WHCRWA Conversion Strategies

The West Harris County Regional Water Authority (WHCRWA) was created to help utility districts within its boundaries comply with groundwater conversion requirements established by the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District (HGSD).

These requirements are part of a long-term regional effort to reduce groundwater pumping and limit land subsidence. The conversion mandates are phased over time, requiring increasing reductions of groundwater use.

The HGSD required conversion milestones are:

  • 30 percent conversion to non-groundwater by 2010
  • 60 percent conversion to non-groundwater by 2025
  • 80 percent conversion to non-groundwater by 2035

The WHCRWA achieved its 30 percent conversion in 2010 and has continued to comply with the conversion obligations each year. Meeting these benchmarks required proper planning and execution.

HGSD compliance is based on total groundwater reduction, which can be achieved through multiple approved methods. The primary method that WHCRWA has utilized to comply with HGSD requirements is to deliver surface water to municipal utility districts. In addition, the WHCRWA has diligently acquired and earned numerous credits from the HGSD that it can apply to conversion requirements.

The WHCRWA has earned HGSD credits by:

  • Delivering more surface water than is required in some years, earning Over-Conversion Credits
  • Purchasing credits through approved HGSD programs, such as water conservation school kits
  • Earning credits by using reuse and stormwater, instead of ground water

The WHCRWA successfully met the 60 percent conversion requirement in 2025 through a combination of surface water conversion and accumulated credits.

WHCRWA continues to monitor water use trends and progress toward future conversion requirements. Accumulated credits, ongoing surface water delivery, and planned infrastructure improvements provide flexibility in meeting the annual conversion requirements. As with previous phases, continued coordination with participating districts and cities and adherence to HGSD requirements remain essential.