The RGK Ranch: A Legacy of Stewardship
In a rare victory for conservation, a historic family ranch in Travis County, Texas, has been converted into a public park. Just 30 minutes from Austin's bustling tech sector, music venues, and barbeque spots, this transformation represents a significant step toward preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the area.
The 1,507-acre RGK Ranch, owned by the Kozmetsky family for three generations, was sold to Travis County for $90 million—$40 million less than what developers had offered. The late George Kozmetsky, who amassed his fortune through Teledyne, invested heavily in Austin and Travis County, and his family chose to honor his legacy by preserving the land.
A Community Effort
Nadya Kozmetsky, inspired by the mission of the RGK Foundation set up by her father, spearheaded the initiative to sell the ranch for conservation. The sale was facilitated by the Nature Conservancy in Texas and funded by the Proposition B Parks Bond Measure, passed by Austin voters last November. The transaction ensures that the land, previously permitted for extensive commercial development, will now serve as a public park.
Protecting Natural Habitats
The new park will protect significant wildlife habitats and watersheds feeding Bee Creek and Lake Travis. Historically a cattle ranch, the RGK Ranch has embraced conservation and forestry management practices over the past two decades. The area is home to various species, including foxes, ringtail cats, bobcats, and the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. The land also acts as a natural filter, enhancing water quality by absorbing rainwater, replenishing aquifers, and feeding runoff into nearby Lake Travis.
A Collaborative Conservation Effort
This acquisition is part of a two-decade collaboration between area landowners, Travis County, and the Nature Conservancy to preserve land around Hamilton Pool. The new park will join Reimers Ranch Park, with plans to connect the two parks via a hiking trail, enhancing the region's recreational opportunities.
Future Plans and Community Impact
The park’s opening is at least a year away, with Travis County needing to create a master plan and build basic amenities. A home on the ranch will be converted into an events center, and the Scott family will retain a 90-acre inholding. The county will have the right of first refusal if the family decides to sell this land in the future.
Travis County Commissioner Ann Howard emphasizes the importance of preserving this land amid rapid development:
With the growth and congestion and lack of water, the fact that we can remove some of this land from development is exciting. We’re preserving land, protecting water sources, and decreasing the demand for water. . . . We’re adding public land, and that’s rare in Texas.
Expanding Conservation Efforts
Last month, Travis County purchased an additional 475 acres to expand Reimers Ranch Park. This acquisition brings the total parkland in the area to 5,430 acres, with another 3,184 acres under conservation easements. These efforts collectively protect approximately 8,600 acres from development, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of the Hill Country.
A Bright Future for Travis County's Natural Heritage
The transformation of the RGK Ranch into a public park marks a significant achievement in conservation, providing a vital green space for residents and preserving the ecological integrity of Travis County. This initiative highlights the importance of collaboration and community effort in protecting our natural heritage and offers a hopeful vision for sustainable development in one of Texas's fastest-growing regions.
Erich Schlegal for RGK Ranch
