HOUSTON (July 24, 2012)--The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality warned property owners Tuesday it may have to curtail water rights if the drought that has plagued the state for the past year persists.

Although rains this spring and summer have drenched some areas of the state, including the Dallas area and Southeast Texas,, most of Texas remains in some form of drought.

Most of West Texas and deep South Texas are still in severe or exceptional drought.

The state agency says it informed water rights holders Tuesday it may begin to administer those rights on a priority basis.

Texas law allows landowners with property along a stream or river to use the water.

The TCEQ is responsible for ensuring there are no shortages, especially in times of drought.