 Hill Country Conservancy seeks the advice of and works with landowners, conservation buyers and sellers, the real estate and business communities, and numerous agencies of local, state and federal government. Together, we craft cutting edge solutions to the complex challenges of preserving the economy and the environment. With more than $20 million already dedicated for land conservation, we have been able to conserve thousands of acres of land in the Texas Hill Country.
Here are some of the highlights:
- Storm Ranch: The 5,685-acre beautiful, historic Storm Ranch will be preserved forever. This will be accomplished by purchasing the development rights on the ranch through an alliance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife, the City of Austin and several foundations. The Storm family will maintain ownership of the land.
- Rock Quarry: A partnership with 3M Corporation, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Texas Parks and Wildlife, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and several local businesses has led to a groundbreaking scientific study of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer's water quantity and quality as well as the conservation of 85 acres of unique vistas.
- Orr Tract: Almost 200 acres of pristine land along beautiful Onion Creek have been set aside at the Orr Tract, and a major aquifer recharge feature located on the property has been protected. At the same time, we were able to help the landowner sustain a charming, secluded Hill Country bed and breakfast for the general public to enjoy.
- Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve: Valuable wildlife habitat has been protected on the Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve, which is located in close proximity to the 24,000-acre Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. Habitat enhancement has already begun.
- "Walk-for-a-Day": HCC has begun strategic planning to complete a regional "Walk-for-a-Day" recreational trail system. The trail will begin at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center and meander south through Hays County to the Rutherford Ranch, also known as The Onion Creek Natural Area. In August 2002, the City of Austin and HCC purchased the "Lloyd Tract" adjacent to the Onion Creek Natural Area. This 360-acre parcel will provide a critical link in the trail system.
- Ragsdale Ranch: The 497-acre Ragsdale/Gibson Ranch on Onion Creek near Dripping Springs boasts beautiful views and significant water resources. Utilizing Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program (FRPP) funds, along with funding from the City of Austin, Advanced Micro Devices and Hill Country Conservancy, a conservation easement will protect its water, pastures and wildlife habitat, forever. In addition, the original chimney, hand-dug well and log cabin on the 1870s home site will be preserved to commemorate our regional heritage.
- Autumn Woods: This beautiful 132-acre property on Little Bear Creek provides high quality recharge to the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. Adjacent to other undeveloped land, including the City of Austin's Water Quality Protection Lands, Autumn Woods is a special place with abundant and diverse native vegetation and wildlife that characterizes the history and heritage of Manchaca.
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