AUSTIN, TX – The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department has published its 2024 Annual Report, capturing a year of achievements in flood management, erosion control, and water quality improvements.

Key Highlights from 2024

• Higher flood insurance discount: Improved Austin’s score in FEMA’s Community Rating System, increasing discounts for federally-backed flood insurance policies up to 25%.

• Little Bear Recharge Enhancement: Began construction to divert creek flows to a former quarry, recharging the Edward’s Aquifer and enhancing groundwater sources to Barton Springs Pool, thus increasing the aquifer's climate resilience.

• Upgraded Flood Early Warning System: Installed new cameras and flashing beacons, strengthening the city’s response to flood risks.

Core Missions

• Flooding: Cleared debris from 12.4 miles of creeks, channels, and ditches, and installed or replaced 3,616 feet of storm drain infrastructure. The Waller Creek Tunnel diverted 29 flood events, removing 1,478 tons of debris.

• Erosion: Stabilized 2,481 feet of eroding stream channels, preventing property damage and restoring critical habitats.

• Water Quality: Removed millions of gallons of pollutants from runoff, repaired multiple water quality ponds, and advanced water monitoring through the Environmental Integrity Index 2.0.

“Reflecting on the progress we’ve made guides our path forward,” said Jorge Morales, Watershed Protection Department Director. “As we look ahead, we will build on these successes and continue serving the evolving needs of Austinites.”

Read the full 2024 Annual Report at wpdatx.my.canva.site/2024. Follow @AustinWatershed on Facebook and X for updates.

###

About Watershed Protection  

The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department protects lives, property and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flood, erosion and water pollution. Visit AustinTexas.gov/Watershed to learn more.