Texas Land Conservancy: 95 Acres of Golden-cheeked Warbler Habitat Protected Forever

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95 Acres of Golden-cheeked Warbler Habitat Protected Forever

Written By Alec King

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, nestled in Bandera County, lies a 95-acre landscape of restored beauty and biodiversity known as East Verde Creek Preserve. This sanctuary for the federally endangered golden-cheeked warbler, reflects the vision and dedication of its stewards, James Smyle and Joan Miller. Over the past 30 years, James and Joan have worked tirelessly to restore the property’s natural habitats, ensuring that its ecological and historical values endure for future generations.

Restoring Wildlife Habitat

Once a patchwork of overgrazed uplands and row-cropped fields, East Verde Creek Preserve has undergone a remarkable transformation. The fields along East Verde Creek, once cleared for cotton and corn, now flourish as native pastures, spotted with antelope-horns milkweed attracting pollinators like monarch butterflies. The uplands, once degraded, now thrive with healthy Ashe juniper and oak woodlands. These efforts provide essential habitat for diverse wildlife, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Annual bird surveys confirm nesting populations, underscoring the property’s significance in regional conservation efforts.

Aquifers and Watersheds

The property lies within the Edwards aquifer contributing zone, where rainfall gathers and flows downstream to its recharge zone, sustaining groundwater levels vital for municipal and ecological needs. Simultaneously, the Trinity Outcrop beneath the property absorbs rainwater through its porous limestone and replenishes its springs, a crucial role for the regional hydrology, ensuring water quality and availability through natural filtration. Natural springs provide constant flow into East Verde creek, supporting a healthy riparian corridor lined with escarpment black cherry, bald cypress, and black willow.  Continue reading