Imagine a Day Without Water

The Hickory UWCD, in collaboration with the City of Brady, McCulloch County, the UCRA, Master Gardeners, and McCulloch County Agrilife, invites you to an Open House on Thursday, October 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the District Office, located at 111 East Main Street in Brady.

This event aligns with the "Imagine a Day Without Water" campaign, which encourages individuals to reflect on the essential role water plays in our daily lives. The campaign prompts us to consider how frequently we rely on water for health, safety, and economic activities, and to think about the significant impact of a world without it. It emphasizes the importance of investing in robust water infrastructure to ensure consistent and reliable access for everyone. More than just a reminder, this campaign calls for collective efforts to protect and conserve water as a vital resource that connects us all.

Proclamations from both the City of Brady and McCulloch County will mark the day, and representatives from both entities will be present at the event. The City will also encourage visitors to taste the water treated at the new treatment facility as part of its ongoing efforts to promote its consumption.

The Central Texas Master Gardener Association will provide information on drought-tolerant plants and efficient water usage. Members will be available to share landscaping ideas that use water-efficient plants and trees suitable for our area. Many of these plants and trees will be available at the CTMGA plant sale on the square on Saturday, October 18. The group is also sponsoring a Texas Arbor Day celebration in the park on November 7 at 2:00 p.m., where local arborist Pat Wentworth will share information on planting and caring for 

trees. Additionally, information about the Master Gardener Certification Class starting in Brady in late January 2026 will be available.

Representatives from the UCRA will be here to answer questions and will be offering a tour at noon of the BMP at Brady Creek. The BMP consists of a hydrodynamic vortex separator that will remove sediment, large floatable objects and oxygen demanding nutrients from stormwater runoff

As part of the event, there will be a drawing for a  50 gallon rainwater harvesting barrel and a rain chain. Attendees can expect to receive informative materials and complimentary items from the participating organizations.

50 gallon rainwater harvesting barrel

10' rain chain

A New Face

Terresa Locklear is the new office manager for the Hickory UWCD. She brings years of experience from other office management roles.

Passionate about protecting the environment and preserving water resources, Terresa plays a key role in keeping operations running smoothly.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors-camping, hiking, biking, walking and running. Terresa lives in Voca with her husband, Dae, along with their three dogs. Her favorite moments are spent with her family, especially her grandkids.

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Hickory UWCD Announces Annual Poster Contest for 4th and 5th Graders

The Hickory Underground Water Conservation District (UWCD) is excited to announce its annual poster contest for local 4th and 5th graders! This year's theme, "Be a Groundwater Guardian," encourages students to explore the importance of groundwater conservation and how they can make a difference in protecting this vital resource.

The contest is open to all students within the district, including those attending public, private, or homeschool programs. If you have a homeschool child in the 4th or 5th grade, be sure to reach out to the District to ensure they can participate in this fun and educational event.

The winning posters will be featured in the District’s outreach materials and may even be displayed at community events. It’s a great opportunity for students to use their creativity while learning about groundwater and its role in sustaining our environment.

To get your homeschool child involved or for more information, please contact the Hickory UWCD office today. Let’s inspire the next generation of groundwater guardians!

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Water Conservation Book Edited by Local Woman

Every 4th and 5th grade student in the District will receive a copy of Sophie & Pip with a Little Drop of Rain as part of their invitation to participate in the upcoming poster contest. Written under the pseudonym Sir Reinhard Fortesque—an homage to author Roge Andrada’s older brother—the book follows young Sophie and her pet pug, Pip, as they embark on a journey to learn about water.

The book was edited by Roge’s business partner, Tina Colen, who moved to Brady in 1980 and graduated from Brady High School in 1985, where she was active in both basketball and track.

Sophie & Pip with a Little Drop of Rain is Sir Reinhard’s second children’s book, following The Adventures of Pip and Ollie. Both books are available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.  You can also follow the author on TikTok @tiner4136 and @sirreinhardfortesque and contact them directly at  trcreativegroup.com