Editorial: Human Safety And Historical Significance Was Not Thought About

Citizens of San Marcos, I have something that is very serious that you may want to be informed of.

Do you enjoy knowing that we have a beautiful river? How about fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or just swimming in the beautiful cool, clear waters?

Are you aware City Council was persuaded to remove a historical part of Hays County by destroying Capes Dam (a Weir) that will leave the left channel (mill race) stagnant causing a mosquito haven and loss of habitat? All for a measly potential  .4%-5% increase in habitat for fish. The author of the study also has previous reports stating opposite and states by keeping the dam is better for the Fountain Darter?

The Dam, mill race and the falls have been eligible on National Historical Registry since 1985 for its engineering significants of its time. It provided the first industrial activity in Hays County.  

The only reason it’s not listed is because the private land owners requested it not be listed. It very well could lose its eligibility if Capes Dam is removed according to the letter from Texas Historical Commission back in July.  

The Left Channel is where fisherman like to go and enjoy the peace and quiet of the River. It is also part of the Federally Protected Critical Habitat for the endangered Fountain Darter.   They are only found in San Marcos River and the Comel River, not found anywhere else in the world!  Is it worth to gamble their loss to test a theory on what would happen if the dam is removed?  They are doing just fine with Capes Dam.  

People come from all over to visit our river such as  families, Scout Troupes, Church Groups, youth groups, and of course many of our returning Vets of whom are suffering from the loss of limbs and PTSD come to rehabilitate by kayaking and enjoy the soothing waters of our River.  

They all use the Mill Race as it has slower moving currents than the right channel of Thompson Islands.  Without the diversion dam that keeps the left channel alive, you would not be able  paddle back up river to get back to your car or where ever you may have put in. 

I am not a scientist or college grad but common sense tells me once the Dam is removed the River depth will go down a great deal and will not be enjoyed as we once remembered.  

The beauty we enjoy now will be gone and loss of swimming in this area will be lost as well.  The safety of our youth and inexperienced boaters should be more important than what was given in the time they decided to remove Capes Dam.   

We need to join as a Community to save this beautiful section of the San Marcos River, to be enjoyed by many more today and in the future. 

Thank you,

Sandra Schultz

San Marcos Citizen