JEFFERSON COUNTY, Texas — E-Coli samples from water at the Hillebrandt Bayou in Jefferson County came back 3.5 times higher than what is recommended for recreational use.
Southeast Texans living near the bayou said they have noticed the issue and claim the water is filthy.
Officials with the Texas Commission on Environmental Equality have a plan to clean up the bayou and other area waterways.
TCEQ representatives from Austin came to Southeast Texas, hoping to get feedback before they move forward with a project aimed at making the waterways cleaner for swimming and fishing. They were happy with the turnout.
“We had great turnout today,” Jazmyn Milford, a TCEQ project manager, said. “I haven't seen it like that in a while.”
Area residents voiced their opinions, stating they were concerned that fecal matter from the bayou would get into their homes and drinking water. TCEQ representatives are mainly focused on recreational use, including fishing and swimming. It's laid out in a 10-year plan.
“It gets posted on our website and then it is in the hands of the stakeholders to start implementing those things,” Milford said.
Area residents are the "stakeholders" who implement TCEQ's plan. The 81-page plan is meant to provide resources to the residents so they can learn ways to reduce waste.
TCEQ representatives gave the example of teaching farmers how to prevent animal waste from getting into the water.
“Working with each other and our contractor to kind of follow that plan and see if those things help improve water quality,” Milford said. “So we need the word out there, we need people to want to get involved."
Those living near the waters hope the plane will work, because they know just how the beautiful the waters can get.
"Beginning of spring some time, it's beautiful green," a Jefferson County resident said. "Keeping it clean, yes, to make it nicer, more inviting for people, and safer."
Anyone who would like to give feedback has until March 14, 202, to send an email to the TCEQ.