AUSTIN, Texas — A battle is brewing over one of Austin’s most precious natural areas.
The Save Our Springs Alliance said it is taking legal action to protect the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve from development.
At issue is a water utility’s plan to build through nearly 3 acres of protected land within the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve. The West Travis County Public Utility Agency (WTCPUA) wants to install a water main for new development along U.S. 290. But environmental advocates say there are better options.
The preserve spans 4,000 acres just miles from Downtown Austin. It is home to several endangered species, including the golden-cheeked warbler, a small songbird.
“It’s irreplaceable,” said Bill Bunch, executive director for the Save Our Springs Alliance. “From protecting water quality to preserving habitat for endangered species, the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve is essential for maintaining the ecological balance and natural beauty of Austin. Losing any part of it would be a devastating blow to our environment and the city.”
If the lawsuit succeeds, the utility would need to find another route or prove there are no better alternatives.
“The WTCPUA can readily keep its pipeline within the existing right-of-way with zero or use a path off the conservation easement with minimal harm to the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve,” said Bobby Levinski, attorney for the Save Our Springs Alliance. “Conservation easements are designed to protect wildlife and natural resources from development, not to be targeted by public utilities as cheap corridors for building and expanding their facilities.”