Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Presenter: Ted Hollingsworth

Action
Land Acquisition – Reeves County
Approximately 145 Acres at Balmorhea State Park
May 23, 2013

I.       Executive Summary:  Staff recommends the acquisition of approximately 145 acres in Reeves County for addition to Balmorhea State park.

II.     Discussion:  Balmorhea State Park, at the foot of the Davis Mountains in Reeves County, was developed in the mid-1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.  The central feature of the 45.9-acre park is a 1.75-acre pool fed by a natural artesian spring, and restored cienega wetlands.

The small size of the park limits recreational use.  In addition, park planners recommend moving the park entrance off State Highway 17 to improve traffic flow and safety.  Plans to improve traffic flow, and the option to expand recreational opportunity at the site, would be significantly improved by the addition of more space.  This can be accomplished by the purchase of approximately 145 acres adjacent to the state park’s south and east boundaries, currently available from a willing seller.

III.    Recommendation:  The staff recommends the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

“The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission authorizes the Executive Director to take all necessary steps to acquire approximately 145 acres in Reeves County for addition to Balmorhea State Park.”

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Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Exhibit A

Location Map for Balmorhea State Park in Reeves County

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Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Exhibit B

Vicinity Map for Balmorhea State Park, 15 Niles North of Fort Davis

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Commission Agenda Item No. 7
Exhibit C

Site Map for Subject 145-Acre Tract (outlined in red)