624 More Acres of Wildlife Habitat Protected Forever
Texas Land Conservancy is delighted to announce the successful protection of Little L Ranch, a 624-acre property located along the Brazos River in Bosque and Somervell Counties. This ranch has been in the same family since 1947, and its permanent protection ensures the conservation of vital wildlife habitat, agricultural practices, and open space in the face of North Texas's rapid expansion of development.
A Family’s Legacy
The legacy of the Little L Ranch family is a tapestry woven with the threads of dedication, stewardship, and a profound connection to the land. Dr. John G. Little, returning to his medical practice in Cleburne after World War II, and his wife, Dorothy, both raised on farms, harbored a dream of having a place in the country. In 1947, their vision took root when they purchased the property in Somervell and Bosque counties, naming it Likiep after an island in the Marshall Islands where Dr. Little served during the war. Over the years, Dorothy emerged as the main steward of the land, experimenting with various crops, from peanuts to pecans, and raising goats and cattle. The family's commitment extended beyond agriculture; they actively participated in community service, supporting Camp Fire Girls and allowing local groups to utilize the property for nature activities and campouts.
After the passing of Dr. Little and Dorothy, their daughters Sherry Walker, along with her husband Bob and their children, Austin and Kaitlyn, and Sue Pruitt, alongside her late husband Russ, assumed the role of stewarding the ranch. Recognizing the need for land improvement after years of overgrazing, the family sold all the cattle in 2017 and focused on restoring the native prairies and enhancing wildlife habitat. This era of stewardship reflects a harmonious blend of conservation research, guidance, and efforts led by Bob Walker. As they embark on adding amenities and improvements to the property, the family's legacy is not just a story of bygone eras but a living testament to the enduring values of responsible land stewardship. The protection of Little L Ranch with a conservation easement held by TLC symbolizes a continuation of this remarkable legacy, ensuring that the rich history, ecological significance, and natural beauty of the property remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Dorothy Little with grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Austin Walker, at Little L Ranch.
Another Success for the Cross Timbers
The Cross Timbers region of Texas, where Little L Ranch is located, is a distinctive landscape characterized by post oak and blackjack oak woodlands interspersed with patches of prairie and riparian areas. The larger Cross Timbers ecoregion, extending from southern Kansas through central Texas, forms a transition zone between the eastern Blackland Prairie and the western Great Plains. The area also has historical significance, as it served as a natural barrier to early westward expansion and influenced settlement patterns. Today, it continues to play a vital role in biodiversity, supporting native plant and animal species, and contributes to the overall ecological richness of Texas.
Protecting the Brazos River
Nestled just off the Brazos River, Little L Ranch embodies a significant focal point within the watershed, aligning with TLC's Land for Water strategic initiative. As a lifeline throughout history, the Brazos River has shaped the establishment of communities, agriculture, and commerce, serving as a vital route for transportation and trade. Modern challenges to Texas’ water resources include rapid population growth, climate change-induced shifts in precipitation patterns and increased temperatures, recurring drought conditions, and the strain on water supplies from urbanization. The permanent protection of private properties in the watershed, like Little L Ranch, are a crucial step in preserving the Brazos River’s ecological integrity and ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations.
Stewardship in Action
"As stewards of Little L Ranch, my family and I have been inspired by John Graves' words in ‘Goodbye to a River,’ emphasizing the profound connection between nature, culture, and the responsibility we bear. The author’s wisdom guides our commitment to conservation, ensuring Little L Ranch remains a testament to the delicate balance we strive to maintain in the heart of Texas, " says Bob Walker, Landowner of Little L Ranch.
The family's commitment to land and water conservation is longstanding, and Little L Ranch has been a hub of conservation activities. For the past seven years, they have collaborated with various organizations, including the Texas Master Naturalist, Rio Brazos Chapter, to host an annual Brazos River Cleanup event. This multi-day event involves advanced training, volunteer initiatives, and activities ranging from star parties to trash removal along an 18-mile stretch of the Brazos River. In recognition of their efforts, the Rio Brazos Chapter earned the Texas Master Naturalist "Exemplary Project of the Year" award in 2023. This year’s event is scheduled for May 17-19, 2024. Please save the date and more info will be provided on the TLC events page soon!
Brazos River Cleanup 2023. Photo Credit: Lauren Young
Safeguarding the Region
As the demand for urban expansion surrounding the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex intensifies, the urgency to preserve open space, protect nature, and conserve agricultural lands has never been more critical. Conservation easements, like the one protecting Little L Ranch, are a vital tool in this endeavor, empowering private landowners to proactively safeguard their properties while simultaneously delivering benefits to the wider public. This collaborative approach preserves the scenic beauty of the region and ensures that these areas remain untouched by unchecked development.
"Time is of the essence in our mission to preserve the unique landscapes of North Texas, particularly in areas south of Fort Worth such as Cleburne, Granbury, and Glen Rose, where we're witnessing an alarming acceleration in the fragmentation and development of our precious natural lands," says Amber Arseneaux, North Texas Program Director.
Landowners with interest in protecting their own properties through conservation easements are invited to participate in an upcoming workshop hosted by Texas Land Conservancy and partners. This special event will take place on Tuesday, April 23, from 10 am to 4 pm at the scenic Fall Creek Ranch in Granbury. Join us for an informative session where you can gain valuable insights into the process of protecting your land for future generations. A barbeque lunch will be provided, and the program will feature an overview from local land trusts actively engaged in conservation efforts, along with a panel discussion featuring experienced landowners who have successfully and permanently protected their cherished properties. Space is limited, so we encourage interested landowners to RSVP as soon as possible to secure their spot.
Help protect more properties like this across the state!
Texas Land Conservancy could not do this important conservation work without our members, partners, and supporters. With your support, we can work with more landowners and protect more land across the state from the negative effects of land fragmentation and poorly-planned development.
