Members of the Quitman Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter stepped into the Wood County Commissioners Court on Thursday to discuss a pressing local issue: the impact of large‑city water withdrawals from the Carrizo‑Wilcox aquifer. The presentation, required for the District Leadership Development Event competition, gave the students a platform to voice concerns that directly affect their families and community.
Student preparation and focus
Agriculture science teacher Emalee Burt explained that the seniors have spent two to three months researching groundwater districts and the growing practice of major cities drilling wells into the Carrizo‑Wilcox aquifer to transfer water to expanding urban areas. “They chose the topic based on something that directly impacted them,” Burt said, noting that many participants come from farming families. “One of our kids lives on a dairy farm, so she understands the direct impact of this on her family and her community.”
Key points of the debate
Students Lutske Boema and Kinsey Hipp, both seniors, highlighted that the aquifer stretches from East Texas all the way to San Antonio, supplying water to countless households and businesses. “A lot of our houses and businesses run off this aquifer,” Hipp said. “If big cities come and take that water, it affects us. It affects our kids’ lives in the future.” The presentation was structured to cover three pros and three cons of the water‑transfer practice, as required by the competition guidelines.
Commissioner response
Wood County Commissioner Jerry Gaskill, representing Precinct 2, praised the students for presenting both sides of the issue. “It hits home because we’ve been talking about water districts around here,” Gaskill remarked. He added that his 13‑year tenure on the regional water board gives him a personal stake in the discussion, especially as Region C seeks water from Region D.
Next steps for the team
The Quitman FFA team will compete in the Mineola district contest on November 13. To advance to the area competition on November 19, they must place first, second, or third. Their performance will not only reflect their research and public‑speaking skills but also bring attention to a water‑resource issue that could shape the future of agriculture and family life throughout Wood County.
Why this matters to the community
Groundwater is a lifeline for East Texas farmers, ranchers, and small‑town residents. As larger municipalities look to secure additional water supplies, the balance between regional growth and local stewardship becomes a critical conversation. By involving youth in the debate, Quitman FFA is fostering the next generation of informed citizens who can advocate for responsible water management that protects both families and the environment.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
