Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project: Understanding the Numbers Behind the Water

Groundwater is one of Texas’s most valuable natural resources, and managing it responsibly requires coordination between state agencies, municipalities, and local groundwater conservation districts. Recent updates from the City of Corpus Christi (August 26, 2025) provide information on the Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project, which aims to develop new water sources for the region.

The Nueces Groundwater Conservation District (NGCD) supports public understanding of groundwater science and planning by helping explain how such projects fit within the state’s overall water management framework.

Groundwater Availability in Context

According to the Texas Water Development Board’s 2026 Region N Water Plan, the Modeled Available Groundwater (MAG) for Nueces County is 6,787 acre-feet per year—equal to about 2.21 billion gallons.

The MAG represents the amount of groundwater that can be pumped each year while still meeting the region’s Desired Future Conditions (DFCs). These conditions are developed through a regional planning process and are designed to maintain the long-term sustainability of the aquifer.

By comparison, data presented by the City of Corpus Christi outlines projected pumping capacities for the Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project, as shown below:

A summary of the Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project, outlining projected and sustainable groundwater volumes, as well as current production from the Eastern and Western Well Fields within the City of Corpus Christi’s planning efforts.

Understanding the Relationship Between MAG and Project Planning

It’s important to note that Modeled Available Groundwater (MAG) values represent planning benchmarks established at the state level—not specific limits on municipal or industrial water rights. MAG data helps planners, agencies, and local entities coordinate use across shared aquifers and ensure that total pumping aligns with long-term water management goals.

Projects such as the Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project are subject to state permitting processes and scientific review to ensure compliance with Texas Water Code standards, including groundwater conservation district rules and surface water discharge regulations where applicable.

Update on the Nueces River Groundwater Wells Project — a two-phase initiative by the City of Corpus Christi to expand local water supply. Phase 1 focuses on developing the Eastern and Western Well Fields, while Phase 2 adds a treatment facility and pipeline infrastructure designed to deliver an estimated 28 million gallons per day (MGD) once complete.

The Role of the NGCD

The Nueces Groundwater Conservation District works to conserve, preserve, and protect groundwater resources within its jurisdiction. Our mission includes:

• Supporting data-driven groundwater management;

• Promoting public transparency and education; and

• Collaborating with cities, landowners, and agencies to ensure sustainable aquifer use.

As regional projects continue to develop, NGCD encourages open dialogue, continued monitoring, and adherence to the state’s established water management framework to ensure that the Gulf Coast Aquifer remains a reliable and resilient source of water for future generations.

In Summary

Groundwater planning is a shared responsibility. By understanding key metrics like the Modeled Available Groundwater (MAG) and by maintaining open communication among stakeholders, Texas communities can balance growth with conservation.

The Nueces Groundwater Conservation District remains committed to education, transparency, and science-based resource management to help secure a sustainable water future for the Coastal Bend.