The Simsboro aquifer dispute and what it means for Brazos County water

Bryan and College Station both get a lot of their water from the Simsboro Sand formation of the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. In recent years, the Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District — called BVGCD — approved large pumping permits. Some of those permits are tied to pipeline projects. Those projects would ship Simsboro water to fast-growing cities outside the region.

Texas A&M University, Bryan, College Station, and local well owners have challenged those permits. Computer models show that heavy pumping could drop aquifer levels below the regulatory target. That target is called the Desired Future Condition. The dispute has led to lawsuits and public hearings.

This is still playing out. If you own or plan to drill a private well in Brazos County from the Simsboro or nearby aquifers, keep up with BVGCD proceedings. Go to brazosvalleygcd.org for current permit status and pumping limits. The Texas Water Development Board also has regional water planning data for Brazos County.