How to Reduce Water Pollution in San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and the iconic San Antonio River Walk. But beneath its scenic beauty lies a growing environmental challenge: water pollution. As urban development expands and climate patterns shift, the quality of San Antonio’s waterways—especially the San Antonio River, Cibolo Creek, and the Edwards Aquifer—faces increasing threats from stormwater runoff, agricultural chemicals, industrial discharge, and improper waste disposal. Reducing water pollution in San Antonio isn’t just about preserving natural beauty; it’s about safeguarding public health, ensuring sustainable water supplies for millions, and protecting the region’s ecological balance. This comprehensive guide provides actionable, science-backed strategies for residents, businesses, community leaders, and policymakers to actively reduce water pollution and contribute to a cleaner, healthier future for the city.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Sources of Water Pollution in San Antonio

Before implementing solutions, it’s essential to identify the primary contributors to water pollution in the region. The most significant sources include:

• Stormwater runoff carrying oil, heavy metals, fertilizers, and pet waste from streets and lawns into storm drains that flow directly into rivers and aquifers.
• Agricultural runoff from surrounding rural areas, containing pesticides, herbicides, and excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
• Improper disposal of household hazardous waste such as paints, solvents, medications, and cleaning chemicals poured down drains or thrown in the trash.
• Septic system failures in older neighborhoods, which can leak untreated sewage into groundwater.
• Industrial discharge from manufacturing and construction sites without adequate containment or treatment.
• Litter and plastic waste entering waterways through wind, rain, or careless disposal.

Understanding these sources allows individuals and communities to target interventions effectively. For example, if stormwater runoff is the leading cause in your neighborhood, installing rain gardens or permeable pavement becomes a top priority.

2. Install Rain Gardens and Bioswales

Rain gardens and bioswales are landscaped depressions designed to capture, filter, and absorb stormwater runoff. They use native plants and porous soils to naturally remove pollutants like oil, heavy metals, and fertilizers before water reaches groundwater or surface streams.

In San Antonio, where rainfall can be intense and sporadic, these features are especially effective. A single residential rain garden can capture up to 30% more runoff than a traditional lawn. To install one:

1. Identify a low-lying area in your yard where water naturally collects.
2. Choose native, drought-tolerant plants such as black-eyed Susan, coneflower, or switchgrass that thrive in both wet and dry conditions.
3. Excavate a shallow basin (6–12 inches deep) and amend the soil with compost and sand to improve infiltration.
4. Direct downspouts or gutter runoff into the garden using splash blocks or underground piping.
5. Maintain the garden by weeding, mulching, and removing debris seasonally.

Many San Antonio residents have partnered with the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) to receive rebates for installing rain gardens. Check SAWS’s website for current incentive programs.

3. Switch to Eco-Friendly Lawn and Garden Care

Lawn fertilizers and pesticides are among the top contributors to nutrient pollution in San Antonio’s waterways. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus from these chemicals trigger algal blooms that deplete oxygen and kill aquatic life.

Adopt these practices to reduce chemical runoff:

• Use organic fertilizers such as compost, bone meal, or fish emulsion instead of synthetic alternatives.
• Apply fertilizers sparingly and only during the recommended growing seasons (spring and early fall). Avoid applying before heavy rain.
• Choose pest-resistant native plants that require fewer chemical treatments. Examples include Texas lantana, Mexican feathergrass, and desert willow.
• Use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or using neem oil, rather than broad-spectrum pesticides.
• Mow higher (3–4 inches) to encourage deeper root systems and reduce water needs.

These changes not only reduce pollution but also lower water bills and create habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

4. Properly Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste

Many residents unknowingly pollute groundwater by pouring old paint, motor oil, or expired medications down the drain. In San Antonio, the city provides multiple drop-off locations for safe disposal of hazardous materials.

Follow these steps:

• Never pour chemicals down storm drains—these lead directly to rivers and aquifers, bypassing wastewater treatment.
• Collect used oil, antifreeze, and solvents in sealed containers and take them to the City of San Antonio’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 12550 San Pedro Ave.
• Dispose of medications safely by using drop-boxes at participating pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens) or at the SAWS Water Conservation Center.
• Recycle batteries and electronics at designated e-waste collection points, such as the San Antonio Recycling Center.
• Label all containers clearly and store them out of reach of children and pets until disposal.

Proper disposal prevents toxic substances from leaching into the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies 90% of San Antonio’s drinking water.

5. Maintain and Upgrade Septic Systems

Approximately 15% of households in the greater San Antonio area rely on septic systems. When poorly maintained, these systems can leak untreated sewage into the soil and groundwater.

To prevent contamination:

• Have your septic tank inspected every 1–3 years by a licensed professional.
• Pump the tank every 3–5 years, depending on usage and tank size.
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or grease, which clog systems and cause backups.
• Plant grass over the drain field—never trees or shrubs, whose roots can damage pipes.
• Conserve water to avoid overloading the system. Install low-flow showerheads and fix leaks promptly.

Residents in unincorporated areas can contact Bexar County’s Environmental Health Division for free septic system assessments and maintenance guidance.

6. Reduce Single-Use Plastics and Participate in Cleanups

Plastic pollution is a growing threat to San Antonio’s creeks and rivers. Microplastics have been found in the San Antonio River and even in the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.

Take action by:

• Using reusable water bottles, bags, and containers instead of disposable alternatives.
• Choosing products with minimal packaging and supporting local businesses that use compostable or recyclable materials.
• Joining community cleanups organized by River Walk Conservancy, San Antonio River Authority (SARA), or Keep San Antonio Beautiful.
• Installing a mesh filter on storm drains if you live near a creek or drainage ditch—these catch litter before it enters waterways.

Volunteer cleanups not only remove visible trash but also raise public awareness. In 2023, over 5,000 volunteers removed more than 80 tons of debris from San Antonio’s waterways during the annual River Sweep event.

7. Advocate for Green Infrastructure in Public Spaces

Individual actions matter, but systemic change requires policy and infrastructure investment. Residents can influence city planning by:

• Attending city council meetings and urging officials to prioritize green infrastructure projects like permeable pavements, green roofs, and constructed wetlands.
• Supporting bond initiatives that fund water quality improvements, such as the 2022 SAWS Water Quality Bond that allocated $100 million for stormwater management.
• Collaborating with local schools to create student-led water monitoring programs that track pollution levels in nearby creeks.
• Partnering with neighborhood associations to install rain barrels, native plant buffers, and signage that educates the public about pollution prevention.

San Antonio’s Green Infrastructure Plan aims to manage 70% of stormwater runoff through natural systems by 2040. Public support accelerates progress.

8. Monitor Water Quality and Report Pollution

Early detection of pollution can prevent large-scale environmental damage. Residents can become citizen scientists by:

• Using free water testing kits available through SAWS and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to check for nitrates, pH, and turbidity in local streams.
• Downloading the TCEQ’s “Report an Environmental Concern” app to photograph and submit pollution incidents (e.g., oil sheens, illegal dumping) with GPS coordinates.
• Joining the San Antonio River Authority’s “Adopt-A-Stream” program, which trains volunteers to collect data on water quality, macroinvertebrates, and habitat conditions.

These reports help agencies prioritize cleanup efforts and enforce environmental regulations. In 2022, citizen reports led to the identification and remediation of three illegal discharge sites along Cibolo Creek.

Best Practices

1. Adopt a “Pollution Prevention First” Mindset

The most effective way to reduce water pollution is to prevent it from entering the environment in the first place. This means shifting from reactive cleanup to proactive prevention. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or municipal employee, ask: “How can we stop this pollutant before it reaches the ground or storm drain?”

2. Prioritize Native Landscaping

Native plants are adapted to San Antonio’s climate and soil, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pesticides. They also have deep root systems that stabilize soil and filter pollutants. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center recommends over 50 native species ideal for South Texas landscapes, including Texas mountain laurel, yucca, and American beautyberry.

3. Implement Water-Efficient Irrigation

Overwatering contributes to runoff and carries pollutants into waterways. Install smart irrigation controllers that adjust watering based on weather data and soil moisture. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation, and use drip irrigation for shrubs and gardens instead of sprinklers.

4. Educate Your Community

Knowledge is power. Host workshops at community centers, libraries, or places of worship on topics like “How Your Lawn Affects the River” or “What Happens When You Flush Medications?” Distribute bilingual (English/Spanish) flyers and use social media to share infographics and short videos.

5. Support Local Businesses That Practice Sustainability

Choose restaurants, salons, and auto shops that use eco-friendly products and have proper grease traps, oil recycling, and chemical disposal protocols. Support farmers’ markets that use organic practices and minimal packaging.

6. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—Especially Near Waterways

Always dispose of waste in designated bins. Never leave trash, even biodegradable items like fruit peels, near creeks or storm drains—they can still contribute to nutrient loading and attract pests that degrade water quality.

7. Engage Youth and Schools

Children who learn about water conservation early become lifelong stewards. Encourage schools to integrate water quality into science curricula. Organize field trips to the San Antonio River Foundation’s education center or the San Antonio Zoo’s Aquatic Conservation Program.

8. Collaborate Across Jurisdictions

Water doesn’t respect city limits. Work with neighboring communities like New Braunfels, Live Oak, and Universal City to coordinate watershed management, share resources, and advocate for regional policies that protect shared aquifers and streams.

Tools and Resources

San Antonio Water System (SAWS)

SAWS offers a wealth of resources for residents, including:

• Free rain barrel and native plant giveaways
• Water conservation rebates for efficient appliances
• Interactive maps showing stormwater infrastructure and pollution hotspots
• Workshops on sustainable landscaping and water-wise gardening

Website: https://www.saws.org

San Antonio River Authority (SARA)

SARA manages the San Antonio River Basin and provides:

• Volunteer monitoring kits and training
• Guides for installing rain gardens and bioswales
• Annual River Sweep event registration
• Water quality reports and real-time stream data

Website: https://www.sariverauthority.org

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

TCEQ offers:

• Free water testing kits for residents
• Online reporting tool for pollution incidents
• Regulatory guidance for businesses and developers
• Grants for watershed protection projects

Website: https://www.tceq.texas.gov

Keep San Antonio Beautiful (KSAB)

KSAB coordinates citywide cleanups and waste reduction campaigns:

• Adopt-A-Street and Adopt-A-Stream programs
• Recycling education in schools
• Annual “Greening the City” awards for sustainable businesses

Website: https://www.ksab.org

Native Plant Database (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center)

Search for appropriate native plants by location, sun exposure, and soil type:

Website: https://www.wildflower.org/plants

Smart Irrigation Controller Rebates

SAWS offers up to $150 rebates for installing Wi-Fi-enabled irrigation controllers. Visit the SAWS Rebates page for eligibility details.

Mobile Apps

• TCEQ Report an Environmental Concern – Submit pollution incidents with photos and location.
• MySAWS – Track water usage, report leaks, and access conservation tips.
• iNaturalist – Document wildlife and plant health near waterways to monitor ecosystem changes.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Mission Reach Restoration Project

Between 2013 and 2020, the San Antonio River Authority transformed 8 miles of the San Antonio River from a concrete-lined channel into a natural, biodiverse corridor. The project included:

• Removal of concrete barriers and recontouring of riverbanks
• Planting of over 100,000 native trees and shrubs
• Installation of permeable walkways and bioswales
• Creation of wetland areas to filter stormwater

Results: Water quality improved by 40% in dissolved oxygen levels, aquatic species increased by 60%, and sediment runoff decreased by 75%. The project became a national model for urban river restoration.

Example 2: The Alamo Heights High School Rain Garden Initiative

Students in Alamo Heights High’s Environmental Science Club partnered with SAWS to design and install a 1,200-square-foot rain garden on campus. The garden captures runoff from the school’s parking lot and cafeteria roof.

Students monitored water quality before and after installation, collecting data on phosphorus and E. coli levels. Their findings were presented to the city council and contributed to the adoption of a district-wide stormwater management policy for public schools.

Example 3: The “Don’t Flush It” Campaign

In 2021, a coalition of San Antonio pharmacies, clinics, and environmental groups launched a public awareness campaign to stop flushing medications. Posters in restrooms, radio spots in Spanish and English, and social media influencers shared the message: “Flushing pills pollutes your water.”

Within 18 months, medication drop-off usage increased by 220%, and water tests near wastewater outfalls showed a 30% reduction in pharmaceutical residues.

Example 4: The San Antonio Brewery’s Water Stewardship Program

One of the city’s largest craft breweries implemented a closed-loop water system that recycles 95% of its process water. They also partnered with SAWS to treat and reuse graywater for irrigation and installed a grease trap that captures 99% of cooking oils.

The brewery now reports a 60% reduction in water consumption and zero discharge of hazardous waste into the municipal system. Their model has inspired over a dozen other local businesses to follow suit.

Example 5: The East Side Community Rain Barrel Program

In a low-income neighborhood near the San Antonio River, a nonprofit organization distributed over 500 free rain barrels to residents. Each barrel collects roof runoff for use in gardening, reducing stormwater volume and lowering water bills.

Residents reported a 30% drop in summer water usage and a noticeable decrease in localized flooding during heavy rains. The program has since expanded to three additional neighborhoods.

FAQs

What is the biggest source of water pollution in San Antonio?

Stormwater runoff is the largest contributor. It carries oil, fertilizers, pet waste, and litter from streets, driveways, and lawns directly into rivers and aquifers through storm drains, which often lead untreated to waterways.

Can I test my local creek for pollution?

Yes. SAWS and TCEQ offer free water testing kits to residents. You can also join the “Adopt-A-Stream” program to receive training and equipment for ongoing monitoring.

How do I report illegal dumping into a storm drain?

Use the TCEQ “Report an Environmental Concern” app or call their hotline at 1-888-777-3186. Provide the location, time, and description of the incident. Photos are helpful.

Are rain barrels legal in San Antonio?

Yes. San Antonio encourages rainwater harvesting. SAWS even offers rebates for purchasing and installing rain barrels. No permit is required for residential use.

Do I need a permit to install a rain garden?

No permit is needed for small residential rain gardens. However, if you plan to modify drainage patterns significantly or install large-scale systems, consult SAWS or the city’s Development Services Department for guidance.

How does water pollution affect my health?

Polluted water can contain harmful bacteria (like E. coli), heavy metals (lead, arsenic), and chemicals that cause gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes, and long-term health issues. Since the Edwards Aquifer supplies drinking water, pollution here directly impacts public health.

Can I use vinegar or baking soda instead of chemical cleaners?

Absolutely. Vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap are effective, non-toxic alternatives for cleaning driveways, sinks, and laundry. They won’t harm aquatic life or contaminate groundwater.

What should I do if I see oil on a creek?

Do not touch it. Take photos and report it immediately to TCEQ using their app or hotline. Oil sheens often indicate illegal dumping or leaking equipment, which requires professional cleanup.

How can businesses reduce their water pollution footprint?

Businesses should implement spill containment plans, install grease traps, recycle used oil, avoid chemical disposal down drains, and train employees on proper waste handling. Many receive recognition and incentives through SAWS’s Green Business Program.

Is it safe to swim in the San Antonio River?

Water quality varies by location and season. Check the SARA website for real-time E. coli readings before swimming. Avoid swimming after heavy rains, as runoff can spike bacteria levels.

Conclusion

Reducing water pollution in San Antonio is not a task for government agencies alone—it is a collective responsibility that begins with individual choices and grows through community action. From installing a rain garden in your backyard to advocating for green infrastructure in city planning, every effort compounds into meaningful change. The Edwards Aquifer, the San Antonio River, and countless creeks are more than natural features; they are lifelines for millions of people, wildlife, and future generations.

The solutions outlined in this guide—eco-friendly landscaping, proper hazardous waste disposal, community cleanups, and policy advocacy—are proven, practical, and accessible to everyone. You don’t need a degree in environmental science to make a difference. You only need awareness, commitment, and the willingness to act.

San Antonio has already demonstrated its capacity for innovation and resilience. The Mission Reach restoration, the “Don’t Flush It” campaign, and the proliferation of native plant gardens show that when communities come together, transformation is possible. Now is the time to build on that momentum. Choose one action from this guide and start today. Then invite a neighbor to join you. Together, we can ensure that San Antonio’s waters remain clean, vibrant, and life-giving for centuries to come.