Mirasol Springs, a conservation-scale development in Travis County, Texas, is making changes in response to opposition regarding its water source. The developers, Mirasol Capital, have requested water service from the West Travis County Public Utility Agency (WTCPUA) as part of their plan to construct homes, cabins, and a hotel on the site.
The water service proposal is set to be voted on by the WTCPUA board members on October 17th. If approved, the new water source would come from Lake Travis, relieving capacity from the Trinity Aquifer and the Pedernales River. This move aims to address concerns raised by various environmental groups, including Save The Pedernales and Save Our Springs.
The development has faced pushback from activists and landowners worried about the impact on the Hill Country’s water supply. Concerns have been raised about the potential diversion of Pedernales River water and groundwater pumping. The proposed solution by Mirasol Capital aims to eliminate these concerns and work towards sustainable water usage.
In addition to the water service proposal, the board will vote on an amendment to their policies, limiting Non-Standard Water Service agreements. This includes restrictions on the use of groundwater or surface water for irrigation or potable uses from sources other than WTCPUA.
Mirasol Springs developers have highlighted their commitment to conservation by placing 70% of the land in a conservation easement, ensuring that 1,000 acres will be protected from future development. The project aims to set a gold standard for conservation in the Texas Hill Country, with restrictions on pesticides, impervious cover, and private wells.
Furthermore, Mirasol Springs has partnered with the University of Texas to establish a field lab in the area. This lab will provide researchers with access to the unique environment of the Texas Hill Country and is being funded by a generous grant from the family behind Mirasol Springs.
Overall, the efforts made by Mirasol Springs to address concerns about water usage and conservation highlight their commitment to sustainable development in the region. By working with the WTCPUA and implementing strict conservation measures, the project aims to set a positive example for future developments in the Texas Hill Country.