Texas is home to some of the last remaining pristine streams in the country — clear, spring-fed waterways with naturally low levels of nutrients like phosphorus. These streams, many of which flow through the Hill Country, are increasingly at risk from wastewater discharge permits that allow treated sewage to be released directly into fragile aquatic systems.

Senate Bill 1911, filed by Senator Sarah Eckhardt, offers a critical opportunity to change that.

The bill would prevent the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) from issuing new discharge permits on designated pristine streams — streams with extremely low levels of naturally occurring phosphorus — and instead encourage treated wastewater to be applied to land through irrigation, a method already widely used across much of Texas.

This approach isn’t theoretical — it’s necessary. The ongoing situation on the South San Gabriel River, where Liberty Hill’s discharge has triggered long-term algae blooms, provides a clear warning. Even with the lowest phosphorus limits ever issued by TCEQ, the city’s wastewater continues to overwhelm the river’s natural balance. Other pristine streams, including Barton Creek, could face similar outcomes if action isn’t taken.

SB 1911 does three major things:

• Identifies and protects streams with naturally low phosphorus levels from wastewater discharge.
• Continues to allow wastewater irrigation permits on these streams.
• Prohibits new discharge permits for treated sewage into these sensitive waterways.



A growing body of evidence shows that irrigation permits are both effective and practical. In 2019, the Blanco River suffered from excessive algae when the City of Blanco temporarily discharged wastewater; once irrigation resumed in 2020, the algae cleared. Around the Highland Lakes, TCEQ has blocked new discharge permits since 1986, and development has continued to thrive using land application methods.

Preserving these water bodies is also an economic issue. Hill Country tourism — from paddling and fishing to summer camps, B&Bs, and breweries — relies on clean, scenic rivers. In 2024, travelers spent more than $12.4 billion in the region, supporting over 100,000 local jobs.

With development booming, the stakes are only growing. SB 1911 offers a clear, science-based path forward. It deserves full support from lawmakers, agencies, and the public.

[Photo: Blanco River below Blanco Waste Water Treatment Plant when Discharging Effluent]

The City of Blanco is seeking to amend its wastewater treatment permit — a change that could increase nutrient levels discharged into the Blanco River, potentially worsening water quality and triggering more harmful algal blooms. These blooms have already become common between Blanco and Wimberley, threatening aquatic life, recreation, and the health of the Edwards and Trinity Aquifers as well as the San Marcos River.

While the City of Blanco has met current discharge limits, the river is showing signs of nutrient overload. We believe this section of the Blanco is already at or beyond its capacity to absorb additional nutrient input — and any changes to the permit must reflect this reality.

This local issue is part of a broader challenge across Texas. Senate Bill 1911, would protect our last remaining pristine streams by prohibiting new wastewater discharge permits on waterways with naturally low phosphorus levels — including Barton Creek and sections of the Blanco River.

We’re calling on residents to submit public comments to TCEQ requesting a formal public meeting and voicing concerns about the potential impact of this permit amendment.

• Submit your comments to TCEQ
• Read the Watershed Association’s comments to TCEQ

Now is the time to ensure that the Blanco River isn’t pushed beyond its limits. Thoughtful water management today will shape the health of our rivers and aquifers for years to come.

[Photo by: Sean Mathis]

Wimberley locals Skylar Wilson and Max Piotrzkowski, driven by their shared passion for music and their love for water, brought the fourth installment of the Something in the Water live music series to life with an unforgettable evening at the 7A Ranch Opera House.

Featuring powerful performances by RedBud, Buffalo Hunt, and Shakey Graves, the night was a celebration of creativity, community, and conservation. Proceeds from the series benefit the Watershed Association, supporting the protection of our region’s springs, creeks, and aquifers.

Looking for a way to get outside and give back?

Join the Watershed Association for a hands-on volunteer morning at Cypress Creek Preserve on Friday, May 23, from 10 AM to 12 PM.

We’ll be clearing trails, spreading native seeds, and helping care for this vital Hill Country habitat. It’s a great way to connect with the land, meet fellow stewards, and make a real impact.

Volunteers must be 18+ and able to lift at least 10 pounds. We hope to see you out there!

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