The Middle Neches River Basin includes portions of Cherokee, Angelina, Houston, Trinity, Polk and Tyler counties. Within this area, portions of four adjacent creeks that originate around the City of Lufkin and flow south into the Neches River are consider impaired due to elevated E. coli concentrations. These four creeks are Biloxi, Cedar, Hurricane and Jack Creeks and each has experienced intermittently high E. coli concentrations in recent years.
Through this project, TWRI is investigating current water quality in the watershed through an integrated assessment of existing watershed and water quality data, collection and water quality data analysis, and local watershed stakeholder engagement. We will identify and establish a baseline pollutant source understanding and quantify existing pollutant loads and define load reductions needed to achieve applicable water quality standards.
Objectives
- Evaluate existing data to describe potential causes and sources of pollution in the watershed
- Work with the Angelina & Neches River Authority (ANRA) to supplement existing water quality and quantity data through targeted intensive surface water quality monitoring
- Develop and maintain a successful public participation program, including a general education campaign and stakeholder group
- Establish a working stakeholder group and lead them in the development of a local plan to improve and restore instream water quality
