A review of historical data for Segment 1201 identifies water quality concerns for salinity, nutrients, copper, nickel, silver, and mercury. Segment 1202 indicates the same concerns with the exception of salinity. At the Brazos River near Hempstead, the concentration of nitrogen, chloride, and chlorophyll a appears to be higher during low flows, which is indicative of a point source. Due to elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria, Segment 1202 does not support contact recreation use. Oyster Creek is part of a canal system constructed by the Cane and Rice Belt Irrigation Company in 1908.
Several dams provide for a constant water level that supports recreational activities.
Nearly 50 documented fish kills since 1970, coupled with areas of chronic low dissolved oxygen levels, make up the major water quality concerns in the lake system. Nutrients and dissolved oxygen are determined to be concerns through the assessment screening process. Thirteen municipal, four industrial, and one agricultural discharge facilities in the watershed appear to influence the water quality of the stream. Nutrients, lead, and cadmium are identified as concerns for both segments while chloride, sulfate, and total dissolved solids are concerns for Segment 1211. Mercury is identified as a possible concern in both segments but requires additional field verification.