Sul Ross State University is set to host the inaugural “Water in the Desert” conference on Thursday, January 18, 2024. A pioneering initiative addressing water challenges in West Texas’s Chihuahuan Desert, the conference promises robust discussions, featuring a mix of scientists, landowners, community members, officials, and experts. Online registration is now available.
Kevin Urbanczyk, Director of the Rio Grande Research Center and Geology Professor, emphasized the conference’s mission. “Our aim is to provide a platform for understanding and valuing the region’s vital water resources. We anticipate insights from a wide-ranging and knowledgeable group of contributors.”
The event kicks off at 8 am at the Espino Conference Center on the Sul Ross campus. Attendees will be welcomed with a check-in, followed by a day packed with informative sessions and panel discussions. The conference will be prefaced by pre-conference events on Wednesday, January 17, including a technical session and a mural dedication themed “Alpine Runs on Water.”
Highlights of the conference include an in-depth look at hydrologic systems in the Chihuahuan Desert and a legislative policy panel with distinguished guests such as Senator Charles Perry, Representative Tracy King, and Senator César Blanco. Groundwater science, management, and conservation will also be central themes, drawing insights from regional groundwater conservation district leaders.
David Yoskowitz, Executive Director of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is slated to give the keynote speech during lunch.
James Oliver, from the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, will moderate an afternoon panel focusing on landowners’ experiences and challenges concerning water in the desert. Dr. Bonnie J. Warnock, Dean at Sul Ross State University, will steer a discussion on Land and Water Stewardship, spotlighting strategies beneficial to both landowners and communities.
A closing session led by Robert Potts of the Dixon Water Foundation will showcase various pivotal projects in West Texas, followed by concluding remarks from Dr. Brian McCall, Chancellor of the Texas State University System.
Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure their spots early due to limited availability. The full agenda, speaker profiles, and registration details can be found at https://bri.sulross.edu/events/water-in-the-desert-2024/. For more information or interest in table exhibitor opportunities, please reach out to info@waterinthedeserttx.org.
