The Massive Energy Requirements of Treating Texas’ Oilfield Wastewater
One company wants small nuclear reactors to power the energy-intensive process of purifying vast volumes of toxic “produced water” for use in agriculture and industry.
Water
Oil and Gas Wastewater Spills Pollute the Lone Star State
Pollution from the energy sector has impacted soil, contaminated water resources and killed wildlife while the state resists new regulations.
Going Extinct in Texas
Declaring an endangered species officially gone can take decades.
The Fish Whisperer
Half of the fish in the Mission-Aransas Estuary vocalize. One scientist is dedicated to recording and decoding their thumps, pops, and other sounds.
In Mexico, Tensions Rise Again over 1944 Water Treaty
After decades of negotiations and even a dramatic occupation of a dam in Chiahuaha state, two nations struggle to find a compromise.
Record Summer Heat Causes Costly Damage to State Water Infrastructure
Conservationists are frustrated as cities contend with thousands of costly leaks as dry soil contracts, causing underground pipes to rupture.
As Springs Dry Up, a Warning of Future Water Shortages
Heat, drought and booming population growth have stressed the aquifers that supply millions of people.
SIGN UP FOR TEXAS OBSERVER EMAILS
Fighting for Breaks on Multiple Fronts
Workers and activists implore Governor Greg Abbott to consider the dire need for protections in the record-breaking heat.
Dow’s River
On the Brazos, one chemical company reigns supreme.
A Watchdog in the Water Wars
Flooding and bureaucracy drove Mary Kelleher to run for a spot on a powerful North Texas river agency board.