Work on the San Marcos River Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project began in 2022 and focused on the section of the river between City Park and downstream of Stoke Park, the release states. The goal was to restore some of the river’s natural functions that had been disrupted by urban development, invasive plant species and changes to the flow of water.
The overview
Crews removed invasive plants like elephant ear and non-native trees, replaced them with native wetland and riparian vegetation, and upgraded stormwater outfalls to help reduce erosion and sediment buildup, according to the release. City officials say these changes have improved water quality, stabilized riverbanks and made the area more hospitable for aquatic wildlife.
The release states that the project also supports threatened and endangered species that depend on the San Marcos River’s spring-fed ecosystem.
“Restoring the natural balance of the San Marcos River benefits not only the endangered species that depend on this habitat, but also everyone who enjoys and cherishes the river,” Habitat Conservation Plan Manager Mark Enders said in the release.
Digging deeper
The project, authorized under Section 206 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1996, was developed through a cost-share agreement between the city of San Marcos and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, according to the news release.
The total project cost is $4.6 million, which includes $3.03 million in federal funding and $1.6 million in city contributions, made up of the value of the properties where the work took place, the release states.
Additional support came from state and federal agencies, including the Texas General Land Office, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Notable quote
“This project is a significant step toward protecting one of our community’s most valuable natural resources,” said Shaun Condor, San Marcos director of engineering and capital improvements, in the release. “We’re proud to be part of a partnership that supports a healthier river for future generations.”
