From The Texas Tribune · Alejandra Martinez · · 1m 30s
Texas Ranch Becomes State Park
Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation secures 650-acre Lake Palestine ranch for state park.
In brief
Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation secures 650-acre Lake Palestine ranch for state park. Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation secured a 650-acre ranch on Lake Palestine for state park development after a $10 million deal with owner Sam Pollard's family. Originally reported by The Texas Tribune.
Texas Ranch Secured for State Park
A 650-acre ranch on Lake Palestine in Henderson County is on its way to becoming Texas’ next state park.
Foundation Secures Land Deal
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation sealed the deal for more than $10 million to secure one of the largest remaining contiguous tracts of land on the lake.
State Purchase Timeline
The foundation will hold the property until the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department can purchase it, likely in late 2027.
Centennial Fund Strategy
The extra time allows the state to earn interest on money in the voter-approved Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, a $1 billion investment passed by lawmakers in 2023.
Property Features
The property includes pine forest, native grasses, a pecan orchard, a 58-foot-deep lake and roughly 10 ponds, providing habitat for white-tailed deer, bobcats and waterfowl.
Owner's Legacy
Sam Pollard, president of Texas Pecan Nursery, said the land is part of his soul and he hopes to leave a legacy for future generations.
Future Park Access
The park will open with guided access before adding day use, overnight opportunities, trails, and habitat restoration projects.
In short
Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation secured a 650-acre ranch on Lake Palestine for state park development after a $10 million deal with owner Sam Pollard's family.
