The Harris-Galveston Subsidence District held a virtual public hearing to present the 2020 Annual Groundwater Report on Thursday, April 29, 2021.
The 2020 Annual Groundwater Report includes recent subsidence, aquifer water level and groundwater use data. The report also shows the comparison of the recent data to previous years, providing context on the impact changes in water use and water sources can have on the occurrence and magnitude of subsidence.
To preview a draft of the hearing presentation, click here.
To view a recording of the presentation, click here.
Monitoring subsidence, as well as groundwater use and aquifer water levels, allows the District to measures the effectiveness of its Regulatory Plan. Currently, Regulatory Areas One and Two have seen subsidence rates cease or decline due to the conversion from groundwater to surface water in accordance with District regulations.
The report also provides key insights on preventing infrastructure damage and potential flooding impacts caused by subsidence. With more extreme weather events and a growing population, these types of data can be used to inform decision-makers and the general public and aid in building a more resilient community.
The report and finalized presentation will be released May 13, 2021, once the District’s Board of Directors accepts and approves the findings.