Freeport’s Water Conservation Guide Protecting the Brazos and Chicot Aquifer

Water keeps Freeport running—at home, at work, and along our coast. With supply pressures, aging infrastructure, and hotter, drier spells, every gallon counts. This guide breaks down how Freeport’s water system works, why conservation matters, and the practical steps you can take to save water, lower bills, and protect local sources—the Brazos River and the Chicot Aquifer.

What you’ll learn:

• Where Freeport’s water comes from and why that matters
• Simple, high‑impact habits that cut water waste
• Smart irrigation strategies for our Gulf Coast climate
• How to help keep water quality high from your kitchen sink to the storm drain
• Community actions that amplify individual efforts

How Freeport Gets Its Water

Freeport relies on two main sources:

• Brazos River (surface water) via Brazosport Water Authority
• Chicot Aquifer (groundwater) from wells in Brazoria County

Surface water from the Brazos is more exposed to runoff and weather changes. Groundwater from the Chicot is stored underground in sand and gravel layers. Both are treated before reaching your tap, and quality is monitored under state and federal rules. Because these sources behave differently, conservation helps in two ways:

• It reduces demand spikes on the river during heat and drought.
• It keeps aquifer levels more stable over time.

Using less water also reduces energy use for pumping and treatment, and it extends the life of pipes, pumps, and plants—costs that eventually show up on utility bills.

Why Conservation Is a Freeport Essential

• Drought and heat amplify demand: Peak summer irrigation can double household use.
• Saltwater intrusion risk: Over‑pumping aquifers near the coast can pull in saltwater over time.
• Treatment and distribution cost money: Cutting waste stabilizes rates long term.
• New regulations on emerging contaminants: Using less water and preventing pollution lowers treatment burdens.
• Equity: Efficient use keeps supplies more resilient for everyone, including vulnerable households.

Start at Home: High-Impact Fixes and Habits

Small changes add up fast in an average home. Focus on these priorities first.

1) Hunt down and fix leaks

• Toilets: A silent leak can waste 200+ gallons a day. Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank; if color seeps into the bowl without flushing, replace the flapper.
• Faucets and showerheads: Replace worn washers or cartridges. Hand‑tighten connections and use plumber’s tape for a tight seal.
• Irrigation lines: Check for soft spots, pooling water, and broken emitters after mowing or heavy foot traffic.
• Water meter test: Turn off all water in the house. If the meter dial moves, you have a leak to track down.

Tip: Keep a “leak kit” handy—universal flappers, Teflon tape, and spare washers.

2) Install water‑efficient fixtures and appliances

• Toilets: Replace older models (3.5 gallons per flush) with WaterSense models (1.28 gpf or less). Dual‑flush units offer added control.
• Showerheads: WaterSense showerheads use 2.0 gpm or less with good pressure.
• Faucets: Aerators cost a few dollars and cut flow to 1.2 gpm in bathrooms and 1.5 gpm in kitchens.
• Clothes washers: ENERGY STAR front‑load washers can use 25–33% less water and energy than older top‑loaders.
• Dishwashers: Modern ENERGY STAR models often use less water than handwashing, especially on eco cycles.

ROI tip: Prioritize replacements in this order for fastest savings—leaky toilets, showerheads, clothes washer, then dishwasher.

3) Make daily habits automatic

• Showers: Aim for 5–7 minutes. A shower timer or music playlist can help.
• Faucets: Turn off while brushing, shaving, or scrubbing dishes.
• Laundry: Run full loads. If your machine has a water level sensor, use it.
• Dishwasher: Skip pre‑rinsing; scrape instead. Use eco cycle when possible.
• Cooking: Steam vegetables over pasta water and reuse the water once cool for plants (not on edible leaves).

Smarter Yard Watering for the Gulf Coast

Freeport’s hot, humid summers and mild winters call for irrigation that works with the weather, not against it.

1) Water based on need, not habit

• Irrigation schedule: Water 1–2 times per week in summer, rarely in winter. Adjust monthly.
• Timing: Water before 9 a.m. to reduce evaporation and wind drift.
• Soil check: If the top 2 inches are dry but cool and damp below, you can likely skip a cycle.

2) Match irrigation to your landscape

• Turf: St. Augustine and Bermuda lawns need about 1 inch per week in peak heat, including rainfall.
• Drip for beds: Drip or micro‑spray delivers water at the root zone with 30–50% less loss than sprinklers.
• Mulch: Apply 2–3 inches around plants to lock in moisture and reduce weeds.
• Plant choice: Favor native or Gulf Coast-adapted species—such as Gulf muhly, yaupon holly, Turk’s cap—that need less water once established.

3) Tune your sprinkler system

• No overspray: Adjust heads to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
• Even coverage: Replace mismatched nozzles; inconsistent arcs waste water and stress plants.
• Pressure regulation: High pressure creates mist; install pressure‑regulating heads or a PRV.
• Rain and soil sensors: A $30–$70 sensor can prevent watering right after a storm.
• Seasonal timer updates: Reprogram in spring and fall; reduce or shut off in winter.

4) Capture what the sky gives you

• Rain barrels: A single half‑inch storm can fill a 50–60 gallon barrel off a small roof. Use for garden beds and potted plants.
• Cisterns: Larger, enclosed systems support irrigation through dry stretches.
• Downspout landscaping: Direct overflow to rain gardens to slow runoff and recharge soil.

Keep It Clean: Protecting Water Quality at Home

Quality matters as much as quantity. Many water quality issues start on our lawns, driveways, and kitchens.

1) Use fertilizers and pesticides carefully

• Test soil: Apply only what your soil needs. Over‑fertilizing sends nutrients into the Brazos via storm drains.
• Time applications: Never fertilize before heavy rain. Follow label rates—more is not better.
• Spot treat weeds: Target trouble areas instead of broadcasting chemicals.

2) Mind what goes down drains

• Fats, oils, grease: Cool, can, and trash them to prevent sewer clogs and overflows.
• Wipes and hygiene products: Even “flushable” wipes belong in the trash.
• Medications and chemicals: Use take‑back programs and hazardous waste drop‑offs. Don’t pour down sinks or toilets.
• Car washing: Use a commercial car wash (recycles water) or wash on grass with a bucket and spray nozzle.

3) Maintain plumbing for healthy water

• Lead reduction: If water sits for hours, flush the tap for 30–120 seconds before drinking or cooking. Use cold water for cooking and baby formula.
• Water heaters: Drain a few gallons annually to remove sediment and improve efficiency.
• Backflow prevention: If you have irrigation, check that you have a backflow device and schedule periodic tests.

Apartment and Condo-Friendly Tips

You don’t need a yard to make a difference.

• Report leaks promptly: Hallway meters, irrigation around common areas, or dripping fixtures can waste thousands of gallons.
• Use faucet aerators and low‑flow showerheads: They’re inexpensive and renter‑friendly.
• Fill pitchers: Keep drinking water in the fridge so you don’t run the tap to cool.
• Collect “warm‑up” water: Use a bucket to capture shower warm‑up water for plants or cleaning.

Build a Water‑Wise Routine: A 30‑Day Plan

• Week 1: Fix leaks; install aerators; set shower timer.
• Week 2: Replace one high‑use fixture (toilet or showerhead); program dishwasher and washer to eco cycles.
• Week 3: Audit irrigation or hand‑watering schedule; add mulch; adjust sprinkler heads.
• Week 4: Add a rain barrel; label storm drains on your block (“Drains to Brazos—No Dumping” where allowed); share tips with a neighbor or HOA.

Community Actions That Multiply Impact

Conservation works best when an entire community leans in.

• Join local workshops: Look for classes on native landscaping, irrigation tuning, and rainwater harvesting.
• Promote WaterSense: Encourage your HOA or workplace to adopt WaterSense fixtures for common areas and restrooms.
• Organize a leak‑fix day: Volunteer with neighbors to check irrigation systems and replace flappers.
• Support green infrastructure: Advocate for bioswales, permeable pavements, and tree canopy in public projects to improve infiltration and reduce runoff to the Brazos.
• Stay informed: Review annual water quality reports and any seasonal watering guidance from the city or Brazosport Water Authority, so you can adjust your habits as needed while staying up to date on community needs.

Water conservation is most effective when we all participate—whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet or championing larger neighborhood initiatives, every small step contributes to a more resilient Freeport. Together, we can protect our water resources for today and future generations. Join the effort and make a difference in your community!

Freeport General information

• Website: https://www.freeporttx.gov/
• Freeport Water Conservation Email: Water@Freeporttx.gov
• Freeport Customer Service: 979-871-0190