Austin Watershed Protection Department
Recent News About Austin Watershed Protection Department
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Austin approves new project to protect Barton Springs during droughts
On August 29, 2024, the Austin City Council approved a project aimed at protecting Barton Springs during droughts. The Little Bear Recharge Enhancement project will divert water from Little Bear Creek during periods of high flow to a former quarry, where it will recharge the Edwards Aquifer. This initiative is expected to help maintain flows at Barton Springs during drought conditions and enhance the aquifer's resilience against climate change impacts.
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New detour announced for Butler Hike & Bike Trail starting late August
A new detour route on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail at Waller Creek will be implemented on Monday, August 26. The route, varying from eight to 12 feet in width, will take users over Waller Creek via a recently installed lattice bridge. For safety reasons, the entire route will be fenced on either side, and a section of it will be covered for overhead protection.
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Austin promotes National Water Quality Month with community engagement
Austin, TX — August marks National Water Quality Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of maintaining clean and healthy waterways. This month, the City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department invites residents to explore how their work helps preserve the quality of Austin’s creeks, rivers, and springs.
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Detours announced for hike-and-bike trail due to Waterloo Greenway's second phase
Over the next several months, users of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail are urged to slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching Waller Creek. A series of detours will be in place to construct new lattice bridges and the Lagoon Overlook and Leaf Deck for The Confluence, the second phase of the Waterloo Greenway.
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Austin's improved FEMA rating leads to increased flood insurance discounts
On Wednesday, May 29, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed the City of Austin that it was upgrading the city's score in the Community Rating System from a six to a five. This change means that a 25 percent discount will be available for most flood insurance policies in Austin issued or renewed on or after October 1, 2024. Previously, the highest discount available to Austin residents was 20 percent.
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Austin continues pilot program to reduce harmful algae blooms
The City of Austin will conduct its fourth year of a five-year pilot program aimed at reducing harmful algae blooms on parts of Lady Bird Lake. Harmful algae blooms occur when Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, produce toxins. The pilot program involves applying lanthanum-modified clay in specific areas of the lake. This clay binds to phosphorus, a key nutrient for algae, making it unavailable and thereby reducing algae growth.