The Riverwalk in San Antonio may appear to tourists as just a pretty canal, but in fact, the waterways here hide a long history and complex structure. Many people wonder, "Where does this water come from?" The water of the Riverwalk is not artificially created; it is based on the natural channel of the San Antonio River.

The San Antonio River starts in South Central Texas and flows southward, eventually leading to the Gulf of Mexico. Its starting point is near San Antonio Springs, north of downtown, close to Brackenridge Park. This spring has been known as the 'source of life' by Native Americans for ages, marking the first point where the city's water flow begins.

The water of the Riverwalk flows from this spring, traversing downtown and continuing south through the Mission area. In other words, the Riverwalk is an artificially designed walkway and canal structure centered around a natural river.

The water of the Riverwalk is constantly circulating. It does not simply flow from one end to the other; several pumps and control gates are installed at various points to maintain a consistent water level. Since the river passes through the urban area, there is a risk of flooding during heavy rains, which is why dams and bypass channels were created after the major flood in the 1920s. Today's Riverwalk is the result of a combination of flood prevention systems and urban aesthetics.

Walking along the Riverwalk, the water may seem still, but it is actually flowing at a very slow pace. Artificial pumps circulate the water to prevent stagnation and periodically manage water quality.

Every winter, there is a period called 'River Drain' when the water is drained to clean the riverbed. During this time, all sorts of items, including coins, cell phones, and even shoes and sunglasses, are said to be found on the bottom. Once this process is complete, the water is refilled to welcome the new year.

So, do fish live in this water? Surprisingly, the answer is 'yes.'

There are indeed fish in the Riverwalk section. Carp, bluegill, sunfish, and small catfish naturally inhabit the area, with some being individuals that have flowed in from upstream and others being artificially released. Of course, since the channel is an artificial structure, the population is not large, but while walking, you can see silver scales glimmering in the water.

Waterfowl, ducks, and turtles are also frequently seen. Especially in the morning, ducks rest on the steps by the riverbank, and at night, fish come up near the surface, shimmering under the lights.

The water of the Riverwalk may appear calm, but it conceals a multitude of management and technology. Regular circulation and cleaning are carried out to maintain water quality, and it is designed to keep the water level consistent even during heavy rains or droughts. Therefore, tourists can always experience the same water level and tranquil atmosphere, no matter when they visit.

Ultimately, the water of the San Antonio Riverwalk is not just a decorative feature; it is a living waterway created by the city's history, ecology, and human technology.