This Week in Water: Texas' Aging Water Infrastructure

The Challenges of Texas' Aging Water Infrastructure

Water is essential for life, and in Texas, ensuring a reliable supply has always been a priority. However, the state's water infrastructure, much of which was installed over half a century ago, shows more and more signs of age and wear, posing significant challenges for its residents and industries. Here's a look at some of the primary issues:

Crumbling Infrastructure

Texas' water systems, built primarily in the early to mid-20th century, are past their prime. Pipes, treatment plants, and storage facilities are all deteriorating, leading to frequent breaks, leaks, and service disruptions. These issues not only cause inconvenience but also result in substantial water loss. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Texas loses billions of gallons of treated water annually due to leaks, which is both wasteful and costly.

Impact on Public Health

Our aging infrastructure can easily compromise water quality. Corroded pipes and outdated treatment facilities may not effectively filter contaminants, posing a severe risk to public health. Several incidents of water contamination have been reported across the state, raising concerns among residents about the safety of their drinking water. For example, Odessa and Texarkana are two large Texas towns currently on a boil-water notice for the foreseeable future. Ensuring that all Texans have access to clean and safe water is becoming increasingly difficult as our infrastructure ages, and the state has done little to combat it.

Population Growth

Texas' growing population further exacerbates the water infrastructure issue. Our increased water demand from a booming population and more frequent use puts additional pressure on already fragile water systems. These factors necessitate a more resilient and adaptable water infrastructure capable of meeting future challenges.

Moving Forward

Addressing Texas' aging water infrastructure will require a multifaceted approach. Investment in modernization and maintenance is crucial. Embracing new technologies, such as smart water systems that can detect and address leaks more efficiently, can also play a significant role. Additionally, fostering public awareness and support for infrastructure projects can help secure the necessary funding and political will.

However, as politicians sit idly by it's become ever more important for the average Texan to treat and filter the water coming into their homes. To ensure our health and well-being we must take care of the water coming into our homes and bodies alike.

If you're curious to know what's in your municipal water please follow this link: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/. The EWG's tap water database will give you up-to-date information on what's currently being found in your water.