Texas State University Research Advances Rainwater Harvesting in Texas

TXST research led by Dr. Robert Mace shows how rainwater harvesting can help Texans protect groundwater resources, withstand drought, and build reliable household water systems. 

Texas State University research led by Dr. Robert Mace shows how rainwater harvesting can help Texans protect groundwater resources, withstand drought, and build reliable household water systems Play Video

Our Commitment

With a bold vision and unwavering commitment, TXST is tackling water challenges across Texas and the nation. Our researchers are strengthening infrastructure, forecasting floods, preparing for drought, tracking contaminants, and studying climate impacts. Explore the stories below to see this work in action.

three women in blue shirts stand in waist-deep river

TXST’s Texas Stream Team advances wastewater monitoring

A new study shows how collaboration among Texas institutions transformed a classroom activity into a state-approved, low-cost method for detecting potential wastewater contamination.

All Paths Lead to Water

At TXST, researchers collaborate with partners nationwide to study water movement, prepare communities for droughts and floods, trace contaminants, and develop practical tools and solutions to address complex water challenges.

brazos water snake lying on top of rocks in water

Conserving the Brazos Water Snake

TXST researchers and conservation partners are testing a breeding and release program to strengthen populations of the threatened Brazos water snake. 
Ashraf Anjumand speaking on stage

Giving Water a Second Life

Recognized with prestigious national and regional awards, TXST researcher Anjumand Ashraf is developing affordable water reuse systems to ensure drinking water security for growing communities.
two people kayaking on lake in safety vests

Floating Solutions in Lake Kyle

TXST-led research funded by the City of Kyle will use floating wetlands in Lake Kyle to clean the water and test a nature-based way to protect local waterways.
a hexagonal concrete tube is attached to a crane over the ocean

Fortifying the Coast

Dr. Stacey Kulesza leads research to protect coastal bridge foundations and improve infrastructure resilience.
man wearing a blue suit in front of a glass bottom boat that reads "The Meadows Center"

Water Guardians

Dr. Robert Mace of The Meadows Center at TXST discusses water sustainability and climate change, focusing on groundwater management, climate resilience, and innovative "one water" solutions.
man in large straw hair and white lab coat smiles in science lab

Sipping Sustainably

Dr. Keisuke Ikehata is transforming treated wastewater into drinking water through advanced purification, aiming to address water scarcity with sustainable, safe, and cost-effective solutions.

Water Conservation Efforts at The Meadows Center

The Meadows Center is located on the headwaters of Spring Lake, one of the largest artesian springs in the world, near the Texas State University San Marcos Campus.

The Meadows Center is located on the headwaters of Spring Lake, one of the largest artesian springs in the world, near the Texas State University San Marcos Campus Play Video

Water in Focus

Follow the current of TXST water research. Watch, listen and explore as scientists, engineers, educators and community voices examine the Texas water issues that touch daily life.

Big Ideas Podcast

Cleaner beaches through AI with Jenna Walker

Jenna Walker, director of Watershed Services with The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, discusses the use of AI to monitor and predict the water quality along Texas’ coastline.
Big Ideas Podcast

Spring Lake adventure with Miranda Wait

Miranda Wait, deputy director of Spring Lake education for The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, discusses various projects and programs that can be found at Spring Lake.
Big Ideas Podcast

Wasterwater reuse with Keisuke Ikehata

Keisuke Ikehata, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Ingram School of Engineering, discusses an innovative pilot program to convert wastewater into purified drinking water.
Big Ideas Podcast

Clean Coast Texas with Nick Dornak

Nick Dornak, director of Watershed Services with The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University, discusses the Clean Coast Texas Collaborative.

Enlighten Me Podcast

Earth Day, Conservation at TXST, and the Easter Bunny

Enlighten Me hosts discuss Earth Day, conversation organizations at TXST, and everyone's favorite holiday rabbit.
Enlighten Me Podcast

Ripples on the Water

The Hill Country Studios is coming to San Marcos—what does this mean for the community and our beloved river? TXST experts weigh in on the ripple effects this growth can have on San Marcos and beyond.

Beyond the Surface

Header photo provided by Matthew Mohondro. SCUBA diver photo provided by Jennifer Idol.