Title
Consider recommendation from the Research & Technology Committee to approve an Interlocal Cooperation Contract with The University of Texas at Austin, in an amount not to exceed $165,299.43, for a historical climate variability study.
Body
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Move the board adopt Resolution and Order No. 04-26-141 of the Edwards Aquifer Authority Board of Directors approving Contract No. 26-007-AMS between the EAA and the University of Texas at Austin, in an amount not to exceed $165,299.43, upon signature by both parties, through December 31, 2027.
SUMMARY:
The purpose of this agenda item is for the board to consider a Research & Technology Committee recommendation to approve a contract between the EAA and the University of Texas at Austin for a historical climate variability study. The project will develop multi-century tree-ring records using bald cypress trees to improve understanding of long-term climate variability and its influence on streamflow and recharge within the Edwards Aquifer region. The work focuses on filling critical geographic data gaps and establishing a west-east transect to better capture spatial differences in precipitation, drought patterns, and hydrologic response.
Key tasks include:
• Field Sampling: Collection of tree-ring cores from riparian sites across the eastern, central, and western Edwards Aquifer region, including permitting and site access.
• Chronology Development: Processing, measuring, and cross-dating samples to create and expand tree-ring chronologies, including development of new datasets in underrepresented western areas.
• Environmental Reconstruction: Application of statistical methods to reconstruct historical seasonal climate conditions and streamflow for major recharge rivers (e.g., Frio, Medina, Cibolo, and Blanco).
• Spatial Analysis: Evaluation of east-west differences in climate variability and aquifer recharge dynamics, including assessment of shifting aridity gradients.
• Reporting: Preparation of a final technical report summarizing methods, findings, datasets, and implications for water resource management.
Deliverables include updated and newly developed tree-ring chronologies, validated climate and streamflow reconstructions, comparative spatial analyses, and a comprehensive final report to support long-term aquifer management and planning.
At the meeting on March 24, the Research & Technology Committee voted to recommend the board adopt a resolution and order of the Edwards Aquifer Authority Board of Directors approving Contract No. 26-007-AMS between the EAA and the University of Texas at Austin, in an amount not to exceed $165,299.43, upon signature by both parties, through December 31, 2027.
M/WBE PARTICIPATION:
The University of Texas at Austin is not an M/WBE vendor.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
This agenda item helps build and/or create Greater Understanding and Management Through Science - a key objective in achieving the EAA’s goals identified in the 2021-30 Strategic Plan.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The total cost associated with this contract is $165,299.43. Because this contract spans two EAA fiscal years, funding for the first year ($82,659.72) is available in the 2026 operating budget. Funding for the remaining year of the contract will be included in the subsequent annual operating budget.