Commission Agenda Item 10
May 23, 2024
- Item Type: Action
- Presenter: Trey Vick
Acquisition of Land – Limestone County – Approximately 3 Acres at Fort Parker State Park
I. Executive Summary:
Staff requests authorization to pursue acquisition of a 3-acre tract that is adjacent to Fort Parker State Park. This tract is available from a willing seller and would add excellent habitat and operational utility to the park and protect the park’s viewshed.
II. Discussion:
Fort Parker State Park sits outside of the city of Mexia along the Navasota River in Limestone County, approximately 90 miles south of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The park totals approximately 1,500 acres of land donated by three local families and was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935. While the park was under construction, the CCC constructed a dam across the Navasota River, creating Fort Parker Lake, and built a replica of the original Fort Parker. The park officially opened in 1941 and today provides recreational opportunities to the public like camping, fishing, hiking, nature viewing, and paddling.
Staff has identified a 3-acre tract adjacent to Fort Parker State Park along the north boundary that is available from a willing seller. Currently, access to the tract is through the park on Park Road 28. Acquisition of the subject tract would eliminate potential access issues with a private landowner in the future, prevent further development, and add some operational utility to the park.
III. Recommendation:
Staff recommends that 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 3 acres in Limestone County adjacent to Fort Parker State Park.”
Attachments – 3
Exhibit A – Commission Agenda Item No. 10
Location Map for Fort Parker State Park
Limestone County
Exhibit B – Commission Agenda Item No. 10
Vicinity Map for Fort Parker State Park
Approximately 5 Miles South of Mexia
Exhibit C – Commission Agenda Item No. 10
Area Map of Proposed Acquisition
Subject Tract at Yellow Pin
Fort Parker State Park in Red
