The Proposal:
A Texas-based group, Aqueduct Partners, is seeking to purchase water from Toledo Bend Reservoir.
The water would be transported to Dallas via pipeline, potentially bringing in significant revenue for the Sabine River Authority (SRA).

1. Public Concerns and Opposition:
Water Level Fluctuations:
Residents worry about potential negative impacts on water levels, which could affect recreational activities, property values, and the ecosystem.

Environmental Impacts:
There are concerns about the potential impact on the reservoir’s ecosystem and the overall health of the Sabine River.

Long-Term Contracts:
Some are concerned about the 99-year duration of the proposed contract and the guarantee of a specific water level.

Loss of Local Control:
Concerns exist about the potential for the deal to reduce local control over the reservoir’s resources.

Transparency and Public Input:
Residents have expressed concerns about the transparency of the process and the lack of sufficient public input.

2. Key Players and Approvals:<
Sabine River Authority of Louisiana (SRA-LA):
The SRA-LA is the entity responsible for managing the reservoir and would need to approve the water sale.

Parish Governing Authorities:
Two-thirds of the six parishes bordering the reservoir must also approve the deal.

Governor of Louisiana:
The Governor must ultimately approve the deal.

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC):
If the volume of water exceeds one million gallons per day, FERC approval is also required.

3. Current Status:
Public Meetings:
Public meetings have been held to discuss the potential sale and address community concerns.
Legislation: Louisiana Act 458 of the 2025 Regular Session did not grant unilateral authority to any government agency to approve water sales out of state.
Governor’s Opposition:
The Governor has expressed opposition to the proposal at this time.
Rescinded Support:
State Senator Ronnie Johns has rescinded his letter of support for the concept, citing unanswered questions and concerns about the contract.
4. No Final Decision:
There is no final decision on the sale, and several steps remain before it could be finalized.
5. Previous Agreements:
A previous power sales agreement for the Toledo Bend hydroelectric plant was recently approved, with Entergy Louisiana purchasing a portion of the plant’s output. This new agreement is considered beneficial for customers and the state, as the power is clean, renewable, and cost-effective.In 2007, the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) agreed to reduce hydroelectric generation to maintain a higher minimum lake level, addressing concerns from residents about low water levels.