Title
Consider recommendation from the Research & Technology Committee to approve an Interlocal Cooperation Contract with the University of Texas at San Antonio for water quality responses to recharge at Comal Springs, in an amount not to exceed $60,000.
Body
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Move the board approve Interlocal Cooperation Contract No. 20-017-AMS between the EAA and the University of Texas at San Antonio for water quality responses to recharge at Comal Springs, in an amount not to exceed $60,000 for the period August 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022.
SUMMARY:
The purpose of this agenda item is for the board to consider a Research & Technology Committee recommendation to approve an Interlocal Cooperation Contract with the University of Texas at San Antonio for water quality responses to recharge at Comal Springs. Geochemical sampling and dye tracing results suggest that multiple orifices within the Comal Springs complex have potentially varying source waters with differing flow paths in the Edwards Aquifer. Although some time-series data are available, there are limited high-frequency data sets that represent discharges from more than one of the major Comal Springs discharge orifices.
The purpose of this Contract is to collect high-frequency and targeted time-series samples of water discharging from three major orifices at Comal Springs. Samples will be analyzed to assess the major ion, trace element, and stable and radiogenic isotope compositions of spring waters over time. Results of the analyses will be used to evaluate the effects of recharge events and varying spring flowrates on spring water chemistry to delineate possible recharge sources and flow paths.
Over the course of a three-year period, scientists from the University of Texas at San Antonio will conduct high frequency geochemical sampling at Comal Springs. At the end of each calendar year, they will deliver a preliminary data report containing the sampling results and associated analytical methods. By the end of the contract period, they will deliver a comprehensive data report detailing the geochemical results, methods of analysis, and associated maps of sampling locations. The project results could have a significant impact by identifying areas that are critical for maintenance of water quality in the Comal Springs system.
The draft Contract, which has been reviewed by legal counsel, is attached to this summary.
At the July 28 meeting, the Research & Technology Committee voted to recommend the board approve an Interlocal Cooperation Contract between the EAA and the University of Texas at San Antonio for water quality responses to recharge at Comal Springs, in an amount not to exceed $60,000 for the period August 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022.
M/WBE PARTICIPATION:
UTSA is an institute of higher education conducting research for the EAA. Therefore, this section is not applicable.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
This agenda item supports the EAA's policy direction as set forth in the EAA 2016-20 Strategic Plan: Goal E: Conduct Research that Enhances Understanding and Effective Management of the Aquifer.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funding in the amount of $18,000 is available in the 2020 operating budget. Funding for the remaining portions of the contract will be included in future budgets.