Comal Springs (Texas)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Comal Springs | |
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| Type | Karst spring |
| Location | New Braunfels, Texas, U.S.A. |
| Source | Edwards Aquifer |
| Provides water for | Comal River |
| Flow | 318 ft³/s (9000 liters/s) |
| Magnitude | 1 |
| Elevation | 620 ft (189 m) above sea level |
Comal Springs are the largest concentration of naturally occurring freshwater springs in Texas. They are located in the city of New Braunfels and are the result of water percolating through the Edwards Aquifer formation.
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[edit] History
The springs were historically a magnet for the indigenous population of the region, often Tonkawas. The first Spanish explorer to visit the springs was Damián Massanet in 1691. The site was later home to a Spanish mission. Spanish settlers eventually called the site "Las Fontanas". The area has been home to a mixture of recreational and commercial endeavors, including Landa Park.
[edit] Geology
The Comal Springs are fed by the Edwards Aquifer, a large karst aquifer that runs through most of central Texas. The aquifer consists of porous, water-bearing limestone features which channel rainfall and runoff from the aquifer's recharge zone down to various discharge zones, including the springs.
[edit] Flora and Fauna
The Comal Springs are home to a variety of unique plant and animal life. One notable example is the Fountain Darter (Etheostoma fonticola).
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- Edwards Aquifer Authority
- Comal Springs from the Handbook of Texas Online
- Edwards Aquifer: Comal Springs
- Comal Springs (Texas) is at coordinates Coordinates:
