Drought conditions in San Marcos are worsening, and soon they could dry up the city’s very identity.
The river has served as the lifeblood of the area for generations. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in North America, and is central to the university and university life. At Texas State, the river remains front-and-center for students, from recreation to the university’s graduation ceremony, but now it is in dire need of help.
Nearly four years of worsening drought conditions have begun to fundamentally reshape San Marcos’ environment, demanding a new level of awareness and action from both students and longtime residents. The city is currently under the most severe drought restrictions and the aquifer approaching historic lows.
Years of declining aquifer levels and rapid population growth have placed increasing strain on San Marcos’ water supply, reflecting challenges facing communities across the Hill Country. Yet, despite these warning signs, many residents and businesses continue to operate as usual, making few changes to their water use, which furthers the drought conditions.
For students, aiding in the drought may seem out of reach, but on a campus of thousands, even small individual choices can collectively make a measurable difference. With three feet left before the Edwards Aquifer reaches Stage 5 drought restrictions, the most critical stage, the community cannot afford inaction.
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said during a press conference on Feb. 16 that the current trajectory is unsustainable, warning that immediate action is needed.
“We must act now. Protecting our water today secures our children’s future. To ensure we move forward with clarity and responsibility,” Becerra said. “We can no longer afford to make decisions without clear data and coordinated planning.”
Preserving the city’s water is preserving its future. Without even small actions, the heart of the city could stop flowing.
Virginia Parker, Executive Director San Marcos River Foundation, wrote in an email to The Star that residents can make small changes to conserve water.
“The San Marcos River has been flowing about half of its average rate for a few years now due to the severe drought we are experiencing … without significant rain to refill the aquifer, the river will continue to subside.”Parker wrote.
With each drop in the river’s flow, pressure mounts on local businesses and on the city’s ability to supply fresh water. Yet, hope has not completely diminished.
Students and residents can take simple, yet effective, steps to conserve water and lessen their impact. Checking apartments or homes for leaks, running the dishwasher only when full, and tracking utility usage through the San Marcos Utilities customer portal are all effective ways to reduce consumption, according to San Marcos Utilities.
Even these small actions, though seemingly trivial, have a significant impact when practiced by hundreds of people. For San Marcos, any action helps protect the river and the very future of the city.
The San Marcos River and the surrounding ecosystem have long been the heart of the city, drawing students and tourists to appreciate its beauty. Yet for all the river has given, far too little has been given in return.
Now, students and residents alike can ensure its preservation, and the city’s, for years to come. Ultimately, the city’s future will be defined by the choices made now.
“Whatever challenges we face, we must face them together. Because when we come together, that’s where we have a meaningful impact … Hold your breath and count your dollars. See how far you can go. People first,” Becerra said.
