Availability of water likely to remain an issue in state

The Norman (Okla.) Transcript: The Texas water district that wants to buy water from southeastern Oklahoma describes its lack of water as a “shortage.” If that’s the case, all of southwestern Oklahoma is in “shortage” mode. Add much of central Oklahoma to that list, too.

Tarrant County was turned down in its court fight to obtain water from tributaries to the Red River in Oklahoma.

After the water reaches the Red River, it becomes salinized and costs more to treat for homes and industries.

They are appealing the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals decision in hopes of eventually being able to buy and transport water from southeastern Oklahoma to the Fort Worth area.

The city of Irving, Texas, has a contract to buy water from Hugo, but the contract has been blocked by Oklahoma water laws. Oklahoma’s Water Resources Board is arguing the case for the state.

They are making the case that Texas has unused water stored in its own reservoirs that could be purchased by Tarrant County. It’s a matter of economics. Tarrant Regional Water District claims it is not getting all the water it is due under the Red River Compact agreement.

Water availability will likely be a continuing issue in years to come. The record drought makes the issue even more timely as Oklahoma cities and towns stretch their own water levels to meet consumer demand.