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Questions or Comments: nps@tceq.texas.gov

Tres Palacios Creek: Septic System Repair and Replacement

The Texas Water Resources Institute is offering septic system inspections and, if needed, repair or replacement of malfunctioning septic systems to homeowners in the Tres Palacios Creek watershed.

Background

Tres Palacios Creek is the primary source of freshwater for Tres Palacios Bay, which opens into Matagorda Bay. Since 2006, the tidal segment of Tres Palacios Creek (1501) has not met state water quality standards for bacteria or dissolved oxygen. In 2016, Texas Water Resources Institute (TWRI), Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research, and TCEQ worked with stakeholders to develop the Tres Palacios Watershed Protection Plan (WPP) the TCEQ to improve water quality. The WPP was accepted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2018.

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Project Description

The Tres Palacios WPP identifies septic systems as a source of nonpoint source pollution and recommends management measures to address failing septic systems. Under this project, TWRI coordinates with Matagorda County and the Tres Palacios Oaks and Tidewater Oaks subdivisions to lead local efforts to expand septic system inspection, repair, and replacement efforts, and to deliver educational materials and programs focused on the purpose, proper installation, operation, and maintenance of septic systems. Septic system owners in the watershed are able to apply for inspection and repair or replacement of malfunctioning systems. The project selects sites on the basis of the risk to water quality and the feasibility of correcting their problems, and provide public outreach and education on properly operating and maintaining septic systems.

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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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