Texas Land Conservancy protects Little L Ranch from sprawl

Texas Land Conservancy protects Little L Ranch from sprawl News Staff Wed, 02/07/2024 - 06:08 Image Body

Texas Land Conservancy

Texas Land Conservancy recently announced the successful permanent protection of Little L Ranch, a 624-acre property located along the Brazos River in Bosque and Somervell Counties.

As North Texas experiences rapid expansion, development poses a significant threat to natural landscapes and habitats. Little L Ranch, with its diverse ecosystems and historical significance, serves as an example of what can be lost to urban sprawl. Conserving this land not only preserves vital wildlife habitats but also protects Texas's cultural and environmental heritage, offering a beacon of hope amidst relentless development.

'Time is of the essence in our mission to preserve the unique landscapes of North Texas, particularly in areas south of Fort Worth, such as Cleburne, Granbury, and Glen Rose, where we're witnessing an alarming acceleration in the fragmentation and development of our precious natural lands,' Amber Arseneaux, North Texas Program Director, said.

Situated within the Cross Timbers region of Texas, Little L Ranch boasts a distinctive landscape featuring savanna grasslands, post oak/juniper woodlands, and riparian hardwood/ evergreen forests.

This region, part of the larger Cross Timbers ecoregion, serves as a vital habitat for diverse wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. The property's role in water conservation and soil protection further emphasizes its ecological importance.

The permanent protection of this property signifies a commitment to maintaining the delicate balance between progress and preservation, ensuring that the natural treasures of Texas endure amid the expanding urban landscape, the Texas Land Conservancy said.

Part of the transaction costs for this project were graciously provided by a grant from the Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund at North Texas Community Foundation, emphasizing the collective effort required to bolster and safeguard the long-term conservation of critical lands in Texas.

Texas Land Conservancy said it anticipated continued collaboration in their mission to preserve and protect the region’s invaluable resources.

About the property Primarily used for wildlife management, controlled grazing, and hay production, Little L Ranch has been a hub of conservation activities.

For the past seven years, the landowners have collaborated with various organizations, including the Texas Master Naturalist, Rio Brazos Chapter, in hosting an annual Brazos River Cleanup Event.

This multi-day event involves advanced training, volunteer initiatives, and activities ranging from star parties to trash removal along an 18-mile stretch of the Brazos River.

In recognition of their efforts, the Rio Brazos Chapter earned the Texas Master Naturalist 'Exemplary Project of the Year' award in 2023.

The significance of Little L Ranch is further heightened by its proximity to the Brazos River, embodying the essence of what John Graves eloquently captured in 'Goodbye to a River.'

Situated just off the Brazos River, the property's horseshoe shape allows for two miles of river frontage, creating a captivating connection to the waterway. In a region referenced by Graves, Little L Ranch becomes a living testament to the landscapes and stories woven into the fabric of the Brazos River.

About Texas Land Conservancy

Texas Land Conservancy (TLC) is a 501c3 statewide conservation organization founded in 1982. Their mission is to conserve natural areas in Texas and to protect the physical and ecological integrity of their water, wildlife habitat, native plant communities, and scenic landscapes. They work with communities, private landowners, government agencies, and other partners by using conservation easements to protect these natural treasures for the benefit of present and future generations. TLC currently protects 158,000 acres of land across Texas.

For more about the TLC, visit www. texaslandconservancy. org.

About North Texas Community Foundation

North Texas Community Foundation drives meaningful change through charitable investment.

The Foundation helps donors meet the needs of our community by providing tax-efficient strategies to support the causes they care about most.

The Foundation has $513 million in assets and made grants totaling approximately $39 million in 2023. For more information, visit northtexascf.org.