How Science Saved Houston From Sinking

Decades of overpumping groundwater around Houston caused the land to sink by as much as 15 feet, forcing neighborhoods to flood and entire communities to relocate.

This episode explores how land subsidence developed, and how science, regulation, and infrastructure are now stopping the ground from sinking.

Chrissy Butcher of Baytown Nature Center and Jason Ramage of the U.S. Geological Survey explain how groundwater extraction triggered massive subsidence and how the problem was first discovered through local surveys and monitoring data.

Mike Turco of the Harris Galveston Subsidence District details how regulations now limit groundwater pumping, driving a shift to surface water and helping subsidence rates drop to near zero in key areas. Chris Canonico of Ardurra Group explains the construction of massive surface water infrastructure that supplies millions of people and supports Houston’s rapid growth.

Tina Peterson of the Harris County Flood Control District discusses the added flood risks from subsidence and how flood detention, buyouts, and channel improvements are reducing flood damage. John Ellis of INTERA describes how advanced science tools like extensometers, InSAR, and groundwater models inform long-term management decisions.

Houston’s experience now serves as a model for other regions facing subsidence challenges, including California’s Central Valley.

waterloop is a nonprofit news outlet exploring solutions for water sustainability.