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
85th Texas Legislature – Committees discuss water issues as they prepare for next session
Are you curious what water topics will be discussed, debated and voted on during the upcoming 85th Texas legislative session? While it is still early, the following information will help you stay current on legislative activities. In between sessions, interim charges...
Dripping Springs residents oppose Onion Creek wastewater discharge
The city of Dripping Springs and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality listened to dozens of north Hays County residents and community members speak against a proposed permit that could allow the city to discharge up to 955,000 gallons of wastewater into Onion...
Dripping Springs residents upset over treated sewage dumping in Onion Creek
Treated sewage is being dumped into the Onion Creek Central Texas waterway as the area works to keep up with the all the people moving to Hays County. The tributary begins on the Blanco/Hays county line and snakes its way to the Colorado River in Austin. Along the way...
Online Survey Seeks to Understand Private Land Management Needs
TPWD Urging Private Landowners to Participate in Brief Questionnaire | Understanding Texas private landowner needs, preferences and concerns in operating and managing their land and natural resources is the purpose of a brief online questionnaire developed by the...
With $237.8 million Hays County bond package approved, planning begins
Hays County voters passed a $237.8 million bond package this week, but it may be at least another six months until ground is broken, County Commissioner Will Conley said Wednesday. The bond package included two propositions: $106.4 million for public safety...
Special Use Valuation in Texas – The Basics
Most Texas landowners are aware of the special use valuation methods available to agricultural landowners that allow property taxes to be calculated based on productive agricultural value, as opposed to market value of the land. Importantly, this is not a “tax...