Texas Governor Greg Abbott has once again put his trust in Weldon Riggs, reappointing the cattle rancher to the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District, a role he will occupy until February 1, 2029. The district's significant mandate, which spans across Wilson, Atascosa, Karnes, and Frio counties, involves the responsibility of preserving the integrity, safeguarding, conserving, and managing the recharging capabilities of the underground water resources in these areas. This task is critical, considering the importance of water conservation and the district's role in the management of this resource for the community.
Riggs, a resident of the Black Hill Community in Atascosa County, is no stranger to the agricultural landscape, as he is deeply rooted in cattle ranching across Atascosa and Bexar counties. His expertise extends beyond this, having served as a director for the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas and holding membership with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and the Texas State Teachers Association. Additionally, he has shouldered various community roles, which include being a committeeman for the San Antonio Livestock Exposition School Tours Committee, a construction co-chair for Christmas Village Ministries, and an ag representative for the South Central Texas Regional Water Planning Group Region L.
Riggs also serves as a member of the Blackhill Volunteer Fire Department and sits on the board of the South Texas Weather Modification Association. His dedication to the community is further exemplified through his role as records sexton and a past president of the Oak Island Cemetery Association. His educational background aligns with his career path, boasting a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences and a Master of Education in Agriculture Education, both from Texas A&M University. The reappointment announcement was made official on November 12th, 2025, according to a press release from the Office of the Texas Governor.
The Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District plays a vital role in ensuring that the regions under its purview have a sustainable supply of underground water, an issue that holds increasing weight as water scarcity concerns grow. Riggs’s extensive experience in both agriculture and water conservation will be pivotal to the district’s strategies, particularly in a state where cattle ranching and agriculture are not only economic staples but also deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. With a rapidly changing climate and the persistent challenges of water management, the expertise and leadership of individuals like Riggs are more important than ever.
