In a recent development regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir in Northeast Texas, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has initiated a feasibility review, offering Texans the opportunity to voice their concerns about private property rights and the use of eminent domain for an outdated water project. The review was requested by State Representative Gary VanDeaver as part of House Bill 1, which was passed earlier this year.
Representative VanDeaver expressed his commitment to giving rural Texans a platform to voice their concerns, stating, "People in my District deserve the right to be heard by state leaders. Too often rural Texans are left behind while the spotlight shines on the needs of our large urban neighbors. I fought for the Legislature to include this important review, and I hope everyone will speak out about how the timeline, cost, and economic impact of Marvin Nichols would impact them and our overall community."
To facilitate the collection of input for the review, the TWDB has established a window for submissions, which will remain open until December 1, 2023. The TWDB is actively seeking meaningful information and input from concerned citizens. This period presents a crucial opportunity for those opposed to the reservoir to make their voices heard. In support of this effort, Preserve Northeast Texas has created a user-friendly online form that enables individuals to communicate their message directly to the TWDB. The form can be accessed at: https://bit.ly/NoMarvinNichols.
Individuals providing information for consideration in the feasibility review are encouraged to focus on the following key topics:
- Implementation timeline
- Associated costs
- Land acquisition considerations
- Economic impact
The proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir has been a subject of discussion for several decades. Despite its longstanding presence in regional discourse, opponents have been successful in pushing back against what would be one of the largest planned land acquisitions in recent Texas history. This review process presents a critical opportunity for those opposed to the reservoir to voice their concerns and communicate why they view Marvin Nichols as an outdated solution to modern water challenges. It is also an opportunity for them to share the potential losses they foresee if the reservoir is permitted to be constructed.
About Preserve Northeast Texas: The Preserve Northeast Texas Steering Committee includes: Cass County Judge Travis Ransom, Bill Ward, Jim Thompson, Max Shumake, Shirley Shumake, Linda Price, Richard LeTourneau, Cynthia Gwinn, Gary Cheatwood, and Janice Bezanson. Residents of Northeast Texas as well as supporting Texans are invited to join the campaign and subscribe to the newsletter.
Learn more about Preserve Northeast Texas: Stop Marvin Nichols online at www.PreserveNortheastTexas.org, and follow the campaign on Facebook and Instagram at @PreserveNortheastTexas and Twitter (X) @NoMarvinNichols.
