Canyon Lake is experiencing the lowest water level in recorded history. In September 2009, the lake’s elevation reached 892.68 ft-msl. As of August 31, 2023, that number has fallen to 892.42. Canyon Lake is the main water source for the City of San Marcos, and the low level prompts a need for customers to be mindful of indoor and outdoor water usage. SMTX Utilities also considers Edwards Aquifer levels and San Marcos River flows when implementing drought stages, which are continuing to decline.
“With all our water sources experiencing low levels, SMTX Utilities is taking extra steps to encourage water conservation in our community,” said Director of Utilities Tyler Hjorth. “Water conservation is a community effort, and we want everyone to get involved as extreme heat and drought conditions continue in our region.”
To bring awareness to water conservation, SMTX Utilities is hosting a contest for SMTX Utilities water customers. The contest follows the recent implementation of Stage 4 drought restrictions and encourages customers to do their part to reduce water waste.
Beginning September 4, three SMTX Utilities water customers will have the chance to win a $100 water credit, water monitoring system, or rain barrel, along with other City of San Marcos giveaways by showing their water conservation efforts. Customers can enter by emailing a picture and description to SMTXU@sanmarcostx.gov showing what they are doing to conserve water. Submissions will be accepted through September 15, 2023. All submissions will be displayed in a Facebook album where you can react to the best three ways people are conserving water during this critical time. Winners will be chosen based on the highest number of reactions the picture receives. Full contest details can be found at sanmarcostx.gov/conservation.
When drought restrictions are enacted, SMTX Utilities has the authority to take action against water customers that violate the City’s water conservation ordinance. Enforcement actions include warnings, followed by fines up to $1000 for continued violations. SMTX Utilities’ priority is to educate the community about the need for water conservation. Fines or penalties are issued as a last resort.
For media inquiries, contact communicationsinfo@sanmarcostx.gov.
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