WATER QUALITY
The waterways of the East Fork San Jacinto River Watershed provide recreational, economic, and environmental benefits to our local communities. Impacts from human and natural sources of contamination can threaten these resources.
Fecal Waste - The East Fork San Jacinto River and some of its tributaries have amounts of fecal contamination above the level the State of Texas allows for waterways used for contact recreation. Pathogens related to human and animal fecal waste can cause illness when people come in contact with contaminated water. Human wastewater (including septic and aerobic systems), wildlife, domestic animals, livestock, and feral hogs are all contributors to this issue in the East Fork of the San Jacinto River.
Trash - Like many waterways in the region, trash entering the East Fork of the San Jacinto River from stormwater or illegal dumping can degrade habitat, exacerbate flooding, and affect the waterway's aestheic and recreational appeal. Sediment and Flow Changes - Development and natural erosion in the East Fork San Jacinto River Watershed can lead to high levels of sediment being transported in the water. When this happens, habitat is degraded, water is harder to treat, and the flow of the waterways can be affected. Impacts of other factors like climate change have increased the volume and velocity of stormwater runoff in the system. For more information on specific water quality issues, or specific locations in the watershed, please visit H-GAC's Water Resources Information Map or contact project staff. |