This series provides readers with the opportunity to learn about the unique insights and experiences of the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) Board of Directors and their personal connection to the San Antonio River in hopes of inspiring stewardship of area creeks and rivers.
What roles does the River Authority have in flood safety?
The recent floods across Texas, especially in Bexar County and the Hill Country, have been a stark reminder of the need for proactive flood planning and coordination. When it comes to flooding, the San Antonio River Authority serves as the technical partner responsible for data collection, modeling, analysis, planning, and making recommendations for flood mitigation projects. I had a recent opportunity to visit with the Chair and a committee member of the State House Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness & Flooding as they were panelists at an Engineering Society meeting. They were very aware of the San Antonio River Authority’s expertise and were appreciative of our efforts.
As a managing partner in the Bexar Regional Watershed Management (BRWM) partnership—which includes the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, the River Authority, and other local municipalities—these efforts are strategically coordinated to address flood risk and water quality concerns across the region. The River Authority’s strong collaboration with these entities ensures that scientifically backed recommendations are made to reduce flood risk and protect communities. I encourage everyone to head to our website and learn what the River Authority does about flood mitigation and management.
Do you have any tips for flood safety?
As we see heavy rainfall (seasonably uncharacteristic this year) in our region; be vigilant! It is important to stay alert and prepared for changing weather conditions. Monitor local forecasts and be aware of flash flood watches or warnings, which can develop rapidly during storms. Before heading out, check bexarflood.org for real-time updates on road closures and low water crossings in your area. If you use the Waze app, the River Authority pushes the same street closures and low water crossings to it as well. Most importantly, take time to educate your family and friends about flood safety, including the dangers of low water crossings and the meaning of key terms like “watch” and “warning,” so everyone is aware and knows how to respond quickly and safely.
How have you been interacting with local creeks and/or the San Antonio River recently?
During my free time, my dog and I enjoy walking and biking along the Salado Creek trail, upstream and downstream from the Walker Ranch Nature Park. It is interesting to watch how the creek’s ecosystem changes with the seasons as wildflowers bloom and tree foliage changes. It is also very fascinating to watch the wildlife, from the baby fawns to the Crested Caracaras that roost and often nest near the Silverhorn Golf Course in the floodplain behind Salado Dam #3 in the Salado Creek watershed.
Crested Caracara—Photo Credit: Peter Joseph, River Warrior Volunteer
About Michael Lackey, P.E.
Michael W. Lackey, P.E. is Principal of Lackey de Carvajal Cx (LCCx), which is an Energy Efficiency Engineering firm. As a LEED Accredited Professional, Lackey verifies that complex building systems perform as intended to achieve energy and water efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions and improve indoor environmental quality. Additionally, Lackey served on the San Antonio Water System Board of Trustees from 2001 to 2009 prior to being elected to the River Authority board in 2009.
Lackey, a native and lifelong San Antonian, is a graduate of Central Catholic High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University and an M.B.A. from the University of Houston.
