Zizania texana is included on the list of endangered species because of the continuous deterioration of its habitat in the San Marcus River. The San Marcus River's habitat is constantly changing due to the increased amount of recreational activity and the developing community that has begun to surround the immediate area.

Zizania texana is a sensitive plant that needs shallow, fresh water to propagate. However, with the increased amount of water pollution in the area, this wild rice has not reproduced sexually except in cultivation for almost 30 years. The recovery potential for Zizania texana is very slim and its population continues to diminish.