Mc Ginnis Lochridge & Kilgore: Russ Johnson

In a state as vast and diverse as Texas, issues concerning natural resources, particularly water, are of paramount importance. From agricultural needs and industrial operations to urban development and environmental conservation, navigating the complex web of water law and environmental regulations requires a highly specialized and experienced legal professional. For landowners, industries, mineral owners, and developers across the Lone Star State, Russ Johnson at McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore stands out as a leading authority in this critical field, offering multifaceted expertise and a deep understanding of Texas-specific challenges.

Russ Johnson's practice at McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore is dedicated to helping clients acquire, safeguard, develop, or convey water resources, and advocating on their behalf before courts, the Texas Legislature, and administrative agencies. He understands that the rules and regulations imposed on landowners by governmental agencies can be a major challenge. With a background that uniquely combines legal knowledge with a scientific understanding of biology and chemistry, Russ provides invaluable insight into the technical complexities his clients face, helping them work more effectively towards achieving their goals.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Russ Johnson and the specialized legal services offered through McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore. We will highlight why this firm and its attorneys are an exceptional choice for locals in Texas, emphasizing their accessible Austin location, the precise legal services they provide in the critical areas of water, environmental, and oil & gas law, the unique features that set them apart, and how to get in touch for your specific legal needs. For Texans facing challenges related to water rights, environmental compliance, or the intersection of energy and natural resource law, understanding the expertise of Russ Johnson is a crucial step towards securing robust and knowledgeable representation.

McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore, where Russ Johnson is a highly esteemed attorney, is conveniently located in the heart of Austin, Texas. Their office can be found at 600 Congress Ave. #2100, Austin, TX 78701, USA. This prominent address places the firm within a key legal and business district, making it easily accessible for clients from across Austin and throughout the broader Texas region.

The location on Congress Avenue is particularly advantageous for clients, as it situates the firm in close proximity to various state and federal courts, relevant government agencies, and other essential legal and financial institutions. For local Texans, this means reduced travel time and enhanced convenience when managing their legal affairs related to complex areas like water and environmental law, which often involve interaction with regulatory bodies. Whether traveling from different parts of Austin or from surrounding communities, the firm's central placement ensures practical access to their specialized services.

Being based in Austin, the state capital, provides Russ Johnson and his team with a unique vantage point and unparalleled insights into Texas's legislative processes and regulatory landscape. This local presence is more than just a physical address; it fosters a deeper familiarity with the specific legal nuances, administrative practices, and judicial environment that directly impact clients in the natural resources sector. This localized understanding, combined with convenient accessibility, means Texans can benefit from a legal team that not only knows the law but also truly understands the community and its specific legal challenges related to water and environmental issues.

Russ Johnson has a multifaceted legal practice with a strong emphasis on critical areas concerning Texas's natural resources and regulatory environment. His specialized expertise covers:

• Water Law: This is a core focus of Russ Johnson's practice. He has comprehensive experience centered around preserving and protecting property rights and ownership in water resources. This includes defending landowners' property rights in matters before groundwater districts and in court, even at the Supreme Court of Texas. He represents clients in numerous transactions involving water and defends clients' water use and rights against regulatory impact. His experience extends to legislative efforts to modernize Texas water law with landmark bills like Senate Bill 1 (1997) and Senate Bill 2 (2001), and subsequent legislation related to groundwater management, including the Edwards Aquifer Authority. He also advises on the use and disposal of water in oil and gas hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") operations.

• Environmental Law (with emphasis on Endangered Species Act - ESA): Russ's environmental law experience is focused significantly on the Endangered Species Act (ESA). He has represented clients in litigation related to the Edwards Aquifer, playing a major role in drafting legislation that prevented injunctive relief limiting a municipal client's water use. He advises clients on pre- and post-listing strategies and ESA compliance, and has assisted efforts to prevent species from being listed as endangered by creating and implementing pre-listing plans in connection with oil and gas operations.

• Oil & Gas / Energy Litigation: Oil and gas clients frequently require assistance concerning the use and disposal of water in connection with fracking operations. Russ provides invaluable expertise and advice on exemptions from and compliance with groundwater usage regulations, particularly involving various groundwater districts in areas like the Eagle Ford Shale and the Barnett Shale. He also handles issues with drilling ordinances adopted by various municipalities.

• Legislative & Governmental Relations: Given his extensive participation in legislation related to groundwater management and his advocacy before the Texas Legislature, Russ Johnson is highly skilled in governmental relations. He has a deep understanding of how state policy and administrative agencies impact water, environmental, and energy sectors, providing clients with crucial insights and representation in the legislative arena.

His ability to tackle complex, technically challenging issues in these interwoven practice areas makes him a distinguished legal resource for Texans.

Russ Johnson brings several distinctive features and highlights to his practice at McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore, making him an invaluable asset for clients across Texas.

• Unmatched Water Law Expertise and Recognition: Russ Johnson is a recognized authority in Water Law. He has been named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for Water Law in Austin (2025) and is recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for both Environmental Law and Water Law. His extensive participation in critical state legislation, such as Senate Bill 1 and 2, which modernized Texas water law, further solidifies his standing as a leading expert.

• Unique Scientific Background: Holding a B.A. in biology and chemistry in addition to his law degree, Russ possesses a rare and valuable understanding of the technical and scientific complexities inherent in water and environmental law. This multidisciplinary knowledge allows him to effectively bridge the gap between scientific realities and legal frameworks, providing more comprehensive and effective solutions for his clients.

• Proven Legislative and Administrative Advocacy: Russ advocates on behalf of clients not just in courts, but also before the Texas Legislature and administrative agencies. His experience includes representing a large municipal water system in legislative efforts to create the Edwards Aquifer Authority, showcasing his ability to influence policy and navigate regulatory environments at the highest levels.

• High-Stakes Litigation Experience: He has a track record of defending landowners' property rights in significant cases, including before the Supreme Court of Texas (e.g., Guitar Holding Co. v. Hudspeth County Underground Water District). This demonstrates his capability to handle complex and high-stakes litigation, protecting clients' vital interests.

• Comprehensive Client Support: Whether dealing with groundwater districts, water transactions, or defending against regulatory impact, Russ provides a holistic approach to water resource management. He also advises on emerging issues and compliance, ensuring clients are well-prepared for present and future challenges.

• Active Role in Shaping Texas Water Law: Russ has not just practiced water law; he has actively participated in shaping it. His deep involvement in developing state legislation for the management of the Edwards Aquifer and modernizing Texas water law underscores his profound influence and expertise in the field.

Based on the publicly available information, specific "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense, such as discounted rates or package deals, are not explicitly detailed for Russ Johnson or McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore. For a highly specialized and distinguished attorney like Russ Johnson, whose expertise is in critical and complex areas such as water law, environmental law, and legislative advocacy, the value proposition typically lies in the depth of his knowledge, extensive experience, and proven track record of success, rather than promotional pricing.

The inherent "offer" from Russ Johnson is the opportunity for clients in Texas to secure representation from one of the state's leading authorities in water and environmental law. His unique scientific background, decades of experience in shaping and navigating Texas water policy, and his history of advocating successfully before courts and the legislature provide a compelling reason for engaging his services. For clients facing high-stakes issues related to property rights, water resources, or environmental compliance, the peace of mind that comes from having such specialized and influential counsel is the ultimate value.

Prospective clients in Texas are strongly encouraged to directly contact McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore to discuss their specific legal needs related to water, environmental, or oil & gas matters. During an initial consultation, they can inquire about the firm’s fee structure and how Russ Johnson’s specific expertise aligns with their unique situation. This direct communication will allow potential clients to understand the investment involved and to ascertain how his comprehensive knowledge and strategic advocacy can effectively serve their interests.

For anyone in Texas seeking highly specialized legal assistance, particularly in water law, environmental issues, or oil & gas matters, connecting with Russ Johnson and the team at McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore is straightforward.

• Address: 600 Congress Ave. #2100, Austin, TX 78701, USA

• Phone: (512) 495-6063

• Mobile Phone: +1 512-495-6063

These contact details provide direct lines to their Austin office, allowing you to easily schedule an appointment, inquire about their specialized services, or discuss your specific legal situation. The central Austin address makes their office easily identifiable and accessible for those residing in the capital city or traveling from other parts of Texas. When facing complex legal matters involving valuable natural resources or intricate regulatory frameworks, direct communication is the most effective first step to secure highly experienced and dedicated legal representation from a firm deeply embedded in the state's legal and legislative landscape.

For locals in Texas, particularly those involved in industries or owning land affected by water rights, environmental regulations, or oil and gas operations, Russ Johnson at McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore is an exceptionally suitable choice for legal representation. His status as a leading authority in Water Law, recognized by prestigious legal publications, underscores his unparalleled expertise in a field that is vital to the state's economy and its residents' well-being.

Choosing a local attorney who not only understands the intricacies of Texas law but has also actively participated in shaping it, offers an immense advantage. Russ Johnson’s unique blend of legal and scientific knowledge allows him to navigate the highly technical aspects of water and environmental issues with precision, translating complex information into clear, actionable legal strategies. His proven track record of advocating effectively before courts, the legislature, and administrative agencies means clients receive robust and influential representation.

Whether you are a landowner seeking to protect your water rights, an industry grappling with environmental compliance, or an energy company facing regulatory challenges, Russ Johnson offers the experience, dedication, and local insight necessary to guide you to a favorable outcome. For any Texan facing high-stakes issues related to natural resources, partnering with Russ Johnson means securing a legal advocate who is not only a recognized expert but also deeply committed to safeguarding your interests within the unique legal and environmental landscape of Texas.