First-Ever Volunteer Day at New Trueheart Ranch Nature Park Celebrates $50,000 National Resilience Grant
Volunteers Planted Over 800 Native Plants and Grasses
The San Antonio River Authority gathered today at Trueheart Ranch Nature Park on the Southeast side to plant more than 800 native plants and grasses alongside Bobcat, National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and the River Authority River Warriors.
The effort was made possible by funds received through a $50,000 national grant awarded to the River Authority to support the development of new trails and the introduction of native species in the area. Bobcat further supported the planting efforts by providing its compact equipment lineup, including loaders, excavators, and utility vehicles.
“Trueheart Ranch Park is an incredible space for the community, and we are proud to partner with the San Antonio River Authority locally on behalf of Bobcat to support this grant initiative and enhance this space for future generations,” said Justin Harper, regional manager at Bobcat of San Antonio.
NRPA’s grant evaluation process prioritized sustainability needs and focused on communities with a moderate to high level of vulnerability by evaluating social factors such as poverty, housing, transportation access and the community’s vulnerability to natural or manmade disasters. The River Authority was one of only five park and recreation agencies selected by Bobcat to receive grant funding. Other recipients can be found across the United States in Georgia, North Carolina, Washington, and New York.
“We are honored to receive this grant to support one of our city’s newest parks,” said Kristen Hansen, Deputy Director, Parks and Recreation for the River Authority. “The native species planted today by our dedicated volunteers will not only contribute to the beauty and enjoyment of these grounds but will also positively contribute to the health of the park’s ecosystem.”
The grant will also allow for additional future park enhancements which may include the establishment of vital pollinator habitats, contributing to biodiversity and ecological sustainability, as well as the installation of green stormwater infrastructure to bolster environmental resilience and ensure long-term sustainability of the park’s ecosystem. For more information about the River Authority, visit sariverauthority.org
About San Antonio River Authority
The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) was created by the 45th Texas Legislature on May 5, 1937, and reorganized in 1961 to plan, manage, and implement water-related programs and projects within the San Antonio River Basin. The State of Texas empowered the River Authority to preserve, protect, and manage the resources and the ecology of the San Antonio River and its tributaries. To learn more about the River Authority, visit our website at sariverauthority.org.
