Citizens Comment on Land Management

Citizens give input on stewardship plan, Lance Jones

The San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department hosted an open house at the San Marcos Nature Center last Wednesday, Feb. 15 and received insightful comments from citizens representing a broad range of perspectives regarding the management of Spring Lake and Purgatory Creek Natural Areas.

The natural areas were acquired to protect endangered species, specially the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, and help promote the health of the San Marcos River and Edwards Aquifer through water quality and quantity best practices. Five areas of interest were identified: water quality and quantity, wildlife, plants, recreation, and fire breaks. There is a delicate balance among these areas of interests to be attained. The citizens of San Marcos have a strong passion for our natural areas, and their experience, expertise and observations are greatly appreciated, as we develop the plan for the public to enjoy the areas in perpetuity and expand them as our population grows. It is hoped that a community stewardship plan will be formulated to encourage the residents to help maintain our natural environment. Future focus groups will be scheduled to gather additional input.

In order to help protect the habitat for the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, the city will need to close trails within the habitat from March 1st through May 31st. We hope everyone will respect the trail closures.

Written comments can be emailed to [email protected]