Next Middle Yegua Creek Watershed Protection Plan Stakeholder Meeting on December 2

Local efforts to protect and improve water quality in the Middle Yegua Creek watershed are continuing to move forward this winter. After the Watershed Protection Plan (WPP) received official acceptance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency earlier this year, partners across Lee, Bastrop, Milam, and Williamson Counties are now working together to turn the plan’s strategies into action.

The watershed has long faced challenges from elevated E. coli bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, and declining aquatic habitats. Addressing these issues requires participation from the entire community, and the WPP outlines practical, science-based steps to reduce pollution from livestock, septic systems, feral hogs, pet waste, and illegal dumping.

The plan includes several key action areas such as voluntary conservation plans for landowners, soil testing programs, feral hog management, septic system repair or replacement, education for new and small acreage landowners, and ongoing monitoring and public outreach. These efforts are designed to protect local creeks, support healthy ecosystems, and promote safe recreational use of our waterways.

Regular working group meetings remain at the heart of the process, giving residents the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and help shape the future of the watershed. These meetings are open to the public and are a great way to stay informed about local water quality and resource protection.

Upcoming Meeting – December 2

The next Middle Yegua Creek WPP meeting will be held:

Tuesday, December 2

5:30 PM

Eleanor’s Cottage, 183 E. Hempstead St., Giddings (Across from the Courthouse)

This month’s special guest speaker is Travis Tidwell with Texas Parks and Wildlife, who will present on the Spills and Kills Team and their role in responding to fish kills, pollution events, and environmental emergencies in Texas waterways.

Everyone is invited to attend, learn more about watershed health, and participate in discussions that will guide future conservation and restoration efforts.

To get involved or to learn more, visit:

Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board – Middle Yegua Project 

Texas Water Resources Institute – Middle Yegua

Together, we can protect the Middle Yegua Creek and keep our water clean and healthy for generations to come.