After deadly floods that killed more than 100 people in the Texas Hill Country, lawmakers have accused the Upper Guadalupe River Authority of failing to protect residents from the river’s dangers.
The Upper Guadalupe River Authority
The Upper Guadalupe River Authority is one of several boards that oversee water resources in Texas. Established over a century ago, the Authority manages flood control, water supply, and recreational use along the Guadalupe River. Its board is elected by local officials and is responsible for maintaining levees, monitoring water quality, and coordinating emergency responses.
The 2025 Floods
In late 2025, unprecedented rainfall triggered a series of floods along the Guadalupe River. The deluge caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the Hill Country. According to state emergency officials, more than 100 lives were lost, and the economic impact exceeded $500 million. Residents reported that levees breached in several towns, and the river surged beyond its banks.
Lawmakers’ Accusations
State legislators, citing the Authority’s oversight role, have publicly accused the Upper Guadalupe River Authority of negligence. In a statement released on December 26, 2025, lawmakers demanded an immediate investigation into the Authority’s flood-control protocols. The accusations center on alleged delays in reporting rising water levels and insufficient maintenance of critical flood-control structures.
Inside the Investigation
KXAN’s investigative series, Inside the Investigation, is examining how Texas’ river boards operate. Investigative reporter Matt Grant is leading the inquiry, looking into who holds control of the state’s rivers and how decisions are made. Grant’s work includes reviewing board meeting minutes, interviewing local officials, and analyzing the Authority’s flood-management plans.
Calls for Reform
The floods have reignited debate over the century-old system that governs Texas rivers. Advocates for reform argue that the current board structure lacks transparency and accountability. They call for new regulations that would increase public oversight, improve emergency communication, and modernize flood-control infrastructure. The discussion also touches on the need for better coordination between state agencies and local municipalities.
Key Takeaways
- The Upper Guadalupe River Authority has been accused of failing to protect residents during the 2025 floods.
- More than 100 people died, and the economic impact surpassed $500 million.
- Matt Grant’s Inside the Investigation series is probing board operations and decision-making.
- Reform advocates seek greater transparency, public oversight, and updated flood-control measures.
The investigation into Texas’ river governance continues as lawmakers, residents, and media outlets demand answers and change.
