Corpus Christi, Texas, is considering a $1 million groundwater lease, but the water would remain in neighboring San Patricio County.
Here's what to know
As much as 4 million gallons a day could come from two existing wells owned by Evangeline Laguna, LP, KRIS 6 reported. A one-year lease for those wells is set to go before the City Council.
Automatic renewal would follow the lease's first year. According to KRIS 6, charges of $0.80 per thousand gallons used would be deducted from a $1 million upfront payment by Corpus Christi.
Two unresolved permits stand between the seller and payment under the city's separate $169.5 million agreement to purchase all groundwater rights for the Evangeline project. The council approved that purchase in October 2025.
More background
Permits sought from San Patricio County's groundwater conservation district cover water exports to Corpus Christi and the drilling of 22 new wells, according to KRIS 6.
Concern that the project could damage their wells prompted permit challenges from two farms, the City of Sinton, and St. Paul Water Supply Corporation.
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The formal hearing process could last as long as two years, city leaders have cautioned. A judge's ruling in May cleared the way for opponents to present their arguments at that hearing, KRIS 6 reported.
What's being done?
San Patricio Municipal Water District, already a Corpus Christi water customer, would receive water from the two existing wells through the Mary Rhodes Pipeline, according to the city memo. The proposed lease provides a separate arrangement for using those wells.
Written notice is required whether Corpus Christi withdraws from the larger purchase agreement, drops its permitting condition, or gives the seller another 90 days. Those options became available when the seller missed the mid- to late September deadline for obtaining permits.
Silence can also end the agreement. If Corpus Christi lets 30 days pass without responding in writing, the contract treats the city as having withdrawn.
City Manager Peter Zanoni said the seller's 180-day permitting period began when both parties signed in March. KRIS 6 reported that the city's September 25 water update still listed no scheduled hearing.
Where can I learn more?
Corpus Christi's proposed lease comes amid disputes over groundwater access elsewhere in Texas.
• Texas homeowners offered $500 for 50-year groundwater leases worry about future permitting consequences.
• West Texas farmers fear a water sale plan could drain the ancient Capitan Reef aquifer.
• East Texas groundwater officials paused a proposed plan amid growing warnings about dry wells.
• Corpus Christi turned to wells and dam releases after a Mary Rhodes Pipeline leak.
• A Texas congressman urged Trump to fulfill his water promise to Corpus Christi.
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