Welcome rains have saturated soils, allowed runoff, and helped recharge the aquifers a bit. Rain makes its way from the surface through karst features like caves and sinkholes into the groundwater system. Once recharge creeks start flowing, water reaches the aquifers quickly with little filtration. This rapid recharge is beneficial because groundwater supplies can be replenished quickly, but it can be problematic for water quality, so well owners should be aware and look for changes in taste, color, or appearance--particularly after rains. The EPA and many groundwater conservation districts have good guidance on when sampling is advised.

The graph above shows flow at two Middle Trinity springs–Jacob’s Well and Pleasant Valley. These springs provide the baseflow for Cypress Creek and the Blanco River in western Hays County, respectively. The 3-4″ rainfall totals at the beginning of the May contributed good recharge to the groundwater system. Jacob’s Well flow momentarily peaked at about 30 cfs, Pleasant Valley and Park Springs temporarily reached 17 cfs. Spring flow has slightly increased even after runoff ended, which indicates that recharge added water to the groundwater system. There will likely be a similar response with the next round of rain. The water level in the Mt. Baldy Monitor Well has leveled off, and with additional recharge may begin to increase.

NOAA has forecast significant rainfall for late May. Additional rains this week are expected to generate more runoff, and therefore, more recharge. With runoff comes the potential for high water in area creeks and rivers. Be cautious when driving over low water crossings–check for water over the road. Turn around, don’t drown.

Water levels and spring flows remain low. In order to preserve groundwater availability, coordinated water conservation measures are essential.

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