De-Go-La RC&D Area

"Building a better world through partnerships"

Counties Served

Aransas Bee Calhoun DeWitt Fayette Goliad Gonzales Jackson

Karnes Lavaca Live Oak McMullen Nueces Refugio San Patricio Victoria

For Information Contact: De-Go-La RC&D, Inc. Jerry L. Pearce, Coordinator 312 South Main, Rm. 310 Victoria, TX 77901 Phone:  361-570-7138 Fax:   361-575-9537 Website: De-Go-La RC&D

Project Highlight

Private Lands Riparian Habitat Restoration Initiative

Riparian habitats along the Gulf Coast of Texas represent a very important resource in terms of water quality. They are also valuable habitat for terrestrial wildlife and especially migratory songbirds. A properly functioning riparian buffer area serves as a filter to remove sediment and contaminants from runoff before it enters the fragile estuarine habitats found in the Coastal Bend of Texas.

The De-Go-La RC&D Council received grants from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program (CBBEP) and the Coastal Coordination Council. These grants have been used to contract with private landowners to develop and implement riparian habitat restoration plans. The plan restores functionality of riparian areas and encourages private landowners to properly manage them. Another goal is to encourage landowners to participate in Farm Bill Programs such as the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CCRP).

Partners in this initiative include the RC&D Area, CBBEP, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), Center for Coastal Studies – Texas A&M University, Coastal Coordination Council, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Private landowners participate in the program by signing a contract to develop the plan, implement the restoration practices and maintain the riparian area for 10 years. In return, they receive payments that are negotiated by the RC&D Council. NRCS provides technical assistance to landowners. SWCDs provide administrative assistance to the RC&D Council in reviewing and approving plans developed.

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