Coastal Prairie Conservancy Protects 1,329 Acres of Critical Texas Land, Expanding Katy Prairie Preserve
In a landmark achievement for local conservation, the Coastal Prairie Conservancy (CPC) announced the preservation of 1,329 acres of Texas land in a single day. This includes a 910-acre property located along the Brazos River in Waller County and an additional 419 acres that expand the Katy Prairie Preserve. This expansion brings CPC’s total preserved lands to an impressive 33,607 acres, reinforcing its mission to protect vital Texas ecosystems.
The newly protected 910-acre property features diverse landscapes, including coastal prairie grasslands, hardwood forests, and an oxbow lake. Currently a working cattle ranch, the land is undergoing habitat restoration efforts to support both grasslands and natural areas, which are critical for migratory bird populations using the North American Central Flyway. The property serves as an essential stopover for migratory birds on their journey south.
Additionally, the expansion of the Katy Prairie Preserve by 419 acres increases the total preserved area of the preserve to more than 19,300 acres. The preserve’s diverse habitats—ranging from tallgrass prairies to natural depressional wetlands—are vital for numerous species, including Northern bobwhite quail, Swainson’s hawk, bobcat, and white-tailed deer. Cypress Creek, which runs through much of the preserve, further enhances the ecological value of this area, providing essential freshwater resources for wildlife.
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Mary Anne Piacentini, President and CEO of the Coastal Prairie Conservancy, expressed her excitement about this significant milestone: "The preservation of these additional lands marks a significant milestone for the conservation of land in an area under intense development pressure. By safeguarding an additional 1,329 acres, we are not only advancing our mission to protect the natural heritage of our area but also ensuring long-lasting benefits for both people and wildlife. These natural spaces will serve as vital resources for generations to come."
The CPC’s conservation efforts are integral to the protection of Texas’ coastal prairie and wetlands, which offer crucial environmental benefits such as flood control, cleaner air and water, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, these preserved lands provide essential habitats for a variety of wildlife species, contributing to biodiversity conservation across the region.
As a nonprofit land trust, the Coastal Prairie Conservancy also relies on the support of volunteers to further its efforts. Individuals interested in connecting with nature and helping preserve the coastal prairie are encouraged to volunteer. The CPC invites those who wish to learn more about volunteer opportunities or explore conservation options to visit www.coastalprairieconservancy.org or contact Debbie at volunteer@coastalprairieconservancy.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
