LOCAL-AUTONOMY AND GROUNDWATER DISTRICT FORMATION IN HIGH-PLAINS WESTTEXAS

Authors
Citation
M. Somma, LOCAL-AUTONOMY AND GROUNDWATER DISTRICT FORMATION IN HIGH-PLAINS WESTTEXAS, Publius, 24(2), 1994, pp. 53-62
Citations number
14
Categorie Soggetti
Political Science
Journal title
ISSN journal
00485950
Volume
24
Issue
2
Year of publication
1994
Pages
53 - 62
Database
ISI
SICI code
0048-5950(1994)24:2<53:LAGDFI>2.0.ZU;2-9
Abstract
In response to pressure from declining underground water reserves and state government demands. West Texas agriculture is organizing under l ocal groundwater conservation districts. The districts use persuasion, education, and access to low-interest loans and grants to encourage w ater conservation. Little regulatory authority is vested in district m anagers and, outside of state funds to subsidize irrigation technology , the state has limited influence. This article narrates the creation and operations of West Texas ground water districts and analyzes the r easons for a recent increase in district organizing as well as their s uccess in acquiring state funds for conservation.