Wimberley Valley
Embarking on a transformative journey toward sustainable water management, Aqua Texas is investing nearly $30 million in infrastructure improvements within Wimberley Valley.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure
Aqua Texas is in the process of replacing residential and business water meters in the Wimberley Valley with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).
This upgrade will replace traditional water meters with state-of-the-art digital meters, enabling near real-time data collection. You can expect enhanced insights into their water usage, helping you manage consumption more effectively.
Aqua Texas is committed to keeping you informed throughout the replacement process and ensuring a smooth transition to this advanced technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Advanced Metering Infrastructure?
AMI is a technology that enables two-way communication via radio frequency between the water meter in a home or business and Aqua Texas. This allows for near real-time data collection and monitoring of water usage.
How does AMI benefit customers in Wimberley?
You will have access to detailed insights about your water consumption. This information will help identify leaks and strengthen Aqua’s commitment to providing you with reliable service. AMI also enables timely notifications and identification of potential issues, like wasteful and expensive water leaks, leading to better water management for customers.
Will I be able to access my water usage data?
Yes, with AMI, you will have access to your water usage data through Aqua’s customer e-Portal, accessible through our website at AquaWater.com or the mobile app. This feature allows you to monitor consumption in almost real time, helping you make informed decisions about water usage and identify any unusual patterns.
To download the Aqua mobile app, please go to the Apple App store and search “Aqua e-Portal.”
Will I still have access to my water meter?
Yes. The process of installing AMI involves replacing older mechanical meters with new digital meters that can communicate data automatically to Aqua. You will still be able to access your meter but should not damage the meter or the antenna.
Is my personal information safe with AMI?
Yes. Water consumption data is encrypted and stored in a cloud data center. Information such as customer names, addresses, account numbers and more are not transmitted through AMI.
How long will the meter replacement process take? Do I need to be home?
Meter installation typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. The process requires a home or business water supply to be shut-off while the meter is being replaced. You will be notified in advance of when your specific meter will be swapped out. All contractors will be wearing identification and will let you know they’re working on behalf of Aqua.
Do I need to be present during meter replacement?
No. Customers do not need to be present for meter replacement. Aqua Texas does not need access to the inside of your home or business.
Additional Information
Water loss rates in Hays County are not increasing.
As we navigate the challenges posed by ongoing drought conditions, the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District has implemented emergency restrictions, and Aqua Texas proudly joins hands in supporting and implementing measures to curtail water usage – further emphasizing our commitment to responsible water management.
Because of the emergency drought restrictions and customer conservation practices, less water is flowing through Aqua Texas water mains. As you likely know, there are parts of Aqua Texas’ underground infrastructure that are older and prone to leakage. Our crews are actively identifying and replacing vulnerable sections. It is crucial to note that our current water loss in these vulnerable sections are not losing more water than they did before drought restrictions were enacted.
Measuring water loss versus the amount pumped does not provide an accurate picture of our operations. Make no mistake: We take water loss seriously and are doing everything we can to improve the efficiency of our water mains and we never charge customers any water loss.
Tens of millions of dollars in new water mains and equipment in Woodcreek.
On Feb. 9, new materials and water main pipes were delivered and will be installed as soon as our building permits are approved. This initiative involves replacing more than 25,000 feet of water main. Once Aqua completes these improvements, water loss within our system will be below water industry standards.
Conservation is a top priority for the region.
Our top priority in the Wimberley Valley is to reduce reliance on water used within the Jacob’s Well Groundwater Management Zone. We are deeply committed to aggressive water conservation efforts that will protect Jacob’s Well and provide fresh and reliable drinking water to the community.
Aqua Texas will construct a $25 million wastewater treatment plant that will become a reliable water source for non-potable uses like irrigation. Recycled water will reduce dependence on freshwater and further our commitment to water preservation.
Permitting and Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District Dispute
Aqua Texas is still pumping groundwater despite an expiration on our pumping permit. Aqua Texas is a utility regulated by Texas state law, which means we have an obligation to provide customers with continuous and adequate water service. Our water infrastructure in the Wimberley Valley existed before most of the residents and local governments we know today. Demand for clean water happens in real time. Planning water system upgrades and regulation often takes years.
As of February 2024, Aqua Texas has filed a lawsuit against the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conversation District, but the proceedings have paused so our respective negotiating teams can come back to the table. You can read more about the lawsuit at AquaWater.com/htgcd. Though our permits in the Jacob’s Well Management Zone have been allowed to expire, Aqua Texas has no intention of abandoning our obligation to provide adequate and continuous water service.
New Wells
Aqua Texas has purchased property outside of the Jacob’s Well Groundwater Management Zone that would serve as an alternate source of water for customers in the Wimberley Valley; however, the district is purposefully withholding permits for these new wells. These wells would alleviate the impact on Jacob’s Well.
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