© Louis Vest (LandScope Texas Banner)
Watersheds in Texas
© Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Texas Wetlands photo
It may come as a surprise to learn that Texas, often thought of as a relatively dry state, contains millions of acres of wetlands of varying types. Fifteen major rivers and 3,700 named streams meander 191,000 miles through the Texas landscape. These aquatic ecosystems play an essential role in protecting water quality, preventing erosion, and providing nutrients and habitat for wildlife. Along the way, water that eventually flows into seven major estuaries supports more than 200 reservoirs, countless riparian habitats, wetlands, and terrestrial areas.
In addition to the wide array of ecological functions, Texas waterways prove invaluable to humankind. With wise use and conservation, we can insure Texas wetlands will still exist for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
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© mlhradio (Texas Rivers image)
Texas Rivers
by Cindy Loeffler
Regional water planning groups in Texas have the option of recommending to the Legislature that rivers meeting certain criteria be designated as "ecologically unique," making them off-limits to reservoir construction. Several rivers and streams now have that designation and several more have been nominated.