ABSTRACT
The Edwards Aquifer is essentially the sole source of water for almost 2 million people, including the residents of the city of San Antonio and the surrounding region. Currently, 95% of San Antonio’s water use is from this aquifer. 1 Management of the Edwards Aquifer has been a controversial and divisive issue for more than 50 years. Recent changes have effectively transformed aquifer management from the common property style to private property, so some measure of protection is now extended to springflows. Moreover, market-based exchanges now carry out the growth-driven reapportionment of water to the urban sector. The trials and accomplishments of this story isolate a unique model, and perhaps these lessons will assist other regions confronted with groundwater overuse.
