What does the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone mean for my development?

According to the Edwards Aquifer Authority, “basins in the drainage area of the Edwards Aquifer region collect rainfall and funnel it into fractures, faults, and fissures in the ground.  These geologic conduits are direct pathways into the aquifer and, while allowing recharge to occur, contamination is also a possibility.”  The water supply in South Texas is fed mainly by the Edwards Aquifer, which means protecting it’s means of recharging is especially important.  Navigating the rules and regulations associated with the recharge zone can be tricky, so we’ve included a few tips here.

Find Out If Your Development Is ‘In The Zone’

The first step to finding out if the recharge zone regulations affect your development is to discover if your development is, indeed, in the recharge zone.  You can find the maps for your area here that outline exactly where the the contributing, recharge, and transition zones are in your location.  After you determine that you are, in fact, in the recharge zone, you need to brace yourself.  The recharge zone is one of the most restrictive areas in terms of regulations, so your proposed development may be significantly impacted.

If you are within the San Antonio Water System‘s service area (Most of Bexar County), you will want to review SAWS regulations within the Aquifer area.  SAWS will require that a category status letter be filed.  This letter will determine the allowed amount of impervious cover that is allowed on your site, and you can find a template for that letter here.  Depending on the location and entitlement history of the site, the amount of impervious cover can vary widely from 15% to no restriction. In addition, SAWS may limit any development within ​the buffer areas adjacent to floodplain boundaries.  Feel free to call Big Red Dog to help determine these limitations during your due diligence period or before beginning your project.

Water Pollution Abatement Plan (WPAP)

If you’re ready to proceed, it will be necessary to file a water pollution abatement plan (WPAP) with the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TCEQ).  This document will be filed as a part of your Civil Construction documents and will be designed to mitigate any possible contaminants to the aquifer during and after your development.  This “best management practice” will require 6 – 8 months of design, review and approval for your project.  These ponds can be constructed above ground or in underground basins.  You can find the necessary forms here on the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality’s site. The minimum fee for this form is $650, and the maximum is $10,000.

Sewage Collection System Plan (SCS Plan)

It may be necessary for your project to file an organized sewage collection system plan (SCS Plan).  An SCS plan is required when sewer services serving more than one unit are installed over the aquifer, such as an apartment complex, single family development or large office park.  These can be found here, and they are required before construction can begin.

Let Us Help You With This Process

It is important to discuss these items with your engineer prior to beginning the project in order to prepare necessary cost, land area, and project timelines for these concerns.  With the right partner, your project can move smoothly through each of these issues to completion.  Calling WGI to handle these facets of your project for you can save you time and money.  Please feel free to contact us to discuss your project anytime.