More than 700 participants, including speakers, sponsors, and legislators, attended the Water for Texas 2025 conference hosted by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) in Austin from January 27 to 29. The event aimed to address the state's diverse water challenges through collaboration among state leaders and water industry professionals.
TWDB Chairwoman L'Oreal Stepney stated, "Our biennial Water for Texas conference embraces the opportunity to gather and explore solutions to our state’s diverse water challenges." She emphasized the importance of cooperation to ensure a secure water future for Texas.
The conference began with a presentation by Texas Demographer Dr. Lloyd Potter on demographic trends and their potential impact on water resources. State Senator Charles Perry joined TWDB Executive Administrator Bryan McMath in discussing key water policy issues of the 89th Legislative Session.
Filmmakers Ben Masters and Jay Kleberg delivered a keynote speech highlighting how art, film, and storytelling can raise awareness about water conservation and drive behavioral change. The event featured sessions focused on topics such as water supply planning, technology, data, business practices in water management, innovation, and legacy.
According to TWDB Board Member Tonya Miller, "From innovative water technologies and flood mitigation to data collaboration, emerging science, and more, this conference brought together experts from around the country to discuss trends and best practices."
Attendees had opportunities for networking with other industry experts between sessions. Exhibitor booths and an interactive space showcased live demonstrations of TWDB data platforms.
The next Water for Texas conference is scheduled for January 25-27, 2027. The TWDB is responsible for collecting water-related data in Texas and supports regional planning efforts along with administering financial assistance programs for various water projects.
State Senator Charles Perry remarked on the significance of maintaining a secure water future: "Nobody should ever be faced with the decision of having to leave this state...over the issue of not having water."
Chairwoman L'Oreal Stepney also commented on the conference's importance: "It brings together our best minds in the water space...we're all focused on improving water infrastructure here in Texas."
