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San Marcos River: Spring Lake Watershed Characterization

The River Systems Institute at Texas State University identified and quantified primary sources of nutrients and turbidity in Spring Lake.

Background

Spring Lake, the headwaters of the San Marcos River, is fed by Sink Creek and 200 artesian springs, and is home to five endangered or threatened species. Increasing turbidity and blooms of algae after rainfall events have indicated growing nonpoint sources of nutrients and suspended solids.

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Project Description

The River Systems Institute (RSI) at Texas State University collected data about storm flow, water quality, and land use in the Spring Lake watershed. These data were used to identify and target sources of nutrient inputs to Spring Lake and to determine the influence of various sources of water on the algae and turbidity of Spring Lake. Results were included in a Watershed Characterization Report which also identified strategies for managing nutrients and sediment and informed the development of the San Marcos River Watershed Protection Plan. RSI completed this project in December 2012.

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For More Information

To find out more about the NPS Program, call 512-239-6682 or e-mail us at nps@tceq.texas.gov.

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