Water industry and state leaders convene at Water for Texas 2023 to confront water issues
For immediate release. Contact: Media Relations at 512-463-5129
AUSTIN – (January 26, 2023) – More than 600 attendees, speakers, sponsors, and legislators attended the sold-out Water for Texas 2023 conference, “Connecting H2Opportunities,” hosted by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) from January 23 to 25 in Austin, Texas.
“Our packed house was extremely inspiring and demonstrates that the great minds in the water industry and our state leaders value coming together to collaborate on the water issues facing Texas,” said TWDB Chairwoman Brooke Paup. “The discussions that take place at our biennial Water for Texas conference are instrumental in exploring solutions to ensure a secure water future for our state.”
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Glenn Hegar opened the conference with remarks about the importance of expanding water infrastructure in our rapidly growing state. Other state leaders, including Senator Charles Perry, Senator Drew Springer, Representative Tracy O. King, and Representative Cody Harris, later joined Texas Tribune Co-founder Evan Smith for an in-depth discussion on key water policy issues of the current legislative session.
Chet Garner, host of The Daytripper, motivated attendees during his luncheon keynote with stories about exploring the best of Texas—particularly Texas water. The conference also featured general sessions and breakout panels focusing on four tracks: flood; science, technology, and data; business of water; and water supply and infrastructure.
“The water challenges in Texas are varied, and the Water for Texas conference addressed many of the major topics facing the industry today,” said George Peyton, TWDB Board member. “From flood management and alternative water supplies to sustainability strategies, emerging science and technology, and more, this event fostered conversations between people with diverse perspectives and areas of expertise.”
Between sessions, attendees were encouraged to visit exhibitor booths and the TWDB Interactive Space, which featured live demonstrations of TWDB data platforms and more. Networking events provided additional opportunities for attendees to connect with other water industry experts from across the state and beyond.
“The Water for Texas conference showcased innovations from around the world, allowing attendees to learn from other states and countries implementing programs that could help move Texas forward,” said TWDB Board Member L’Oreal Stepney. “Whether from near or far, one thing was made clear: people who work in water are passionate about what they do, and that is an exciting industry to be in.”
The TWDB’s next Water for Texas conference will be held January 27–29, 2025, in Austin.
The TWDB is the state agency charged with collecting and disseminating water-related data, assisting with regional water and flood planning, and preparing the state water and flood plans. The TWDB administers cost-effective financial assistance programs for the construction of water supply, wastewater treatment, flood control, and agricultural water conservation projects.