Regional Water Planning; What Is It And Why Is It Important To Me?

Presenter: Jason Afinowicz, P.E. In 1997, the state legislature determined that a Texas State Water Plan for the 2000-2050 timeframe would be developed through a regional water planning approach. Revised plans would be developed every 5 years. To accomplish this, 16 “regional” water planning groups were formed. Montgomery County and all or part of 15 other counties in our area are within Region H. The stakeholder-driven process includes the culmination of a long-range plan to meet the region’s need for water in 2070, when the population of the region is expected to reach almost 12 million people, as well as the sustained growth of the region’s massive industrial complex. Region H is in the fifth cycle of the 5-year planning process and is currently preparing the 2021-2071 plan. Each plan includes determining how much water the region will need over the 50-year period (demand), the supply of water that is available during that time frame (available groundwater, surface water, etc.), and what strategies the region can implement in order to meet deficits (desalination, new reservoirs, increased conservation, etc.). This process affects every resident and business in Montgomery County and the region. Region H wants you to get involved. Jason Afinowicz: Jason is an associate and project manager for Freese and Nichols, Inc. in the field of water resources planning. He received both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science Degree in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from Texas A&M University. Jason managed the development of the 2016 Region H Water Plan and is currently engaged in the preparation of the 2021 Plan. His broader experience includes a variety of water resources and infrastructure planning support, including water conservation planning, for southeast Texas and other location throughout the state. He assists a wide range of clients with identifying economical, viable options for their long-term water supply needs. Jason will tell us what the Region H Water Plan is, and why it’s important that we get involved. Those who attend will also enjoy learning about HARC’s new home. The building has been awarded the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Green Building Certification. HARC’s is the first building in The Woodlands or Montgomery County to be designated as such.