Success Stories
Taking action today protects our natural legacy for the future.
From reintroducing native grasses to safeguarding critical wildlife habitats, these success stories highlight the transformative impact of conservation on both the land and the people who care for it.
ARBORLAND GRASSLAND
Arborland Grassland, a 110-acre property in Waller County, is permanently protected through a conservation easement with the Coastal Prairie Conservancy. Located near almost 19,000 acres of conserved land in the historic Katy Prairie, Arborland helps expand a vital network of protected grasslands.
After considering development, the landowner chose a conservation easement to preserve the natural beauty of the land for future generations. Funded through the NRCS Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, along with contributions from organizations like Bass Pro Shops, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and others, the easement ensures the land will remain a sanctuary for wildlife and cattle grazing, free from development pressures.
“My little piece of nature is preserved for the future and wildlife, both flora and fauna, will flourish and be enjoyed by generations of Texans in the grasslands of the Coastal Prairie.”
- Rose-Marie Demourkas Towle, landowner
Plein air painting by Rose-Marie Demourkas Towle of the Coastal Prairie outside her door.
BLACKWELL RANCH
Blackwell Ranch, a 298-acre property in Matagorda County, is now permanently protected through a conservation easement with the Coastal Prairie Conservancy. This property, which includes globally rare coastal prairie, live oak forest, and restored grasslands and wetlands, provides critical habitat for grassland and wetland birds like the Eastern Meadowlark and Mottled Duck.
Funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service Regional Conservation Partnership Program, as well as a donation from the landowner and grants from philanthropic organizations, this easement is the first under the Texas Coastal Prairie Initiative, ensuring the land remains a sanctuary for wildlife, free from development.
DAWDY RANCH
Dawdy Ranch, a 615-acre property in Matagorda County, is permanently protected through a donated conservation easement with the Coastal Prairie Conservancy. This intact wet coastal prairie, featuring undisturbed mima mounds, prairie potholes, and native flora, provides essential habitat for species like the American kestrel and Northern bobwhite.
Concerned about habitat loss for grassland birds, the landowner donated the easement to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the land. With sustainable grazing practices in place, the land is managed to support local agriculture and maintain critical grassland habitat.
Elisa Donovan, Vice President and General Counsel of the Coastal Prairie Conservancy, highlighted the pivotal role of landowners in this effort. “Private landowners play a critical role in maintaining the ecological health and cultural heritage of Texas. By voluntarily entering a conservation easement, landowners can ensure working lands and natural areas are protected for future generations.”
Ready to Write Your Story?
Whether you're interested in applying for a conservation easement, exploring land management possibilities, or simply have questions, we're here to guide you every step of the way. We’re pleased to offer personalized support and resources tailored to your needs.
Reach out to us at info@coastalprairieconservancy.org or or fill out the online contact form to get started.