Water supply
The Edwards Aquifer is San Antonio's primary water source
Most of Bexar County's drinking water comes from the Edwards Aquifer, a limestone aquifer managed by the Edwards Aquifer Authority to balance supply with drought and environmental needs.
The Edwards Aquifer is a limestone formation under the Texas Hill Country. It provides drinking water to about 2.5 million people in the San Antonio region. The San Antonio Water System (SAWS), the county's largest utility, gets most of its water from the aquifer. Most smaller water companies in Bexar County also rely on it.
The Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) manages the aquifer across eight counties, including all of Bexar County. The EAA issues water permits, monitors levels at key index wells such as J-17 near San Antonio, and enforces Critical Period Management (CPM) during droughts. When levels drop, permit holders must pump less. The aquifer also feeds Comal and San Marcos Springs, which are habitat for several endangered species.
The aquifer is sensitive to drought and to development over the recharge zone. Protecting recharge areas is a top priority in San Antonio. Check current aquifer levels and SAWS drought rules at saws.org. Learn about EAA management at edwardsaquifer.org.
Source to confirm: Edwards Aquifer Authority – Home