New Guide Available From The Hill Country Alliance Over the past decade, Burnet County’s population has increased significantly, and with that increase comes new neighborhoods and developments, more impervious cover, loss of natural habitat, and  more demand on our already strained water resources. This guide aims to be a valuable tool for developers and established HOA’s that wish to establish or modify Landscape Guidelines to bring about beneficial changes. The guide includes best practices to promote water-wise landscaping, guidelines, recommendations, and more. The website linked in the button below includes the guide, as well as helpful templates.

In addition, the Hill Country Alliance is hosing a Webinar on March 31st at 12:00 that covers what’s in the guide, how it was developed, and how to implement it. You can RSVP here: HCA WEBINAR

Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors

Central Texas GCD has been a signature sponsor of the Texas 4H Water Ambassadors program since the program’s inception in 2017. The program provides high school age 4-H members and youth an opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills related to the science, technology, engineering, and management of water in Texas. Students that are selected for the program participate in a Summer 4-H20 leadership program where they travel all over the State to learn how water is collected, conserved, and managed. The application process opens March 15th, and closes on May 1st.

In 2024, the Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors visited the District Office and visited a nearby well for a well camera demonstration.

EPA’s Fix a Leak Week – March 17-23, 2025

The EPA’s annual Fix A Leak Week starts on Monday, March 17th, and encourages families across the country to become a leak detective to find and fix household leaks.  Learn how to find and fix leaks during Fix a Leak Week. It’s as easy as 1-2-3.  Fix a Leak Week | US EPA

What About the  Drought?

At the February 26th Board Meeting, the ongoing drought was discussed. Burnet County remains in the Extreme Drought category according to the Palmer Hydrological Drought Index. The District remains in Stage 4 & drought reductions of 15% are still in place for permitted users.

As many Burnet County residents are hoping for spring showers while planting flowers, we want to remind everyone of the beauty and resiliency of native plants. Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance while being an essential food source and habitat for local pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. By choosing to go native, you are contributing to water conservation and the overall health of Central Texas’ unique ecosystem.   The Native Plant Society of Texas has a thorough and searchable database of Native Plants. You can search by soil type, sun/shade, height, region, benefit, and more.    https://www.npsot.org/resources/native-plants/native-plants We’d love to see your native landscaping efforts! To be featured in a future newsletter, email us at [email protected].

Groundwater Tip of the Month

Tips for Reducing Water Use During Extreme Drought

General Tips Check plumbing and faucets for leaks and drips, and have any issues repaired.  Did you know that 1 drop per second wastes about 2,700 gallons per year? Choose appliances that are energy and water efficient.  If you have a well pump, check it periodically to see if the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used.  If it does, you may have a leak.  Consider rainwater harvesting.  Use commercial car washes that recycle water.  Home Tips Instead of using the garbage disposal, start a compost pile or bin.  Use low flow showerheads. Operate clothes washers and dishwashers only when they are fully loaded.  Catch water from rinsing dishes, fruits, and vegetables to water outdoor plants. Avoid letting water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face, washing your hands, and shaving. Outdoor Tips Don’t install or use decorative water features.  Use native and drought tolerant grasses and plants.  Do not scalp your yard, leave it at least 3 inches long.  A higher cut will encourage the roots to grow deeper.  If your lawn requires watering, only water in the early morning or later in the evening to avoid the hotter temperatures. Don’t use water to clean sidewalks and driveways, use a broom or blower instead. Consider xeriscaping rather than a lawn. Not only will you reduce water usage, but you’ll also reduce use of fertilizer. For a variety of tips on water conservation, check out the following links: https://www.ready.gov/drought https://sustainability.txst.edu/sustainable-conservation-str… https://www.tceq.texas.gov/response/drought/conservation.htm… https://rainwaterharvesting.tamu.edu/rainwater-basics/

Upcoming Events

March 26, 2025: 9:00 a.m. – Board Meeting at the District office. 225 S Pierce, Burnet TX April 11, 2025: Bluebonnet Festival begins. There will be several street closures near the district office. https://bluebonnetfestival.org/

Have an idea, topic, or question you’d like to see featured in our newsletter? Email us at [email protected]