Garner State Park, located in Uvalde County, Texas, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features the Frio River, which flows through the park for approximately 2.5 miles. The water quality and swimming conditions in Garner State Park are generally considered safe, despite the current drought conditions.
What is the Current Water Quality in Garner State Park?
The Frio River at Concan, Texas, has been monitored by the US Geological Survey (USGS) since 1960. The river’s water quality is generally considered safe for swimming, with the Nueces County River Authority finding that bacteria levels are currently not a concern.
How Does the Current Drought Affect the Water Quality in Garner State Park?
The ongoing drought has affected the water flow in the Frio River, with the river flow at Concan recorded at an all-time low of 0.5 cubic feet per second (CFS) in July 2022. However, the river still has deep pockets where people can swim and engage in water activities, as the Frio River is spring-fed, with water coming from springs found on both the east and west forks of the river.
What are the Current Bacteria Levels in the Frio River at Garner State Park?
The Nueces County River Authority has tested the Frio River at three sites and found that bacteria levels are currently not a concern, making the river safe for swimming. While there have been some historical violations of the Total Coliform Rule, the water is generally considered safe for swimming and other activities.
Where Can Visitors Swim in Garner State Park?
The park has several swimming areas, including the popular dam area, which still has water flowing and deep pockets for swimming. Other areas along the river may be shallow or dry due to the drought, but the park remains a popular destination for swimming, tubing, and other water activities.
What is the Typical Water Flow in the Frio River at Garner State Park?
The river flow typically ranges between 100 and 30 CFS, with higher flows during wet months and lower flows during droughts. The current flow is significantly lower than ideal tubing conditions, which are typically between 50 and 100 CFS.
In conclusion, despite the current drought, the water in Garner State Park is generally considered safe for swimming, with the Frio River maintaining a consistent water flow from its spring-fed sources. Visitors should be aware of the current water conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
References:
1. https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/08195000/
2. https://www.reddit.com/r/TXoutdoors/comments/xldjvv/frio_river_water_level_garner_sp/
3. https://friendsofgarner.org/swim
4. https://mytapwater.org/pws/tx2320006/tpwd-garner-state-park/uvalde-tx/
5. https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2022/07/08/zero-flow-ksat-visits-garner-state-park-to-get-firsthand-look-at-frio-river-conditions/