Hill Country Alliance

Leakey - Rural Roundup: Leakey - Rural Resilience: Balancing Heritage and Growth
2025-05-31 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | The Springs – Leakey, 692 Evergreen St, Leakey, TX, 78873, United States
Rural Resilience: Balancing Heritage and Growth
How can a town adapt to external forces without losing its character? What does it look like to build resilient communities?
Join us to hear how groups in Real County are balancing heritage and growth: whether by protecting natural resources while preparing for a future with less reliable water, or promoting history while building new resources for health and recreation, come get inspired as we learn what works, what doesn’t, and what you can bring back to your own community.
Event Overview:
Leading in the Rural Hill Country – Rural Roundup Series – Leakey
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT
Location: The Springs Retreat, 692 S Evergreen St, Leakey, TX 78873
Free event – Space Limited- RSVP Required
Preview the Day:
We’ll spend the day learning what Leakey has to teach us about preparing for the future while protecting rural legacy. We’ll hear from community groups, elected officials, landowners, and business leaders, as well as going for a downtown walking tour. Join us for an inspiring day of programming and delicious lunch. Click here to preview speakers and learn more.
Attendance is free but will likely fill up fast! RSVP for free at https://bit.ly/LeakeyRoundup25

Online - Drought Updates: Current and future conditions in the Edwards Aquifer Region
2025-06-04 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Webinar
We are rolling into the hottest time of the year and our current drought shows no sign of diminishing! Join the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network for this special webinar, where we discuss this possibly historic drought and what can be done to conserve our water supplies.
We’ll hear from Paul Bertetti, Edwards Aquifer Authority’s Senior Director of Aquifer Science Research & Modeling, and allow time for Q&A.
Topics:

Rainfall Deficits
Groundwater Levels
Changes in Springflows
Comparison to Past Droughts
Trends & Projections

RSVP for free to attend this lunchtime webinar at https://bit.ly/HCDrought25

Online - Water Wonks Hour Lecture Series #6 - The 2025 Legislative Session – What we’ve learned, what can we do next?
2025-06-25 15:30 - 16:30 | Online
With the 2025 Legislative Session coming to a close Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance (GEAA) Policy Director Rachel Hanes will guide attendees on a look back at what priority water bills made it through every step of the legislative process and will be enacted into law, what bills failed to advance this year, and the impact these successful or failed bills will have on the state of Central Texas water. We’ll then look forward to the next year and a half and explain what happens between now and the next legislative session in 2027, as well as how we’ll prepare to continue advocating for responsible water legislation.
Click here to learn more and join GEAA.

New Braunfels - Indoor Picnic and Texas Nature Docu-Series Screening - Comal Conservation
2025-07-15 17:30 - 20:00 | McKenna Event Center, 801 San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX, 78130, United States
This is a family friendly indoor picnic and Texas nature docuseries (5 short films) viewing. From the folks that brought you ‘Deep In The Heart,’ come join us and learn about our Texas State Parks, efforts to conserve bats, redfish, bears, and ocelots.

DISCLAIMER: Nature docu-series does contain trials and tribulations experienced by these animals along with efforts to conserve these native species.

Click here to learn more from Comal Conservation.

Uvalde - Workshop: Preparing for Screwworms in South Texas
2025-07-23 09:00 - 13:00 | Uvalde County Event Center, 215 Veterans Lane, Uvalde, TX, 78801, United States
There will be a free, educational workshop focused on New World Screwworm surveillance, response and reporting on July 23 in Uvalde.
The workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Uvalde County Event Center, 215 Veterans Lane, and feature expert speakers from various state and federal agencies as well as private operations. Workshop topics include status updates, economic impacts, wildlife and livestock surveillance, reporting and response, preventative treatments, and new advancements in research and development.
The workshop will offer three Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units for pesticide applicators who attend all workshop sessions. Lunch is provided and registration is required.
Register at https://tx.ag/UvaldeWorkshop
Learn more at https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2025/07/11/uvalde-county-screwworm-workshop/

Online - Water Wonks Hour Lecture Series #7: 2D Modeling for Flood Risk Planning of San Antonio’s Westside Creeks
2025-07-23 15:30 - 16:30 | Online
This presentation focuses on enhancing flood risk management for San Antonio’s Westside Creeks, including Apache, San Pedro, Martinez, and Alazan Creeks. It explores the critical role of floodplains in managing flood risks and discusses FEMA’s role in regulating floodplain boundaries and development.
The presentation addresses various types of flooding, such as overland flooding (rainwater runoff) and creek flooding, and how these factors combine to affect flood risk in urban areas. It introduces the concept of a watershed approach to better understand the behavior of floodwaters across an entire region.
A key focus is on modern modeling techniques used to assess flood risks, highlighting the benefits of advanced models that offer a more complete picture of flood hazards beyond traditional floodplain boundaries. The presentation also covers flood mitigation strategies, including green stormwater infrastructure, which can reduce flooding and increase resilience in sensitive areas outside the floodplain.
By leveraging historical data, future weather predictions, and cutting-edge technology, this project provides valuable insights for informed decision-making, better planning, and improved long-term flood resilience for the Westside Creeks area.
Click here to learn more and join GEAA.

Hill Country Water Worries: Land Stewardship, Water Policy, and the Future of Water in Texas
2025-07-23 16:30 - 17:00
Water is on everyone’s mind after the recent floods in Kerr County. Join the Kerr County Water Alliance for a timely conversation on the future of water in the Hill Country. This free in-person event, Hill Country Water Worries, features renowned water policy leader Dr. Andrew Sansom and land stewardship expert Dr. April Sansom. It’s happening Wednesday, July 23 at 4:30 PM at the UGRA classroom in Kerrville. Come be part of the conversation about conservation, resilience, and action. Learn more at KerrCountyWaterAlliance.org.

2025 Grazing School
2025-08-01 - 2025-08-03 | San Marcos, TX, 601 University Drive Ag Building 206, San Marcos, TX, 78666, United States
A unique 3-day workshop to learn from the top 3 industry leaders, Holistic Management International, Understanding Ag and Noble Research Institute, in Regenerative Grazing!

Join us to learn: Forage assessment, grazing planning, & stocking calculations Improving profitability through appropriate grass management Fundamentals of herd selection, genetics & epigenetics Assessing animal performance Business practices to improve economic viability & profit Planning for long-term success & more!

Mornings begin with Open Gates at 3 different local ranches offering real-life demos & insights straight from the source! Afternoon presentations held at Texas State University, for deeper dives into practical, research-backed strategies for your operation.

San Marcos - Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference
2025-08-04 - 2025-08-05 | Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, 78666, United States
The Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference unites Texas farmers, homesteaders, local food advocates, conservationists, and landowners for two days of high-quality education, networking, and an engaging exhibit hall.
Featuring six specialized learning tracks—Crops, Livestock, Business & Finance, Start-Up & Homesteader, The Big Picture, and Niche & Innovation—the conference explores innovative farming and conservation methods, business and marketing strategies for small producers, and vital discussions on food policy and resilient local food systems.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity for continued education and meaningful connections within the Texas agricultural community!
Click here to learn more.

2025 Water Wonks Hour Lecture Series #8: Smarter Writing, Faster Research: Using AI for Water Work
2025-08-27 15:30 - 16:30 | zoom
Curious about how artificial intelligence can help you write better, faster, and with less stress? Whether you’re drafting a newsletter, summarizing scientific reports, or digging into complex water issues, AI tools like ChatGPT can be your secret weapon. This session will introduce you to practical, beginner-friendly ways AI can support your communication and research efforts. No tech background required—just bring your curiosity! You’ll walk away with tools, tips, and real-world examples to help you work smarter and make a bigger impact in water-related fields.

Educational Event on Tawny Crazy Ants
2025-08-28 17:30 - 18:30 | 325 Resource Drive, New Braunfels, Texas
The Curious Life of the Tawny Crazy Ant… and How to End It.
Learn about the biology, behavior, and management of tawny crazy ants. 1 General CEU is offered.
August 28th – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm, doors open at 5 pm
Registration is required by contacting the Comal County Extension Office.
830-620-3440 | comal-tx@tamu.edu</a

Gourdgeous Glass Pumpkin Patch Festival
2025-09-20 10:00 - 15:00 | Wimberley Glassworks, 6469 Ranch Rd 12, San Marcos, TX, 78666, United States
Get ready for a fall celebration like no other!
Wimberley Glassworks invites you to our annual Gourdgeous Glass Pumpkin Patch on September 20th. Discover hundreds of handcrafted glass pumpkins, each one a unique work of art. Experience the thrill of spooky-themed live glassblowing, take on our interactive scavenger hunts, and treat yourself to festive sweets and seasonal fun. Enjoy fall festivities for all ages, including kids’ coloring stations, a pumpkin toss, exciting giveaways, and more.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin, soaking in the fall vibes in our gallery and studio, or witnessing the art of glassblowing, this is an autumn event you won’t want to miss!

Drought and Demand - Groundwater Management
2025-09-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Tye Preston Memorial Library, 16311 S. Access Rd, Canyon Lake, TX, 78133, United States
**LIMITED SEATING. REGISTRATION REQUIRED**
A panel from the Texas Water Development Board, Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, and the Edwards Aquifer Authority discusses management of groundwater resources.

Dripping Springs - Hill Country Leadership Summit - SAVE THE DATE!
2025-09-25 08:00 - 18:00 | Camp Lucy, 3509 Creed Rd., Dripping Springs, TX, 78620, United States
Save the date and join us for HCA’s annual Hill Country Leadership Summit at Camp Lucy on Thursday, September 24.
The Hill Country Leadership Summit is the Hill Country Alliance’s premiere annual gathering, and provides an opportunity for learning, networking, and being inspired among our region’s top community leaders, conservation practitioners, and natural resource managers.
Additional details available here.

Community Town Hall: Floodplain 101
2025-09-30 15:30 - 18:00 | Guadalupe Basin Natural Resource Center, 125 Lehmann Dr., Kerrville, TX, 78028, United States
Community Town Hall: Floodplain 101: Bring Your Address — Leave with Answers
After the devastating July floods, many Kerr County residents are asking: What’s my flood risk? Can I rebuild safely? What does FEMA really require? This event is open to all residents — homeowners, renters, and business owners — who want clear answers about floodplain rules, insurance, and safe rebuilding. Offered by the Kerr County Water Alliance in collaboration with Certified Floodplain Managers from the Texas Floodplain Management Association.
Tuesday, September 30
3:30 – 6:00 pm
Guadalupe Basin Natural Resources Center
125 Lehman Drive, Kerrville
What’s on the agenda?

Opening remarks by Charlie Hastings, PE, CFM
Floodplain 101 basics — why the National Flood Insurance Program exists and how it protects us
History of Texas floods — lessons learned and why higher standards mean more resilient homes and communities
Pop-Up Flood Smart Permit Clinic (Lobby) — Certified Floodplain Managers will:

Print your property’s FEMA map
Highlight your base flood elevation
Walk you through elevation/no-rise rules
Send you home with a map + a “Floodplain 101” handout

The clinic will be open before, during, and after the main session, so drop in anytime.
Why come? Because this is your chance to talk one-on-one with Certified Floodplain Managers — people who can explain the process in plain English and give you tools to rebuild with confidence.
This event is free and open to the public.

Concan Rural Roundup: The Future of Water in the Western Hill Country
2025-10-04 09:00 - 14:00 | House Pasture Cattle Co, 2 River Road, Concan, TX, 78838, United States
On the edge of the encroaching Chihuahuan Desert, enclosed by Flash Flood Alley, west of a growing urban center, and home to a rich agricultural heritage, the rural Hill Country faces water pressures from every direction. After the water shortages of 2022 and the historic flooding of 2025, how do we plan for the future?
At this Rural Roundup, hear from local leaders, businesses, and landowners as they share how they’re adapting water management strategies to prepare for new challenges. Together, we’ll explore what’s working, what isn’t, and how you can bring these lessons back to your own community.

Burnet - International Observe the Moon Event at Inks Lake SP
2025-10-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 W, Burnet, TX, 78611, United States
Join Park Rangers and volunteers, and other stargazers across the country, as we gaze upward to enjoy our one and only moon and celebrate the NASA International Observe the Moon night, Hill Country Night Sky Month, and the Asian Moon festival
See the moon through telescopes, munch on refreshments, and make a Chinese Lantern.
A limited number of telescopes will be available for use, and guests are welcome to bring their own.
Bring a lawn chair or comfy blanket and enjoy the night skies.
Where: Central Park
This event is free with park entry fee.
Park admission is free with a Texas State Parks Pass. On busy weekends, reserve your day pass early online! Please note: You do not need to register or make a reservation for this event, just be sure you have a day pass purchased for everyone attending.

Online - HCA Night Sky Preservation Fund Information Session
2025-10-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
The Hill Country Alliance Night Sky Preservation Fund offers financial reimbursement assistance to local grassroots organizations, groups, institutions, and communities involved in efforts to enhance outdoor lighting and reduce light pollution. Fund recipients will be reimbursed for hard costs, up to $5,000, incurred over 12 months following the award date. The application window is open from October 1 to October 31, 2025.
Click the link below to register to attend a virtual Information Session on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. CDT.
For more information, guidelines, and details on how to apply and donate, visit https://www.hillcountryalliance.org/NightSkyFund.

Wimberley - Annual Howl at the Moon Dance Party
2025-10-07 20:00 - 21:00 | Blue Hole Regional Park Basketball Court, 333 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley, TX, 78676, United States
Howl at the Moon DANCE PARTY!
Come dance the night away!
Join us at Blue Hole Regional Park for our annual Howl at the Moon Dance Party! Feel the thrill of dancing under the moonlight and then, at 8:30 PM, let loose with an exhilarating group howl at the moon! Don’t miss this electrifying celebration of the night sky and the joy of movement.
Location: Blue Hole Regional Park Basketball Court (333 Blue Hole Ln. Wimberley, TX 78676)
The event is Free! Registration is Recommended

Online - Hill Country Night Sky Team Fall Meeting
2025-10-14 13:30 - 15:30 | Online
Celebrate Hill Country Night Sky Month with your fellow night sky friends, associates, partners, and advocates at the Hill Country Night Sky Team Fall Meeting.
Join in our bi-annual online gathering and catch up on night sky Hill Country happenings and updates, celebrate milestones, highlight accomplishments, and plan for the months ahead.
Click the link below to register.

Horseshoe Bay - Stargazing Event
2025-10-16 07:00 | Horseshoe Bay Nature Park, 1514 Golden Nugget, Horseshoe Bay, TX, 78657, United States
Horseshoe Bay to Host Community Stargazing Party: International Dark Sky Community Invites Residents to Explore Autumn’s Celestial Wonders
The City of Horseshoe Bay will host a community Stargazing Party on Thursday, October 16, at 7 p.m. at the Horseshoe Bay Nature Park, located at 1514 Golden Nugget. The free event, open to residents and visitors, celebrates the city’s prestigious designation as an International Dark Sky Community, a recognition awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association on November 1, 2015, for its exemplary efforts to preserve naturally dark night-time conditions.

Concan - Astrophotography Workshop & Live Music
2025-10-17 - 2025-10-18 | The Inn Between, 28213 US-83, Concan, TX, 78838, United States
Learn how to photograph the Milkey Way & planets in this intimate workshop with astrophotographer Steve Irwin and listen to music under the stars with Sherita Perez
Click the link below to learn more, get information on available accommodations (not included in the cost of the workshop), and sign up for the workshop. A donation of $5 per person is recommended for the musical performance. All workshop proceeds will go to Kerrville Pets Alive!

Concan - Music Under the Stars
2025-10-18 17:00 | Indian Blanket Ranch, 5181 Ranch to Market Road 1050, Concan, TX, 78838, United States
Come out an enjoy Music Under the Milky Way!
Arrive early to learn tips on photographing the night sky from astrophotographer Steve Irwin. This event is open to the public. Bring chairs, beverages and a red flashlight and enjoy the live music of Sherita Perez at Indian Blanket Ranch.
Cost: A $5 donation is recommended for the performer. All other profits will go to Kerrville Pets Alive!
Note: This event is contingent upon the weather

Lometa - Stargazing with Lampasas County Friends of the Night Sky
2025-10-18 18:00 - 21:30 | Fiesta Winery, 18727 W FM 580, Lometa, 76853, United States
Fiesta Winery and Lampasas County Friends of the Night Sky invite you to out to the vineyard for an evening of stargazing. Local astronomers will guide the way as you explore the night sky, glass of wine in hand.
A perfect blend of wine, wonder, and the magic of the Hill Country night. Learn about our mission to preserve the view for all of us.
NO TELESCOPE REQUIRED -but feel free to bring yours if you have one.

Jonestown - Star Party
2025-10-18 20:00 - 22:00 | Jones Brother’s Park, 10301 Lakeside Drive, Jonestown, Texas, 78645
It’s a Star Party!
Presented by Jonestown Night Sky Advocacy, The City of Jonestown, and Astronomer Tom Campbell
See the stars through a huge telescope.
Bring a blanket, chairs & your own telescope you have one.
Free Event
Free Parking

Marble Falls - Night Sky Information Session
2025-10-20 13:00 - 14:00 | Marble Falls Library, 101 Main Street, Marble Falls, TX, 78654, United States
The stars above are one of our region’s most treasured natural resources, yet increasing population growth and development across the Texas Hill Country are contributing to light pollution that dims our view of them. In Burnet County, preserving—and in some areas, restoring—the night sky is vital, not only for the health of all living things but also for sustaining our local economy, tourism, safety, and cultural heritage. With growing community interest in night sky preservation, we invite you to join one of our upcoming information sessions to learn more about the issue, explore the formation of a Friends of the Night Sky group, and take part in an open discussion and Q&A.
Click the link below to register.

2025 Water Wonks Hour Lecture Series #10: Soil carbon analysis process, the USDA 2022 soil carbon survey, working with urban areas and the San Antonio baseline soil carbon data – where do we go from here?
2025-10-22 15:30 - 16:30 | zoom
In 2022, the Natural Resource Conservation Service began sampling soils in San Antonio and Bexar County, Texas to measure soil organic carbon. This project was started in conjunction with the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance and the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. Travis Waiser will cover the sampling technique, where samples were taken, and summarize the data collected from the project. At the end of the talk Travis will cover some management strategies that can be implemented to build soil carbon in your soils.

Marble Falls - Women's Hill Country Retreat: Nourish in Nature
2025-10-23 16:00 - 2025-10-26 11:00 | Retreat Ranch
Join Journey Land & Soul for a soul nourishing journey at our 3-night ranch retreat nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Thoughtfully designed by and for women, you will be immersed in daily activities to inspire connection to self, nature, and community and amplify our collective growth. We invite you to explore and expand through outdoor activities, daily movement and mindfulness, sound healing, holistic health workshops, journaling and discussion.
Removed from the distractions of everyday life, Retreat Ranch is a haven for serenity, rejuvenation, and fun. This retreat promises an opportunity for deep restoration and reflection as well as ample time to explore your well-being and personal growth among a welcoming community of women.
Click here to learn more.

Liberty Hill - Tri-County Star Viewing Party
2025-10-25 17:30 - 23:00 | River Ranch County Park, 194 Reveille Way, Liberty Hill, TX, 78642, United States
Celebrate Liberty Hill’s International Dark Sky Community designation with our neighboring communities! Spend an autumn evening exploring the night sky and enjoying family-friendly fun.
Event Highlights
• Explore the skies through telescopes with astronomy guides
• Grab dinner from local food trucks
• Create space-themed crafts with the Liberty Hill Public Library
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to relax under the stars.
Camping or day-use reservations are required for park entry.
Reserve your site or purchase a day pass here:
Park day use fees are per person:
-Free for ages 12 and under and those with a Williamson County Park Pass
-$4 for ages 13-64
-$2 for ages 65 and older

Wimberley - Star Party
2025-10-25 18:30 - 21:30 | Blue Hole Regional Park, 100 Blue Hole Ln., Wimberley, TX, 78676, United States
The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Wimberley!
Gaze at the stars during the night at Wimberley! Bring your family and friends to our Star Party event at Blue Hole Regional Park. Participants will enjoy an evening of stargazing in the Hill Country and fascinating presentations by the Wimberley Dark Sky Committee. The Texas State Astronomy Club will be sharing their telescopes and knowledge with us for the night.
Live Music: 6:45 p.m.
Sky Tour: 9:00 p.m.
Note:
– You are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket, a picnic, and a flashlight.
– The event is located at the soccer fields at Blue Hole Regional Park. Restrooms and water fountains are accessible during the event.
– Event is weather permitting, including heavy cloud coverage.
*For more information about Wimberley Valley Dark Sky, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/WimberleyDarkSky
*For more information about The Texas State Astronomy Club, please visit: https://www.astrotxst.org/
