FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT AND FINAL REGIONAL HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN

The county's 10(a) permit was issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in October 2008.

The Williamson County Conservation Foundation (WCCF) was established in December 2002 to provide for conservation of endangered species in Williamson County while helping to promote responsible development.

Williamson County has for several years been one of the fastest growing counties in the country.  Rapid growth necessitates a regional approach to balancing development needs with the needs for conservation.

WCCF has establish several important cave preserves. Two preserves form natural areas within Williamson County’s Southwest Regional Park. A third preserve, near Lake Georgetown, provides habitat for the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Georgetown Salamander as well as two endangered cave species. Two preserves in the southern part of the county provide karst habitat and a newly acquired preserve in northern Williamson County has endangered species caves and potential for endangered bird habitat.

The Williamson County Commissioners have directed the Foundation to study and provide for public access to the greatest extent possible commensurate with approved management proctices and procedures. As pathways and access guidelines are finalized they will be made public on this site as well as the Williamson County Parks and Recreation website.

In assist in conserving endangered species habitat the foundation has obtained almost $3 million in federal grants for compliance with the Endangered Species Act.  WCCF operates from a regional perspective and has received financial support and direct participation from various local governmental entities and landowners.

Through participation in the WCCF’s plan, governmental entities including cities and school districts, landowners and developers can navigate the requirements of the Endangered Species Act in a more expedient manner.  Prior to the establishment of the WCCF’s plan, all entities impacting endangered species needed to obtain an individual 10(a) permit from the USFWS.  The WCCF offers a simplified option to comply with the Endangered Species Act through voluntary participation in the WCCF. 

Under the plan, businesses, schools and local governments benefit from a streamlined “conservation bank” approach to Endangered Species Act permitting. 

Processing times are shortened, costs controlled and predictability increased. Activities under the plan also help prevent other species from becoming listed as endangered in the future.  At the same time, the plan honors the county’s tradition of good land stewardship.  WCCF and its partners are providing leadership in regional planning for endangered species conservation.

 April 2007 RHCP Executive Summary

April 2007 RHCP

RHCP Fact Sheet

RHCP Advisory Committee Members