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

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.