HAYS COUNTY SEEKS PROPERTIES FOR CONSERVATION USE
The Hays County Commissioners Court is actively seeking to acquire properties in
Hays County that meet its goal of adding to parks, natural areas, open space and
related projects as spelled out in the 2007 voter-approved bond election
(Proposition 2). The preservation of water quality, aquifer recharge areas and
wildlife habitat is a key consideration.
“Following the 2007 bond approval of $30 million, a Citizens Parks Advisory Team, now known as the Parks and Open Space Advisory Board, made recommendations to the Commissioners Court and the Court approved a number of grants for park projects throughout Hays County, and those projects are complete or in progress,” said Jeff Hauff, grants administrator for Hays County. “In consideration of the County’s Regional Habitat Conservation Plan, which focuses on habitat suitable for Golden-cheeked Warblers and Black-capped Vireos, the Court wants to maximize additional land acquisitions with remaining bond money to provide for multiple uses.”
Hauff noted that land donations, partnerships and conservation easements can all be considered, as well as outright purchase by the County. (Editor's note: Dripping law firm Braun & Associates has detailed information about conservation easements on their website.)
“We’re looking to maximize the return on the remaining bond funds,” Hauff said. “We have some general criteria as far as the amount of endangered species habitat a parcel must include for consideration – at least 250 acres, preferably 500 or more. What would be ideal would be to find single or contiguous parcels that allow for habitat preservation as well as trails, water access and protection and possibly enough space for other compatible uses.”
The County has posted an application package on its Web site at www.co.hays.tx.us (see Quick Links).
“Following the 2007 bond approval of $30 million, a Citizens Parks Advisory Team, now known as the Parks and Open Space Advisory Board, made recommendations to the Commissioners Court and the Court approved a number of grants for park projects throughout Hays County, and those projects are complete or in progress,” said Jeff Hauff, grants administrator for Hays County. “In consideration of the County’s Regional Habitat Conservation Plan, which focuses on habitat suitable for Golden-cheeked Warblers and Black-capped Vireos, the Court wants to maximize additional land acquisitions with remaining bond money to provide for multiple uses.”
Hauff noted that land donations, partnerships and conservation easements can all be considered, as well as outright purchase by the County. (Editor's note: Dripping law firm Braun & Associates has detailed information about conservation easements on their website.)
“We’re looking to maximize the return on the remaining bond funds,” Hauff said. “We have some general criteria as far as the amount of endangered species habitat a parcel must include for consideration – at least 250 acres, preferably 500 or more. What would be ideal would be to find single or contiguous parcels that allow for habitat preservation as well as trails, water access and protection and possibly enough space for other compatible uses.”
The County has posted an application package on its Web site at www.co.hays.tx.us (see Quick Links).
Posted by DSBabble.com at Sunday, October 04, 2009 8:47 PM 
Categories: hays county
Tags: conservation easement dripping springs hays county conservation use braun and associates
Categories: hays county
Tags: conservation easement dripping springs hays county conservation use braun and associates
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