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
Limits to outdoor watering become a permanent part of the Texas landscape
Cities across Texas have adopted water conservation policies that limit outdoor lawn irrigation as a way to reduce water waste and stretch existing water supplies. The City of Fort Worth is among the most recent to adopt no more than twice per week lawn watering as...
LCRA and City of Mason award $24,000 to Odeon Preservation Association for LED lighting
August 1, 2014 The Odeon Preservation Association (OPA) will be able to purchase and install LED stage lighting for Mason’s historic Odeon Theater with the help of a $24,000 community development grant. The Lower Colorado River Authority and the City of Mason...
Cibolo Conservancy sets Aug. 6 workshop to help families protect land, get tax incentives
BOERNE, Texas—A workshop exploring how families can legally protect and preserve the legacy of their land – and be eligible for tax relief at the same time – will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm auditorium. “Estate Planning...
State water fund rules a big deal
The rules are a big deal. They'll help decide how billions of dollars are spent, or misspent, in the coming decades to help Texas meet its growing demand for water. If we get them right, they can help guide state and regional water officials to craft a more balanced...
The Source: Calls For Development Freeze Over Recharge Zone
Water conservation advocates are calling on the San Antonio Water System to cease permits for service to new developments over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone until a plan for growth can be established. The Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance wants to ensure less...
Can brush control program enhance water supplies?
“A state program meant to encourage old-school range management and new-school water saving methods has become the subject of a peculiarly Texas controversy. The State Soil and Water Conservation Board will decide Monday how to disburse millions of dollars to clear...