Water

The firm’s attorneys have broad experience in counseling public and private clients on water law issues relating to the Edwards Aquifer area of South Central Texas as well as other areas of the state.  We have advised on the broad implications for the planning and development of state water resources resulting from recent major Texas water legislation (Senate Bills One, Two and Three) and other legislation.

We represent public and private entities in the permitting of water rights and in permit compliance issues.   Working with river authorities, groundwater districts, and utilities, we have advised on the negotiation of the terms of major contracts for water supplies and projects and on water planning and the development and distribution of water resources.  We have expertise in complying with federal (including the Endangered Species Act), state, and local laws and regulations and monitor proposed legislation and regulations affecting water rights.  Our water law attorneys work with firm litigators on defending clients’ rights on water issues, including applicability of sovereign immunity to water contracts.

Our practice includes:

• Water planning
• Water rights permitting
• Groundwater district management
• Compliance with statutes and regulations affecting water availability
• Public law issues, including water district governance
• Water marketing, including sales and leases
• Irrigation suspension programs
• Environmental compliance issues
• Endangered Species Act compliance