In a landmark move for conservation in Texas, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) have finalized the acquisition of Heath Canyon Ranch, a breathtaking 671-acre property nestled just outside Big Bend National Park. The purchase—funded by contributions from Horizon Foundation, WoodNext Foundation, Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, and Meta Alice Keith Bratten Foundation—marks a significant stride in preserving West Texas’ delicate ecosystems while expanding public access to outdoor recreation.
Suzanne Scott, State Director for The Nature Conservancy in Texas, expressed enthusiasm about the transition:
“We are thrilled that the property is now in the hands of TPWD, and that this beautiful location along the river will continue to be available for the enjoyment of Texans and visitors alike while ensuring the protection of the habitat for wildlife to thrive.”
Previously, Heath Canyon Ranch represented a sizable gap in the vast protected landscapes of West Texas. Its strategic location between Black Gap Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Big Bend National Park, state-owned lands, and the 10,000-acre Brushy Canyon Preserve makes its preservation even more impactful. With more than 250 plant species—several of which exist nowhere else on Earth—its unique biodiversity will now be safeguarded for generations to come.
Additionally, the ranch boasts 1.2 miles of Rio Grande river frontage, making it a crucial access point for outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as the only take-out location for the multi-day Boquillas Canyon river trip through Big Bend National Park, as well as one of the few access points for the Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande—Texas’ only designated National Wild and Scenic River. With TPWD and the National Park Service planning sustainable public access and management strategies, the site is set to become an integral part of the region’s outdoor recreation offerings.
Alan Cain, TPWD Wildlife Division Director, emphasized the value of the acquisition:
“The Heath Canyon addition will expand outdoor recreational opportunities, from river access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and public hunting. We are excited for Texans to enjoy this unique property.”
As a longtime conservation partner, TNC has worked extensively with TPWD and NPS to safeguard essential lands and waterways across Texas. This latest endeavor continues their tradition of success, reinforcing the ecological and cultural importance of the Big Bend region.
With an eye toward the future, Travis Smith, TPWD Black Gap WMA Biologist, underscored the significance of the deal:
“This is an amazing addition to the WMA and will not only ensure river access for future generations but protect a very unique habitat.”
Thanks to dedicated conservationists, Heath Canyon Ranch is now permanently protected—an enduring testament to the collaborative efforts ensuring Texas’ natural landscapes remain intact, accessible, and thriving.
On the Dock with Rick Smith
KNCT 