Falling Edwards Aquifer level triggers conservation measures
San Antonio’s intermittent rains have not prevented drops in the Edwards Aquifer. As a result, the 10-day average at San Antonio’s monitoring well has dropped to 659.8, requiring a return to Stage 1 watering rules effective July 10, 2020.
Per City ordinance, City Manager Erik Walsh in consultation with Robert R. Puente, President/CEO of San Antonio Water System, declared Stage 1 management rules are in effect.
Stage 1 of the city’s water management plan is triggered when the 10-day average of the Edwards Aquifer at the J-17 monitoring well drops to 660 feet or below. According to the city’s Aquifer Management Plan ordinance, coming out of drought stages can be considered 15 days after the aquifer is above the trigger level.
When in Stage 1, outdoor watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed only before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m., one day per week, as determined by the last number of your street address:
| Last Digit of Address | Watering Day |
|---|---|
| 0 or 1 | Monday |
| 2 or 3 | Tuesday |
| 4 or 5 | Wednesday |
| 6 or 7 | Thursday |
| 8 or 9 | Friday |
| No watering on weekends |
Areas without a street address, such as medians and neighborhood entryways, water on Wednesday.
Watering days begin and end at midnight; overnight watering is not allowed. Water waste, such as water running down the street, is prohibited year-round. However, watering with a handheld hose is still allowed any day, any time.
