Study Looks at Region’s Water Quality

As required by the Clean Water Act, local agencies periodically test the region’s waterways for contamination. The 2010 Basin Highlights Report, which was recently release by the Houston-Galveston Area Council, provides a snapshot of water quality conditions and issues.

The study found that the majority of the region’s waterways are not fit for swimming and fishing, but Greens Bayou and a handful of others have shown some improvement. 

The study, which was conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Houston-Galveston Area Council and numerous Clean Rivers Program partners, looked at bacteria levels as well as nutrients and dissolved oxygen in the water, which indicate the amount of oxygen available to sustain aquatic life. Researchers also tested for harmful chemicals in fish tissue.  

Bacteria remains the most widespread threat to the area’s waterways, but figuring out the exact cause of elevated bacteria is not easy. Failing septic tanks, sanitary sewer overflows, poorly maintained waste water treatment plants, agriculture, livestock and pet waste are common culprits.

While Greens Bayou was found to have significant water quality impairments, there is some good news: the bayou had a decreased level of bacteria.  

Rachel Powers, of the Houston-Galveston Area Council, did not know the exact reason for the improvement. She said several factors could have led to a decrease in bacteria, including the City of Houston’s overhaul of sanitary sewer systems and a series of detention basins created by Harris County Flood Control District. 

Detention basins slow the flow of water and allow bacteria to settle, resulting in cleaner water leaving the basin.

Powers also highlighted the work of the Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition.“I think it will get even better,” she said.  “I have no doubt that the Coalition will significantly influence the future of Greens Bayou.”

To view the full report:

 http://www.h-gac.com/community/water/resources/documents/crp_basin_highlights_report_2010.pdf