State Regulators Urge Texas Residents To Watch For Water Leaks

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Take note next time you hear the toilet running, Texas residents. According to regulators, leaks could add up to a loss of 10,000 gallons of water each year in some households — the equivalent of 270 loads of laundry.

The loss of the critical natural resource is made more lamentable given the state's long history of drought. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality officials note the precious liquid is routinely threatened during Texas’ recurring periods of drought.

Texas has a long history of cycles of drought, including record drought in the 1950s, and the second-worst drought that lasted from 2010 to 2014. "We do not know when the next drought will happen, and it is possible that more severe conditions could occur," the TCEQ said.

In addition to a drought-prone climate, Texas has one of the fastest growing populations in the country that makes water an even more valuable commodity. In 1950, only 8 million people lived in the state, officials noted, growing to about 25 million people by 2010. By 2070, 51 million people are expected to live in the Lone Star State, all of whom will need water to work and live, the TCEQ said.

With these challenges in mind, TCEQ’s Take Care of Texas initiative is encouraging all Texans to conserve water by finding and fixing leaks during the 11th annual Fix a Leak Week, March 18 through 24. Hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency, the week is for communities across the nation to work together to raise awareness of leaks and stop water waste.

To learn how to identify and fix leaks, study the infographic below and visit the EPA Fix a Leak Week website. Take Care of Texas is a statewide campaign from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that encourages all Texans to help keep our air and water clean, conserve water and energy, and reduce waste.

Graphic courtesy of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

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