LPGCD Recognizes Local High School Seniors For Outstanding Essays On Water

The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District (LPGCD) is proud to announce the winners of its High School Senior Essay Contest. This year, LPGCD invited high school seniors who live or go to school in Bastrop or Lee County to write an essay that shares their personal water story, or imagines future worlds shaped by water conservation, or explores how their communities can adapt to challenges like drought and growth. This year’s submission reflected strong writing, creativity, and moving personal connections to water and community.

The winners were honored at our December 17 board meeting at 3:30 PM at our district office. The 2025 Essay Contest winners are:

• 1st Place: Teal Brockenbush, Lexington High School

           Essay Title: The Rain that Raised Me

           Award: $500

• 2nd Place: Erick Bandala, Elgin High School

           Essay Title: The Old Pipe

           Award: $300

• 3rd Place: Sharron Adair, Giddings High School

           Essay Title: More Than a Memory: What Water Means to Me

           Award: $200

“We were very moved by the depth and sincerity of this year’s essays,” said Sheril Smith, Chair of the LPGCD Education Committee. “These students shared powerful personal reflections while also demonstrating a clear understanding of how water shapes the strength, resilience, and future of their communities.”