Our Work
Land
HCA’s Land Program seeks to increase private land stewardship and permanent land conservation across the Hill Country, and works with regional land trusts to educate owners about conservation easements, track conservation metrics, and consider conservation priorities.
Water
HCA’s Water Program assists grassroots groups that champion water stewardship in their communities, advocates for policies that protect groundwater and surface water, and promotes resilient water supplies through the advancement of One Water projects.
Night Sky
HCA’s Night Skies Program helps Hill Country counties and cities minimize the impacts of light pollution through education and outreach, the establishment of outdoor lighting policies, and the recognition and celebration of certified Dark Sky Places in our region.
Communities
HCA’s Communities Program builds connections across county lines, supporting rural leaders in protecting the unique character of their communities while promoting innovative approaches to building healthy, vibrant communities throughout the Texas Hill Country.
The Latest
Dupnik moves on
John Dupnik is leaving his position as the general manager of the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District. Dupnik has held that position since 2013 and, prior to that, was a regulatory compliance team leader for the district. He announced his resignation...
New UTSA study examines the causes and consequences of the 2015 Wimberley floods
A new study by Chad Furl, postdoctoral research associate, and Hatim Sharif, professor of civil and environmental engineering at The University of Texas at San Antonio, delves into the 2015 Wimberley, Texas floods that destroyed 350 homes and claimed 13 lives. Furl...
Commercial development along West Highway 71 moves forward in 2018
In late 2017, the Spillman family, descendants of Hill Country pioneers and namesakes of Spillman Ranch, put under contract 20 acres of land located at 14310 W. Hwy. 71 in the city of Bee Cave, Realtor Jerry Stein said. As part of the sale the family will retain 4...
South Llano River State Park to Hold First Annual Birding Festival
South Llano River State Park is excited to announce its First Annual Birding Festival, sponsored by the Friends of South Llano River State Park, to be held Friday, April 27 through Sunday, April 29th, 2018. The Festival will feature guided bird walks, including...
Save the Date: 2018 Kent Butler Summit, Apr. 4 in San Marcos
Save your space now! The 4th Kent Butler Summit is being planned for April 4th 2018. With a theme of Pipes, People, Pavement, and the Future of Water in the Hill Country, we will cover some of the major issues determining the future of our region and its resources....
Directors notes – January 2018
As we start a new year, I am looking forward to what 2018 holds for all of us and the Hill Country. Last year was a record-breaking year for HCA – which included the largest year-end giving campaign for HCA. Thank you to the more than 70 families that donated more...