300 Acres of Open Space Protected Near Houston (TX)

HOUSTON, Texas, 11/24/2003: – The Trust for Public Land (TPL), announced today that it has permanently protected more than 300 acres, in two separate tracts, for the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD). The properties will protect existing open space and provide further stormwater flood control along Spring Gully in southeast Harris County.

In 2002, TPL approached HCFCD regarding the acquisition of properties in Harris County that could be used to reduce flooding in the Armand Bayou and Clear Creek watersheds. This project will also help reduce the pressure for further channelization of Armand Bayou, which has led to the loss of natural habitats for wildlife.

“We’re thrilled to have found a way to work with the Flood Control District to conserve sensitive land that will have a wealth of benefits for the public,” said TPL project manager, Amy Morris.

“The protection of this land will help with flood protection, while also preserving open space for southeast Harris County residents,” added Linda Shead, TPL’s Houston-Galveston program director.

Since the 1970s, Armand Bayou and its watershed have received significant attention, including the preservation of approximately 2,500 acres in the Armand Bayou Nature Center, and the designation of the lower, tidal part of Armand Bayou as a Texas Coastal Preserve by the Texas General Land Office and the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. The Armand Bayou Watershed Working Group, a local initiative sponsored by Texas Cooperative Extension, is currently working on a watershed plan to protect, preserve and enhance the watershed.

“This is the beginning of what we hope to be a lasting partnership with the Trust for Public Land and we look forward to future opportunities with them,” said Flood Control District Director Mike Talbott. HCFCD hopes to partner with local entities, either governments or non-profits, to provide recreational opportunities on the property, such as trails or ball fields.

After a series of devastating floods in the Houston area in the late 1920s and 1930s, the Texas Legislature created HCFCD in 1937?to control, store, preserve and distribute storm and flood waters, and waters from rivers and streams in Harris County. HCFCD’s?mission is to provide flood damage reduction projects that work, with appropriate regard?for community and natural values.? HCFCD accomplishes its mission by devising and implementing the?flood damage reduction plan, and maintaining the infrastructure.

Currently, TPL’s Houston-Galveston office is exploring further opportunities to preserve land in Harris County for flood management with HCFCD.

The Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and natural areas, ensuring livable communities for generations to come. Since its founding in 1972, TPL has helped protect more than 1.6 million acres of land in 45 states. In Texas, TPL has protected more than 22,000 acres for communities, including areas in and around Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. The Trust for Public Land depends on the support and generosity of individuals, foundations and businesses to achieve our land for people mission. For more information please visit us on the web at www.tpl.org