Agricultural Water Conservation

The economic viability of many regions of the state depends upon a strong agricultural economy.  Agricultural irrigation is the largest water use sector in Texas, and conservation of this resource is of vital importance.  Working in conjunction with the USDA-NRCS, State Soil and Water Conservation Board, local soil and water conservation districts, and local groundwater conservation districts, our staff assists agricultural producers in maximizing irrigation efficiency.  We assist by providing grants to political subdivisions to implement conservation programs and by utilizing either local districts or local lending institutions to provide loans for individual farmers to install more efficient irrigation equipment.

TWDB staff developed a spreadsheet for calculating irrigation system efficiency and provide historical irrigation water use estimates by county.  Conservation staff also provide agricultural water conservation outreach and educational activities for agricultural trade shows and other events related to agriculture.  Our programs aim to educate and work toward implementation of agricultural water conservation best management practices.

Program Highlights

• FY 2017 Agricultural Water Conservation Grants - CLOSED
• TexasAWE Videos on Lower Rio Grande Valley Agricultural Water Conservation Project
• View our most recent overview on Ag Grants
  
• Ag Grants Survey
  Please take a few minutes to provide us with your ideas by linking to this survey.
• Several of our projects, including the Texas Alliance for Water Conservation, are Texas Environmental Excellence Award winners!
• The Water Conservation Advisory Council annually recognizes Blue Legacy Award winners in agriculture.