1990

TWC and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) warn aquifer area about need to respond. TWC emergency drought rules are adopted. Legislative committee holds hearings on aquifer issues. Legislative staff produces report received by the committee without recommendation.

1990-1991

At the initiation of the Legislative Interim Committee, Texas Water Development Board hires mediator to aid in negotiations for legislative solution. Mediation ends without agreement.

1991

In the 72nd Legislative Session, the Medina County Underground Water Conservation District is validated; the Uvalde district fails.

May

May 4, 1991 – San Antonio voters narrowly defeat the construction of the Applewhite reservoir project. (Applewhite was presented as an alternative source of water to meet San Antonios growing needs.)

May 17, 1991 – Citing the Endangered Species Act, the Sierra Club files a lawsuit against the USFWS. The lawsuit asks that the Fish & Wildlife Service be required to ensure minimum springflow to protect endangered species.

EUWD is joined by the San Antonio River Authority in filing suit in State District Court alleging waste and water quality violations. The suit seeks injunctive relief and civil penalties against the owners of the catfish farm operated by Living Waters Artesian Springs. The catfish farm well is closed by court order in November.

November

Texas Attorney General Dan Morales opinion says the TWC has some regulatory authority of underground water supplies. Austin Mayor, Bruce Todd, facilitates regional negotiations under deadline from the TWC. No agreement is reached.