Is it possible that this slow-moving river holds the key to Houston’s past and future? Welcome to Buffalo Bayou at Houston. It is more than just a waterway. It is the lifeblood of this dynamic city.
Buffalo Bayou’s story began about 18,000 years ago. The bayou originates in the prairie surrounding Katy. It flows east for approximately 53 miles. Finally, it merges with the Houston Ship Channel into Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
This vital waterway was a focal point for early Anglo-American settlement. Communities sprouted along its banks in the early 19th century. Places like Lynchburg and Harrisburg emerged. The final battle of the Texas Revolution was fought here where Buffalo Bayou meets the San Jacinto River.
In the 1830s, Houston was established near the bayou’s edge. Allen’s Landing became Houston’s original docks. The Port of Houston was established in 1841. Small trading ships could turn around at this westernmost location.
Later, dredging operations made Buffalo Bayou more accessible. The first dredging was completed in 1876. By the mid-20th century, the Port of Houston became Texas’ leading port. The Texas oil boom further spurred industrial growth.
However, extreme floods in the 20th century devastated Houston. This led to flood control projects. Barker Reservoir was completed in 1945. Addicks Reservoir followed in 1948. These reservoirs help prevent downstream flooding.
Conservation efforts began in the 1960s. Terry Hershey helped prevent the channelization of the bayou with concrete. The Buffalo Bayou Preservation Association was formed. Terry Hershey Park was dedicated to her efforts.
Following the Clean Water Act, Houston invested billions in sewage treatment. This significantly improved water quality. The Buffalo Bayou Partnership was founded in 1986. It aimed to renovate park space along the river.
The Buffalo Bayou Promenade opened in 2006. Buffalo Bayou Park was completed in 2015. It features a dog park, gardens, and an art space in a historic cistern.
Hurricane Harvey in 2017 brought record high water levels. Addicks and Barker reservoirs filled to capacity. Controlled releases caused extensive flooding.
Buffalo Bayou is central to Houston’s drainage. The Army Corps of Engineers began reservoir construction to reduce flood risk. The Addicks and Barker reservoirs provide runoff storage.
Today, Buffalo Bayou supports numerous urban parks. These include Terry Hershey Park and Buffalo Bayou Park. It supports diverse wildlife. Catfish, gars, and bass thrive here. Birds, snakes, and even alligators can be spotted.
Buffalo Bayou is legally navigable by paddle craft. Popular trips occur between Highway 6 and Shepherd Drive. The condition of the bayou’s waters has been a long-standing concern. The city has worked to address pollution issues.
Buffalo Bayou is known as the Mother Bayou. It is one of the few remaining streams that remains largely unchannelized. A meandering stream carries more water than a straightened one. Trees protect against erosion and cleanse the water.
So, the next time you see Buffalo Bayou, remember its rich history. Think of its importance to Houston. Appreciate the efforts to preserve this vital waterway for future generations.