Who has the authority to make final decisions related to navigable waterways?

The authority to make final decisions related to navigable waterways is shared by the court system and state agencies such as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The courts play a crucial role in interpreting laws and resolving disputes related to navigable waters, providing legal rulings that can dictate how waterways are managed, utilized, and protected.

On the other hand, state agencies like TCEQ are responsible for enforcing environmental regulations, assessing impacts on public safety, and ensuring the responsible management of these waterways. They create and enforce policies that govern water quality and usage, thus significantly influencing decisions on navigable waterways.

Together, these entities ensure that both legal and environmental standards are upheld, providing a comprehensive framework for the stewardship of navigable waterways in Texas. Their combined authority reflects the complex nature of legal and environmental governance, emphasizing the need for collaboration between judicial and regulatory bodies.