As part of EPCOR’s commitment to local residents, the state of Texas and the regional environment, we are seeking to proactively provide all interested parties with extensive information about this proposed project. EPCOR is currently in the process of conducting a variety of studies aimed at proactively identifying and investigating any possible impacts to the site, its surroundings and Galveston Bay. These efforts include site surveys, soil sampling, sonar mapping of the existing inflow and outflow channels, wetlands impacts research, and water salinity level modeling and projections.
Through the desalination process, salt and other minerals are removed from seawater for municipal, industrial or agricultural uses, meaning that sodium is a primary byproduct. In many cases, this salt is returned to the ocean using a controlled process. A variety of methods can be employed to diffuse the sodium so it does not significantly impact wildlife or natural habitats.
For the proposed Bayshore Desalination Facility Near Bacliff, a science-based analysis is currently taking place to determine the best method for safely managing the salt generated as part of the desalination process. The development of those plans is a public one, requiring state and federal reviews and approvals to ensure the impacts are minimal and the public remains informed. Once prepared, this modeling data will be provided to the Environmental Protection Agency for review and possible approval. Below is the data gathered to date.
Several site evaluations are currently taking place to determine soil quality and other site-related environmental factors prior to the possible construction of the Bayshore Desalination Facility. Notably, the site currently contains both structures and materials that would need to be disposed of if the project were to move forward.