Attoyac Bayou: Implementing the Watershed Protection Plan
Projects to improve water quality by identifying and addressing issues with septic systems in the area draining to Sam Rayburn Reservoir.
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Project Area
River Basin: Neches
Water Body: Attoyac Bayou (0612)
Location: Cities of Chireno, Attoyac, Martinsville, Grigsby, and Garrison
Background
The Attoyac Bayou extends approximately 82 miles from its headwaters in Rusk County and flows through Nacogdoches, Shelby, and San Augustine counties before emptying into Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Attoyac Bayou (0612) has not met water quality standards for primary contact recreation use due to high fecal bacteria concentrations since 2004.
Attoyac Bayou Watershed Partnership developed the Attoyac Bayou Watershed Protection Plan (WPP) which was accepted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2015. The WPP identifies failing septic systems as a major contributor of bacteria to Attoyac Bayou and recommends septic system remediation. Three project phases have implemented septic system management measures of the WPP.
Back to topProject Descriptions
March 2016 – February 2020
Texas Water Resources Institute (TWRI) provided technical and financial assistance to eligible homeowners for inspection, and repair or replacement of failing septic systems. TWRI assisted country representatives in identifying systems that needed repairs or replacements and disseminated resources for technical assistance. Twenty-four systems were remediated during the project.
October 2019 – August 2022
TWRI continued the septic system inspections, repairs, and replacement program and remediated 15 systems. TWRI also assisted and trained Rusk County officials in electronic record-keeping and management of septic system data, and hosted an online program on Riparian Education.
November 2021 – August 2025
TWRI will continue with the existing program for septic system inspections, repairs, and replacements. They will also distribute educational materials about septic system maintenance via direct mailers.
For More Information
TWRI Attoyac Bayou Watershed Webpage
To find out more about the NPS Program, call 512-239-6682 or email us at nps@tceq.texas.gov.