Must attend full day to receive 7 hours of LA CES CEUs.
Overview:
This presentation introduces participants to the Great Springs Project, a transformative initiative aimed at establishing a greenway of protected lands across the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone, connecting Austin to San Antonio. The project’s centerpiece is the creation of the Great Springs Trail, which will link the iconic Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs, and San Antonio Springs, uniting diverse ecosystems and communities along the way.
Key Objectives:
Understand the Project’s Vision: Participants will gain insight into the vision and objectives of the Great Springs Project, including its focus on water conservation, land protection, wildlife preservation, and public health enhancement.
Explore Trail Design Challenges: By examining the varied landscapes and communities traversed by the Great Springs Trail, attendees will learn about the unique design challenges and considerations associated with creating a cohesive trail experience across rural, suburban, and urban environments.
Learn from Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The presentation will highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the project’s development, showcasing how landscape architects can work alongside water resource managers, conservationists, and community stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
Discover Sustainable Design Practices: Participants will discover innovative sustainable design practices employed in the creation of the Great Springs Trail, such as habitat restoration, stormwater management, and trail infrastructure that minimizes environmental impact.
Gain Inspiration for Future Projects: By exploring the Great Springs Project as a case study, landscape architects will gain inspiration and practical insights that can be applied to their own projects, particularly those involving green infrastructure, trail design, and community engagement.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding of the vision and objectives of the Great Springs Project and its significance in Central Texas.
- Insights into the design challenges and considerations associated with creating a green corridor across diverse landscapes and communities.
- Knowledge of sustainable design practices and interdisciplinary collaboration strategies applicable to similar projects.
- Inspiration and practical insights for integrating green infrastructure and community engagement into landscape architecture projects.
- Opportunities for networking, collaboration, and further exploration of innovative approaches to trail design and conservation.
By attending this presentation, participants will gain valuable insights and inspiration from the Great Springs Project, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to create transformative and sustainable landscapes in their own communities.
Garry Merrit serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Great Springs Project, blending his expertise in business development, real estate law, and government service with a deep commitment to conservation. With a background as a Real County Judge and Attorney, he brings extensive knowledge in real estate transactions, water rights, and contract negotiations. Garry holds degrees from Rice University and The University of Texas School of Law. Previously, he served as General Counsel of the Texas Association of Counties. Passionate about preserving Texas’