Post-Freeze Fish Mortality

Residents of Fort Bend County MUD No. 118 may have noticed that the recent freezing weather has caused some non-native fish species to die. The species impacted most were primarily Plecostomus and Tilapia. Both species are non-native tropical fish which have a significantly lower tolerance of prolonged exposure to low water temperatures compared to native species of fish. As water temperatures drop, their metabolism slows, and immune system becomes weakened. Once this happens, the chances of these fish expiring increases significantly. Even as air temperatures rise into the 70s, water temperatures can remain in the 50s. This prolongs the stresses of cold temperatures on the fishery resulting in fish succumbing to the elements several days after the freezing weather has ended. This is referred to as delayed mortality. Because of this delay, observers are often confused by the timing of the deceased fish’s appearance at the surface.

To alleviate this nuisance, the District is working to remove as many deceased fish from the lake as possible, but unfortunately not all fish will surface at the same time and park goers will continue to see deceased fish in the lake and along the lake shore until all fish of susceptible species have surfaced.

Dedicated Residential Patrol in Waterside Estates

MUD 118 Board voted in agreement at the January 2021 Meeting on a contract with the Fort Bend County Sheriff Department to provide a dedicated residential patrol starting in 2021. This will assist in providing additional security and safety for our residents and property. This will include a dedicated officer that will be highly visible. The MUD will receive performance on activities with crime problems and trends. This will provide quicker service when the patrol is on duty and will help be a deterrent to criminal activities.

Your MUD 118 Board of Directors

Dedicated Residential Patrol Starting in 2021

MUD 118 Board voted in agreement at the December Meeting to enter into a contract with the Fort Bend County Sheriff Department to provide a dedicated residential patrol starting in 2021. This will assist in providing additional security and safety for our residents and property.

Notice Regarding Playgrounds, Splash Pad and Park Equipment

Fort Bend County MUD No. 118 is continuing to monitor developments related to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic. In accordance with state and local reopening guidance, the splash pad and playgrounds will reopen on Wednesday, July 01, 2020. However, please be advised that park and playground equipment is not disinfected; use is at your own risk.  Further, the District encourages all residents to continue to follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and all local public health officials for the most up-to-date information.

Park Use Guidelines

The District appreciates your cooperation in exercising good hygiene and best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce ways the virus is transmitted. Visitors to District parks should adhere to the following guidelines.

  • Follow the CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading to parks – wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, do not use parks or trails and facilities if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, etc.
  • Individuals should maintain 6 feet of separation from others outside the individual’s group and from homeowner fences. A group is defined as no more than 10 persons including the members of the household and those persons who traveled together to the park.
  • All District playground and splash pad equipment, picnic tables and other commonly touched surfaces are open but not disinfected; use is at your own risk.
  • Warn other park users of your presence and as you pass to allow proper distance, and step off trails and sidewalks to allow others to pass, keeping minimum recommended distances at all times. Signal your presence with your voice, bell or horn.
  • Bring water or drinks — public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable.
  • Consistent with the actions taken by many individuals across the state, consider wearing cloth face coverings (over the nose and mouth) when within 6 feet of another person who is not a member of the individual’s group.