This publication is intended to provide Texans with an overview of these various water management and protection entities at the state, regional, and local level. (Federal decision-makers on water matters are not covered in this publication since information about the federal level is provided in a number of national documents). Please keep in mind that these thousands of water entities directly affect your water supply, including the rate you will pay for the water you use. When it comes to your pocketbook and your health, it certainly does matter; it garners our attention, and begs for steps we can take to be more in control. Throughout the text, therefore, the readers will encounter two symbols appearing the margins to help guide you to material that is particularly important and to alert you to opportunities to participate in the water decision-making process. We hope that this knowledge will empower you to follow the activities of these water entities and to make our voices heard by water decision-makers. A separate Sierra Club publication gives readers step-by-step instructions on how to make your voice heard on water issues.