Watershed Protection protects lives, property and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion and water pollution.
Key Services and Information
Featured Programs and Projects
Flood Safety Video Contest
Our annual Flood Safety Video Contest is now open! Students in grades 6-12 are invited to create their very own short public service announcement (PSA) teaching drivers how to stay safe when water is covering the road and to “Turn Around - Don't Drown®.” Entries are due March 31. For contest details, visit AustinTexas.gov/Flood-Safety-Contest.
2023 Annual Report
The Watershed Protection Department has created an annual report highlighting our progress from the 2023 fiscal year. The City of Austin's fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30. Read the report here: AustinTexas.gov/Watershed/2023.
Floodplain Remapping
The City of Austin, Travis County and other Central Texas communities are updating floodplain maps in the region based on the Atlas 14 study. Our current floodplain maps show where flooding is likely to occur with 10.2 inches of rainfall in 24 hours. The updated maps will reflect flooding from almost 13 inches of rain in some areas. This amount of rainfall has a one percent chance of occurring in any given year (the 100-year storm). Find out more about floodplain remapping efforts at ATXFloodplains.com.
Rain to River
Rain to River is a strategic plan that will guide the work of the Watershed Protection Department for the next 10 years. Our department will use this plan to set goals, prioritize our work, and guide our decision making to tackle urgent challenges such as climate change and racial inequities. The plan will update and replace the current Watershed Protection Strategic Plan. We need your help to draft the plan!
Recommended Video
What's on Facebook?
It’s Flood Safety Awareness Week in Austin! Central Texas is known as “Flash Flood Alley,” & springtime often brings severe weather. Prepare ahead! Visit ATXFloodSafety.com to find the info you need to protect yourself & your family if disaster strikes. Read more on Facebook.