Rowlett Creek watershed protection plan approved by EPA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality have approved a 10-year Rowlett Creek Watershed Protection Plan. The initiative aims to improve water quality in the watershed, which has failed to meet state standards since 2014 due to elevated E. coli levels.

Research conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife identified several sources of contamination, noting that dog waste contributed approximately 96.88% of the total E. coli load. Other contributors include livestock, feral animals, and wastewater treatment facilities. The watershed also faces concerns regarding nitrate-nitrogen downstream.

The decade-long implementation strategy includes reducing stormwater pollutants, promoting responsible pet waste and lawn care practices, addressing illegal dumping, expanding public education, and enhancing flood management and water quality monitoring. The project involves collaboration between the City of Plano, Texas A&M AgriLife, and various regional partners including the cities of Frisco and Allen, Collin and Dallas counties, and local school districts.