San Marcos, Texas, December 3, 2025
Texas State University has purchased a 128-acre tract in the Sink Creek watershed for $4.5 million. The acquisition is intended to bolster environmental protection efforts and provide valuable research opportunities for students. This land is essential for maintaining local water quality and supporting endangered aquatic species.
San Marcos, Texas
Texas State University has acquired a 128-acre tract of land within the Sink Creek watershed for $4.5 million, aiming to protect the area’s water quality and provide research opportunities for students.
Details of the Acquisition
The Texas State University System Board of Regents approved the purchase on November 20, 2025. The property, located at 145 and 223 Spring Road in San Marcos, includes Sink Spring and Sink Creek, which feed into Spring Lake and the San Marcos River. This acquisition is part of the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship and offers unique research opportunities for students.
Environmental Significance
The Sink Creek property is situated within the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, a critical area for water conservation. It contains an estavelle, a unique geological feature that functions as both a sink and a spring, directly impacting the water quality of the San Marcos Springs and River. Protecting this land is crucial for maintaining the health of these water bodies and the seven endangered aquatic species residing in their waters.
Community and Educational Impact
Adjacent to the city-owned Spring Lake Natural Area, the acquisition could extend existing trail networks, potentially connecting to a larger regional system linking Austin and San Antonio. This development would enhance recreational opportunities and promote environmental education.
Background Context
In 2019, the City of San Marcos received a $423,500 grant from the U.S. Forest Service to fund the purchase of the Sink Creek Community Forest Tract, marking the first Community Forest and Open Space Program grant awarded to a project in Texas. This initiative aimed to permanently protect 102.17 acres of sustainably managed forestland, offering numerous health, environmental, and economic benefits to the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Sink Creek property?
The Sink Creek property is a 128-acre tract of land in San Marcos, Texas, encompassing Sink Spring and Sink Creek, which feed into Spring Lake and the San Marcos River. Texas State University acquired this land to protect the area’s water quality and provide research opportunities for students.
Why is this acquisition significant?
The acquisition is significant because the Sink Creek property is located within the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, a critical area for water conservation. It contains an estavelle, a unique geological feature that directly impacts the water quality of the San Marcos Springs and River. Protecting this land is crucial for maintaining the health of these water bodies and the seven endangered aquatic species residing in their waters.
How will the acquisition benefit the community?
Adjacent to the city-owned Spring Lake Natural Area, the acquisition could extend existing trail networks, potentially connecting to a larger regional system linking Austin and San Antonio. This development would enhance recreational opportunities and promote environmental education.
Has the Sink Creek property been previously protected?
Yes, in 2019, the City of San Marcos received a $423,500 grant from the U.S. Forest Service to fund the purchase of the Sink Creek Community Forest Tract, marking the first Community Forest and Open Space Program grant awarded to a project in Texas. This initiative aimed to permanently protect 102.17 acres of sustainably managed forestland, offering numerous health, environmental, and economic benefits to the community.
Key Features of the Acquisition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Property Size | 128 acres |
| Purchase Price | $4.5 million |
| Location | 145 and 223 Spring Road, San Marcos, Texas |
| Environmental Significance | Located within the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone; contains an estavelle impacting water quality of San Marcos Springs and River |
| Potential Community Benefit | Extension of trail networks; potential connection to regional system linking Austin and San Antonio |
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