Clearwater’s Annual Water Symposium

The Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District is hosting its 12^th annual Bell County Water Symposium.  This year’s event will be held November 15, 2012 beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Central Texas Council of Governments Building at 2180 N. Main Street, Belton, TX.  Co-sponsors include Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service; some area businesses; and Bell County.  There is no cost for the program, but please RSVP to Clearwater at (254) 933-0120.

Keynote presentations will highlight the day’s activities.  The first presentation will be by Dr. John Nielson-Gammon, State Climatologist at Texas A&M University.  He spoke to the crowd in 2011, and his predictions for continued drought, at that time was perceived as “alarmist” by many.  He has agreed to again present his evaluation of the Epic Drought of 2011 and why he sees a continuation of these conditions in the years to come.

The second presentation will be by Dr. Charles Porter, Assistant Professor, St. Edwards University.  Dr. Porter will share some Texas history with “300 Years of Groundwater Management in Texas.”  Dr. Porter provides an historical perspective, which is very important during this time of public policy, environmental, and economic challenges and concerns; of the public policy experts, lawmakers, and interested citizens.

The status of surface water supply in Central Texas and future water plans will be discussed by David Collinsworth of The Brazos River Authority.  Kelly Mills from TCEQ will discuss priority groundwater management areas.  Dirk Aaron, General Manager of Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District, will discuss their public information and access system.

Various groundwater issues across Texas and issues within the Edwards BFZ will be the afternoon topics.  The day will conclude around 3:00 p.m. with a presentation about water conservation opportunities and resources for education in Texas.  I will also provide 3 CEU’s for pesticide application for a $10.00 fee.

Reminder:  Deadline to sign up for the Bell County Master Gardener’s new class is quickly approaching.  The new class orientation is scheduled for November 28, 2012.  If you are interested in signing up for the program, please come by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office for the application, or you may go to the Bell County Master Gardener’s website at http://txmg.org/bell for more information.