In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the critical state of water supply in Liberty Hill, projecting a significant increase in demand over the next few decades. Currently, the city consumes approximately 500,000 gallons of water daily, but by 2050, this figure is expected to surge to an average of 5 million gallons per day, with peak demands potentially reaching over 10 million gallons.
The discussion highlighted two primary sources of water for the city: surface water from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) and local Trinity groundwater wells. The LCRA provides a firm contract for 600 acre-feet of surface water annually, which is deemed reliable even during drought conditions. However, the groundwater supply is facing challenges, with shallow wells showing a long-term decline in water levels due to increased usage and environmental factors.
Officials expressed concerns about the sustainability of the groundwater supply, indicating that it may not be a viable long-term solution. As a result, there is a recommendation to transition away from reliance on these wells and explore alternative water sources to meet future demands. The planning process will involve piecing together various supply options to address the anticipated shortfall, particularly during peak demand periods.
The meeting underscored the urgency of developing a comprehensive water management strategy to ensure that Liberty Hill can meet its growing needs while maintaining a reliable and sustainable water supply.