Can you share an update on the NextGen Flood Warning System and how it connects to your broader flood safety efforts?
Every minute matters when floodwaters begin to rise. The NextGen Flood Warning System is transforming how we protect communities across our region by giving residents, first responders, and local leaders better information faster when decisions matter most. We are improving engineering analysis to better define flood stages and understand real-world impacts. Additionally, we are expanding and upgrading monitoring equipment in areas like Karnes County and strengthening communications to deliver faster, more reliable alerts.
Just as important as our technical efforts is our public outreach through the Floods Don’t Care initiative, which reinforces a simple but critical message: flooding can be deadly no matter the situation. This initiative came out of the devastating floods in 2025, when communities across Central Texas experienced heartbreaking losses during one of the deadliest flood years in decades. It was a tough reminder that flooding can impact anyone, often with very little warning. That’s why we’re not just focusing on better technology—we’re also making sure people have clear, relatable information they can act on. When you bring technical expertise and public awareness together, it puts us in a much better position to reach our ultimate goal: zero flood-related deaths during major rain events.
How do the River Authority’s community events support our mission?
Community gatherings at River Authority parks give us a fun and meaningful way to connect with residents while supporting our mission of keeping creeks and rivers safe, clean, and enjoyable. For example, at a recent Glow Night event, Escondido Creek Parkway was transformed into a glowing gathering place for around 300 guests, including many local families. As children played beneath colorful lights and families filled the splash pad after dark, it was clear that we were creating positive connections between the community and the waterways that are central to our mission. Events like this help us build personal connections and create opportunities to build trust, share safety messages, and inspire community pride in local parks and waterways in an approachable and relevant way.
How is the River Authority expanding its work in Karnes County and surrounding areas?
We’re continuing to strengthen our presence across the southern counties, including Karnes, Wilson, and Goliad, by expanding flood monitoring, enhancing infrastructure, and improving our ability to respond when severe weather threatens our communities. Every new monitoring site and system upgrade helps us better protect residents and provide the timely information they need to stay safe.
At the same time, we’re investing in something equally important by building stronger connections with the communities we serve. Through local events, educational programs, and outreach efforts, we’re creating opportunities to engage residents in meaningful ways and ensure they see the River Authority as a trusted community partner.
One of the most exciting opportunities on the horizon is Phase II of Escondido Creek Parkway. This project will do more than expand recreational amenities—it will help create a more connected community by linking parks, nature trails, and gathering spaces that will connect communities near and around the area. By connecting destinations such as Joe Gully Park, Escondido Creek Parkway, and the Kenedy Convention Center, this investment will encourage outdoor recreation, promote healthy lifestyles, and create a lasting community asset for future generations.
Ultimately, our goal is to help build communities that are not only safer and more resilient but also more connected, vibrant, and prepared for the future.
About Gaylon J. Oehlke
Gaylon J. Oehlke was born and raised in Goliad County, where he attended Goliad High School. After high school, he earned an associate degree in arts at Victoria College. From there he attended Texas A&M University and received a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics in 1972. During this time, Oehlke was a member of the Texas National Guard. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1972 and served seven years in the Guard, ending as commander of Company C, 141st Battalion, in Cuero. Oehlke retired in March 2004 as president of the Kenedy and Robstown credit offices for Capital Farm Credit, ACA, after 32 years of service.
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.
