In East Texas, water isn’t just a resource — it’s part of our way of life.
From our farms and timber operations to our small towns and growing communities, our water sustains our economy and defines our future. That’s why this week’s Natural Resources Committee hearing in Austin was so important.
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol.
On Tuesday, the Texas House Committee on Natural Resources met to examine the future of water policy in Texas and the long-term demands being placed on our supply. The committee heard from state agencies, groundwater conservation districts, river authorities, and regional planning groups about groundwater management, infrastructure needs, and updates to the State Water Plan.
One thing was clear: as other parts of the state face increasing strain on their water supplies, attention naturally turns toward regions with greater availability — including East Texas.
That reality makes preparation essential.
Our region is blessed with strong aquifers, steady rainfall, and significant surface water resources. Those resources support our farmers and timber producers, sustain local manufacturers and small businesses, and help preserve the quality of life that makes this area so special to call home.
But water is not simply a commodity. It is foundational to our land, our livelihoods, and future generations. Once long-term commitments are made, they are difficult to reverse. That is why these interim hearings matter. They allow us to ask careful questions, review the science, and fully understand the consequences before permanent policy decisions are made.
Locally governed groundwater conservation districts play a critical role in this process. Decisions about our water are best informed by the communities closest to it. Protecting local control while planning responsibly for the future must remain a priority.
Texas will continue to grow. Demand will continue to rise. Protecting East Texas water is not about resisting progress — it is about ensuring that growth is thoughtful, balanced, and respectful of the communities that depend on these resources every day.
As your State Representative, I remain committed to protecting our region’s water, supporting private property rights, and ensuring East Texas has a strong voice in these discussions at the Capitol. Stewardship requires steady leadership, and I will continue working to safeguard the resources that we rely on and that make our corner of Texas strong.
The mobile office is on the road again in February, and our District Director will look forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: Feb. 18 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 p.m.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762, and our Capitol office at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what's happening in your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
Trent Ashby represents District 9, which includes Trinity County, in the Texas Legislature.
