The Edwards Aquifer helps explain how San Antonio lives with water
Rain slips through cracked limestone north and west of San Antonio. It moves below ground and comes back up at large springs farther along the Edwards system. This hidden route ties together local water, caves, springs, and rocky Hill Country land.
The Edwards Aquifer Authority permits pumping and watches key wells. San Antonio's J-17 well is the best-known local gauge. Its level helps trigger pumping cuts and SAWS watering rules. These systems are related but not the same. SAWS rules apply to its customers. Authority cuts apply to users with aquifer permits.
That is why a well reading can shape a talk about lawns. Use the authority or SAWS page for today's level. Use the separate SAWS drought page for today's watering schedule.
Content last revised 2026-07-11