TYLER, Texas (KETK) – Texas is seeing growth all over the Lone Star State, but finding sources of water to serve everyone remains an issue.
“There’s no doubt we have a water problem in Texas,” Texas House District 1 Rep. Gary VanDeaver of New Boston said.
In 1968, a water plan was created the State of Texas which called for the construction of the Marvin Nichols Reservoir. It spans six East Texas counties and would supply water to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, not East Texas.
“The reservoir itself is, depending on which version it is, at 60, 70, 80,000 acres of land, with mitigation, it could be as much as 200,000 acres of land,” VanDeaver said.
VanDeaver and House District 5 Rep. Cole Hefner represent most of the counties affected by the project and have heard the public’s concerns. They’ve filed House Bill 2109 in order to put a stop to the plan.
“If a project has been in the state Water Development Board’s long-range plan for more than 50 years and has construction has not started on it, then it has to be pulled out,” VanDeaver said.
“So this would, in effect, stop the Marvin Nichols project altogether,” Hefner said.
A decades-long fight for some East Texans only just begins for others. The North Texas Municipal Water District which supplies water to people just outside of Dallas confirmed in a statement that they have entered discussions to buy water from Lake O’ the Pines. A decision East Texas cities will have to make.
“The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) confirms that we are in discussion with Northeast Texas Municipal Water District regarding a potential water sale from Lake O’ The Pines. Both parties are committed to maintaining transparency and fairness throughout this process. At this time, the contract negotiations are ongoing, which limits the details we can share publicly. Following the conclusion of contract negotiations, there will be an opportunity for public discussion before any formal contract is approved. NTMWD remains committed to protecting the quality and sustainability of Lake O’ the Pines and Caddo Lake. As proven environmental stewards, we are focused on safeguarding these vital water resources.”
North Texas Municipal Water District
Five of the seven cities that funded the lake will have to vote yes, but negotiations are still at an early stage.
“We’ve had some very, I think, informative meetings on Lake O’ the Pines,” VanDeaver said.
In both projects, lawmakers are insisting on a commitment to make sure East Texas water remains here at home.
“We hear you and we’re fighting for you,” Hefner said.
