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
Central Texas water restrictions increase as hot, dry summer persists
A big question some city leaders have to ask this summer is whether residents should have drinking water or a nice lawn. Of course, drinking water is the only answer. That's why at least four cities in the KVUE viewing area have increased water restrictions for...
In Texas and elsewhere, cities see potential in building deconstruction
The cavernous Maryland warehouse housing Community Forklift bulges with doors, windows, flooring and light fixtures, some lightly used, some more so, but all for sale at big discounts. Dozens of customers browsed the wares on a recent weekday morning at the East Coast...
Save Lake LBJ lays out plan for stopping sand plants
"There is plenty of sand on land. They don't have to ruin our lakes for this," Ortiz [of TRAM Texas] said. "We've got to stop it right here, we've got to stop it right now, or we'll live to regret it." Click here to read more from Dakota Morrissiey with DailyTrib...
A look to the future of Texas State Parks
Andrew Sansom got his first job in 1959 as a lifeguard at Lake Jackson Municipal Pool in his hometown about 55 miles south of Houston. Little did the 14-year-old know the job would set the stage for a lifelong career in parks administration and environmental...
Drought-stricken property turned into thriving oasis with rainwater harvesting
Between the ongoing drought and summer heat on the way, water is in short supply and high demand. One local man has found a way to reuse water that falls on his property. "This is just innate to me. This is what I do. I rebuild habitats," said Bill Nash. Read more...
Say goodbye to lawns in drying U.S. West
Mark Marlowe, who directs the water supply for fast-growing Castle Rock, a Denver suburb, has a dim view of lawns. Irrigating grass in summer consumes 40 percent of Castle Rock’s water. And unlike water used indoors, outdoor water cannot be recycled. Marlowe is not...