Three days ago, the City of Three Rivers alleged it had been blindsided by Corpus Christi, and could lose access to a primary water source—Choke Canyon Reservoir—earlier than expected. Three Rivers attributed that decision to the result of inaccurate water projections.
Corpus Christi has strongly disputed those claims.
Corpus Christi leaders say that no operational changes have been made to the city’s management of Choke Canyon, that the water projection models remain accurate and that the city is in full compliance with state-issued water rights.
“The City of Corpus Christi has been actively working with the City of Three Rivers on the ongoing drought conditions affecting the region and the operation of Choke Canyon Reservoir,” Corpus Christi wrote in a statement to Chron.
Corpus Christi says it has been working with Three Rivers since January, sharing projections that included the possibility of a Level 1 Water Emergency by November 2026 while reviewing reservoir operations, water release levels and future supply planning. Officials say they met with Three Rivers city staff on March 10, where they provided a detailed overview of the city’s $1 billion diversified water portfolio currently in development and offered to support Three Rivers with planned groundwater wells.
“The City of Corpus Christi remains dedicated to regional water supply cooperation, sharing information, and supporting the City of Three Rivers in any way possible,” Corpus wrote.
But the dispute did not end there.
Three Rivers has pushed back on Corpus Christi’s recent statement, alleging some of their claims are inaccurate.
During the March 10 meeting, Three Rivers said Corpus Christi discussed a higher-yield strategy that included draining Choke Canyon first, which would leave Three Rivers without water sooner. The city said it requested additional information on the potential change in four separate follow-ups.
“The lack of clear and consistent communication on this matter creates the impression that changes may be past consideration and on to implementation,” Three Rivers wrote.
According to Three Rivers officials, they did not receive confirmation from Corpus Christi that no operational changes were planned until March 24.
In addition, the city said Corpus Christi’s offer to assist with groundwater wells came only after concerns were raised about the potential reservoir changes.
“What the City of Three Rivers would like from the City of Corpus Christi is 1) sound water projections from them as a Reservoir operator, 2) reasonable water strategies that respect our water rights, and 3) timely professional communication,” Three Rivers wrote.
A Corpus Christi spokesperson declined to comment on the city’s allegations but noted the city manager has initiated a weekly briefing plan to keep the public updated on ongoing water issues.