Texas Survey Detects Microplastics in 76 of 77 Waterways

A statewide analysis by the Environment Texas Research & Policy Center examined samples from 77 rivers, lakes, reservoirs and other water bodies across Texas, from Brownsville to the Red River and the Gulf of Mexico. Microplastics were found in 76 of the 77 waterways, with contaminants detected at 99% of the sites. Fibers were the most prevalent, appearing in 96% of samples, followed by fragments (69%), film (26%) and industrial nurdles (14%). The study notes that water bodies can look pristine while still containing invisible plastic pollution, posing potential risks to anglers, swimmers, boaters and wildlife that rely on these waters for recreation and habitat. Researchers call for policy action, recommending phasing out single‑use plastics, restricting expansion of petrochemical infrastructure and tightening controls on plastic pellet emissions. Texas currently hosts 36 facilities that produce plastic pellets, underscoring the need for stronger regulation.