Aquifer Storage and Recovery

Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) is a proven water supply strategy to store available water in a natural aquifer during wet times for later recovery and use.  

After completing extensive research, the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in Bastrop and Lee counties and the Trinity Aquifer in Travis County were identified as the top three locations for an Aquifer Storage and Recovery project. The Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer was explored first due to its ability to store more water than the Trinity aquifer. However, the level of collaboration and partnership required to continue the project in the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer was not achieved.  

Austin Water is now planning field testing in a portion of the Trinity Aquifer in Eastern Travis County, which was also identified as potentially well-suited for an aquifer storage and recovery project in the desktop study. Austin Water is planning to begin field testing on city-owned land in 2027. Testing will be performed in a lab with samples taken from the field. 

Because an ASR project in Travis County would provide less water than the previously planned location in Bastrop County, Austin Water is also exploring other water supply strategies from the Water Forward Plan to meet future needs, including Brackish Groundwater Desalination. Both projects will rely on data from upcoming field testing to guide decisions and ensure sustainable water solutions for our community. 

Austin Water will work with stakeholders in Austin and Travis County to develop the best approach for this project. We want to hear from Austin and Travis County residents to help us make this project work, together.  

What's Next 

Austin Water will establish an ASR technical advisory group to review testing methods, criteria and results. 

During field testing, groundwater samples and core samples will be tested in a lab to understand baseline geochemistry and will be tested with Austin Water drinking water to observe and document any interactions. Based on these results, appropriate treatment processes can be designed for the next project phase (a small-scale pilot) to protect the health of the aquifer.   

Austin Water will share test results with the ASR Technical Advisory Group, stakeholders, and the public.  

As Central Texas continues to experience rapid population growth and increasing water demands, innovative strategies like ASR will be critical to securing our city’s water future.