Highland Lakes Watershed Ordinance

Stormwater runoff is considered the largest source of pollution in the Highland Lakes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports pollution in stormwater runoff accounts for more than 98% of the fecal and total coliform bacteria, 90% of the sediment, 80% of the nitrogen, and more than half of the phosphorus entering the nation’s rivers and streams.

The impacts of stormwater runoff can be widespread and severe, including:

• Siltation of creeks and reservoirs.
• Reduced fish and wildlife habitat.
• Increased growth of aquatic weeds.
• Algal blooms and fish kills.
• Reduced recreational opportunities because of bacterial contamination and increased turbidity.
• Contamination of food and water sources.

What are the benefits of managing stormwater?

Managing pollution caused by stormwater runoff is far less expensive than correcting it after it has occurred. The benefits of managing stormwater runoff pollution include:

• Expanded recreational and tourism opportunities — and economic growth.
• Increased property values and tax base along the river, lakes and tributaries.
• Increased productivity of range and farmland, as well as aquatic ecosystems.
• Reduced water treatment costs.
• Preservation of diverse wildlife habitat.
• Prolonged viability of water storage reservoirs.

How does the ordinance reduce the impact of stormwater pollution?

The ordinance requires development to incorporate measures and best management practices to protect water quality and reduce creek erosion, including:

• Approved water quality management facilities (vegetated filter strips and/or water quality basins) to collect stormwater runoff.
• Buffer zones that remain free of development. Read the Property Owner’s Guide to Buffer Zones.
• Temporary erosion and sediment controls.
• Permanent systems to minimize sediment migration from the site.

LCRA also encourages using native and/or adapted plants and limiting the use of chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers on landscapes.