Water Woes Result In Rationing For Some Texas Communities

"The record-low lake level at one of the region's major water sources was brought on by brutal drought conditions in two of the past three years as well as an invasive plant sucking up water. And the shortage is forcing cities to look at other options."

"'As the level of Lake Meredith drops, that does emphasize the need for Lubbock to continue the development of its water supply,' said Tom Adams, deputy city manager."

"The authority supplies water to Pampa, Borger, Amarillo, Plainview, Lubbock, Slaton, Tahoka, O'Donnell, Lamesa, Brownfield and Levelland."

"If the level continues to drop, officials may need to consider costly engineering options, like installing pumps to get water that the current infrastructure wouldn't be able to reach."

"Even though last year's allotment of 85,000 acre feet was more than the cities used, the cutbacks have forced some cities to realize their water supplies are finite."