How often in Texas can we say that August began on a refreshing note? Well, it’s thankfully true for the Hill Country as rain brought relief to the dry land and cracked creek beds that naturally accompanies summers in the Lone Star State. Although the temperatures are back up and soil moisture is creeping back down, those early August rains also serve as a reminder that summer is winding down to an end and a new season is just around the corner.
The heat hasn’t slowed us at all at HCA. We are storming ahead with volunteer service learning projects along the Llano and Pedernales Rivers. Last week we hosted a riparian workshop to talk about invasive aquatic species on the Medina River. We gazed up at the stars with our partners and about 150 of our closest friends this weekend at the Enchanted Rock Star Party, and we’re busy updating our Strategic Plan to look ahead at our next 3 years of serving you and the future of the Hill Country!
Fall is gearing up to be an exciting time for the Hill Country Alliance – we have filled our calendar with fun and meaningful events that you will not want to miss:

  • A Conservation Easement Workshop is headed to Boerne on Friday, August 25. Join HCA and the Cibolo Conservancy to learn about the tools and resources available to help landowners steward and protect their land investment for generations to come.
  • We are bringing together an exciting mix of speakers, from local to regional experts, to uncover and connect the shared story of the Texas Hill Country for our Annual HCA Leadership Summit on Thursday, September 21 at scenic Camp Lucy.
  • Are you an educator in the Hill Country? For the seventh consecutive year, HCA is offering the Rainwater Revival School Grant Program. The winning applicants will receive funds to help students learn about rainwater catchment and water conservation. The application deadline has been extended! Applications are due by Friday, September 22. Learn more.
  • Mark your calendars for our annual Rainwater Revival + Hill Country Living Festival in Dripping Springs on Saturday, November 4. This year’s festival will be bigger and better than ever. New attractions include a Tiny Home Rodeo and a Hill Country Music Stage that is sure to get your toes tapping! If you own a business or organization that promotes living lightly, sign up to be an exhibitor.
  • We are bringing the Wild & Scenic Film Festival back to the Hill Country this fall with showings in Kerrville, Fredericksburg, and Mason. Stay tuned for the lineup and festival dates!

Richard Smith and Kathleen Krueger


We’re also very excited to welcome Richard Smith, Kerr County landowner, to the Hill Country Alliance board of directors. Richard brings an incredible wealth of knowledge and expertise in land management to the board, along with a passion for the long-term conservation of our region’s natural resources. You can read more about Richard and all our board members on our website.
Everything featured in this newsletter is only possible because of supporters like you. HCA is honored to bring you many opportunities to celebrate the unique character of the Texas Hill Country.  Please consider supporting our work by making a donation, or by spreading the word about HCA to your family and friends.
Thank you for helping us continue to protect and preserve the Hill Country many years to come!
Katherine Romans
Executive Director