Joshua Sierra

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2025

Abstract

This case study research investigates the potential influence of produced water (PW), a byproduct of oil and gas (O&G) activities, on surface water quality. The study involved two sites along Petronila creek, located in Nueces County, with historical oil and gas presence. Data from nearby monitoring stations containing various water quality parameters typically associated with produced water, including total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride (Cl), sulfate (SO4), and specific conductance was used to perform a statistical analysis of spatial and temporal trends. Spatial comparisons were made between both sites and upstream, tributary, and downstream roles to test for variances in water quality composition. Temporal analysis was used to indicate direction of concentration over time. Correlations testing was also conducted to establish tributary influence further downstream and estimate potential rainfall dilution effects. Results showed that there were significant increases in analyte concentrations from the tributaries going into Petronila creek at both site 1 (inland site) and site 2 (coastal site), suggesting impacts from PW runoff from nearby O&G plays. However, results also showed the highest concentrations overall were located downstream at site 2, suggesting that other factors, such as tidal or saline groundwater influences, may be at play as distance from the coast decreases. While indirect indicators of iii produced water may help trace potential links to PW, it is difficult to rule out other sources without more direct tracers, prompting recommendations for more targeted analyses.

Comments

Research Project Report (Non-thesis track)

Department of Natural Sciences Texas A&M University - San Antonio

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN WATER RESOURCES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

December 2025

Additional Files
RESULTS APPENDIX.pdf (1480 kB)
Results Appendix
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