Researching Local Issues
It might seem counterintuitive, but unfortunately it can sometimes be easier to find information about a sustainability issue or project half-way around the world than about something happening in our local area. The problem is a lack of indexing and organization of local sources.
The newspaper is an obvious source of information and you can use the links in the box below to search some years of the papers.
National and state sources can also be used to find local information. For example, EPA's Envirofacts lets you find reports filed with the EPA dealing with any particular area:
- EnvirofactsProvides a sampling of environmental information for specific areas, which can be designated by zip code, city, county, or place name.Topics include toxic releases, air emission estimates, water discharge permits, etc.
Scientific and technical databases of course will contain citations to articles (and sometimes the articles themselves in full-text) that deal with local issues. Consult the databases linked in other tabs of this LibGuide, such as these:
- Government Databasesespecially look at the Science/Technology tab
Agency websites can also be useful sources of information about local environmental topics. Guides to local and state government bodies, and links to Texas environmental agencies, can be found in the boxes on the right.
Texas Public Radio often provides programming on local environmental issues and this content can be accessed as podcasts from their website.
Don't forget the Library's catalog! We have books, government documents, theses, websites, and other resources listed there that can be of use for research into local issues. Check the Library Basics:Books tab for tips on using the catalog.Other Research Guides
Some other LibGuides provide links to local information sources:
- Local Area Government Information. Links to county and city government pages as well as links by subject tabs to agencies, educational institutions, hospital systems, etc. In particular, the "Water" tab provides links to local and regional water-related agencies.
- San Antonio Media. Links to magazines, newspapers, TV and radio stations, etc., in the area.
- Texas Government Information Resources. Links organized by subject to Texas agencies. The Environment/Weather box is reproduced below.
Environment/Weather
- Coastal Flood Risks (FEMA)information, maps, and documentation regarding coastal flood-prone areas of the US
- State Water Plan
information used by the Texas Water Development Board in water planning; includes projections of needs, supplies, and possible strategies - Texas Commission on Environmental QualityInformation on a variety of environmental topics for the public, businesses, and government. Their Publications Catalog offers extensive online content.
- Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept.Information on state parks, historical sites, hunting and fishing regulations
- Texas Railroad Commissionoversees energy regulation and development, including oil and gas
- Texas Water Development BoardStatistics and other information on topics such as drought, groundwater, conservation, and desalination research (along with other innovative technologies)
- Texas Water Development Board: Water Resources Planningthis site is rich with historical, current, and projections data concerning water use and demand
- Virtual Landscapes of TexasCollection of digitized documents reflecting early writing on the geology and environment of Texas
- Weather.gov Watches/Warnings/Advisories for TexasFor specific city information and forecasts go to their home page (weather.gov) and enter the city name or zip code for the area you need
