The publishable results of 2023 water level measurements are now available on the HPWD interactive web map.
An average decline of -0.71 feet was calculated in the groundwater levels of the Ogallala/ Edwards-Trinity (High Plains) Aquifer (ETHP) from 2022 to 2023. HPWD field technicians measured approximately 1,338 water wells during the first part of 2023. From these measurements, about 1,285 were also measured in 2022, allowing HPWD to calculate the average change.
Also of importance is the saturated thickness of the Ogallala and ETHP, which is the thickness of the water-bearing formations. For 2023, the average saturated thickness of all observation wells is about 52 feet. This compares to the average of 53 feet in 2022.
More detailed statistics of the measured change include: • 20 wells with declines of 5 feet or more
• 14 wells with declines of 4 to 4.99 feet
• 35 wells with declines of 3 to 3.99 feet
• 98 wells with declines of 2 to 2.99 feet
• 248 wells with declines of 1 to 1.99 feet
• 564 wells with declines of 0 to 0.99 feet
• 310 wells with rises of 0.01 feet or more For the Dockum Aquifer, HPWD measured 31 observation wells. The average change for the Dockum Aquifer is -2.51 feet for 2023.
HPWD has updated all data on its interactive map with the 2023 measurements. This includes all of the data found using the “Aquifer Info” tool, which provides estimates of:
• saturated thickness
• 5-year change
• 10-year change Last year, HPWD began providing estimates of saturated thickness, and 5-year and 10-year water level changes anywhere within the service area using the interactive map. This is a powerful tool that provides estimated aquifer information anywhere the user clicks.
Created in 1951 by residents and the Texas Legislature, the High Plains Water District works to conserve, preserve, protect, and prevent waste of underground water in aquifers within its 16 county service area. HPWD is the first groundwater conservation district created in Texas.
Be sure to “ like” the High Plains Water District Facebook page to receive updates on District activities or follow us on Twitter at @HPUWCD. Visit our website at hpwd.org.