecting the water user Second place team winners each “Boots on the Ground: A Field award recognizes TTU staff for “hard work, enthusiasm, and com- lowest ad valorem tax rate in Tech’s Perspective” panel at the mitment to the Texas Tech mission” and those who have significantly the past 20 years,” said Board group for the campaign,” said receive a $200 cash prize and third fifth annual Texas Groundwater increased productivity and efficiency while using resources wisely President Lynn Tate of Amarillo. Katherine Drury, HPWD Education place team members each receive a Summit, August 23-25, at San and motivating others to serve at the same level of excellence. “Beginning three years ago, the and Outreach Coordinator. $150 cash prize. Marcos. Board set a priority to achieve Each campaign centers around Teams representing Crosbyton Other panel participants TEXAS SUPERSTARS -- Looking for a good ornamental plant balanced annual budgets. We a conservation catch phrase and High School were named the included Bobby Bazan with Post for use in your landscape next year? The new 2016 Texas Super- have worked diligently with must include elements of writing, H2YOU conservation campaign Oak Savannah GCD (left) and star Guide to Strong and Stunning Plants in Texas has just been HPWD management to get to graphic design, and photography. winners in the 2014 and 2015 Andy Garza, general manager, released. It is available online at http://texassuperstar.com The 18- this point which allows us to The top three entries will present competition. Kenedy County GCD (right). page guide is a good source of information about annuals, perenni- their proposal to a panel of judges The H2YOU contest rules and The summit, sponsored by the reduce the 2016 tax rate,” he als, per-annuals, woody shrubs, trees, and specialty plants that per- said. at the HPWD office in Lubbock. entry form are available at www. Texas Alliance of Groundwater form well for consumers/growers across the state. A seven-member Districts (TAGD) had more than HPWD Board Vice-President Winners will be selected based hpwd.org/contest. board, including Dr. Cynthia McKenney of the Texas Tech Depart- Brad Heffington of Littlefield upon the judges’ recommendations. Additional information is avail- 300 groundwater industry leaders, ment of Plant and Soil Science, reviews the plants to be selected for community stakeholders, agency agreed. First place team winners each able by contacting Katherine Drury representatives, and elected offi- the Texas Superstar marketing program. receive a $250 cash prize and an at (806) 762-0181 or by email at cials in attendance. SEE 2016 TAX PAGE TWO all-expense paid trip to Austin in [email protected]. BOARD CANCELS HPWD WELCOMES NEW STAFF MEMBERS UDDAMERI SHARES DOCKUM AQUIFER RESEARCH FINDINGS NOV. 8 ELECTION Katherine (Rowe) Drury is Victoria Messer is the new For many years, people have be more than one mile as a result the new Education and Outreach Governmental Affairs Director. wondered if groundwater stored of a well producing three million At their Sept. 13 meeting, Coordinator. A native of Hereford, she in the Dockum gallons of water during a five-day the HPWD Board of Directors A native of attended Aquifer can period. approved an order canceling the Tyler, she gradu- Canyon High be used as an Well yields in the Dockum November 8, 2016 general election ated from Texas School and is a alternative to Aquifer are typically low and in District Directors’ Precincts Tech University, recent graduate the Ogallala highly variable. They can be from Three and Four. where she re- of the Texas Aquifer in the five to 100 gallons per minute as Incumbents Mike Beauchamp ceived her B.A. Tech School of compared to 250-500 gallons per of Friona and Lynn Tate of Ama- Southern High in News Editorial Law, where she minute (g.p.m.) in the Ogallala. rillo were the only candidates to Plains. Journalism. received her Juris This is likely the result of variations file an application for place on the If so, what Prior to join- Doctorate (J.D) in the hydrogeology of the aquifer. ballot for Precinct Three District are the limiting DRURY MESSER degree with a He discussed the City of Director and Precinct Four District ing the HPWD factors? staff, she worked five years with Law &Science Concentration in Can they be Abernathy’s Dockum Aquifer Director, respectively. UDDAMERI Ramar Communications as re- Energy Law. She was appointed overcome? monitoring well that was drilled to Under the Texas Election Code, by Gov. Greg Abbott to serve a the water district may cancel an porter/producer for the Ag Day At their Sept. 13 meeting, the a depth of 1,242 feet in February Lubbock and Good Day Lubbock one year term as Student Regent 2016. election if the candidates whose for the Texas Tech University HPWD Board of Directors received names are to appear on the ballot programs airing on FOX34KJTV. an update from Dr. Venkatesh A particle size distribution System for 2015-2016. analysis was conducted on are unopposed; there are no In addition, she is a certified Messer also worked as a Uddameri, P.E., on the district declared write-in candidates; and Texas Master Gardener and a legislative aide/policy advisor to supported research, “Evaluation of sediments captured during the there is no proposition to appear on member of the Lubbock Master Rep. Drew Darby of San Angelo Brackish Groundwater Resources drilling of the well. This will the ballot. Gardeners Association. She also during the 83rd and 84th Texas in the Dockum Aquifer: An help researchers understand the The Election Code also provides enjoys cooking, gardening, and Legislature. Alternative to the Ogallala Aquifer variability of sediments in the Sediment Samples that the unopposed candidates serving her community. She and her fiance, Jeffry in the Southern High Plains.” aquifer. Fine and coarse grain sediments be declared duly elected to their Katherine and her husband, Whitehead, will be married in Dr. Uddameri is the director of When considering direct use captured from the City of Abernathy’s respective offices. Aaron, were married in August. October. the Texas Tech University Water of groundwater in the Dockum Dockum Aquifer well were displayed Precinct Three includes Bailey Resources Center. Aquifer for agricultural use, it at the September 13 HPWD Board County, the portion of Castro THE CROSS SECTION Some factors affecting Dockum should be noted that the total of Directors meeting. Dr. Venkatesh County within the district, and Aquifer use include aquifer dissolved solids (TDS) and Uddameri thanked graduate student Parmer County. CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS electric conductivity (EC) become Jorge Ruiz de Vinaspre for his work on Information/Education Group Supervisor hydrology, water quality, and the this Dockum Aquifer research project. Precinct Four includes the Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock interactions between hydrogeology progressively worse when moving portions of Armstrong, Deaf Smith, Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona and water quality. from north to south. Fax: (806) 762-1834 feet at various Dockum well sites. Potter, and Randall Counties within Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo It should be noted that the This groundwater can be 1.5 Web: www.hpwd.com Additional profiling was done the district. Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg times more brackish than sea water. E-mail [email protected] Dockum is a confined aquifer at the Abernathy site. Uddameri DISTRICT STAFF due to overlying Ogallala Aquifer The Sodium Absorption Rate THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a said the water quality was fairly 2016 TAX RATE monthly publication of the High Plains Underground Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager sediments that cause pressure. (SAR) is also an issue--particularly good until the 600 foot level was Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, FROM PAGE ONE Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor The Dockum also has a much in the region underlying the Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator reached. It degraded quickly after at Lubbock, Texas. HPWD. “Our five-member Board Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor smaller storage coefficient than the that. appreciates the efforts of Manager Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted Ogallala. Brackish aquifers exhibit Uddameri said the second phase and may be reproduced without permission if proper Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant density stratification. Because Jason Coleman and the district credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the Billy Barron ...... Field Technician After extended pumping, initial of the research project will expand staff in streamlining services and source of the article. Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant recovery of the Dockum Aquifer is of this, groundwater pumping in and augment the Dockum Aquifer Katherine Drury ...... Education & Outreach The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please fairly rapid--but not complete. the deeper waters will disturb the cutting expenses of the district. Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern water quality sampling efforts send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High We are pleased that we are able Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) It can take weeks to months to sediments. carried out by West Texas A&M to reduce the 2016 tax rate for No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician fully recover. Dr. Uddameri noted Salinity profiling was conduct- University. Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician operation of the district, while at property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician that drawdown from pumping ed in two separate time frames Future research will focus use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. the same time, improving services Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist extends over a larger distance than within the district -- winter/spring on the pumping rate needed to for constituents in our 16-county POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Victoria Messer ...... Governmental Affairs the Ogallala. and summer. The TTU researchers produce water without upconing of Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Vance Porter ...... Field Technician service area,” Heffington said. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician For example, this distance can logged data at depths up to 1,000 the deeper, brackish sediments. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT OCTOBER 2016 VOL. 62, NO. 10 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 County Offices Discontinued 2 OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE Dockum Aquifer Test Hole 3 Dockum Aquifer Infographic 3 Address Service Requested Ag In The Bag 4 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News NEW DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS ADOPTED

WWW.HPWD.ORG IN GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT AREA # 2 Representatives of seven STUDENTS LEARN groundwater conservation districts CONSERVATION CONVERSATION unanimously adopted new Desired ABOUT WATER AT NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION Future Conditions (DFCs) for relevant aquifers in Groundwater “AG IN THE BAG” APPOINTED -- Dr. Peter Dotray, Leidigh Professor in the Management Area # 2 (GMA # Department of Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University, 2) at an October 19 meeting at recently was invited by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Area students learned about to serve on their Science Advisory Board’s Agricultural Science Brownfield. agriculture at the annual Ag in Committee. Dotray’s term began October 1 and will run through A total average drawdown of the Bag event on October 11-13 . September 2018. Dotray also has a joint appointment with the approximately 23 to 27 feet for the GMA # 2 representatives review documents prior to adoption of new Desired Future Held at the Texas Tech University Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Service and serves as period 2012-2070 was adopted for Conditions in the area. Seated at the table (L-R) are Jason Coleman, Matt Hogue, Livestock Arena, this three-day an Extension Specialist in Weed Science. the Ogallala and Edwards-Trinity Ferrel Wheeler, Ronnie Hopper, Matt Farmer Jud Cheuvront, Amber Blount, and Donna celebration of agriculture brought (High Plains) Aquifers within the Springer. in more than 1,400 students NEW REGION O APPOINTEES -- Four new members GMA. and teachers from Lubbock and were named to the Llano Estacado Regional Water Planning In addition, a total average public comments about the GMA # 2 includes Andrews, surrounding school districts. Group (“Region O”) at an October 5 meeting. They are: Harry drawdown of 27 feet was adopted proposed DFCs prior to adoption. Bailey, Borden, Briscoe, Castro, Groups of students were led to DeWit, owner/operator of High Plains Dairy near Friona; Andrew for the Dockum Aquifer for the Only one oral comment and one Cochran, Crosby, Dawson, Deaf different stations to learn about Freeman, Assistant City Manager of Plainview; Chris Grotegut, same 58-year time period. written comment were received. Smith, Gaines, Garza, Floyd, Hale, crop and livestock production, DVM, owner of GO Foods and GO Farming in the Dawn area; and This provides for a single DFC “Adoption of these new Desired Hockley, Howard, Lamb, Lubbock, food science, fiber, and natural re- Shane Jones of Post, manager of the White River Municipal Water for all of GMA # 2. It replaces Future Conditions will have no Lynn, Martin, Parmer, Swisher, sources. District. DeWit and Grotegut serve as agriculture representatives the total average drawdown and major impacts upon groundwater Terry, and Yoakum Counties. HPWD Education and Outreach while Freeman and Jones are municipal representatives. “50/50” DFCs adopted in 2010. users in the region,” said Jason The groundwater conservation Coordinator Katherine Drury “Planning ahead is essential for Coleman, GMA # 2 Administrative districts in GMA # 2 include Garza taught students about the Ogallala WATERSMART INNOVATIONS -- Touted as “the biggest success in managing groundwater Officer. “The DFCs are for County Underground Water Con- Aquifer, how we get water from splash in the world of water efficiency,” the ninth annual WaterSmart in the Panhandle South Plains area. planning purposes only. None servation District, High Plains Un- the aquifer, and how students could Innovations Conference and Exposition (WSI) held Oct. 5-7 drew The GMA # 2 representatives are of the groundwater conservation derground Water Conservation Dis- start saving water at home. more than 1,000 water industry professionals to network and share doing their best to bring common district rules have changed as a trict, Llano Estacado Underground The presentation also included their experiences and ideas. Since its inception in 2008, WSI has sense solutions to these real world result of adopting the new DFCs,” Water Conservation District, Mesa an aquifer model demonstration served as a platform to help local communities achieve greater challenges,” said Voting Delegate he said. Underground Water Conservation and an up-close look at a water water efficiency and conservation. This year’s program included Ronnie Hopper of Petersburg. The process of adopting a District, Permian Basin Under- well screen. comprehensive professional sessions and panel discussions, pre- Both DFCs were based upon DFC was established by the Texas ground Water Conservation Dis- “We appreciate the opportunity conference workshops and an expo hall. It also featured opening an examination/evaluation of Legislature in 2005, and requires trict, Sandy Land Underground to share information about the keynote addresses by U.S. Rep. Dina Titus and urban water efficiency 16 scenarios by a groundwater groundwater conservation districts Water Conservation District, and importance of water and water expert Paul R. Brown. WSI participants included professionals from consultant using the High to establish DFCs for relevant South Plains Underground Water conservation with such a large 38 states and the District of Columbia, as well as Australia, Austria, Plains Aquifer System (HPAS) aquifers at least once every five Conservation District. group of kids,” Drury said. “This Belgium, Canada, China, Colombia, India, Iraq, Israel, Mexico, groundwater availability model. years. This is only the second time Additional information about Nigeria, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and the United Each district in GMA # 2 that groundwater conservation GMA # 2 is available at www. was a fun event, and we hope to Kingdom. participate again next year!” conducted hearings to receive districts have established DFCs. gma2.org. HPWD DISCONTINUES COUNTY WELL PERMIT OFFICES CITY OF LUBBOCK The High Plains Underground ates their support,” Coleman add- ▪ Judy Thayer, Floyd County, DRILLS TEST HOLE Water Conservation District ed. 9 years. FOR DOCKUM WELL (HPWD) Board of Directors voted In recent years, HPWD has ▪ Daleyn Schwartz, Hale to discontinue operation of county either closed or combined several County, 3 years. water well permit offices at their permit offices as County Secretaries ▪ Linda Smith, Hockley County, October 11 meeting. either retired or moved from the 18 years. “Our County Secretaries have area. These included Armstrong, “We encourage persons to provided exemplary service Lamb, Parmer, Potter, and Randall contact the District office at (806) to residents of their respective Counties. 762-0181 if they have questions counties since the water well permit Permits for Crosby, Lubbock, relating to the water well permit program started in the mid-1950s. and Lynn Counties were handled process,” Coleman said. However, with today’s mobile by HPWD staff at the district office technologies, persons can begin the in Lubbock. DID YOU KNOW? water well permit process or obtain Resolutions commending the water well permit information/ following County Secretaries There were 384 water wells well logs from the interactive map for their dedicated service were completed within the 16-county feature on the HPWD website. As adopted and signed by the Board HPWD service area during Fiscal a result, persons no longer need of Directors: Year 2016 (October 1, 2015 to to visit a permitting office in their ▪ Christina Gutierrez and September 30, 2016). county for these services,” said Melissa Nichols, Bailey County, Of these, three water wells General Manager Jason Coleman. 9 years. were completed into the Dockum Throughout the years, various ▪ Karleen Hoelting, Castro & Aquifer and one water well was local businesses have provided Swisher Counties, 5 years. completed into the Edwards- space and allowed their employees ▪ Wayne Butler, Cochran Trinity Aquifer. to serve as County Secretaries on County, 18 years. The remaining 380 water wells behalf of the district. “The HPWD ▪ Deann Martin, Deaf Smith were completed into the Ogallala On October 25, the City of Board of Directors greatly appreci- County, 13 years. Aquifer. Lubbock drilled a test hole in preparation for its Dockum CONSERVE WATER Aquifer water well. THE CROSS SECTION The Dockum well will be IN THE SHOWER CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS drilled on the west side of the Information/Education Group Supervisor South Water Treatment Plant EPA WaterSense reminds Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock everyone that October is “Shower Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield property located at FM 1585 and Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona Better Month.” Fax: (806) 762-1834 County Road 2800. Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo This will be a permanent Showering accounts for nearly Web: www.hpwd.com Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg 17 percent of all residential indoor E-mail [email protected] test well that will be measured DISTRICT STAFF water use, and the average family THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a throughout time. uses nearly 40 gallons of water per monthly publication of the High Plains Underground Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager The total cost of the project Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor day for showering. Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator is $400,000. HPWD provided at Lubbock, Texas. Giving your main bathroom a Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor $90,000 in research funding and is high-efficiency makeover can save Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted expected to provide $10,000 as an and may be reproduced without permission if proper Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant your household 10,000 gallons credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the Billy Barron ...... Field Technician in-kind contribution. The remain- of water, 420 kilowatt-hours of source of the article. Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant ing cost will be paid by the City of Katherine Drury ...... Education & Outreach electricity, and $140 in utility bills The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern Lubbock. annually. send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High If just one in every 10 homes in Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) A report with water quality No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician and water quantity results is the U.S. upgraded a full bathroom Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician expected during the first quarter of with WaterSense labeled fixtures, use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. we could save about 74 billion Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist 2017, according to Aubrey Spear, POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Vance Porter ...... Field Technician Director of Water Utilities for the gallons of water and $1.6 billion on Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician our utility bills nationwide annually. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Victoria Messer Whitehead ...... Governmental Affairs City of Lubbock. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT NOVEMBER 2016 VOL. 62, NO. 11 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Directors Receive Oath 2 NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE Adjust Sprinklers for Winter 3 TWDB Director Visits HPWD 3 Address Service Requested Base of Aquifer Model 4 THE CROSS SECTION Conservation Conversation 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News HPWD TOURS EDR WATER TREATMENT PLANT

WWW.HPWD.ORG The HPWD Board of Directors toured the new Electrodialysis Reversal (EDR) water treatment plant prior to their November 17 BASE OF AQUIFER CONSERVATION CONVERSATION meeting in Wolfforth. TERRAIN MODEL NEWS BRIEFS AND OTHER INFORMATION In July 2011, the City of Wolfforth was notified by the DISPLAYED AT DROUGHT STUDY - Can you water your landscape less and still U.S. Environmental Protection AMARILLO SHOW have thriving plants? Learn more from a recent drought survivability Agency of high arsenic levels in its study published by Texas A&M Institute of Renewal Natural drinking water. This was the result Resources and the Texas Water Resources Institute. Visit http://twri. of the EPA lowering the acceptable to read the full text. tamu.edu/publications/reports/2016/tr-495 levels of arsenic in drinking water. HIGH PLAINS IRRIGATION CONFERENCE -- The annual In addition, fluoride levels were High Plains Irrigation Conference and Trade Show is set for Feb. 15, higher than the Texas Commission 2017 in the North Exhibit Hall of the Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Wolfforth City Manager Darrell Newsom (center) discusses operation of the new Buchanan, Amarillo. Additional information will be posted at a later standards. The city had to correct Electrodialysis Reversal Plant prior to the Nov. 17 tour by the HPWD Board of Directors, date at www.taia.org. Just click on the “HPIC 2017” link. both issues or face fines. HPWD staff,and Wolfforth Economic Development Corporation members. To bring the fluoride levels INTERIM REPORT PUBLISHED -- The Senate Committee on back into compliance, Wolfforth Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs has published its interim report embarked on a pilot project using to the 85th Texas Legislature. Read it online at http://tinyurl.com/ an Electrodialysis Reversal (EDR) jx3cys8 process. Typically, reverse osmosis (RO) is the technology utilized in SWIFT PROGRAM -- The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) will open the application period for the 2017 funding cycle cases like this, but Wolfforth city of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) program officials were not satisfied with the Visitors to the HPWD booth at the on December 1. Applications are due to the TWDB by Feb. 3, 2017. water recovery loss associated with 2016 Amarillo Farm and Ranch For the 2017 funding cycle, the TWDB anticipates being able to an RO system. Show viewed this solid terrain accommodate approximately $500 million in new applications. “The water recovery loss on model representing the base of Projects must be listed in the 2017 State Water Plan to be eligible an RO system is close to 30- the Ogallala Aquifer within the for SWIFT program financial assistance. For more details on how 40 percent,” says City Manager district’s 16-county service area. to apply for the SWIFT program, please visit www.twdb.texas.gov. Darrell Newsom. “We found our Previously depicted as contours in Wolfforth City Manager Darrell Newsom (center) chats with HPWD Board Members water recovery loss in the EDR Ronnie Hopper, Lynn Tate, and Dan Seale during the Electrodialysis Reversal plant tour. our hydrologic atlas series, modern WATER FOR TEXAS CONFERENCE -- The Water For Texas plant to be only five to six percent, technology now allows creation 2017 Conference is set for Jan. 23-25, 2017 at the AT&T Executive which is why we chose to build a technology and because we have The plant is in the process of of a 3-D surface from these data Education and Conference Center, 1900 University Avenue, in Austin. plant that wasted less.” been early adopters of this kind of being commissioned. It is await- points. It is interesting to note Conference topics include: innovative water strategies, groundwater Newsom hopes the City of ing TCEQ approval before it can that the base of aquifer elevation science, the 2017 State Water Plan, TWDB financial assistance, and plant, we would be willing to share drops more than 1,700 feet across Texas water policy. The conference agenda and list of speakers is Wolfforth’s pilot project helps other our experience with others so that become fully operational for treat- HPWD as shown by the change in available at http://waterfortexas.twdb.texas.gov/index.asp communities in the same situation. they would not have to reinvent the ment of the city’s drinking water color from left to right. “EDR is a fairly proven wheel,” Newsom adds. supply. USDA-NRCS ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT FOR CSP ADJUST LANDSCAPE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS The USDA - Natural Resources CSP is for producers who are People interested in the updated Conservation Service (NRCS) already established conservation CSP offers can find information, TO AVOID UNNECESSARY WINTER IRRIGATION is now accepting and processing stewards, helping them to deliver including national and state rank- With most turf grasses applications for enrollment in the multiple conservation benefits ing questions and enhancement becoming dormant for the winter, updated Conservation Stewardship on working lands, including im- descriptions, on the new CSP web now is the perfect time to adjust Program (CSP). proved water and soil quality and portal at http://www.nrcs.usda. automatic landscape sprinkler Through CSP, agricultural enhanced wildlife habitat. gov/csp. systems to avoid unnecessary producers and forest landowners winter irrigation. earn payments for actively Most established Bermudagrass managing, maintaining, and DIRECTORS RECEIVE OATH OF OFFICE lawns in the area need about 1 to expanding conservation activities 1-1/2 inches of water per week like cover crops, ecologically based during the summer growing pest management, buffer strips, season. Tex-Turf 10 needs to be It may look pretty -- but operating a landscape irrigation system during freezing weather and pollinator and beneficial insect can result in glazed sidewalks and runoff that creates potholes. In addition, such a irrigated every 7 to 10 days while habitat – all while maintaining practice may be in violation of local city ordinances. Photo courtesy of Watermaster buffalo grass needs watering every active agriculture production on Irrigation, Lubbock. two weeks. their land. CSP also encourages However, in late fall and early of treating water and pumping it businesses contact their local the adoption of cutting-edge winter, these grasses become through city distribution systems. landscaping professional or technologies and new management dormant and do not need to be In many instances, this potable landscape irrigation specialist for techniques. irrigated as often. water is allowed to run off urban instructions on changing controller “This year, the Conservation High Plains Underground Water landscapes only to end up in a settings for winter. Stewardship Program provides Conservation District (HPWD) storm drain or playa basin. This simple practice of adjusting even more opportunities for con- Precinct Three District Director Mike Beauchamp of Friona (left) and Precinct Four officials ask homeowners and Since landscape irrigation automatic sprinkler systems in servation and greater flexibility at District Director Lynn Tate of Amarillo (right) received the Oath of Office from Notary Public Tammy Anderson during the Nov. 17 Board Meeting at Wolfforth. Beauchamp businesses to adjust their automatic controllers and systems can vary, response to changing climatic the local level to prioritize resource and Tate were re-elected for the purposes of the Nov. 8, 2016 election, pursuant to the landscape sprinkler systems to the High Plains Water District conditions can help reduce water concerns and conservation ap- Order Cancelling Election issued on Sept. 13, 2016. avoid unnecessary irrigation during recommends homeowners and waste and save money. proaches,” says Texas NRCS State winter months. Conservationist Salvador Salinas. In recent years, HPWD has NRCS has made several up- THE CROSS SECTION received numerous reports of dates to the program. Producers are CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS TWDB DIRECTOR VISITS HPWD OFFICE now able to better evaluate their Information/Education Group Supervisor homeowners and businesses Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock operating irrigation systems in conservation options and the resul- Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona freezing weather. tant benefits to their operations and Fax: (806) 762-1834 Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo Most callers expressed concern natural resources. Web: www.hpwd.com Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg The implementation of new E-mail [email protected] about the icy patches created DISTRICT STAFF when the irrigation water left the methods and software for evaluat- THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a ing applications will help produc- monthly publication of the High Plains Underground Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager landscape and pooled in roadways, Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor intersections, and along curbs. ers learn quickly if they are or are Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator at Lubbock, Texas. not meeting stewardship thresh- Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor This results in a very dangerous olds, in turn allowing them to pick Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted situation for drivers, which the and may be reproduced without permission if proper Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant district hopes can be avoided this practices and enhancements that credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the Billy Barron ...... Field Technician source of the article. Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant winter. better fit their conservation goals Katherine Drury ...... Education & Outreach and objectives. The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please Jessica Dunbar ...... Communications Intern In addition, water running send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High NRCS offices will begin pro- Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) off landscapes, sidewalks and Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) member Kathleen Jackson (second from cessing CSP applications Nov. 14, No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician driveway can move under asphalt right) visited the HPWD office on Nov. 14. During the meeting, Jackson received an Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician street surfaces. Freezing and overview of HPWD programs and activities, discussed regional water planning efforts in 2016, with the first priority fund- property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician Texas, and shared information about water infrastructure funding opportunities available ing ranking period ending Feb. 3, use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist thawing eventually deteriorates the Vance Porter ...... Field Technician through the TWDB. Shown with Jackson are (L-R) Communications Intern Jessica 2017. Applications are available at POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The pavement and creates potholes. Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician Dunbar, Governmental Affairs Director Victoria Whitehead, Manager Jason Coleman, local USDA Service Centers. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Victoria Messer Whitehead ...... Governmental Affairs Taxpayers also incur the cost and Education/Outreach Coordinator Katherine Drury. THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) PERIODICALS PERMIT DECEMBER 2016 VOL. 62, NO. 12 HIGH PLAINS UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NO. 1 THIS ISSUE: 2930 AVENUE Q LUBBOCK TX 79411-2499 Water Level Measurements 1 DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE Dockum Aquifer Test Well 2 2016 Water Use Reporting 2 Address Service Requested TWDB Work Session 3 THE CROSS SECTION Merry Christmas 4 High Plains Underground Water Conservation District News WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENTS IN PROGRESS

WWW.HPWD.ORG High Plains Underground Water Conservation District (HPWD) personnel are making water level measurements to determine SWIFT FUND DISCUSSED DURING WORK SESSION the effect of 2016 pumping on groundwater levels in the aquifers FROM PAGE THREE ▪ Misconception that this ▪ Too much time between appli- within the district’s 16-county program is for large loans only. cation approval and having “cash- service area. through SWIFT (State Water ▪ Municipalities do not want in-hand” for shovel-ready projects. Measurements are made Implementation Fund for Texas). new debt. “We hope the public was able to annually in a network of more than Political subdivisions, including ▪ Municipal tax base of small learn more about TWDB financial 1,400 privately-owned water wells. municipalities, counties, and vari- towns with less than 1,000 in pop- programs and how they can ben- These observation wells are spaced ous districts (water improvement, ulation cannot support new debt. efit those in rural areas. Certainly, at a density of about one well per irrigation, and groundwater con- ▪ Requirement that a political there are still some challenges, but nine square miles throughout the servation), can submit applications subdivision be a “sponsor” for we are working to make improve- district. for low-interest loans, extended SWIFT funding for agricultural ments to streamline the process,” After the measurement is repayment terms, and deferral of projects. Bruun said. made, a blue vinyl sticker with loan payments between Dec. 1, ▪ Some municipalities have A brief public comment period the observation well number, the 2016 and Feb. 3, 2017. projects in mind-but are not ready wrapped up the three-hour work depth-to-water level measurement, He noted that the TWDB has to move forward with them. session. and the date of the measurement surveyed entities to determine why is affixed to the well equipment or they are not using SWIFT and/or other appropriate surface near the state revolving funds to finance well site. water-related projects. High Plains Water District Some reasons include: personnel measure the same wells ▪ Application process appears to in the observation well network be too cumbersome. each year as long as the individual ▪ Better loan rate in the open wells are accessible and continue market. to provide satisfactory data. ▪ Concern that loans cannot be The current depth-to-water level Field Technician Mark Hamilton uses an e-line to make a water level measurement in a paid off early. measurements in individual wells HPWD observation well. District personnel will visit well sites from December 2016 to ▪ Concern that water projects are compared to those of previous March 2017 to obtain depth-to-water level data. for funding must be included in years to determine the average the State Water Plan. Individual annual change in water levels. made available to the public Additional information about projects can occur quickly. This In recent years, the district through an interactive observation the water level measurement requires amendment of local has established a network of well map on the district’s web site program is available by contacting regional water management plans observation wells in the Dockum map.hpwd.org as well as publica- HPWD at (806) 762-0181 or by in order for the projects to be Aquifer within its service area. tion in an annual water level mea- visiting the district’s web site included in the State Water Plan. These water level data are surement report. at www.hpwd.org. REPORTING LUBBOCK DOCKUM TEST WELL AG WATER ISSUES FOCUS OF TWDB WORK SESSION BEGINS FOR By Carmon McCain 2016 WATER USE Cross Section Editor Owners and operators of non- Rural and agricultural water exempt wells within the HPWD issues were the focus of a Dec. 7 service area are reminded that they work session of the Texas Water can report their 2016 groundwater Development Board (TWDB) TWDB Board Member Kathleen Jackson, State Senator Charles Perry, TWDB Chairman held at the McKenzie-Merket Bech Bruun, and TWDB Board Member Peter Lake listen to discussion during the use on the HPWD website. December 7 work session. Water use reporting for 2016 Alumni Center on the Texas Tech should occur between January 1 University campus. and March 1, 2017. “It’s important to come to There are four items required to Lubbock and discuss issues that report groundwater use: are important to agriculture and ▪ Contact information, including rural communities,” said TWDB e-mail address for confirmation Chairman Bech Bruun of Austin. receipt. “With the legislative session just ▪ Desired reporting approach around the corner, it is a good (simple or detailed) opportunity for the TWDB Board ▪ Groundwater use data, includ- members to visit this area and learn The City of Lubbock marked completion of its brackish groundwater test well about these concerns. We want to ing county, legal description, and with a November 30 media day at the South Water Treatment Plant on FM 1585. More than 70 persons attended the TWDB work session at the McKenzie-Merket Alumni acreage of contiguous tracts. The well, drilled to a depth of more than 1,400 feet, will be used to determine if do whatever we can at the agency to Center on the Texas Tech University campus in Lubbock. ▪ Review of information and groundwater in the Dockum Aquifer could be a viable water source. A sample better help the residents of Texas.” submission of electronic signature. of the brackish groundwater from the test well is shown in the bottle at left. (The Board Member Kathleen Jack- nears, Perry said there needs to be strategies and practices to improve dark blotches are writing on the reverse side of the bottle.) At right, cuttings taken son of Beaumont echoed Bruun’s an honest discussion about the cost irrigation water use efficiency and If using the simple approach, at five foot intervals reveal the many variations in geologic materials throughout the specific amount of water is not the depth of the test well. sentiments. and worth of water. conserve water. reported. “Rural issues are of great “It is difficult for a public official The majority of the work Rather, the owner/operator importance to me. When a rural to advocate an increase in water session was devoted to a round- certifies that they used the one THE CROSS SECTION community runs out of water, rates when residents turn on their table discussion relating to TWDB then I feel as if Texas has run out tap and water is provided to them agricultural and rural programs. irrigated crop certification, energy CARMON McCAIN, Editor BOARD OF DIRECTORS consumption, nozzle package, Information/Education Group Supervisor of water. The answers to these at a very low cost. We must pay a The TWDB Board members Dan Seale, Member ...... Lubbock problems won’t come out of Austin, fair price for development and for invited representatives of small meter, or other approved method Brad Heffington, Vice-President ...... Littlefield Telephone: (806) 762-0181 Mike Beauchamp, Secretary-Treasurer...... Friona but rather from those in attendance the worth of water,” he said. and medium cities, regional water to calculate groundwater use. Fax: (806) 762-1834 Lynn Tate, President ...... Amarillo today. We (the TWDB) must draw Representatives from the Texas providers, engineering firms, Plains They also certify that they did not Web: www.hpwd.com Ronnie Hopper, Member ...... Petersburg exceed the maximum allowable E-mail [email protected] upon the leadership of those in this Department of Agriculture and Cotton Growers, Inc., and the Texas part of the state,” she said. TWDB staff shared information Alliance for Water Conservation production rate. DISTRICT STAFF THE CROSS SECTION (USPS 564-920) is a Senator Charles Perry of about their agency’s programs that (TAWC) to share their experience If using the detailed approach, monthly publication of the High Plains Underground Jason Coleman, P. E...... Manager Water Conservation District No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Juan Peña...... Permit Group Supervisor Lubbock welcomed the TWDB are available to agriculture and and insights with the group. the specific amount of water used Lubbock, Texas 79411-2499. Periodicals postage paid must be provided in order to at Lubbock, Texas. Gray Sanders ...... Information Technology Administrator members to Lubbock. He chairs the rural communities. “We (the TWDB Board Keith Whitworth ...... Field Technician Supervisor Senate Committee on Agriculture, Cameron Turner provided Members) want to have a candid calculate the conservation reserve. Articles printed in The Cross Section are not copyrighted and may be reproduced without permission if proper Water, and Rural Affairs. information about the TWDB’s discussion with you. Tell us how Different reporting methods credit is given to the High Plains Water District as the Tammy Anderson ...... Accountant may be selected for each contigu- source of the article. Billy Barron ...... Field Technician “It is important to maintain the agricultural water conservation we can improve our services and Liz Casias ...... Receptionist/Administrative Assistant The Cross Section welcomes your comments. Please livelihood of areas west of Inter- program which provides financial meet your needs,” said Board ous property. Katherine Drury ...... Education & Outreach send Letters to the Editor to The Cross Section, High state 35 through education, health assistance for upgrade of irrigation Member Peter Lake of Tyler. HPWD encourages produc- Plains Underground Water Conservation District Ray Eads...... Field Technician (Canyon) ers to report their 2016 water use. No. 1, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Lance Epperson ...... Field Technician care, and adequate water supplies. equipment to improve efficiencies. Bruun said the TWDB is now in Letters addressed to The Cross Section become the Mark Hamilton ...... Field Technician Your Zip code should not deter- Through Fiscal Year 2016, the the second year of financing water Any questions about reporting pro- property of the newsletter and it owns all rights to their Lance Jerden ...... Field Technician use. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. mine your quality of life,” Perry program has committed more than management strategy projects cedures should be directed to Jed Jed Leibbrandt ...... GIS Specialist Vance Porter ...... Field Technician said. $100 million in grants, loans, and Leibbrandt at (806) 762-0181 or by POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Cross Section (USPS 564-920), High Plains Water Andrés Villarreal ...... Field Technician As the 85th Texas Legislature transfer of funds to implement SEE SWIFT FUND PAGE FOUR email to [email protected]. District, 2930 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411-2499. Victoria Messer Whitehead ...... Governmental Affairs