As you may remember, the Long Branch permit plans to dump 92,000 gallons/day of treated sewage into a tributary into Barton Creek, which is the same as dumping three standard sized pools (20 ft by 40 ft) filled with wastewater into the creek every day. SBCA is concerned about this permit because new research indicates that miles of Barton Creek would experience an increase in algae growth from the excess nutrients found in the effluent water.
Recently, we spoke to Spectrum News Austin about how the permit will have negative ecological impacts on Barton Creek and how residents can protect their waterways. Our executive director, Angela Richter, emphasized how the permit will cause excess algae in Barton Creek, which will ruin the appearance, recreational value, wildlife habitat, and water quality of the creek. Check out the news article here.
If you are concerned about the Long Branch permit, please show your support by 1) signing the No Dumping Sewage petition and (2) writing a comment to TCEQ about your concerns (Permit No. WQ0015594001), and ask TCEQ to reject the Long Branch wastewater permit to protect Barton Creek. If your community group wants SBCA to give a presentation about the permit, please email Angela Richter at angela@savebartoncreek.org. Let’s come together for a healthier Austin!
