New Report Highlights Need for Conservation Investment in Central Texas as Population Grows

A recent report by the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network (the Network) emphasizes the importance of investing in conservation as Central Texas experiences rapid growth.

The Hill Country Land, Water, Sky and Natural Infrastructure Plan, released in June, presents a data-driven vision for the preservation of the region’s crucial natural resources.

Spanning 18 counties from Austin to San Antonio and extending west to Uvalde and Junction, the Hill Country is home to three of the fastest growing counties in the nation.

As the population expands, the region faces challenges such as increased strain on groundwater resources, fragmentation and loss of natural areas, and light pollution that obscures the night sky.

In response to these issues, various conservation partners have come together to develop a proactive plan for safeguarding the Hill Country’s essential natural resources, which are integral to its identity.

Josh Sendejar, Network Manager, commented via a press release, “Infrastructure discussions often revolve around ‘hard’ projects like roads, transmission lines, pipelines, and sewer systems. However, we recognize that open spaces, clean rivers, aquifers, working ranchlands, dark skies, and healthy riparian areas offer invaluable infrastructure services at minimal or no cost to taxpayers.”

Key findings from the Natural Infrastructure Plan include: - Water resource protection emerged as the primary concern among over 2,800 survey respondents from the region. - 85% of survey participants expressed support for increased public funding for conservation. - The study identified and prioritized six conservation goals, ranging from safeguarding water supply to ensuring recreational access. - Natural infrastructure serves as the foundation for thriving economies, community health, and safety. Katherine Romans, current Co-Chair of the Network and Executive Director of the Hill Country Alliance, stated, “The Hill Country Land, Water, Sky, and Natural Infrastructure Plan presents a shared vision for the Hill Country and offers tools to plan and expand conservation investments in the region. The case is clear: investing in natural infrastructure now is the most cost-effective way to secure the Hill Country for future generations.”

The comprehensive Hill Country Land, Water, Sky, and Natural Infrastructure Plan comprises a written report, numerous maps, demographic data covering all 18 counties, and detailed recommendations for moving forward. It was developed based on feedback from nearly three thousand Central Texans, including natural resource professionals, residents, elected officials, and landowners within the region.

The resource also builds upon the 2022 State of the Hill Country report and equips local leaders, community groups, and conservation practitioners with the necessary data and tools to plan for conservation in their respective communities.

For more information, please visit OurTXHill-Country.org.