2016 -2017

Headwaters at the Comal
Phase 1

Phase 1 was completed in November 2017 and focused on the conversion of the fleet facility yard to native prairie, installation a green stormwater management system, and enhancements for continued water plant operations within this sensitive area.

Project Description

The efforts to restore the 16-acre property known as Headwaters at the Comal began in August 2016 when New Braunfels Utilities (NBU) began implementation of the Comal Headwaters Conservation Center Master Plan, Phase 1. This initial effort, completed in November 2017, focused on the conversion of the fleet facility yard to native prairie, installation a green stormwater management system, and enhancements for continued water plant operations within this sensitive area.

During restoration, approximately 5 acres of asphalt and impervious cover were removed adjacent to Spring Run 4 of the Comal Springs system. A retired maintenance building was replaced with an outdoor pavilion, which is now used as a public learning and programming space. The restored area was converted into green infrastructure—the landscape was re-contoured incorporating berms, swales, check dams and vernal pools to slow, capture and naturally treat stormwater before it enters the headwaters of the Comal River. To create a more resilient Riparian Woodland and Upland Savanna communities and maximize ecosystem services, invasive plants were removed and replaced with native species appropriate to those areas. Permeable pathways and interpretive signage balance community access and increase awareness of how the site is designed to function. Over the course of a normal rainfall year, the green infrastructure and restored natural ecosystem services better protect the Comal River by removing more total suspended solids (TSS) from stormwater runoff--reducing the pollutant load from an estimated 12,000 pounds to only 720 pounds (a reduction of 94%).

The addition of a fence protects the working water plant that houses two active Edwards Aquifer wells, a 1.5 million gallon ground storage tank, and a pump station that are at the heart of the NBU water system. A overflow diverter pipe from the treated groundwater storage tank allows treatment through the same green infrastructure that treats stormwater runoff. Additionally, the removal of 1/3 of the 1930s era spring cap allows leaves, pollen, and other organic matter to fall into the water, which improves habitat for endangered and threatened species living in the springs system. Staff and a team of volunteers help with ongoing biomonitoring, maintenance, and education.

One Water Shared Vision Elements

Plan for and manage water resources holistically and sustainably

Stormwater management using natural processes enhances endangered species habitat, protects drinking water supplies and provides flood mitigation.

Maximize environmental, social, and economic benefits to the greater New Braunfels area

Environmental: Water quality protections provided by the green infrastructure directly impact local water supplies and enhance critical habitat for endangered species.

Social: Public access and community programming boost awareness of the importance of water conservation, water quality protection, and ecosystem services. Tours, workshops and volunteer programs aim to inspire and equip participants with tools and techniques to easily incorporate water stewardship in their residences and businesses.

Economic: Analysis performed by Ecometrics in 2022 for the economic impact of Headwaters at the Comal shows a 1:3 social return on investment through the increased sense of community pride, teaching of water saving techniques, and additional health benefits through access to nature.

Ensure water remains a celebrated feature of our community

Active community programming highlights the diverse human history at the site, archeological findings, native plants and animals, and low impact development techniques. The site balances access to nature, a landscape designed to optimize ecosystem services, and New Braunfels' first and still active water plant. Headwaters at the Comal invites new and established residents and visitors to learn about and engage in conservation and restoration efforts that help protect New Braunfels' cultural and environmental resources.

Provide sustainable and high-quality water

Headwaters at the Comal is the heart of NBU’s water system with wells that were drilled in the 1940s.

Ensure healthy watersheds, waterways, and groundwater resources

Stormwater treatment reduces sediment, nutrient, and bacterial loads to the Comal Springs and River systems.

City of New Braunfels: Public Works, Planning and Development Services
Edwards Aquifer Authority
Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan
Guadalupe Blanco River Authority
Headwaters at the Comal members and donors
Native Plant Society New Braunfels Chapter
New Braunfels Community Foundation
New Braunfels Utilities: Water Operations, Facilities, Finance, Business Strategy
Texas Master Naturalist Lindheimer Chapter

One Water Components Incorporated

Demand Reduction

Water conservation measures: Established vegetation does not require supplemental irrigation.
Native and/or drought-tolerant plant selection: Restoration started with over 75 primary native plant species installed according to 2 main ecotones (riparian woodland, upland savanna) and 2 specialized landscape functions (swale, pollinator). Installation included live planting and no-till-drill seeding strategies to optimize germination (2015 Construction Plans). In 2025 after continued restoration activities, iNaturalist observers have identified over 500 native plant species in the restoration area.

Water Quality Protection

Green storm water infrastructure: At full completion, all phases combined estimate a 94% reduction in TSS reducing suspended solids from 11,850 lbs to only 670 lbs, annually. The phase 1 restoration efforts installed green stormwater infrastructure on the most critical areas (adjacent to the spring run and Blieders Creek) and effectively treat runoff from the entire site. Observed stormwater events suggest that a majority of the estimated reduction is currently being achieved.
Natural infrastructure: The restoration area includes 1,150 linear feet of vegetated swales, 6 step dams, 5 vernal pools totaling 7,250 square feet, and 5 acres of enhanced and contoured drainage.
Low impact development: Design elements include 1,100 feet of pervious fire lane and 2,590 feet (0.5 miles) of pervious walking trails using a combination of slotted concrete low water crossings, decomposed granite, pervious pavers, porous concrete, and interlocking recycled concrete pavers.

Site Harvested Supply

Storm water capture: Vernal pools slow stormwater flow and allow water to be absorbed into soils. Water requirements of the established vegetation are met through storm water capture.