Texarkana Approves Next Step in Proposed Water Transfer to Texas Despite Opposition

The Texarkana Arkansas Board of Directors voted unanimously Tuesday, October 13, to advance a proposal that could send up to 110 million gallons of water per day from Millwood Lake to Texas.

The vote allows the city to pursue state authorization and establishes an exclusive negotiating arrangement with Dallas-based Heartland Water Partners. It does not authorize the sale or transfer of water.

City Manager Tyler Richards called the project a potential major economic development opportunity, estimating it could generate $16 million to $20 million annually for Texarkana.

However, the proposal faces opposition from Southwest Arkansas lawmakers, including State Representative DeAnn Vaught and State Senator Jimmy Hickey, who have raised concerns about regional water needs and the potential effects of exporting water during ongoing drought conditions.

The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission will review the city’s application and make a recommendation to the Arkansas General Assembly. Final approval would be required before the interstate water transfer could move forward.

If approved, the project would still be years away from completion, with engineering and pipeline construction expected to take several years.