San Jacinto River Authority explains 'SJRA fee' on Woodlands area water bills

THE WOODLANDS, TX - If your utility, municipality, or city is a participant in the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) Groundwater Reduction Plan (GRP), then you probably have a line on your water bill labeled “SJRA fee” or something similar. We realize oftentimes it can be overwhelming to know everything that goes into our water bills.

So, you may be asking, “What is the SJRA Fee? Why do I pay it? and How much is it?”

What is the “SJRA Fee”?

The fee on your bill is based on the amount of water pumped or used. SJRA operates and maintains a GRP Program with more than 80 participants or customers (Utilities, Municipalities, and Cities). SJRA treats and delivers wholesale water from Lake Conroe to 7 of the 80 customers.

Why do I pay it?

The SJRA GRP is one of more than 30 GRP Programs in the county that implemented programs to substantially reduce groundwater usage and conserve our underground aquifers.

Your retail provider (Utilities, Municipalities, and Cities that are participants in the SJRA GRP), not SJRA, decide how to pass the wholesale rate through to their retail customers (you).

How much is it?

The rate charged to the Utilities, Municipalities, and Cities who participate in the SJRA GRP is $2.99 (for groundwater) and $3.41 (for surface water) per 1,000 gallons of water used.

If your rate is higher and you need more information on your water bill, individuals are urged to contact their water provider.