The Texas Hill Country is known for its picturesque waterways, including natural springs, artificial lakes and secluded swimming holes — and the residents who work to defend them. Residents and environmental activists, who worry that the nutrient-rich discharge will affect the ecological balance in the water and potentially lead to algae blooms and other problems, have fought construction of these plants through numerous avenues — including at the Texas Capitol. For years, these activists have pushed lawmakers to block the issuance of new discharge permits in areas deemed sensitive, inc...