Drinking Beer On Comal River: What, Where, And How?

The Comal River in Texas is known for its tubing, attracting visitors from all over the world. While drinking alcohol on the river is permitted, there are strict rules in place regarding the type of containers that can be used. Due to the annual tons of litter left by less considerate tubers, the City of New Braunfels has banned single-use containers, such as plastic water bottles, cans, and styrofoam. However, alcohol can still be enjoyed on the river as long as it is consumed from reusable, non-glass containers. These containers must also be over 5 fluid ounces in size, and coolers must have a locking mechanism to secure the lid.

Containers: use flasks, growlers, or tumblers, not cans or plastic bottles

When drinking beer on the Comal River, it's important to follow the local rules and regulations to avoid any fines. The Comal River Rules, also known as the "New Braunfels Can Ban", prohibit disposable containers such as cans, plastic bottles, and glass bottles. To enjoy a beer on the river responsibly, it is recommended to use non-disposable containers such as flasks, growlers, or tumblers.

Flasks are a classic and convenient option for carrying your favourite beverage. They are typically made of stainless steel or other durable materials, making them leak-proof and ideal for outdoor activities like tubing. Growlers are also a popular choice for beer enthusiasts. These containers are usually made of stainless steel or ceramic and come in various sizes, with a common volume of 64 ounces (four pints). They offer an excellent way to transport and enjoy your beer on the river. Additionally, tumblers made of stainless steel or other sturdy materials can be a perfect option for enjoying your beer while adhering to the river's container rules.

These non-disposable containers ensure that you comply with the regulations and help reduce littering on the Comal River. It's important to note that glass containers are prohibited on all Texas rivers, as broken glass can be dangerous for bare feet. By choosing these alternative containers, you can enjoy your beer responsibly and contribute to keeping the river clean and safe for everyone.

In addition to the type of container, it's important to follow other river rules and regulations. These may include restrictions on tube size, noise ordinances, jumping from bridges or trees, and proper waste disposal. By being mindful of these rules, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and others on the Comal River.

In summary, when drinking beer on the Comal River, opt for flasks, growlers, or tumblers instead of cans or plastic bottles. These containers allow you to comply with the local regulations while still enjoying your beverage of choice. Remember to drink responsibly, respect the environment, and follow the river rules for a pleasant and memorable tubing experience.

Glass: banned on the Comal River

Glass is banned on the Comal River, and for good reason. The river has been known as the "'world's shortest longest river' and is a popular destination for tubing, with its clear waters providing a restorative experience for floaters. However, the river has faced significant issues with littering, with over 100,000 pounds of trash, including glass items, pulled from the river in 2011. This led to the implementation of a ban on single-use containers, such as plastic water bottles, cans, and other disposable items.

The issue of littering on the Comal River became so severe that the City of New Braunfels enacted a ban on single-use containers, which included glass items such as beer bottles and cans. This ban was initially lifted in 2014 after a legal challenge, but it was reinstated in 2017. The ban specifically targets disposable containers, aiming to reduce the amount of trash left behind by floaters.

The ban on glass items on the Comal River is part of a broader effort to protect the environment and maintain the beauty of the river. Glass poses a particular hazard due to its potential to break and leave sharp fragments in the water and along the riverbed, which can be dangerous for bare feet. Additionally, glass is hazardous to wildlife and the natural ecosystem of the river.

To address the issue of drinking beer on the river while adhering to the glass ban, floaters have come up with creative solutions. Many opt for plastic beer growlers, which are reusable and can hold a generous amount of craft beer. These growlers are often paired with reusable cups, such as the popular Yeti Ramblers, to ensure that beer is consumed responsibly and safely.

Another option for beer lovers is to bring a keg, which is also permitted on the river. This allows for a continuous supply of beer throughout the trip, both on and off the water. Additionally, there are a variety of other creative solutions, such as flasks, wineskins, thermoses, and even floating firkins.

The glass ban on the Comal River is an important measure to protect the natural environment and ensure the safety of those enjoying the river. While it may require some adjustments to how people drink their beer, the ban ultimately contributes to a cleaner and safer floating experience for all.

Styrofoam: banned on the Comal River

The Comal River in New Braunfels, Texas, is a popular destination for tubing, attracting visitors from across the world. In recent years, the river has seen an increase in littering, with tons of beer cans and other detritus left behind by less considerate tubers. In response, the City of New Braunfels passed a ban on single-use containers, commonly known as the "New Braunfels Can Ban". This ban includes Styrofoam containers, which are prohibited on the Comal River for several reasons.

Firstly, Styrofoam is a type of disposable, single-use plastic that contributes significantly to environmental pollution. Styrofoam is made from polystyrene, a non-biodegradable material that can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. When Styrofoam is discarded, it often breaks down into smaller pieces, known as microplastics, which can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. Recognising the hazardous impact of Styrofoam on wildlife and the environment, Texas State Law prohibits the use of Styrofoam on any Texas river, including the Comal River.

Secondly, Styrofoam is lightweight and easily blown by the wind or floated away on the water, increasing the likelihood of littering. The City of New Braunfels has implemented measures to enforce the ban, with police and park rangers patrolling the Comal River and issuing citations to violators, which can result in fines of up to $500 per ticket.

The ban on Styrofoam containers is part of a broader effort to reduce littering and promote responsible waste management practices on the Comal River. In addition to the Styrofoam ban, the New Braunfels Can Ban prohibits other single-use items such as plastic water bottles, plastic bags, beverage cans, and food wrappers. This ban aims to encourage tubers to use reusable containers and reduce the amount of waste generated during their visits to the river.

While the Styrofoam ban may require some adjustments for those visiting the Comal River, there are plenty of alternatives available. Tubers can bring their beverages in reusable containers such as flasks, wineskins, thermoses, or stainless-steel cups. These options not only reduce waste but also ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy their drinks of choice, including beer, while tubing down the river.

By implementing the Styrofoam ban, the City of New Braunfels is taking a proactive approach to environmental protection and responsible river recreation. Visitors to the Comal River can play a crucial role in supporting these efforts by adhering to the ban, disposing of waste properly, and adopting more sustainable practices during their tubing experiences. Together, these collective actions can help preserve the natural beauty of the Comal River for future generations to enjoy.

Littering: banned on the Comal River

The Comal River in New Braunfels, Texas, is known for its tubing and clear waters. In the warm months, it is common for people to float down the river on an inner tube with a cooler full of ice-cold beer. However, the fun is now marred by the tons of litter left behind by less considerate tubers. In 2011, over 100,000 pounds of trash, including beer cans and other detritus, were pulled from the river. This led to the City of New Braunfels enacting a ban on single-use containers, such as plastic water bottles, snack packages, and beer cans.

The ban was initially lifted in 2014 after a state district judge ruled it unconstitutional, but it was reinstated in 2017 following a successful appeal. The ban prohibits all "throw away" and "one-time-use" drink containers, food packaging, and wrappers on the Comal River. This includes plastic water bottles, plastic bags, plastic utensils, paper cups, plastic cups, Styrofoam cups, glass items, beverage cans, and more.

The City of New Braunfels takes this issue very seriously, with police and park rangers patrolling the river and issuing citations to violators. These citations can cost up to $500 per ticket. The ban is not just about cans but all single-use containers, and it is important to note that littering is strictly prohibited on the Comal River and anywhere in Texas.

While alcohol consumption is still permitted on the river, it must be done responsibly and without littering. To comply with the ban, tubers must bring their beverages in non-disposable containers such as flasks, wineskins, thermoses, Tupperware, canteens, and tumblers. Glass and Styrofoam containers are not permitted, and no plastic containers of 5 fluid ounces or less are allowed.

The Comal River Rules, also known as the "New Braunfels Can Ban," aim to reduce the amount of litter in the river and protect the environment. It is important for tubers to be mindful of these rules and dispose of their waste properly to ensure a clean and safe experience for everyone.

Jumping: don't jump from bridges, dams, cliffs, or trees

Jumping from bridges, dams, cliffs, or trees is strictly prohibited on the Comal River. This rule is in place for safety reasons and to prevent injuries. The Comal River is a family destination, and those seeking a rowdy time are encouraged to go elsewhere.

The river is known for its calm waters, with a consistent float and a pretty relaxed vibe. The Comal is a great option for tubing, especially for families, as the river is spring-fed, crystal clear, and a cool 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. It is the shortest navigable river in the United States, and its clear waters and lush surroundings make it a popular choice for a leisurely float.

While alcohol consumption is permitted on the river, it is important to drink responsibly and not litter. Glass, styrofoam, and single-use plastic containers are prohibited, and all trash must be taken out of the river and disposed of properly.

So, when enjoying a cold one on the Comal River, remember to follow the rules, be mindful of your surroundings, and, most importantly, don't jump from any bridges, dams, cliffs, or trees!

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