Water Resources Commission Minutes - 11/06/2023 Water Resources Committee Meeting
11/06/23
1) Meeting Called to Order: 4:02 PM by Glenn Barham
2) Approval of Previous Minutes: August 28, 2023
3) Current Drought Conditions: Daniel Nix gave an update on the current status of lake
levels, the Drought Monitor year-over-year (2022 compared to 2023), the number of
summer days with temperatures over 100 degrees and over 110 degrees, and a
prediction of lake levels with best-case, average, and worst-case scenarios. Mark
Southard gave updates on the US Seasonal Drought Outlook over the next 6 months, the
temperature and precipitation outlook through June 2024, and another lake level
prediction based on various regional and NOAA climate factors.
4) Potential for Stage 2 Drought Restrictions: Daniel Nix gave the worst case prediction,
which showed Stage 2 Drought Restrictions could start as early as late December to
early January. He noted that he has been in contact with Wichita Falls PIO office for
potential customer communication notifications.
5) Water Conservation Plan: Walter Chandler with Freese and Nichols gave an update on
the Conservation and Drought Contingency Plans, including estimated timelines for
completion.
a. Steve Smith asked how to get more educational information to the public on
things like what to do with irrigation systems after rain events. It was noted that
the WF PIO office could craft public notifications, and Daniel Nix said he would
get information from the DFW area to see about crafting a message.
6) Old Business: Russell Schreiber was asked about the status of Lake Ringgold, and he
noted there was nothing new at this point. Closing arguments had been made, and
everyone was waiting on the final recommendations. Tyson Traw asked if there were
any historical perspectives for the TCEQ to reject a recommendation from the AU.
Russell said he wasn't aware of any. Shane Fitzhenry asked about the possibility of an
appeal if the recommendation didn't meet the City's desired outcome, but at the time
there were no indications that would be the case. Steve Smith asked about the
timeframe for construction, and a general overview was given by Russell Schreiber.
7) New Business:There was a question from a citizen in attendance about Lake Kickapoo
capacity. There was also a question from a citizen in attendance about whether
purchase water systems must follow the City of Wichita Falls' drought restrictions.
a. It was also noted that the terms are up Shane and Glenn this year, but they may
continue with another term.
8) New Meeting Date: No date was set, but Daniel Nix said he would reach out for a new
date after the first of the new year.
9) Meeting Adjourned:4:57 PM