COVID has changed the way we connect. It seems that in-person meetings are few and far between, but when they happen, it's even more potent than the past. We're thankful to have temporarily abandoned our Zoom boxes and joined Texas Water Trade's Market Makers retreat hosted at the Texas Nature Conservancy Dolan Falls Preserve. There is no greater backdrop for water conservation conversations than the pristine Devils River.

The Watershed Association was one of three organizations selected for a two-year technical assistant grant from Texas Water Trade. Over past two years, the Market Makers (Galveston Bay Foundation, Audubon Texas and Wimberley Valley Water Association) met with Texas Water Trade staff to develop science-based market plans for water transactions to benefit their priority basins. Comparing notes, all attendees recognized that despite differences in scale, scope, and area, each of the organizations benefited from similar processes. Oftentimes, the heavy lift is making practices commonplace or established within a community of practice. For example, now that the benefits of One Water concepts have been demonstrated at places like Wimberley ISD's One Water School, professionals have a visible touchstone to reference for to use for lessons learned, successes, and next steps. Scaling up and applying conservation concepts in new places and applications benefits the wider community.

An English proverb suggests that we are defined by the company we keep. Looking around at our friends, colleagues, network partners, and supporters, we couldn't be more proud and grateful to learn from and collaborate with our incredible partners and the conservation community.

On behalf of the Watershed Association Board and Staff,

Be safe, Be well and Enjoy the Journey,

Managing Director

From discussions that lead to the incorporation of the City of Wimberley to formation of the Wimberley Valley Watershed Association, from the first time Jacob’s Well stopped flowing to the passage of the Cypress Creek Watershed Protection Plan, and from the formation of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District to the establishment of the Jacob’s Well Groundwater Management Zone, he worked tirelessly to protect what he loved–the land, water, and community here in this little bit of heaven.

Joe dedicated the last 30 years of his life to conservation, much of that through the Wimberley Valley Watershed Association. His contributions to save Jacob’s Well Natural Area, and the Cypress Creek and Blanco River watersheds, is a legacy for future generations and an expression of his brilliant, enduring spirit.

Share WVWA's Newsletter with your Network