San Marcos River Recharge Natural Area
Opening San Marcos’ Seventh Natural Area
Dick McBride, Hays County Master Naturalist
The San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance dedicated the new River Recharge Natural Area (RRNA) on Saturday, July 16. The name derives from the fact that there are many karst features (31 karst features and 2 caves) on the property that contribute water to the San Marcos River. It consists of 93 acres obtained in a land agreement with the developers of the “Cottages” on Craddock at Wonderworld Drive. The RRNA overlies a particularly sensitive recharge area of the Edwards Aquifer that contributes water to the San Marcos River. It is located adjacent to Wonderworld Drive, which itself required special care and planning during its construction because of its lying over recharge features. The RRNA is San Marcos’ seventh natural area, and plans call for this new trail eventually to tie into a planned circum-city trail system.
Approximately 130 people of all ages enjoyed an opening day hike. A long and a short hike were offered. Consulting geologist Andy Grubbs, who did the original karst survey, was present and described the geology and recharge characteristics of the property. He led the longer hike and added even more information about the property. Hays County Master Naturalist Dick McBride led the shorter hike, pointing out various aspects of the area’s ecosystem.
Andy Grubbs, Dick McBride, and Monique Tschurr
The next generation got its first look.
There are three trails planned, with each loop intersecting the adjacent loop(s). While some work remains on all of the trails, the red (Swallet) and blue (Doline) trails are essentially completed, and work is underway on the Gold (Karst Corner). That trail will be the connection to the planned San Marcos circum-city trail system. The trail names are all descriptions of karst landscapes and so are quite appropriate. The local homeowners association donated 5 acres, which now constitute the RRNA entrance and proposed information kiosk.
After River Recharge Natural Area’s opening day activities, Roughhouse Brewery pitched in with a function at their place and contributed a portion of their sales to the San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance.
Master Naturalists Jo Korthals (photographer) and Cindy Hobson (front left) hiked with other visitors.