Saratoga Underground Water Conservation District directors, at their recent meeting, gave final approval of the updated SUWCD Management Plan. Action came after a public hearing in which no one voiced any objection.

Directors previously gave initial approval and submitted the plan to the Texas Water Development Board for its acceptance. The water board OK'd the proposal, which is similar to the current management plan with some minor changes.

Board Chairman Randall McGuire said the plan would remain in effect until Dec. 1, 2013, or a period of five years, whichever is later.

"The plan may be revised at any time," he said. "But after five years, the plan will be reviewed to ensure it is consistent with the applicable Regional Water Plan and the State Water Plan."

The management plan states that the SUWCD strives to protect and enhance the quantity and quality of useable water in the district, which includes all of Lampasas County.

Other management goals include a program to improve and protect the quality of aquifers, control and prevent waste and contamination of groundwater, and address drought conditions.

Other goals include conservation, recharge enhancement, brush control, rainwater harvesting, precipitation enhancement, and addressing the desired future conditions of groundwater in the district.

In other business, McGuire reviewed the latest U.S. Drought Monitor map of Texas. The Central Texas area has received several rains in recent weeks, and the map shows most of Lampasas County is no longer experiencing drought conditions. Much of South Texas has been in extreme to exceptional drought, but the recent rains also have brought relief to this portion of the state.

In other action, the board gave secretary/treasurer Robert Wright the authority to prepare a budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year.

The budget will be considered at the next regular meeting. The water district does not have taxing authority, therefore it operates on a small budget with funds from Lampasas County and other donations.

Directors will meet Oct. 13 at 1:30 p.m. in the county courtroom to consider adoption of the district's annual report.