Representative Chip Roy | Chip Roy Official Website
Representative Chip Roy | Chip Roy Official Website
On Monday, Representative Chip Roy (R-TX-21) raised concerns about a proposed rule by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) that could potentially harm the water supply in the San Antonio region. In a letter addressed to the USFWS, Roy expressed his worries regarding the agency's proposal to list two species of catfish as "endangered" in the San Antonio region.
Roy emphasized that he had "serious concerns" about the proposal, stating that it was based on "dubious assumptions" and "insufficient data." He further highlighted the potential threat this listing could pose to the region's access to water during periods of drought. The two catfish species in question are found in the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies drinking water to over two million Texans.
The Congressman pointed out that these catfish species had never been observed in their natural habitat, and therefore, were not previously considered a concern by the USFWS. However, the agency now seeks to list them as "endangered" without consulting local experts. Roy argued that this proposed listing could lead to the closure of two wells that serve as a crucial water source during droughts in the region.
Roy stated, "By turning off these wells, the ASR would no longer function as a viable water source for the City of San Antonio. Further, closure of these wells could jeopardize other conservation efforts currently undertaken by the Edwards Aquifer Authority and other entities."
In light of these concerns, Roy urged the USFWS to withdraw the proposed listing and engage in consultation with experts familiar with the Edwards Aquifer. The Congressman's letter serves as a call to protect the water supply in the San Antonio region and ensure that decisions regarding endangered species are made based on sound scientific data and local expertise.
The full text of Roy's letter to the USFWS can be accessed here.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://roy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-roy-leads-effort-protect-san-antonios-water-supply
Alerts Sign-up