Water flow in popular Texas river plummets to “concerning” low levels

The popular recreational waters of the San Marcos River are facing a significant challenge as drought conditions continue to plague Central Texas, leading to a dramatic drop in water flow that has local officials worried about immediate and long-term impacts.

The latest measurements from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) show the river’s flow has plummeted to 82 cubic feet per second—less than half of its typical 165 cubic feet per second average.

The river, which attracts locals and tourists alike to its near-constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit waters year-round, has experienced a steady decline over the past 30 days.

“This is not only concerning for the security of individual water wells that are dependent upon the Edwards Aquifer but also for the aquatic species that live in and around the river,” executive director of the San Marcos River Foundation, Virginia Parker, told local news outlet MySA.

The San Marcos River is fed by springs that flow out from the Edwards Aquifer, which provides water to some two million people in central Texas. The whole area is rich in biodiversity and hosts endangered species like the San Marcos salamander, as well as North American river otters.

Newsweek contacted Parker and the San Marcos River Foundation for comment via email and website, respectively.

The current situation has been exacerbated by more than 40 days without significant rainfall, and weather forecasts offer little hope for improvement. According to Parker, no substantial precipitation is predicted for most of Texas springs in the coming week, suggesting river levels will continue to decrease.

In its latest seasonal drought outlook, the National Weather Service painted a grim picture for the region in the months ahead. According to the service, all but the northern tip of the panhandle will be in drought by January 2025.

The situation will likely be exacerbated further as La Niña conditions—which bring drier, warmer weather than usual to the southern states—develop this winter.

The issue extends beyond recreational impacts, pointing to broader challenges in a region where populations are growing. As more neighborhoods are built, the ground becomes increasingly impervious, significantly impacting both the aquifer’s recharge capability and water quality.

“If we do not get significant rain soon, we could see more wells over the aquifer going dry and the river to decline to more concerning water levels,” Parker said.

While rainfall would provide the most immediate relief, residents can take various steps, big or small, to help alleviate the strain on water resources. Parker suggested turning off the water while brushing your teeth and replacing inefficient appliances as possible mitigation steps individuals can take.

“We urge everyone to do what they can to conserve every drop possible,” Parker said.

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