Save the Lampasas River, Inc.

Save the Lampasas River, Inc. ("STLR") was formed in June 2009 to promote the protection of environmental, wildlife, riparian, water, water quality, aesthetic and recreational aspects of the Lampasas River and the Lampasas River Valley.  The area of particular focus is an approximately 50 mile long swath in parts of Lampasas, Burnet and Bell Counties of Texas from the Lampasas area to the Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir area southeast of Killeen.  This is a particularly high growth area, with the principal cities being Lampasas, Copperas Cove, Killeen and Harker Heights.  The Lampasas River runs near these population areas and this portion of the Lampasas River Valley has been able to retain its undeveloped, rural beauty in the midst of surrounding growth and is recognized for its wildlife, aesthetic and recreational attributes.  Click on MEMBERSHIP TAB on the right to join our effort.

                      During the fall Monarch Butterfly migration 2009 

The Lampasas River Valley is a fragile river valley environment.  The Valley suffered greatly from over-grazing during the early years of settlement.  Subsequent growth of native cedars and mesquite has been choking the natural springs and slowing aquifer regeneration.  Preservation of wildlife habitat including that of endangered species such as the blacked-capped vireo and the golden-cheeked warbler is important.  The area has multiple bald eagle nests, including year round nesting pairs, and is in the midst of the whooping crane migration zone - both of these types of birds forage in the river and up and down the River Valley.  The River Valley in this area has numerous spring-fed streams as well as Native American sites.  The River Valley includes a number of historical sites and a narrow winding Scenic Road (so designated by Burnet County) that is treasured in the area.  The River Valley includes Rocky Creek, which is a state-designated ecologically sensitive stream segment (ESSS).  Water quality has been an issue in Rocky Creek and the Lampasas River from time to time.

STLR's objective is to promote a better understanding among the citizens of the region of the precious nature of the environmental, wildlife, riparian, water, water quality, aesthetic and recreational aspects of the Lampasas River and the Lampasas River Valley, with the goal of protecting these resources for the benefit of future generations.  STLR's supporters include citizens from within and outside the region, recreational enthusiasts such a kayakers, bicycle clubs, classic car clubs, birders and other wildlife proponents, and others who appreciate the scenic beauty of this portion of the Lampasas River Valley.  STLR wants to promote recognition and appreciation of the unique nature of the scenic River Valley and the corresponding need to protect its attributes.  Among other things, STLR focuses on:

1)      Water quality including habitat of aquatic life like mussels and the Guadalupe Bass.  Protection of the tributaries of the Lampasas River, like Rocky Creek, Burnet Branch and Mill Creek is also important.  Both the Lampasas River and Rocky Creek have impaired water quality which is under study by Blackland Research, an extension of Texas A & M University.  Members of STLR's Advisory Committee are involved in that work.  Decrease in the native mussel population is of concern as it relates to the overall health of the River.  Issues relating to this decrease have been identified by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and noted in a letter specifically about the Lampasas River in December 2009 and are presently under study by both TPWD and  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department.  For more information see WATER QUALITY tab. 

                           Rocky Creek                                      Burnet Branch Falls

2)      Preservation and improvement of habitat of endangered species, migratory birds and other wildlife in the valley.  Habitat identification by ornithologists who have worked in the area over the last year and by TPWD over a number of years in wildlife management plans needs further work.  STLR encourages continued implementaion of such plans to enhance habitat.  For more information see WILDLIFE tab.  

3)      Protection of nesting bald eagles and their foraging area which includes water quality. STLR supports conservation efforts that are beneficial to nesting eagles and other raptors.  For more information see EAGLES tab.

                 Spring   2010                                  Resident Bald Eagle pair

4)      Improvement of range/grass lands with its beneficial effects on water conservation and soil erosion.  STLR supports identification of natural springs in concert with TPWD.  For more information see RANGE LAND QUALITY tab. 

5)       Historical designation continues to be of interest to STLR as a means of preserving the unique character of the area.  Presently there are at least twoTexas designated “Century Farms” recognized in the Valley.  See HISTORICAL DESIGNATION tab for more information about this designation and other types of designation as well.

6)      Protection of the beauty of the Valley for present and future citizens including landowners, recreationalists and other visitors. For more information see RECREATION AND BEAUTY tab.                                  

                       Blue Bells and Prickly Pear blooms on the Lampasas 

The impetus for forming STLR was the proposed high voltage transmission lines as part of the larger 2,300 mile statewide transmission line project.  Many of the proposed routes in the area were in the middle of the Lampasas River Valley.  On April 1, 2010, the Public Utility Commission of Texas selected a route north of the River.  However, no route is perfect because of effects on the environment. 

Until June 2009 there was no unified structure to deal wIth the particular issues of the River Valley over three counties.  STLR with its board, advisory committee and 450 supporters, provides a good basis for development.

Again, please visit our MEMBERSHIP TAB to check into our charter memberships for 2010-2011 with a new metal 10” X 12” sign included that can be mounted on your fences or gates.     Not only will STLR be sponsoring periodic meetings, information newsletters, and environmental work, but we will also be providing links under all tabs to other sources on the environmental issues that affect the River Valley.