Approve a proclamation recognizing the 30th anniversary of the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan and designating May 2, 2026, as Endangered Species Conservation Day in Travis County. (Commissioner Shea)

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

<p data-start="0" data-end="715" id="isPasted">This Proclamation recognizes the 30th anniversary of the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan (BCCP), a pioneering regional effort developed between 1988 and 1996 through collaboration among community stakeholders, scientists, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Established under a 30-year incidental take permit issued on May 2, 1996, the BCCP created a nationally recognized model for balancing rapid urban development with the protection of endangered species, including the golden-cheeked warbler, black-capped vireo, and several karst invertebrates. The plan streamlined regulatory processes while requiring the preservation of critical habitat through the creation of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.</p><p data-start="717" data-end="1395" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Over the past three decades, the City of Austin, Travis County, and their partners (Lower Colorado River Authority, Texas Chapters of the Nature Conservancy and Audubon Society, St. Edward's University, Concordia University and many private landowners) have protected more than 33,000 acres of habitat and numerous karst features, while continuing to actively manage these lands for species protection. Secondarily, the Preserve provides significant environmental benefits such as improved air and water quality and open space for Central Texas communities. In recognition of these achievements and the ongoing effort to renew the plan, this proclamation designates May 2, 2026, as Endangered Species Conservation Day and recognizes the many partners who contribute to the BCCP’s enduring success.</p>