HGSD’s goal is to regulate groundwater use in volumes that will not deplete the aquifers in order to prevent subsidence and ensure future water availability. Since 1975, HGSD has regulated the use of groundwater and strongly encourages water users to shift from groundwater to other sources of water, such as treated surface water, through disincentive fees. Additional information on the HGSD’s regulatory program is provided in the Regulatory Plan, which works in conjunction with the District’s well permitting program. As a result of HGSD rules, groundwater use has reduced dramatically in the areas along the coast and Houston Ship Channel, and consequently subsidence in those areas is negligible.
