New Programs at Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District

The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District (LPGCD) is excited to launch three new programs that support our mission of protecting and conserving groundwater for the future. At the August Board meeting, the Board of Directors voted unanimously to begin offering rebates and reimbursements through the Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program, the Well Capping & Plugging Reimbursement Program, and the Agricultural Flow Meter Program. Each of these programs is designed to support landowners, encourage conservation, and protect groundwater in Bastrop and Lee Counties.

Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program

Throughout the year, LPGCD has hosted Rainwater Harvesting 101 Workshops to help residents learn how to capture and use rainwater. Now, those who attended and any property owner in Bastrop or Lee County planning to install a new system or expand an existing one are eligible to apply for a rebate. The rebate offers $1 for every gallon of storage capacity, up to $5,000. Rainwater harvesting reduces pressure on our aquifers, an especially important step because Bastrop and Lee Counties rely entirely on groundwater for municipal water supply.

Well Capping & Plugging Reimbursement Program

Our Well Capping & Plugging Reimbursement program provides reimbursement for eligible expenses related to properly capping or permanently plugging unused or abandoned wells located within the District. By supporting landowners with this process, LPGCD is helping prevent contamination, promote public safety, and comply with state law while protecting our shared groundwater resources.

Agricultural Flow Meter Program

With the help of a $50,000 matching grant from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), LPGCD is rolling out a program to install flow meters on agricultural and irrigation wells across the District. These meters will provide producers with valuable data to track and reduce water use. Irrigation accounts for nearly 70 percent of groundwater use in Texas, so this program has the potential for meaningful impact in our region. Other similar programs in the Texas Panhandle have resulted in water savings of approximately 10 per cent, and LPGCD hopes to see comparable if not greater results here. We are grateful to TWDB for investing in Bastrop and Lee Counties and for supporting both agriculture and long-term water sustainability.

Why These Programs Matter

Together, these new programs move us closer to our management goal of sustainably managing groundwater for the Bastrop and Lee Counties. They support individual landowners and benefit our community as a whole. But, local participation is key to their success and to protecting groundwater for future generations. To learn more or apply, visit www.lostpineswater.org  or call our office at (512) 360-5088.