How Clean is the Concho River?

LCRA Water Quality Datamap

The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) combines their data with that of the Upper Colorado River Authority (UCRA), the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and the Concho River Conservancy (as part of the Clean Rivers Program/Texas Stream Team effort) to help keep the public informed on water quality. Click the picture to dig into the water quality of the Concho near you!

one of the 21 pristine rivers

Both the Middle and South Concho were designated as "pristine" by the Texas Legislature in 2025 as they attempted to prevent any future wastewater discharge. The measure ultimately failed but this map paints a picture of current river health.

What You Can Do to Prevent Nonpoint Source (NPS) Pollution

in your household

Keep litter, pet wastes, leaves and debris out of street gutters and storm drains—these outlets drain directly to lake, streams, and rivers.
Apply lawn and garden chemicals sparingly and according to directions.
Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints and other household chemicals properly—not in storm sewers or drains. If your community does not already have a program for collecting household hazardous wastes, ask your local government to establish one.
Clean up spilled brake fluid, oil, grease and antifreeze. Do not hose them into the street where they can eventually reach local streams and lakes.
Control soil erosion on your property by planting ground cover and stabilizing erosion-prone areas.
Encourage local government officials to develop construction erosion and sediment control ordinances in your community.
Have your septic system inspected and pumped, at a minimum every three to five years, so that it operates properly.
Purchase household detergents and cleaners that are low in phosphorous to reduce the amount of nutrients discharged into our lakes and rivers.

in agriculture

Manage animal manures to minimize losses to surface water and ground water.
Reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss by using appropriate conservation practice systems and other applicable best management practices.
Use planned grazing systems on pasture and rangeland.
Dispose of pesticides, containers, and tank rinsate in an approved manner.
Work with conservation partners locally like the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Districts or USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to understand local strategies.