Current Conditions

Montgomery County is currently facing D3 Extreme Drought conditions due to persistent high temperatures and shortage of rainfall.

Lone Star GCD Immediate Action Recommendation 

Lone Star GCD urges all residents of Montgomery County to stay well-informed about notifications and recommended directives offered by their respective local water suppliers. It is imperative to monitor your water consumption, implement drought contingency strategies, communicate contingencies with your distribution area(s), and follow the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) website for current updates on contingency guidelines.

Lone Star GCD Response

In recognition of extreme conditions as reported by the TWDB and U.S. Drought Monitor, and in partnership with the implementation of drought contingency strategies by permit holders and residents, the Lone Star GCD Board of Directors convened on Monday, August 28, 2023, held a Special Board of Director meeting, and unanimously approved to adopt Resolution No. #23-006, which authorizes a Temporary Drought Buffer for 2023. 

Exceeding your permitted allocation amount, commonly referred to as over-pumping, constitutes a breach of the terms stipulated in your permit, and a violation of District Rules.  The approved Temporary Drought Buffer allows a temporary increase above the annual allocation.  Per Resolution No. #23-006, the Annual Production Limitations for all permits is temporarily increased by 10% retroactive to January 1, 2023, ending December 31, 2023.  Should 25% or more of the County be declared Drought Level D4 (by the TWDB and U.S. Drought Monitor) on or before December 31, 2023, the cap of the Temporary Drought Buffer will be increased from 10% to 15% above the permitted annual allocation retroactive to January 1, 2023, ending December 1, 2023. Permittees who choose to utilize the Temporary Drought Buffer under Lone Star GCD Resolution 23-006 are still required to pay all water use fees for additional water pumped over their Annual Production Limitations.   Any permit holder who exceeds the applicable Temporary Drought Buffer will be in violation of District Rules and subject to penalties.

Questions or Clarification

Lone Star GCD remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding our water resources and ensuring the well-being of our community. By taking collective action, adhering to guidelines, and exhibiting prudent water usage practices, we can collectively surmount the challenges posed by this extreme drought. Should you require any clarifications or assistance pertaining to your permit allocation, please do not hesitate to reach out to the District directly at 936-494-3436.

For further updates and information, please visit the official website of Lone Star GCD: (http://www.lonestargcd.org).

8/30/2023