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
EAA recognizes TerraScena as “Aquifer Smart” community
TerraScena is a new 100% rainwater harvesting community in Dripping Springs. In addition to rainwater harvesting, the community focuses on green building materials and preserved natural green spaces. The Edwards Aquifer Authority has recently recognized TerraScena as...
How to save Texas’ crumbling parks
Andy Sansom: Having served as the executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in the 1990s, I’m acutely aware of the chronic funding shortfall for Texas’ magnificent state and local park system. One of the most important things I learned during those...
San Antonio Voters Approve Conservation Funding
San Antonio voters overwhelmingly approved two conservation propositions today. The Edwards Aquifer Protection Program, which uses a one-eighth cent sales tax to purchase conservation easements over the aquifer's recharge zone, was approved by 78 percent of voters....
‘Tiny House Compound’ in Texas Goes Viral as ‘Bestie Row’
Fred Zipp was an editor of the Austin-American Statesman for 32 years. So when it came time for him and some friends to build a series of vacation homes outside Austin, alongside the Llano River, he was well aware of the conservation and environmental issues facing...
Texas Senate Passes Legislation to Protect the San Marcos River
The Texas Senate yesterday (Monday) overwhelmingly approved legislation by Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, that would promote safety and enjoyment on the San Marcos River and protect landowners’ private property rights. Senate Bill (SB) 234 would authorize a local...
Get regularly updated water resource information on TWDB’s Water Data for Texas webpage
Texas Water Development Board has expanded their Water Data for Texas webpage to include reservoir and aquifer levels, and drought alerts throughout Texas. Information may be viewed statewide or from a variety of different regional or municipal aspects. Links are...