We are a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) nonprofit investing in the next generation of water leaders, equipping informed decision makers, and inspiring water advocates. Texas’ population is projected to increase by 70% in the next 50 years, and its existing water supply is declining. Although Texas has worked hard to create an exceptional water planning process, we will be challenged to meet growing water demands in the future. We believe that the best way to address that challenge is by investing in people. People are decision makers, and the choices they make will determine how we can plan into the future. Texas Water Foundation has developed three programs to help people make good, informed decisions about water. Our Work
Leadership
Texas Water Foundation recognizes the importance of having diverse, equipped leadership in the Texas water field. As the water sector sees an increase in retirements and changing work culture, it is important that the next generation of leaders are equipped as they step into increasingly complex roles. Similarly, as water decisions become increasingly complex, it is important that we engage non traditional decision makers as informed water champions. To support that transition, Texas Water Foundation launched the Carole Baker Water Leadership Institute in 2020. As part of the Carole Baker Water Leadership Institute, TWF piloted two programs in 2020:
Texas Water Leaders: the first annual leadership program in Texas based on a multidisciplinary curriculum for water professionals. Water Fluency: a workshop for decision makers outside of the water sector, such as local government officials and business leaders, to support an increased familiarity with and fluency in water decisions. With 40% of future water supplies coming from conservation and reuse, all citizens have an important role to play in Texas’ water future. For that reason, Texas Water Foundation has launched a statewide water campaign called Texas Runs on Water to inspire everyday citizens to associate their Texas pride with the water that it takes to keep our great state running. TWF has partnered with three pilot markets to test this campaign in Houston, the Panhandle and the Hill Country. The purpose of this campaign is simple: Inspire Texans to value water
Policy
The decisions that leaders are faced with regarding Texas’ water are becoming increasingly complex, and critically important. Texas Water Foundation’s policy program is built to help non-technical decision makers navigate those complicated water issues. As part of this effort, we are building a public policy institute for water in Texas. TWF advocates for a sustainable Texas water future by ensuring that water policies in the state are well-designed, well-considered, and effective for creating solutions that meet the needs of Texans, the Texas economy, and our environment. TWF works to advance strong, well-informed deliberations to produce better policies by way of nontechnical issue briefs, non partisan data analysis, and convening stakeholders to build stronger dialogues.
