Rep. Roy leads effort to protect San Antonio’s water supply

WASHINGTON, DC — On Monday, Representative Chip Roy (R-TX-21) called on the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to withdraw a proposed rule that could threaten the San Antonio region’s access to water.

The Congressman wrote,“[I have] serious concerns regarding a recent US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) proposal to list two species of catfish in the San Antonio region as ‘endangered.’ This proposal is based on dubious assumptions, insufficient data, and – most importantly – could threaten the San Antonio region’s ability to access water during times of drought.”

These two species inhabit the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies drinking water to over two million Texans. Previously, these catfish – which have never been seen in their natural habitat – were not species of concern to USFWS, but now the agency is proposing taking the drastic step of listing them as “endangered,” without having consulted local experts.

The legislator said, “The proposed listing would force the closure of the two wells…which serves as a water source for the region during droughts, such as the one Central and South Texas is currently enduring. By turning off these wells, the ASR would no longer function as a viable water source for the City of San Antonio. Further, closure of these wells could jeopardize other conservation efforts currently undertaken by the Edwards Aquifer Authority and other entities…”

“Therefore, I urge you to withdraw this proposed listing and consult with experts on the Edwards Aquifer.”

Read the full letter here.

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