Media Release 7-8-2026:
The Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) has received the groundwater permit application associated with the proposed quarry West of Burnet on FM 3509. The application is currently undergoing review to determine whether it is complete in accordance with CTGCD’s rules. If the application is determined to be administratively complete, CTGCD will proceed with the permitting process as required by Chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code and CTGCD’s adopted rules.
CTGCD’s responsibility is limited to regulating the production of groundwater within its jurisdiction. CTGCD does not regulate quarry operations, mining activities, air quality, noise, traffic, blasting, land use, or other permits that may be required from local, state, or federal agencies.
As part of the permitting process, CTGCD will evaluate the application using the applicable permitting standards. These include, among other things, evaluating whether the requested groundwater production would unreasonably affect surrounding landowners, whether the amount of groundwater requested is reasonably necessary for the proposed project, and whether the application complies with CTGCD’s permitting requirements. CTGCD’s responsibility is to evaluate each groundwater permit application based on the facts and evidence presented and to apply the same permitting standards to every application it considers
Statement 10-31-2025:
The Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (District) has received numerous concerns, comments, and questions regarding a proposed aggregate quarry within the District.
The District operates under Chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code and is governed by a five-member board of directors. The board has adopted rules and regulations designed to protect the District’s aquifers. Under Texas law, groundwater is recognized as a private property right; however, its production and use are subject to the District’s rules adopted under Chapter 36. This framework ensures that while ownership rests with the landowner, production must occur in a manner that protects the aquifer and the rights of others.
The District’s permitting framework applies to all beneficial uses, with each well registration and well permit application evaluated on its own merits in accordance with the District’s rules and the statutory criteria in Chapter 36.
When evaluating a permit, such as one associated with an aggregate quarry, the District must consider several factors, including the potential impacts of the proposed production on the aquifer, existing wells, and surrounding landowners. No permit may be approved that would unreasonably affect surrounding landowners or cause a substantial adverse impact on the aquifer.
The District may also utilize ongoing monitoring, such as water-level data, and groundwater production meter readings to evaluate the effects of production once a permit is issued. If monitoring indicates unreasonable effects on the aquifer or other wells, the District reserves the authority to modify or curtail permitted production to protect the resource and the property rights of all landowners.