Photo: Jon Clegg
Recently Installed BMPs
In 2018, the Cypress Creek Project team installed the above 1,000 gallon metal cistern at the Hays County Precinct 3 office. The cistern is collecting water off of a 4,200 square foot roof, which allows for the harvesting potential to be approximately 18,000 gallons annually. The rainwater harvested from this cistern will be used to irrigate the native landscapes surrounding the office.
Other Hays County BMPs
Bio-swales at Jacobs Well Natural Area (JWNA)
At least 3 bio-swales will be implemented by 2015 utilizing TPWD funding. Their locations are based on the community approved JWNA Master Plan.
Riparian Buffers at Jacobs Well Natural Area
These are being implemented by the County. Master Naturalists have already begun planting trees and working on the site. Maintenance is needed to ensure the buffers are able to establish themselves. These buffers are near Jacobs Well close to the low water crossing. Buffers cited according to JWNA Master Plan.
Rainwater Harvesting
The County has determined several sites for rainwater harvesting opportunities and demonstrations at county facilities located within the watershed.
Hays County Storm Water Management Program
The County has created a program to reduce storm water pollution by educating the public, monitoring for illicit discharges into storm sewers and monitoring construction and post-construction of new and redeveloped projects for storm water quality.
Watershed Road Signs
The county is willing to install five watershed road signs purchased with project funds. Each sign says “Inside Cypress Creek Watershed Environmentally Sensitive Area”. The signs will be placed at strategic locations on county roads within the watershed. The Stakeholder Committee will determine the best locations for the signs.
Vegetative Filter Strips
These are already being implemented by the County. Maintenance is needed to ensure filter strips are able to establish themselves. Vegetative filter strips are cited according to JWNA Master Plan.
Retrofit Existing Stormwater Infrastructure
The County has pledged to explore retrofitting existing stormwater infrastructure to better mitigate stormflows, if feasible. This includes right of way limitations. An engineering assessment will be required.
Retrofit Existing Stormwater Management
The County has pledged to explore opportunities for an updated and enhanced stormwater assessment for areas of the watershed under the County’s jurisdiction.