The Board of Directors of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District recently honored the service of Directors Blain Schorp and Larry Bartek, both of whom retired from the Board.  Blaine Schorp served on the EUWCD Board for 30 years, representing Frio County and lending his expertise in business and government through leadership roles, including many years as Board President. Mr. Schorp oversaw the implementation of many programs to manage the District’s groundwater production and prepare for future challenges through the use of technology and investments in science. Mr. Bartek represented Atascosa County since 2020 and supported the District with an emphasis on improved communication with well owners and proactive conservation education.

Wes Shahan from Atascosa County, was elected on May 3rd to replace Mr. Bartek and Zachary Mann from Frio County was appointed to fill the remaining term of Mr. Schorp. 

Mr. Shahan is a local business owner, providing real estate services throughout South Texas. Mr. Mann continues a multi-generational tradition of farming in Frio County.  “I want to participate in the process of protecting our groundwater resources,” said Mr. Shahan. Mr. Mann hopes to work with the Board to ensure that well owners are assured that long term planning accounts for their groundwater needs and current use. 

In addition to welcoming new Directors, the Evergreen Board elected new executive leadership to the Board. Dr. Darrell Brownlow (Wilson County), Mr. Clayton Neal (Frio County), and Ms. Amanda Wheeler (Atascosa County) were elected as the President, Vice President, and Secretary-Treasurer, respectively. Dr. Brownlow brings extensive hydrogeology and business leadership to the role and has previously served as the District’s Vice President, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the San Antonio River Authority. Mr. Neal is a Vice President of Security State Bank and previously served as the District Secretary/Treasurer. Ms. Wheeler is an experienced educator and has served on the District’s Budget and Education Committees. 

Dr. Brownlow who also represents the District on the Groundwater Management Area 13 and the South Central Texas Regional Water Planning Group Boards, stated that,  “The District’s rules must be fair and provide for equitable usage and protection of the groundwater resources which are critical to the future of our District’s landowners whether they be homeowners, farmers, ranchers, businesses or municipalities.”