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Dear friends of the Watershed,
Today is GivingTuesday, a day centered on generosity, community, and supporting the work that strengthens the places we call home. As we mark this moment, we’re looking back at the progress we’ve made together in 2025 to protect the Hill Country.
This year has been defined by collaboration and measurable impact. From expanding conserved lands to advancing long-term water-quality science and ensuring fairness for ratepayers, your support has helped us move important work forward during a critical time for Central Texas water.
A closer look at this year’s accomplishments:
• Land Conservation
More than 600 acres protected, including 40 acres adjacent to Jacob’s Well and the newly established 176-acre Karst Canyon Preserve, strengthening regional recharge and habitat corridors.
• Watershed Protection & Conservation Science
Continued 20+ years of Clean Rivers Program monitoring on Cypress Creek and the Blanco River, along with monthly bacteria sampling that informs public health and water management decisions.
• Environmental Planning, Policy, & Advocacy
A successful intervention at the Public Utility Commission resulting in $4.7 million refunded to 170,000 Aqua Texas ratepayers—ensuring accountability and fairness in our region’s water systems.
• Education & Outreach
More than 300,000 people reached through social media and 5,000+ engaged directly through events, volunteer days, workshops, and leadership programs, including our Emerging Visionary Incubator.
• Art4Water
An estimated 8 million visitors experienced the Sacred Springs Kite Exhibition at the Austin Airport and across Central Texas, bringing awareness to the region’s aquifers through public art.
As we step into GivingTuesday, we are reminded that this progress is only possible because people like you continue to show up for the land and water that define the Hill Country. Your support today helps carry this work into 2025 and beyond, advancing conservation, science, advocacy, and public education across our watershed.
Thank you for being a vital part of this mission.
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