Commission Meeting Agenda Item No. 9
Presenter: Jason Estrella

Action
Acquisition of Land – Gillespie County
Approximately 41 Acres at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
May 26, 2022

I.      Executive Summary: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff seeks to acquire approximately 41 acres adjacent to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) from a willing seller.  This tract along with a related easement would add excellent habitat and recreational value to the Enchanted Rock SNA.

II.     Discussion:  Enchanted Rock SNA was purchased from The Nature Conservancy and opened in 1978.  The 1,640-acre property is a National Natural Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places as an Archeological District.

The subject tract would add valuable geological formations to the park and provide additional recreational opportunities.  The proposed transaction includes acquisition of an access easement to the subject tract through the park. Acquisition of the easement will end unrestricted park access and will prohibit development of the easement land.

III.   Recommendation: The staff recommends the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

   “The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission authorizes the Executive Director to take all necessary steps to acquire approximately 41 acres of land for addition to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Gillespie County.”

Commission Agenda Item No. 9
Exhibit A

Location Map for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) Gillespie County

Commission Agenda Item No. 9
Exhibit B

Vicinity Map for Enchanted Rock SNA
15 Miles North of Fredericksburg

Commission Agenda Item No. 9
Exhibit C

Site Map of Proposed Acquisition
Enchanted Rock SNA Outlined in Red
Subject Tract Outlined in Yellow

Commission Agenda Item No. 9
Exhibit D

Site Map of Access Easement
Enchanted Rock Outlined in Red
Subject Tract Outlined in Yellow
Easement in Green