The average flow of the San Marcos River is around 140 cubic feet per second (cfs). When spring flow is around 100 cfs, the flow rate is considered low. When the spring flow is around 500 cfs, the flow rate is considered high. The rate at which the San Marcos Springs flow is ultimately a result of Edwards Aquifer levels. This means that spring flow will fluctuate with different rates of consumption and rainfall. Since Texas is known for periods of droughts followed by flooding, spring flow is constantly changing. The continued lack of rainfall within the recharge zone and the resulting low spring flow demonstrates that the Edwards Aquifer is a limited resource, which is why water conservation is significant.
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