Central Texas - [test] A Rocha USA

Texas Conservation Project

Our vision for Central Texas is to see healthy watersheds and healthy human communities enjoying the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of connecting with and caring for nature.

Austin, Texas

Our Challenges

Locals call the Bull Creek watershed "the Galapagos of Texas." But expanding urban development, land disturbances, and invasive species threaten unique Texas treasures like the Golden-cheeked Warbler. Also, technology, urbanization, and inequity are driving the disconnect between humans and the natural world, with people of color most harmed. Lack of time and financial resources, limited access to information in Spanish, and safety concerns are the main obstacles that prevent Hispanic families from spending more time in nature.

Our Focus Areas

Restoration of riparian forest and meadows

In collaboration with the Bull Creek Foundation, we are restoring the Stenis tract, a 62-acre parcel of Water Quality Protection Land in the Bull Creek watershed, located in North Austin. We are mapping, removing, and managing invasive plant species that threaten the health of the riparian forest, the wooded area adjacent to Bull Creek, and meadows.

Foster connections with nature by providing equitable access

Our program, Picnics en el Arroyo, offers free, safe, and supported access to parks for underserved Hispanic families in the Austin area and helps them connect with nature. We explore the biodiversity of natural areas with access to water through games, hikes, and hands-on activities. Families have positive experiences in nature, build community, and are empowered to spend more time outdoors.

Train and mentor young professionals

We hired bilingual part-time Outdoor Environmental Educators to expand the Picnics en el Arroyo program. In the Spring of 2024, three full-time interns from our Conservation Internship Program will contribute to the restoration efforts and support Picnics en el Arroyo while receiving training and mentorship on integrating their faith with science and career goals.

Our Results

Endangered species protected

Our work at the Stenis tract will result in a healthier habitat to sustain threatened and endangered species. A volunteer recently spotted a family of Golden-cheeked Warblers flying over the meadow, a species not spotted here for decades! Hundreds of other native species will benefit from the recovery of the riparian forest and meadow.

Habitat restored

At the Stenis tract, we have removed and treated invasive Glossy privet trees and saplings and restored meadow with the help of many volunteers. As a result, understory native plants are growing in the forest. In the meadow, native flowers and grasses are thriving without the competition of invasive grasses.

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Invasive trees removed

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m2 of meadow restored

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volunteers

Relationships healed

We started the Picnics en el Arroyo events in 2022, serving primarily Spanish-speaking families. Feedback tells us that they experience a healing relationship with nature and greater well-being and community by participating in Picnics. We plan to continue offering outdoor experiences and expand our reach in the Hispanic community.

Young leaders developed

A Rocha USA has been a safe haven for young Christians who have often not found supportive spaces to integrate their environmental passions with their faith convictions. In Central Texas, young Christian college graduates will be equipped to lead in their chosen vocational path.

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Picnics en el Arroyo events

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unique participants

young leaders

GetInvolved

Connect

Join the Central Texas group in Love Your Place for volunteer opportunities and events.

Contribute

Support our work in Texas by designating your gift to the "Texas Conservation Project"

Contact Us

Get in touch with our Texas staff

Our Partners

We partner with these organizations to accomplish our shared vision of a healthy Texas and surrounding communities.

Texas Parks and Wildlife, Shield-Ayres Foundation, Shield Ranch, Austin Christian Fellowship, Bull Creek Foundation, Texas Children in Nature Network, Texan by Nature.

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, San Marcos Discovery Center, Zilker Botanical Garden