Texas Stream Team, a program of The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University, has launched a new Optical Brightener Water Quality Community Scientist Training to help detect potential sources of wastewater contamination in Texas waterways.
The program trains volunteer community scientists to monitor local water sources for optical brighteners — fluorescent compounds commonly found in household laundry detergents, toilet paper and soaps. Their presence in rivers, lakes or streams may indicate contamination from leaking septic systems, sewer overflows or other wastewater sources.
“Water pollution sources are often difficult to detect, but with the help of community scientists across the state, we can identify potential problem areas more effectively,” said Aspen Navarro, Meadows Center deputy director of watershed services. “This program empowers community members to contribute meaningful data that can help safeguard the health of their waterways.”
