Texas Legislature Passes HB 3333 to Safeguard One of the State’s Last Pristine Rivers
AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Legislature has passed House Bill 3333, a targeted measure to protect the iconic Devils River in Val Verde County from future wastewater discharge. The bill now heads to Governor Greg Abbott for signature, marking a pivotal moment for landowners, conservationists, and all Texans who treasure the river’s clear, spring-fed waters.
HB 3333, authored by Representative Eddie Morales (HD 74) and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Cesar Blanco (SD 29), prohibits the direct discharge of treated wastewater into the Devils River in Val Verde County — a proactive move championed by the Devils River Conservancy (DRC) and supported by local governments and private landowners across the basin.
“This policy came directly from the landowner community,” said Romey Swanson, Executive Director of the Devils River Conservancy. “Our ranchers, landowners, and partners have spent decades protecting the Devils River through voluntary stewardship. HB 3333 represents their vision — a straightforward, protective measure that preserves their values and the economic lifelines of working lands, such as hunting, angling, and ecotourism. We are proud to help carry this message forward and hope Governor Abbott will join us in honoring that commitment.”
Devils River, near Baker’s Crossing
Often referred to as one of Texas’ last truly wild rivers, the Devils River is known for its exceptional water clarity, ecological integrity, and remote desert canyon setting. Its spring-fed flows contribute roughly 30% of the freshwater entering Lake Amistad, benefiting communities throughout the Rio Grande watershed.
“I am proud to represent this region and to bring forward a bill that reflects the will of the community,” said Representative Eddie Morales. “HB 3333 protects a resource that is not only ecologically rare, but economically important to the people who live and work in Val Verde County. This legislation respects property rights and the integrity of our rural traditions while ensuring this river remains unspoiled for generations of Texans.”
Finegan Springs, Devils River
The measure earned strong bipartisan support and was backed by the Val Verde County Commissioners Court, the City of Del Rio, The Nature Conservancy in Texas, and a growing list of private landowners within the watershed who see the bill as a clear affirmation of the region’s longstanding culture of stewardship and respect for the land and water.
“I’ve had the privilege of serving on the DRC Board of Directors for nearly a decade, and I’ve never seen our community more united around a single solution,” said John Shepperd, DRC Public Affairs Chair. “This bill protects the livelihoods that depend on the pristine water quality of the Devils River — all while respecting landowner autonomy and the limited role of government. It’s the kind of practical, community-driven policy we need to see more in Texas.”
In addition to thanking the bill authors, the DRC extended appreciation to Senator Roland Gutierrez, Chairman Charles Perry, Chairman Brooks Landgraf, and the many legislative staff and agency collaborators who helped advance the bill.
The Devils River Conservancy looks forward to Governor Abbott’s signature on HB 3333 as a meaningful recognition of the generations of private landowners who have worked to keep the Devils River clean, clear, and wild.
Media Contact:
Romey Swanson
Executive Director, Devils River Conservancy
romey.swanson@devilsriverconservancy.org
(512) 667-8124