Main Barton Spring

Main Barton Springs, the largest of the four springs in the Barton Springs system, is located in Barton Springs Pool close to the diving board. Main Spring keeps Barton Springs Pool filled year round at about 70 degrees Farenheit.

Spring Discharge

The average flow is about 50 cubic feet per second (22,500 gallons per minute). During periods of drought, the flow has been as low as 15 cfs. In recorded history, this spring has never ceased to flow, however, there is concern over the spring's vulnerablity to future periods of drought, as an increasing number of people are pumping water from the Barton Springs aquifer. During rainy periods, such as autumn 2004, springflow can exceed 100cfs.

What is the flow like right now?

What has the flow been like historically?

Spring Water Chemistry

The chemistry of Main Barton Spring water (as well as of the three other springs) is predominately a calcium bicarbonate water with low concentrations of dissolved solids. Chemical properties of the springs such as turbidity, temperature, and conductivity are measured continously with instrumentation installed in the main orifice of the spring. Readings are taken every 15 minutes and transmitted to the internet every 1 to 4 hours.

What is the water chemistry like right now?

Spring Water Quality

The spring water quality is assessed by analyzing concentrations of chemical constituents such as major ions, nutrients, and some of the many different contaminants often found in urban settings. These contaminants include pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and nutrients. At Main Spring samples for analysis of these compounds are being collected every three weeks. Click here for more detailed information on the contaminants investigated.