What's Happening at Barton Springs?

Barton Springs Flows Remain Critically Low - Even after the two-week closure intended for cleaning and maintenance, Barton Springs is experiencing an alarming accumulation of algae. With flow levels at just 17 cubic feet per second (cfs) — well below the historical average of 66 cfs — management has been unable to lower water levels. The endangered salamanders cannot withstand further reductions in water levels when flows are already so low. Without the ability to lower pool levels, management is unable to unclog the shallow end drain (which is clogged again) or perform essential silt removal and deep cleaning.
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Despite some rain over the past few weeks, the Texas Hill Country remains on the verge of Stage IV drought according to the latest update from BSEACD. Conditions are likely to become worse, with March forecasted to be hotter and drier than normal.

Ways To Help - While we push for stronger policies on municipal conservation, water reuse, and sustainable development, individual action remains essential. Real change happens when concerned citizens and water stewards take charge, making smart choices in our homes, businesses, and communities.

• Capture & Reuse Water – Collect A/C condensate, rainwater, and graywater for irrigation and household use. 
• Rethink Your Landscape – Swap water-hungry lawns for native plants and xeriscaping. Use mulch to retain moisture and plant shade trees to reduce soil evaporation.
•  Upgrade Your Fixtures – Install WaterSense-rated appliances, low-flow toilets, and high-efficiency irrigation to cut down on waste. 
•  Find & Fix Leaks – A single leaky faucet can waste 3,000+ gallons per year. Check toilets, pipes, and irrigation systems regularly.

Water is our most precious resource—how we use it today determines our future. Your support helps us push for stronger water protections, take legal action when necessary, and expand our efforts to educate more people about Barton Springs and our unique watersheds in Central Texas.

Celebrate World Water Day with SOS Celebrate World Water Day 2025 with Save Our Springs as we hike the beautiful waterfalls along the Barton Creek Greenbelt this Saturday, March 22nd! Join SOS field guides and special guest, Andrew Harrod of Save Barton Creek Association to learn more about the ecology and history of the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Andrew Harrod grew up exploring Austin’s parks, which inspired him to study Wildlife & Fisheries Sciences at Texas A&M. After 13+ years teaching science, he transitioned to a career in natural resources, working with Austin Wildland Conservation and the Texas Wildlife Association. Now, as VP of Programs for Save Barton Creek Association, Andrew is a passionate advocate for protecting our water resources and loves sharing his knowledge as a Capital Area Master Naturalist.

Fun Fact from Andrew: Did you know that Barton Creek sits at the meeting point of three major ecoregions—the Post Oak Savannah, Blackland Prairie, and Edwards Plateau? This unique convergence means you'll see Hill Country plants like Ashe juniper and mountain laurel, but as you get closer to the Colorado River, a whole new world of flora emerges—oak trees, sycamores, and even palmettos!

• WHEN - Saturday, March 22nd at 8am-11:30am
• WHERE - Hill of Life, Meet at the new SOS HQ (3201 Menchaca Dr) at 8AM for free transportation in our SalaVander to trailhead. Self-drive guests, meet at trailhead (1710 Camp Craft road Austin Tx 78746) at 8:30am. SalaVander will be heading back to SOS HQ from trailhead at 11:30am.

be a water warrior today

Check out the remaining SOS Eco-tours for March! Don't miss your opportunity to see the incredible beauty of upper Barton Creek and learn about the creation of the Greenbelt from experts in the field of wildlife and conservation.

• Saturday, March 22nd Barton Creek Waterfalls with Andrew Harrod of Save Barton Creek Association
• Sunday, March 30th  Barton Creek Guided Ecotour: Upper Falls and Lost Creek with Ed Crowell, SBCA board member and author of Barton Creek (2019)

OTHER EVENTS THIS MONTH:

• The Future of Texas Water Friday, March 28th, 5:30-8:15 pm - Hot Science, Cool Talks with Dr Robert Mace, The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment Executive Director and Chief Water Policy Officer joins the us at UT Campus. Texas is no stranger to extreme weather, but how will climate change shape our water supply in the years ahead? Register ahead of time.