Land Stewardship

 

Preserving Comal County’s Natural Heritage

At Comal Conservation, we believe that responsible land stewardship is crucial for protecting our county’s unique landscapes, wildlife habitats, and natural resources. By working together with landowners, we can ensure that Comal County’s natural beauty and ecological diversity are preserved for future generations.

Land stewardship is the careful and responsible management of land and its resources. It involves:

  • Protecting and enhancing wildlife habitats
  • Conserving soil and water resources
  • Managing invasive species
  • Preserving native plant communities
  • Maintaining healthy ecosystems

Comal County’s rapid growth puts pressure on our natural areas. Effective land stewardship helps:

  • Protect water quality in our aquifers, springs, and rivers
  • Preserve habitat for native wildlife and plant species
  • Maintain the scenic beauty that defines our region
  • Support sustainable agriculture and ranching practices
  • Mitigate flood risks and improve climate resilience

Land Stewardship for Smaller Parcels

You don’t need a large ranch to make a difference. Even small property owners can contribute significantly to Comal County’s conservation efforts.

Native Landscaping: Replace non-native plants with Texas natives. This supports local wildlife, requires less water, and maintains our region’s natural character.

Water Conservation: eliminate or reduce non-native turf grass, install rain barrels, use drought-resistant plants, and practice efficient irrigation to conserve our precious water resources.

Create Wildlife Habitats: Add features like bird baths, pollinator gardens, or small brush piles to provide shelter and food for local wildlife.

Reduce Chemical Use: Minimize or eliminate the use of pesticides and fertilizers to protect soil health and water quality.

Manage Runoff: Use permeable surfaces for driveways and patios, and create rain gardens to reduce stormwater runoff and filter pollutants.

Join Community Efforts: Participate in local clean-up events, invasive species removal projects, or community garden initiatives.

Educate and Inspire: Share your conservation efforts with neighbors and friends to spread awareness and encourage others.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Remember, every action counts and every member of our community can get involved. By implementing these practices on your property, you’re contributing to a larger network of healthy, sustainable landscapes across Comal County.

Photography Credits – Banner: Jordan Moore