From Droughts to Deluges, Texas refuses to Build What Works
After two decades living in the Austin area — 15 years in Georgetown and 5 in Buda — Todd Baumann has seen the pattern repeat far too often: devastating floods followed by prolonged droughts. He believes the best answer is the one Texas used to be known for — dams.
Baumann, now Director of Operations at Special Guests Publicity, is sounding the alarm on the region’s neglected water infrastructure. He points to Lake Georgetown, created decades ago when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the North Fork dam on the San Gabriel River. That project helped control flooding and secured a vital water supply. But the South Fork was left untouched — a decision that’s led to years of unnecessary flooding and an underpowered water system for a rapidly growing population.
With Central Texas booming, Baumann argues it’s time to stop reacting and start planning. He sees enormous potential for strategic dam development — not just for flood prevention, but for drought protection and even recreation.
One of the most obvious opportunities? Onion Creek. Known for frequent flash flooding, it cuts through the south end of Austin and includes McKinney Falls State Park — an area Baumann says could and should become McKinney Falls Lake. A dam there could preserve the park’s natural appeal while creating a much-needed water reservoir.
Baumann is available for interviews to discuss:
- Why Georgetown still relies on a neighboring county for water
- The dangers of ignoring un-dammed waterways like the South Fork and Onion Creek
- How flood control, drought mitigation, and recreation can coexist
- A vision for new lake development in Central Texas
- Why acting now is essential as the region’s population explodes
Whether you’re covering Texas infrastructure, climate resilience, or Austin’s future, Baumann offers a deeply informed and practical voice with real solutions.
Relevant Article(s)
Texas Flooding: At least 82 dead across state as rescue efforts continue | FOX 7 Austin
What to know about the Texas flash floods and the rising death toll | AP News
OPTIONAL Q&A:
- What long-term consequences has Georgetown faced by only damming the North Fork of the San Gabriel?
- Why do you believe McKinney Falls Park is the ideal location for a new lake?
- How has living in both Georgetown and Buda shaped your perspective on flood and drought cycles?
- What role should the state or local government play in building new dams in Central Texas?
- Do you think Austin’s rapid growth makes dam construction more urgent than ever?
- How can dams be built without destroying the natural beauty or public access to places like McKinney Falls?
- What’s your response to critics who argue that dams are outdated or harmful to the environment?
- What specific areas besides Onion Creek do you see as top candidates for future dam projects?
ABOUT TODD BAUMANN…
Todd Baumann is the Director of Operations for Special Guests Publicity, LLC. He lived in the Austin, TX area for 20 years (15 years in Georgetown and five years in Buda). He is very familiar with flooding in the area from a firsthand perspective.
CONTACT: For further details or to arrange the interview, please contact Jerry McGlothlin at 512-966-0983 / Bookings@SeasonalLiving.com
