Residents of Falcon Ranch: Take Action on Water Quality Concerns with NFBWA
As Falcon Ranch residents, you may have noticed the additional charge from the North Fort Bend Water Authority (NFBWA) on your monthly water bills. This charge stems from a law passed by the Texas Legislature that created the NFBWA and sanctioned the fees for a major infrastructure project that will soon affect local water supplies.
In the coming years, Fort Bend MUD 124, the water supplier for Falcon Ranch, will be required to receive water from the NFBWA instead of relying on well water. While this change aims to prevent subsidence from over-extraction of underground water sources, it comes with significant concerns, especially regarding the quality of the water that will be supplied.
According to local resident Wayne Marquis, some of the key issues with this transition include:
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"Forever Chemicals": The water from NFBWA will contain chemicals that are expensive for MUD 124 to remove, and some are potential carcinogens. These chemicals, which the NFBWA currently does not test for, may present long-term health risks.
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Ongoing Maintenance: Despite the switch to surface water, Falcon Ranch will still be required to maintain its well and water treatment systems for emergencies, such as droughts or mechanical failures with NFBWA water delivery.
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Chloramine vs. Chlorine: Unlike traditional chlorine, the NFBWA uses chloramine, a mixture of chlorine and ammonia, to disinfect the water. While effective, chloramine is more corrosive to pipes and fixtures, which could cause damage to your home's plumbing, pool systems, and appliances. Additionally, chloramine can be harmful to aquatic life, so residents with ponds or lakes should be cautious when using tap water.
Given these concerns, Falcon Ranch residents are encouraged to take action by writing to Governor Greg Abbott, State Representative Jacey Jetton, and State Senator Joan Huffman to voice their concerns about the potential health and environmental impacts of the water changes. Residents are urged to request that the NFBWA address the water quality issues, particularly regarding the “Forever Chemicals” and chloramine, before the switch is finalized.
Here’s how you can get involved:
- Write a formal letter (not an email) to the Governor and your state representatives.
- Express concerns about the chemical contamination in the water, including carcinogens and 6PPD-Q, which has been linked to harmful effects on humans and wildlife.
- Request that the NFBWA be required to meet or exceed all current and future EPA water quality standards before the water is supplied to your area.
Mailing addresses:
- Governor Greg Abbott
Office of the Governor
State Insurance Building
1100 San Jacinto
Austin, Texas 78701 - Rep. Jacey Jetton (until January)
22333 Grand Corner Dr. Ste. 151
Katy, TX 77494 - Senator Joan Huffman
16010 Barkers Point Ln Suite 265
Houston, TX 77079
A sample letter is included here, or you can use it as a template for your own. By speaking up now, you can help ensure that the water provided to Falcon Ranch remains safe and meets the high standards our community deserves. Don’t wait—take action today to make your voice heard!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
