Clean Rivers Program
The Clean Rivers Program operates under the Clean Rivers Act, which was passed by the Texas Legislature in 1991 with the goal of assessing and improving the state’s water resources.
The Act authorizes the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to levy fees on wastewater and water rights permits to cover the expense of the program. TCEQ then contracts with river authorities or regional entities to perform specific tasks within each river basin, mostly involving water quality. Typically, the most developed and populous areas of the state, such as the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, contribute substantial funding to the CRP. The CRP Steering Committee serves as its guiding body, and suggestions from its members serve as the genesis for many of the special studies conducted within the Trinity River basin.
The Trinity River has a long history of water quality challenges, dating back to the turn of the century when it was known as a "river of death" because of slaughterhouse operations and a rapidly swelling population. Over the past several decades, tremendous progress has been made to improve and maintain the water quality of the river.
Ultimately, the overall health of the Trinity River basin depends on public investment and involvement. The Trinity River basin's CRP pursues public participation through support of local and regional organizations and events, including stream cleanups, Texas Stream Team volunteer monitoring, the Waterborne Education Center and the River Legacy Foundation. Annual trash cleanups bring people into intimate contact with the river while removing tremendous amounts of trash and debris. Cleanups sponsored through the CRP include the Trinity Trash Bash, Walker County Proud, and the Navarro County Cleanup. To learn more or get involved, visit here.
For information on opportunities or to become involved in the Trinity Basin CRP, including joining the Steering Committee, please contact us at 817-467-4343 or send Technical Services and Basin Planning an email.