Welcome to Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 71
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Pet Etiquette in Shared Spaces
HCMUD 0712026-06-03T14:40:03-05:00June 3, 2026|
HCMUD 71 is proud to maintain parks, trails, and lakes that provide residents with safe and enjoyable spaces to walk, exercise, and spend time outdoors. Many residents also use these areas to walk their pets. While pets are welcome, all owners must follow basic pet etiquette to help ensure these spaces remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
Keep Pets Leashed and Under Control
Harris County and HCMUD 71 regulations require that all pets be kept on a leash at all times when in public spaces, like in District parks and on District trails. These rules help protect wildlife, prevent conflicts with other pets, and ensure the safety of children and adults enjoying the area. Leashes should be kept to six feet or less to avoid blocking paths or surprising others.
Clean Up After Your Pet
In addition to being unpleasant, pet waste poses health and environmental concerns. When left on the ground, waste can wash into storm drains and lakes during rain events, adding harmful bacteria to the water. All pet owners are responsible for carrying bags, cleaning up after their pets, and disposing of waste in the proper trash receptacles. The District provides pet waste stations in several locations, but owners should always come prepared with their own bags.
Be Respectful of Shared Spaces
District parks and trails are for the entire community. Allowing pets to roam through landscape beds, disturb wildlife, or block pathways can be disruptive or dangerous to others. When passing fellow walkers, joggers, or cyclists, keep your pet close to your side and give others space. Not all residents are comfortable around animals, and being mindful ensures community areas can be enjoyed by all.
Do Not Allow Pets in Lakes or Fountains
Pets should not be allowed to swim in community lakes, ponds, or fountains. This helps protect water quality and prevents wildlife disturbances.
A Shared Responsibility
HCMUD 71 works hard to provide well-maintained outdoor amenities, but keeping them safe and clean is a shared responsibility. By keeping pets leashed, picking up waste, and respecting others, residents help preserve the beauty and value of our community spaces.
How to Water Newly Planted Trees Without Wasting Water
HCMUD 0712026-05-27T14:30:41-05:00May 27, 2026|
Newly planted trees require extra care to become established, and proper watering is one of the most important factors in their long-term health. In the Katy area, where clay soil is common, watering too much or too often can be just as harmful as not watering enough. Understanding how to water new trees correctly helps them grow stronger while avoiding unnecessary water use.
When a tree is first planted, its root system is limited to the area of the root ball. Because of this, water should be applied slowly and directly to the base of the tree rather than spread broadly across the lawn. Deep watering encourages roots to grow downward into the soil, making the tree more stable and better able to tolerate the hot, dry summer conditions we often experience in the greater Houston area.
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make with new trees is watering too frequently. Clay soils hold in moisture, so daily watering is rarely necessary. Instead, watering deeply every few days allows the soil to absorb moisture while still providing time for it to dry slightly between cycles. This balance helps prevent root rot and promotes healthier root development.
It is also important to apply water slowly enough that it soaks into the ground rather than running off. Using a slow hose trickle, drip emitter, or tree watering bag can help control the flow and ensure water reaches the root zone. If water begins to pool or run off, pause watering and allow time for absorption before continuing.
Mulch can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature around the tree. A layer of mulch placed around the base, while keeping it away from direct contact with the trunk, reduces evaporation and helps maintain consistent soil conditions.
As the tree becomes established over its first year or two, watering frequency can be gradually reduced. The goal is to encourage the tree to rely on natural rainfall and deeper soil moisture rather than frequent surface watering.
By watering thoughtfully and avoiding overwatering, homeowners can help new trees develop strong root systems while using water efficiently. Proper watering practices support healthy growth and reduce unnecessary water use.