Commissioner Jerry Patterson
Texas General Land Office

Dr. P. Patrick Leahy
U.S. Geological Survey and the American Institute of Hydrology

Dr. Robert Mace
Texas Water Development Board

Commissioner Susan Combs
Texas Department of Agriculture

Honorable Gregory J. Hobbs, Jr.
Justice, Colorado Supreme Court

With ever growing demands for freshwater in Texas, groundwater supplies are essential for meeting freshwater interests and needs. Concern for the future of Texas’ groundwater resources has spurred the interest of senior legislators and statewide elected officials who are now considering significant changes in groundwater law. Now is the time for cooperative development of groundwater research, management tools, groundwater policy, and economic structures for the sustainable management of Texas’ vital groundwater resources.

On the eve of the 79th Legislature, The International Institute for Sustainable Water Resources and the Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center are sponsoring Texas Groundwater 2004. Held at the Texas State Capitol Extension, this 2-day Conference highlights panel discussions with key state leaders who will provide forecasts and opinions on the direction of new groundwater policy.

In addition, over 75 presenters will address issues such as:

• Aquifer science and policy issues as applied to Texas aquifers
• Groundwater technology including aquifer tests and groundwater modeling
• Policy issues such as the status of Texas aquifers, Rule of Capture, groundwater markets, and competing agricultural and urban demands

Additional conference activities include:

• Continuing Education courses in groundwater management technology and tools will be provided on November 17 (for an additional fee)
• Exhibits and current information related to groundwater issues presented by representatives from governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and professional engineering/scientific companies .
• Student poster exhibits and awards
• Guests day-out programs around the Capitol City
• Evening banquet and entertainment at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum

For additional information contact:
Annette Paulin, Conference Coordinator
at ap1128@txstate.edu or call IISWR at (512) 245-9200.