Environmental Protection
We are committed to conserving our water supply and natural environment.
Protecting our water sources and lowering water use means cleaner water for future generations, less energy needed for water and wastewater services, and lower infrastructure costs. We've been ranked No. 1 in Texas for water conservation among large utilities. Our Special Services programs help protect health and safety, reduce pollutants and follow environmental regulations:
- Cross Connection Control/Water Protection
- Industrial Waste Control/Pretreatment
- Lake Water Protection
- Liquid Waste Haulers
- Water Wells
As Austin's population grows, we're here to help conserve water and save you money with rebates, tools and programs designed for our residential and commercial customers.
Austin Water manages more than 49,000 acres of wildlands.
These public lands protect the Edwards Aquifer from pollutants, support endangered species habitat and give researchers a place to study soil health, regional biodiversity, aquifer hydrology, karst cave systems, and the Colorado River. Protecting these lands helps preserve Austin's unique landscape for current and future residents.
- Lands managed under the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve Program protect habitat for seven endangered species, the rare black-capped vireo, and 27 other species of concern in western Travis County.
- Lands managed under the Water Quality Protection Lands Program protect the quantity and quality of water recharging the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer.
The wildlands are held for specific conservation purposes. They are not parks, but public lands that protect our water supply and natural environment for the entire community.
We've turned Austin's waste into compost since 1989.
Austin Water's Biosolids Management Plant at Hornsby Bend recycles biosolids and yard trimmings into Dillo Dirt™, an EPA-certified soil conditioner donated for use in public green spaces and sold through commercial vendors. Hornsby Bend is also recognized as one of the best birding sites in Texas and is open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset.
The Center for Environmental Research at Hornsby Bend is a partnership formed in 1989 with the University of Texas and Texas A&M University to study urban ecology, water systems and waste recycling in Austin. The Center sponsors events, classes and workshops and conducts research projects open to the community.