Corpus Christi city leaders are considering a second groundwater well field in San Patricio County, a decision that could influence the region’s long-term water strategy and renew local controversy.
This discussion follows an earlier announcement that the city may pursue a third groundwater well field in Nueces County, highlighting officials’ urgency in planning for future water needs. As with previous proposals, the latest idea is already raising concerns among neighboring communities and water managers.
A New Site Emerges in San Patricio County
City officials discussed the potential second well field at the Corpus Christi City Council meeting on January 27. The proposal focuses on a 5,000-acre tract known as Li Ranch, north of Sinton.
City Manager Peter Zanoni stated that the landowners submitted an unsolicited proposal in late December. Although data is still preliminary and surveys are pending, early estimates indicate the site could produce up to 6 million gallons of water per day under current groundwater conservation district rules.
The property owners do not yet have the required permits for production, drilling, or transport. Zanoni emphasized that obtaining these approvals is necessary before the city can consider a formal water rights agreement.
How Li Ranch Fits the Bigger Picture
Li Ranch is significant because it is located within the larger Evangeline groundwater project, which the city has been negotiating with a private developer for several months. The Evangeline project covers about 23,000 acres and is designed to produce up to 24 million gallons per day from the aquifer beneath northern San Patricio County.
City officials believe incorporating Li Ranch into the groundwater strategy could improve operational efficiency. Its proximity to Evangeline would likely minimize the need for major new infrastructure.
City Council members voted to advance discussions and approved $315,000 in spending. Zanoni described this as an option fee, granting the city the right of first refusal to purchase the water rights and reserving the opportunity to negotiate a future contract.
Potential Contract and Costs
City staff have started drafting a potential water rights purchase agreement. The framework may mirror terms from the Evangeline project, outlining responsibilities, timelines, and milestones for both the city and the developer.
Under these terms, the city could spend about $169 million to secure groundwater rights, though no final agreement has been reached. Supporters argue that early action positions Corpus Christi to meet growing demand without relying solely on more expensive alternatives.
Councilman Gil Hernandez stated that the Li Ranch proposal could reduce resistance to Evangeline by distributing development across multiple properties. He believes this approach creates synergy rather than duplication.
Legal Framework and Local Oversight
Despite the potential benefits, opposition is expected. Zanoni pointed to Texas’s “rule of capture,” which allows landowners to pump and sell groundwater beneath their property as long as they use it beneficially. However, oversight from the San Patricio County Groundwater Conservation District balances that right.
The district regulates water extraction and enforces rules to protect neighboring wells. Currently, a moratorium on new permits means officials do not expect any immediate approvals.
City officials highlighted ongoing monitoring programs to detect and address negative impacts on private wells. However, critics question whether these safeguards will be sufficient if large-scale pumping begins.
Evangeline Project Remains Under Scrutiny
Development of the Evangeline project is ongoing. While officials secured a production permit, key drilling and transport permits remain pending and will go to public hearings in early February.
Concerns from nearby communities persist, especially from Sinton, which relies entirely on groundwater for its municipal supply. Sinton officials argue that Corpus Christi has not adequately studied potential long-term impacts on water quality and treatment costs. They confirmed plans to contest Evangeline permits and oppose any additional well field, including Li Ranch.
Balancing Growth and Water Security
As Corpus Christi considers a second well field, the debate stresses balancing water reliability and protecting neighboring systems. City leaders state they are relying on expert consultants and regulatory oversight, while opponents remain unconvinced. With several projects advancing, upcoming public hearings will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s water future.