Texas is tackling its booming population’s water demands with a bold $20 billion investment plan to secure sustainable supplies and infrastructure by 2050.

In this episode of In The Newsroom, Todd Votteler, a veteran water expert and editor of the Texas Water Journal, joins the podcast to discuss the state’s dynamic water landscape. With Texas expecting about 40 million residents by mid-century, the state is addressing urgent needs through a recently signed bill that allocates $10 billion for new water supplies and $10 billion for infrastructure upgrades, pending voter approval on November 4, 2025.

Votteler highlights the Edwards Aquifer Authority’s pioneering groundwater regulation, born from 1990s endangered species litigation, which protects iconic springs like Barton Springs while balancing growth pressures. Innovative projects, such as Corpus Christi’s seawater desalination plant and El Paso’s groundbreaking direct potable reuse facility, signal Texas’s push toward diverse water sources.

However, challenges persist, including groundwater strain in areas like Jacob’s Well and ongoing Rio Grande water disputes with Mexico. The state’s proactive approach, including a surprise veto and special legislative session, underscores its commitment to water security amid rapid growth.

Video Chapters
0:00 - Intro: Texas’s Water Boom

Texas’s dynamic water scene takes center stage as the state tackles sustainability challenges.

0:18 - Meet Todd Votteler
Todd Votteler, Texas Water Journal editor, shares his deep expertise on water issues.

0:22 - Texas Water Awakening
Discover why Texas’s innovative water solutions are surprising the nation.
1:34 - Edwards Aquifer Breakthrough
How 1990s endangered species cases led to groundbreaking groundwater regulation.

3:34 - $20B Water Investment Plan
Texas’s massive $20 billion fund to secure water for 42 million people by 2050.

7:01 - New Supplies & Infrastructure
A 50-50 split to fund desalination, reuse, and infrastructure upgrades.

11:27 - Desalination & Toilet-to-Tap
Corpus Christi’s seawater plant and El Paso’s pioneering direct potable reuse project.

15:16 - Groundwater Under Pressure
Barton Springs thrives, but Jacob’s Well struggles amid growth and drought.

19:04 - Rio Grande Crisis
Low reservoirs and U.S.-Mexico water disputes threaten the Rio Grande.

21:10 - Legislative Shake-Up
A surprise veto and special session signal more water policy action.

23:12 - What’s Next for Texas Water

waterloop is a nonprofit news outlet exploring solutions for water sustainability. Visit https://www.waterloop.org/

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