m - City of New Braunfels

City Council Agenda Item Report
November 8, 2010
Agenda Item No. 4])
Presenter/Contact- Nathan Pence, Watershed Program Manager
(830) 608-2166 - npence@nbtexas.org
SUBJECT: Discuss and consider possible action regarding support of key components of the
Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program.
8ACKGROUND/RA TIONALE:
The Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) was created by the Texas
Legislature in Senate Bill 3 (2007) and is a collaborative stakeholder process to balance the
water needs ofthe Edwards Aquifer (Endangered Species and Human). Staff and other New
Braunfels stakeholders have been participating in the regional process, attending regular
meetings and serving on subcommittees and workgroups. The EARIP is close to completing a
draft of the final Program Document, an Edwards Aquifer Regional Habitat Conservation Plan
(HCP). Within that HCP are fundamental issues that affect New Braunfels, and staff seeks
directive as to support or guidance from council as to New Braunfels' adopted position.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
I City Plan/Council Priority:
FISCAL IMPACT:
Currently none. However, continued support of the EARIP or requests through the regional
planning process could obligate New Braunfels to funding or staff support in the future.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends:
1. Support of minimum springflows for Carnal Springs.
2. Support of Environmental Restoration and Protection Areas in Landa Park
3. Support of recreation being a covered action in the Habitat Conservation Plan
City of New Braunfels City Council
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