Travis County Environmental Programs
In Travis County we value our rich natural resources and environmental quality. The County government provides a wide range of environmental services and programs for residents.
WATER RESOURCES PROGRAMS
Travis County’s Water Resources Program works to protect and manage the quality and availability of our water, both above and below ground, through three key projects:
Stormwater Management Project
This long-range effort protects creeks, rivers, and lakes by reducing pollution carried by rainwater runoff. Work includes public education, detecting and stopping illegal discharges, inspecting construction sites, and managing stormwater from County facilities. Many development projects require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan before approval.
More information: traviscountytx.gov/tnr/environmental-quality/stormwater
Surface Water Quality Monitoring Project
We monitor local creeks and rivers four times a year to assess conditions affecting public health, aquatic life, and sources of pollution. Data collected is shared with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for inclusion in the Texas Integrated Report, which tracks statewide water quality and guides management efforts. Public outreach and education are also key to raising awareness of how everyday actions affect our waterways.
Visit us at: traviscountytx.gov/tnr/environmental-quality/water-quality
Groundwater Availability Project
We protect groundwater resources in both quality and quantity. This includes reviewing development applications for compliance with groundwater rules, overseeing water availability testing, supporting research, and coordinating with local groundwater conservation districts and hydrogeology experts.
Learn more: traviscountytx.gov/tnr/permits/water-availability-regulation
Report Illegal Dumping Whether you see leftover tires thrown down a creek or find furniture, plastics, and chemicals in a field, report illegal dumping anonymously anytime. Call 1-877-NO-DUMPS (1-877-663-8677) or complete the online form at capcog.org/divisions/regional-planning-services/solid-waste/ (form is towards the bottom of the webpage).
Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP) The BCP is one of the nation’s largest urban preserves, covering more than 33,000 acres in western Travis County. It was created to protect habitat for endangered and rare species like the golden-cheeked warbler while also providing a streamlined process for development in western Travis County. About 3,500 acres of the BCP is regularly open to the public. Other areas of the 33,000+ acre preserve can be accessed by joining a guided hike or volunteering.
Visit www.traviscountytx.gov/bcp/hiking-vol or email outreachbcp@traviscountytx.gov to learn about guided hikes, volunteer opportunities, and other nature-focused events throughout the year. Also, check out the interactive preserve map (traviscountytx.gov/bcpmap) to find out what areas of the BCP are open regularly, including popular destinations like Hamilton Pool Preserve and Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve.
Reducing Wildfire Risk Wildfire risk is highest in the Wildland-Urban Interface, where development meets natural areas. Travis County actively works to reduce the risk of wildfires by creating and maintaining “shaded fuel breaks” and conducting prescribed burns in County preserves and parks. More than 95% of wildfires are caused by people or human-made infrastructure, so practicing fire-safe behavior and “home-hardening,” which includes creating a buffer zone around the home and covering vents and gutters with mesh screens to prevent the infiltration of embers, is the best way to reduce the risk to your home from a wildfire. Learn more about how to reduce wildfire risk and how to create defensible space around your home from the Ready, Set, Go booklet at www.traviscountytx.gov/fire-marshal/wildland-fire.
RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL
Travis County provides several resources to help residents with their recycling and disposal needs. To learn more about the services listed below, visit:
www.traviscountytx.gov/tnr/environmental-quality/conserve.
Recycling and Waste Drop-Off Tool
Looking for a place to drop off recyclables or dispose of items that don’t belong in your curbside trash? The Recycling and Waste Drop-Off Tool helps you find the nearest location for recycling or proper disposal. Before visiting a site, be sure to call ahead to confirm details such as hours, fees, and drop-off requirements. Check out the tool at recycle.traviscountytx.gov.
Household Hazardous Waste
All Travis County residents can dispose of household hazardous waste at the City of Austin Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center by appointment only.
Accepted items include:
- Paint
- Cleaning products
- Motor fluids
- Batteries
- And more
Please note: Business and commercial waste is not accepted. Businesses can use the Recycling and Waste Drop-Off Tool to find appropriate disposal locations. To schedule an appointment or view the full list of accepted items, visit: www.austintexas.gov/dropoff. You may also call the facility at 512-974-4343.
1431 Citizens Collection Center
Travis County residents may dispose of regular household trash at the 1431 Citizens Collection Center.
Not accepted:
- Business/commercial waste
- Household hazardous waste
- Recycling
- Appliances
- Large furniture
- Mattresses
- Organic waste
- Tires
The Center is located at 2625 Woodall Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 and open 8am-3:50pm Thursday-Saturday. There is a fee of $4.33 per cubic yard (roughly the size of a pick-up bed) and can be paid with cash or check only (no credit cards).
