Brownsville Enters Drought Stage 1, Encourages Continued Water Conservation

BBROWNSVILLE, TX – Effective immediately, the Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) has implemented Drought Stage 1 after the combined conservation storage level of the Falcon and Amistad reservoirs improved to 32.9%.

Under BPUB’s Drought Contingency Plan, Stage 2 was initiated when the combined conservation storage level of the Falcon and Amistad reservoirs reached 25%, among other considerations. The return to Stage 1 follows increased reservoir levels and the conservation efforts of residents and businesses in Brownsville and the surrounding communities served by BPUB.

"This transition to Stage 1 reflects what can be accomplished when a community works together toward a common goal,” Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr. said. "I want to thank every resident and business that took steps to conserve water. While this improvement is welcome news, continued conservation today will help protect our water supply for tomorrow."

BPUB General Manager and CEO Marilyn D. Gilbert said the change in drought stage is encouraging but does not eliminate the need for responsible water use.

"The conservation efforts of our customers have made a difference, and we appreciate their commitment," Gilbert said. "While reservoir conditions have improved, we encourage customers to continue conserving water as we work to preserve our water supply. BPUB will continue closely monitoring conditions and managing our resources responsibly."

Under Drought Stage 1, residents are encouraged to voluntarily reduce water use and follow outdoor irrigation guidelines. Landscaped areas should only be watered between midnight and 7 a.m. or from 7 p.m. to midnight, no more than twice per week. Customers are also encouraged to promptly repair leaks, use water-efficient irrigation methods and avoid unnecessary water use whenever possible.

BPUB will continue coordinating with local, state and federal water agencies while monitoring reservoir conditions. If water supply conditions change, drought stages may be adjusted in accordance with the utility’s Drought Contingency Plan. For more information on BPUB’s Drought Contingency Plan and water conservation efforts, visit www.bpub.com.

For media inquiries, please contact Alexa J. Perez, Division Manager of Communications, Public Relations & Digital Platforms, at aperez@brownsville-pub.com or call (956) 596-3361.