Commission Agenda Item 7
August 22, 2024
- Item Type: Action
- Presenter: Trey Vick
Acquisition of Land – Gillespie County – Approximately 630 Acres at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
I. Executive Summary:
Staff requests authorization to pursue the acquisition of a 630-acre tract of land adjacent to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA). This tract is available from a willing seller and would add excellent habitat and operational utility to the park.
II. Discussion:
Enchanted Rock SNA consists of approximately 1,650 acres in the central Texas Hill Country and protects Enchanted Rock, a National Natural Landmark. It is located just outside the town of Fredericksburg in Gillespie County. The state acquired and opened the SNA in 1978. Enchanted Rock SNA hosts approximately 250,000 visitors every year and is one of the most frequently visited parks in the state park system.
Staff prioritizes acquiring state park inholdings and adjacent properties from willing sellers to improve recreational opportunities and ensure the conservation of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department public lands. Acquisition of this tract, which is adjacent to Enchanted Rock SNA and totals approximately 630 acres, will increase the total size of Enchanted Rock SNA and allow improved access to the SNA.
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 630 acres in Gillespie County adjacent to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area from a willing seller.”
Attachments – 3
Exhibit A – Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Location Map for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Gillespie County
Exhibit B – Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Vicinity Map for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Fredericksburg, TX
Exhibit C – Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Area Map of Proposed Acquisition
Subject Tract in Yellow
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Red
