Growth in the economy and population, as well as cyclical droughts throughout much of Texas, increases the urgency
of providing adequate supply of water in Texas. As required by the landmark water legislation SB 1, passed in 1997, Texas has completed detailed State Water Plans (SWP), measuring available water supply, future demand, and identifying strategies to increase supply. The most recent 2017 SWP issued by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) estimates that our state will need an additional 8.9 million acre-feet of water per year by 2070 to meet the demands of a population projected to increase from 29.5 million in 2020 to 51 million.
Property Rights
Housing Is Too Expensive. Blame Your Local Tree Ordinance.
Matthew Bernard wanted to build a home. He bought a small lot in Oakland, California, and began clearing several diseased and fallen trees that the local fire department had identified as hazards. The result was a $915,000 “mitigation fee” from the city of Oakland—nearly five times the value of the lot itself. Under Oakland’s tree ordinance,...
August 27, 2026