In this edition of news from HPWD:

• Proposition 4 Receives Voter Approval
• Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show
• Research and Demonstration Grant Applications
• Education Updates
• Water Depletion Requests
• Conservation Reminder
• Waste Reminder
• Administratively Complete Permit Applications
• Upcoming Events
• Texas Playa Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP)
• Texas Water News and Drought Update

Prop 4 Receives Voter Approval: Senator Perry Shares Legislative Updates at GMA 2 Meeting

Texas voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 4 on the November 4 ballot, as the measure received 70.42% support.  The issue was placed on the ballot after the passage of SB 7 (Perry) and HJR 7 (Harris) during the 2025 legislative session.

On November 10, Senator Perry provided legislative and policy updates during the Groundwater Management Area 2 (GMA 2) meeting.  He discussed the impacts of Prop 4 and the importance of new water supplies for Texas.  Sen. Perry also reviewed recent groundwater topics and their effects on groundwater conservation efforts across the South Plains.

GMA 2 is one of 16 designated groundwater management areas in Texas, encompassing a significant portion of the South Plains region.  These areas play a vital role in regional water planning and resource stewardship.

To learn more about GMA 2,  here

Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show

2025 Amarillo Farm & Ranch Show

Overview:

• Celebrating its 41st year, this regional trade show brings together nearly 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest in agricultural products, services, and technologies.
• Attendees can participate in educational sessions, earn CEU credits, and network with professionals from Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Kansas.
• Admission is free and open to the public.
• Learn more and plan your visit on the official website here.

Texas Wheat Symposium & Ag Appreciation Luncheon

HPWD provides sponsorship for the luncheon.

• Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2025
• Location: Amarillo Civic Center
• Admission: Free and open to the public
• More details and the agenda are available on the event page.

Research and Demonstration Grant Applications

2026 Research and Demonstration Grant Applications Now Open!

The High Plains Underground Water Conservation District (HPWD) is now accepting proposals for 2026 water conservation research, demonstration, and education projects. We are looking for innovative ideas to conserve water and protect our aquifers. 

• Proposals are due no later than Monday, February 2, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.
• Apply online here.

Education Updates 

In October, HPWD delivered interactive water conservation programs to local schools. Approximately 600 students are learning about the Ogallala Aquifer and the journey of water from source to tap. Through these educational programs, HPWD continues to teach and inspire students to be good stewards and to make a difference in conserving water.

If you need a program or presentation for a school, civic club, or other group, contact Jennifer McClendon at our office to schedule.

Water Depletion Requests

HPWD Water Depletion Program Update

• Late December to early January Distribution: HPWD will send Water Depletion information to current participants via email. Look for an email from support@hpwd.org with the subject line:
  “Water Depletion Information.”
• No Fees: The HPWD Board of Directors has removed all fees associated with the Water Depletion Program.

What Is the Water Depletion Program?

HPWD measures water levels annually across the District to track changes in the water table. This data helps landowners determine if a reduction in groundwater beneath their property may qualify as a tax deduction.

How to Participate

To enroll, provide:

• Your contact information
• The legal description of your property
• The year of purchase (used to establish original water table level or “Saturated Thickness”)

Note: There’s no limit to the number of properties you can submit, as long as they’re within HPWD boundaries.

Questions or Assistance:
Contact Gray Sanders at gray.sanders@hpwd.org.

Conservation Reminder

As cooler weather arrives, conserve water by adjusting or turning off automated sprinklers. Most lawns go dormant in the winter and require little to no irrigation. That means:

• Nature can take care of your grass during cooler months.
• Automated sprinkler systems can be turned off or adjusted to prevent waste.
• You'll save waterand  money by cutting back.

Let your landscape rest—and let your water bill do the same!

Waste Reminder

Running lawn sprinklers during freezing weather is not only ineffective, but it’s also wasteful. Water applied to frozen ground does not infiltrate the soil and often results in runoff. This runoff is classified as groundwater waste and is prohibited under Texas state law and HPWD rules.

If you need assistance or have questions about preventing water waste, contact the High Plains Water District office at (806) 762-0181.

Administratively Complete Permit Applications

Upcoming Events

View the HPWD Calendar of events.

Texas Playa Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP)

The Texas Playa Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) program application deadline for this year is December 5th.  Ducks Unlimited, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Playa Lakes Joint Venture are administering this NRCS Conservation Easement program to enroll playas and associated grasslands into the program. Explore additional resources through the Texas Playa Conservation Initiative here.
For more information: Texas Playa (WREP) Fact Sheet

 Texas Water News and Drought Updates

• "Huge Win" Rep. Cody Harris says lawsuit against Neches & Trinity Valleys GCD, Sanderson Farms settled. See the story here.
• The Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University has released a special Fall 2025 issue of Tierra Grande focused on the supply and demand of Texas water. Read the featured stories in this issue here.
• The drought conditions map and monthly outlook have been updated.