Upper Barton Spring

Upper Barton Spring is located on the south bank of Barton Creek, upstream of Main Spring about one-third of a mile.

Spring Discharge

This is the smallest of the four springs. Upper Barton Spring frequently ceases to flow, usually when discharge from the Main Spring is less than about 60 cfs. Although spring flow is ephemeral, the Barton Springs salamander is frequently found at this site when the spring is flowing.

Spring Water Chemistry

The chemistry of Upper Barton spring water (as well as the three other springs) is predominately a calcium bicarbonate water with low concentrations of dissolved solids. Concentrations of ions such as sodium, chloride, and sulfate are lower at this spring than at the other three.

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 Upper Spring, samples are being collected every three weeks for analysis of these compounds. Click here for more detailed information on the contaminants investigated.