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
Public Fishing Access Areas Open Friday on Guadalupe River
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has signed temporary lease agreements with four Guadalupe River property owners to expand public access to the trout fishery downstream of Canyon Lake. Public fishing access will be available at Rio Guadalupe Resort...
Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm Where it’s going and where it’s been
On Monday, November 28 a presentation about Cibolo Nature Center and Farm was made to County Judge Darrel Lux and the Commissioner’s court. John Schilhab, President of the board of trustees, accompanied by Executive Director and Founder Carolyn Chipman Evans, gave a...
Commentary: Digital billboards are more trouble than some may suggest
In the recently published commentary, “Texas cities should upgrade billboard laws for digital age,” Russ Horton suggested that Austin and other Texas cities quickly “consider carefully crafting” digital sign agreements with sign owners or “find themselves left behind...
With Texas Building Boom Comes Higher Flood Risk
Over the years, planners, engineers, water quality experts and others have come to recognize how urban development can drastically alter the landscape and exacerbate flooding. The culprit, many experts believe, is impervious cover — the massive buildings, commercial...
Director’s Notes – November 2016
November 2016: Giving Thanks - Just like that, Fall is in full swing in the Hill Country and the gorgeous cooler weather reminds us the holidays will soon be here. November is a month for giving thanks, and I appreciate the opportunity to share with all of you a few...
How Urban Trees Can Save Lives
Heatwaves are one of the world's most underestimated threats, killing more than 12,000 people every year around the world—more than any other weather-related event. And heat is especially dangerous in cities, which tend to be much warmer than surrounding...