Water quality and water supply researchers will collaborate to assess and implement plans for the state’s current and future needs in the newly formed Water Institute of Texas at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).
UTSA researchers will evaluate data, information and technology and public policy solutions to Texas’ water supply, according to a university news release.
“Typically, we think of water shortages as problems that affect only third-world countries,” said Mauli Agrawal, dean of the UTSA College of Engineering. “However, water scarcity is a major issue for South Texas, where the land is arid and the population continues to grow. Locally, farmers, city residents, businesses, energy producers, the oil and gas industry and natural species all vie for water, leading to a unique spectrum of technological, social and political issues.”
The Water Institute of Texas will focus on the following issues:
• Managing current water supply;
• Developing innovative water sources;
• Enhancing water supply;
• Carrying out community outreach and education; and
• Studying the demographics and economics of water.