H.R. No. 371
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Texas Hill Country is one of the fastest-growing
regions of our state and nation, and the area's continued growth
presents unique challenges to the stewardship of its natural
resources; and
WHEREAS, A significant economic engine for the Lone Star
State, the Hill Country boasts a regional GDP of nearly
$300 billion and a population of more than four million people,
many of whom choose to live there because of the high quality of
life and numerous opportunities the area affords; and
WHEREAS, Spanning 18 counties in Central Texas, the Hill
Country contains the headwaters of 12 of Texas' rivers, thousands
of natural springs, and four of the state's nine major aquifers; a
total of more than 1,100 miles of river flow through the region, and
it is home to some of the most highly visited parks in the entire
state park system; and
WHEREAS, The Hill Country's natural areas provide habitats
for at least 300 species of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, and
fish of the greatest conservation need, many of which depend on land
and water preservation efforts for their survival; and
WHEREAS, The historic practices of farming, ranching,
hunting, and fishing are likewise increasingly threatened by
unprecedented development, traffic, soaring land prices, soil
erosion, and the degradation of free-flowing streams in the region,
putting families at risk of losing their livelihoods; and
WHEREAS, Locally driven initiatives offer a responsible way
to manage future growth while protecting the area's lands, waters,
and rural communities; ensuring the long-term prosperity of the
region requires collaboration between its diverse stakeholders,
including rural and urban residents, elected officials,
businesses, farmers and ranchers, builders and developers, and
representatives of the recreation and tourism industries; and
WHEREAS, By working together, we can protect the Texas Hill
Country for generations to come, and it is fitting that we
acknowledge the critical importance of taking action for the sake
of all who appreciate this dynamic and beautiful area of our state;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
Legislature hereby recognize the Texas Hill Country as an integral
part of the State of Texas and commend those who are endeavoring to
preserve the region's precious natural resources and iconic
landscape.
Murr
Garcia
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 371 was adopted by the House on May 6,
2023, by the following vote: Yeas 138, Nays 0, 2 present, not
voting.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House