Drought

Non-native Maple showing damage.

The Drought of 2011 was historic for Texas for a number of reasons, from the agricultural loss, to the long season of wildfires, to the actual time span of the drought. Lake levels dropped up to 30 feet in some areas, averaging at least 15 feet in most areas. With low lake levels, zebra mussels preventing pumping from other lakes, aquifers reduced, and no rain in sight, a vast portion of the state was put on stage 3 water restriction and still remains as a precaution. As such, even the flora in front yards and backyards suffered or died. As spring has sprung, the damage from the drought is still visible especially in non-native species. The canopies are reduced, the branches have fewer leaves, and further along the branches become bare. These are the lucky ones that still have a chance of survival, but are sometimes found alongside another tree baring autumn colors in the middle of spring, a fatality of hard times.