Leon River: Watershed Protection Plan Implementation
Texas A&M and the Institute of Renewable Natural Resources supported a Technical Assistance and Financial Incentive Program for Coryell County to replace or repair failing septic systems along the Leon River.
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Project Area
River Basin: Brazos
Water Body: Leon River (1221)
Location: Coryell County
Background
Since 1996, portions of the Leon River below Proctor Lake have not met all water quality standards because bacteria concentrations have exceeded the criteria used to evaluate attainment of the primary contact recreation use, and also have concerns for nutrient levels. The Leon River Watershed Protection Plan (WPP), developed to address water quality concerns, was accepted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2015.
Stakeholders helped identify sources of bacteria and suggested pollution reduction strategies for bacteria and nutrients. The WPP identifies septic systems as a source of bacteria in the watershed. The 2000 U.S. Census estimated no fewer than 10% of the 5,800 septic systems in the watershed to be failing, many located in riparian zones. Water quality in multiple assessment units of the Leon River has since improved and now meet standards.
Back to topProject Descriptions
September 2014 – November 2016
Texas A&M and the Institute of Renewable Natural Resources (IRNR) established an on-site sewage facilities (OSSF) Technical Assistance and Financial Incentive Program for Coryell County. An Environmental Officer conducted inspections of OSSFs and provided technical assistance to homeowners and businesses. After failing systems were identified, they were prioritized based on distance to the Leon River and its tributaries. Homeowners and businesses were offered financial incentives to repair or replace the existing failing system. In addition, OSSF education workshops were held throughout the project period.
January 2017 - February 2020
IRNR continued the septic system Technical Assistance and Financial Incentive Program for Coryell County that offered homeowners and businesses financial incentives to repair or replace their failing system. They also held workshops on the function and maintenance requirements of septic systems. IRNR completed 14 new septic system replacements and delivered two additional workshops in coordination with Texas Well Owners Network, Texas A&M AgriLife, and the Texas State and Soil Water Conservation Board.
For More Information
To find out more about the NPS Program, call 512-239-6682 or email us at nps@tceq.texas.gov.