Commission approves multiple state land acquisitions and a small pipeline easement

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved a series of land acquisitions and an easement at its May 28 meeting.

Jacob Aston presented and the commission authorized acquisition of about 0.8 acres adjacent to the Rockport State Park Region 2 headquarters for expansion, parking and equipment storage. Staff reported 13 public comments in favor.

The commission approved a roughly 4-acre acquisition adjacent to Blanco State Park to eliminate a private inholding; staff received 19 comments (18 in favor).

Stan David presented three additional conservation purchases: approximately 30 acres adjoining Honey Creek State Natural Area to protect headwaters and add recreational capacity; approximately 230 acres adjacent to Stephen F. Austin State Park to expand accessible trails; and roughly 825 acres for the Matagorda peninsula coastal management area to protect barrier-island habitat. Public comment totals ranged from about a dozen to the low 20s with majorities in favor; the motions carried.

The commission also authorized a pipeline easement request from a natural-gas company: a 40-foot-wide corridor crossing approximately 710 feet inside Trinity River Wildlife Management Area (approximately 0.6 acres). Staff said the new alignment replaces an existing easement and reduces pipeline footprint; two written comments opposed the easement citing environmental concerns. The commission approved the easement authorization.

Commissioners moved and seconded each motion and approved the items by voice vote.