Snowy Egrets, River Paddlers, and Clean Water Won in Texas

On election day, Texas voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 4, a constitutional amendment that dedicates $1 billion annually of existing sales tax revenues to upgrade deteriorating water and wastewater systems, reduce flood risk, prioritize strategies that would conserve habitats, and keep water bills low. This is the largest investment in water infrastructure in the history of Texas and in any state in the country—and will benefit wildlife, people and communities!

Helping Snowy Egrets Thrive

Texas serves as a breeding ground for snowy egrets, as well as a migratory stopover. Snowy egrets rely on the shallow waters of healthy wetlands, marshes and ponds—and are particularly sensitive to pollutants. The investments from the new constitutional amendment, made possible by the passage of Proposition 4, will help protect water quality so that what flows back into these vital water habitats isn’t harmful to the wildlife that depend on them.

Safeguarding Waterways

Texas’ natural resources—open spaces, springs, and rivers—have enticed families for generations. State officials estimate that without intervention, much of the state could face severe water shortages by 2030. Aquifers and rivers are under threat, and the new investments can help develop alternative water sources and support conservation to manage and protect these natural resources for continued enjoyment by everyone.

Addressing Drinking Water Infrastructure

The passage of Proposition 4 ensures dedicated funding for repairing aging pipes, upgrading treatment facilities, building new water supplies, and implementing conservation technologies across the state. For years, many Texas communities have faced mounting water challenges: aging and leaking pipes, boil water notices, strained drinking water systems, and increased flooding and drought driven by extreme weather. The investments via the Texas Water Fund will help address critical needs in both rural and urban communities, many of which have struggled to fund necessary infrastructure improvements and water supply projects through local budgets alone.

A Statewide Effort

The broad support behind Proposition 4 was notable. State leaders, local officials, utilities and trade associations, conservation organizations, agricultural groups, and community advocates all recognized the urgency of addressing water challenges. As the Texas Water Fund is implemented, there will be important decisions about how funds are allocated, which projects receive support, and what values guide investment. 

Thank you to our wildlife supporters in Texas who helped pass this historic water investment and have joined with us to ensure healthy water habitats and clean drinking water for the future.