Houston Ship Channel: A TMDL Project for Nickel
Houston Ship Channel
Photograph courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife
Counties: Chambers, Galveston, Harris
Parameter: Nickel
Basins: San Jacinto River, Bays and Estuaries
Segments: 1001, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1013, 1014, 1016, 1017, 2426, 2427, 2428, 2429, 2430, 2436
Background and Goals
Data collected in the 1980s and early 1990s caused concern about dissolved nickel concentrations in the Houston Ship Channel system. Sampling associated with this TMDL project used improved techniques that revealed that the threat was much less severe than was originally indicated. Modeling analyses predicted that nickel concentrations could exceed water-quality standards in limited areas during conditions of low flow, but the probability of such an event is small. The goal of this project is to assure that nickel loadings remain below the target amount, and that the water-quality standard will continue to be supported.
TMDLs
The commission first adopted these TMDLs on August 11, 2000. The commission adopted revisions to the TMDLs on June 14, 2002. The EPA approved them on May 9, 2003, at which time they became part of the state's Water Quality Management Plan.
- Fourteen Total Maximum Daily Loads for Nickel in the Houston Ship Channel System
- Response to Public Comment on the TMDLs for Nickel in the Houston Ship Channel
Implementation Plan
- Implementation Plan for the Houston Ship Channel
- Response to Public Comment on the Implementation Plan for the Houston Ship Channel
For More Information
Please e-mail us at tmdl@tceq.texas.gov and reference Houston Ship Channel in the subject line. Or call us at 512-239-6682.
