The Las Moras Springs Conservation Association (LMSCA) has developed a comprehensive Critical Period Management Plan, commonly referred to as the “SOS Plan,” to address the severe groundwater depletion issues facing Kinney County. Our goal is to protect the vital water resources of Las Moras Springs, Las Moras Creek, and the surrounding aquifer, ensuring their health and sustainability for future generations.
The SOS Plan aims to:
Conserve and Protect: Implement critical period triggers that mandate groundwater permit holders to restrict pumping during periods of low spring flow to conserve the aquifer and protect the sustainability of Las Moras Springs and Creek.
Avoid Adverse Impacts: Prevent unreasonable impacts on existing groundwater and surface water resources and existing permit holders.
Ensure Transparency: Provide public transparency regarding the health of the springs and creek.
Respect Property Rights: Recognize the property rights of landowners to groundwater beneath their land and of landowners adjacent to the springs and creek.
Provide Predictability: Offer notice and predictability to permit holders to help them plan for potential droughts and reservoir pressure depletion.
The SOS Plan has received a legal opinion from Deborah Trejo, a respected water law attorney, confirming its legal durability and alignment with Texas water laws. The opinion states that the SOS Plan represents a reasonable, legal approach to address the District’s obligation to protect groundwater resources in Kinney County. The plan is consistent with the methods adopted by other districts aimed at conserving and protecting groundwater resources, particularly in light of ongoing droughts and climate change models. Ms. Trejo represents multiple groundwater conservation districts and has represented groundwater interests at the Supreme Court of Texas. Her bio page can be found here. Deborah C. Trejo | Attorney | Kemp Smith LLP | Law Firm in El Paso, Austin & Las Cruces.
Your support is crucial for the successful implementation of the SOS Plan. Here’s how you can help:
Show your support for the SOS Plan by signing our petition. Your endorsement will help us advocate for the adoption of this critical management plan by our elected officials.
Join the Las Moras Springs Conservation Association to stay informed, get involved, and make a difference in protecting our vital water resources.
The implementation of the SOS Plan is crucial for safeguarding the future of Las Moras Springs and the overall health of our community’s water resources. We need your support to advocate for this plan and to elect representatives who will prioritize sustainable water management.
Doing what we can to ensure a sustainable future for our water table.