Texans Urged to Speak Out Against Marvin Nichols Reservoir: Deadline for Input December 1st

By Jeff Easterling

Texarkana FYI, November 28, 2023

In a significant development in the prolonged battle over the proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir in Northeast Texas, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) is opening the floor for public input regarding the controversial water project. The deadline is Friday, December 1.

The TWDB is currently conducting a feasibility review, as per the request of State Representative Gary VanDeaver, who championed the cause through House Bill 1 earlier this year.

Representative VanDeaver emphasized the importance of rural voices in the decision-making process, 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.”

To facilitate public participation, the TWDB has established a window for input from now until December 1, 2023. The call for submissions invites Texans to share their perspectives on critical aspects of the proposed reservoir, including the implementation timeline, associated costs, land acquisition considerations, and the economic impact.

In a bid to streamline the input process, Preserve Northeast Texas has created an online form accessible at https://bit.ly/NoMarvinNichols. This platform allows concerned citizens to convey their thoughts directly to the TWDB.

The Marvin Nichols Reservoir, a subject of discussion for decades, has faced opposition from those who view it as an unnecessary and outdated solution to current water challenges. The reservoir has been criticized for potentially being the largest planned land-grab in recent Texas history.

Preserve Northeast Texas, led by a dedicated Steering Committee, encourages residents and supporting Texans to engage in the campaign against Marvin Nichols. The committee, which includes figures such as Cass County Judge Travis Ransom, Bill Ward, and Linda Price, invites the public to subscribe to their newsletter for updates.

To contribute to the feasibility review, individuals can address key topics, including the implementation timeline, associated costs, land acquisition considerations, and economic impact, by December 1, 2023.

For more information on the campaign and to stay informed, visit www.PreserveNortheastTexas.org. This is a crucial opportunity for concerned citizens to make their voices heard and shape the future of the Marvin Nichols Reservoir project.