National Water Quality Month in Austin

Austin, TX - Whether you're paddling on the lake, cooling off in a swimming hole, fishing, or exploring a greenbelt, healthy waterways make those moments possible. They provide habitat for wildlife, support our community, and make Austin unique. While August is National Water Quality Month, protecting Austin's waterways is something we do every day.

Monitoring Water Quality
Our scientists regularly monitor Austin's springs, creeks, and lakes to detect pollution early and track environmental trends. This data helps us find and address problems as well as develop effective policies that protect Austin’s watersheds.

Water Quality Projects
We design, build, inspect, and maintain stormwater treatment features such as biofiltration ponds and rain gardens that filter pollution from roads, parking lots, buildings, and landscapes before it reaches creeks and lakes.

Protecting Groundwater
Austin has more than 1,500 springs which are fed by underground aquifers. We monitor groundwater quality and levels, investigate reports of unknown water flow to distinguish leaks from natural springs, provide technical expertise for construction projects, and protect sensitive groundwater recharge areas through land conservation.

How You Can Help

• Grow Green: Choose native plants, reduce or eliminate chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and capture rainwater with rain gardens or cisterns.
• Report Water Pollution: Report pollution threats to Austin 3‑1‑1 by phone, online, or through the app. Our investigators respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Scoop the Poop: Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that can wash into our waterways. Remember to bring it, scoop it, and trash it — every stinking time!
• Adopt a Storm Drain: Water entering storm drains flows directly to our creeks, so keeping them clear helps protect water quality and prevent street flooding.

Our collective actions make a real difference for the creeks, lakes, and springs that define our city. Follow us on social media for more National Water Quality Month content and visit AustinTexas.gov/Watershed to learn more about the work we do year-round to protect Austin's watersheds.

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