A drought is generally considered to be a prolonged period of less-than-normal precipitation such that the lack of water causes below average streamflow or lake levels, lowered soil moisture, crop damage, or economic losses.   

A drought contingency plan is a strategy or combination of strategies for monitoring the progression of a drought and preparing a response to potential water supply shortages resulting from severe droughts or other water supply emergencies. 

The Brazos River Authority's drought contingency plan may be viewed here.

 A drought of record is the worst recorded drought since compilation of meteorologic and hydrologic data began.  In terms of severity and duration, the devastating drought of the 1950s is considered the drought of record for many areas in the Brazos River basin. This drought lasted a decade in many places and covered much of the nation, including all of Texas.  In 2008-2009, some parts of the state recorded a new drought of record.

Xeriscaping is a form of landscaping using native plants and those adapted to survive in areas with periods of low precipitation. Using such techniques can be especially helpful in conserving water or in dealing with periods of drought.