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<title>My RSS Feed</title><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/Home.html</link><description>Hot News&#x21;</description><dc:language>en</dc:language><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:rights>Copyright 2010 Fatsgarage</dc:rights><dc:date>2012-03-08T15:18:37-06:00</dc:date><admin:generatorAgent rdf:resource="http://www.realmacsoftware.com/" />
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<lastBuildDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2012 15:25:14 -0600</lastBuildDate><item><title>How to Kill Thistles</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-08T15:18:37-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/1c016a5021aa07c8208227a6f2a22bde-34.php#unique-entry-id-34</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/1c016a5021aa07c8208227a6f2a22bde-34.php#unique-entry-id-34</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[A thistle seed can last for seven years, waiting for just the right conditions for germination--so even if a person clears their land of thistles one year, he will still have six more years of thistles--and that is only if he does not have ANY further contamination.&nbsp; ...  Fields must be plowed, disced, and planted before thistles bloom, and even then the seeds thrive on the disturbed ground--farmers and ranchers are giving up, since the only thing a thistle-infested field is good for is development and urban sprawl. 

...In efforts to eradicate the thistles, entire ranches and farms are being sprayed with lethal doses of herbicides such as Round-Up and various forms of 2-4-D, which have a devastating effect upon the native wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and bees.   Last summer I watched my neighbor spray his 100 acre range with 2-4-D--AFTER the thistles had already bloomed, and the bright pink flowers were covered with bees and butterflies.


...This time of year Home Depot will sell millions of dollars worth of Round Up--and this potent herbicide is very ineffective in killing musk thistles.   Usually two or more sprayings are required, Round Up will&nbsp;kill any small animal that comes in contact with it--such as lizards, snakes, birds, and frogs--and Round Up is also expensive.&nbsp; 

...For my 100 acres, I just ordered 20&nbsp;cases--about 2% of what I will eventually need-and I have been fighting thistles&nbsp;ever since I moved here, in 2003--NINE years ago.&nbsp;  Government,&nbsp;agriculture, industry, environmental organizations, native plant gardeners, and the private sector need to team up NOW to&nbsp;make the public more aware of the threat&nbsp;that musk thistles pose to our quality of life in the Texas Hill Country.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Global Warming</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-09T09:13:32-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2ffc21ca47eb17731764b972b7782f0d-33.php#unique-entry-id-33</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2ffc21ca47eb17731764b972b7782f0d-33.php#unique-entry-id-33</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Climate study confirms what skeptics scoffed at: global warming is real. &nbsp;  Koch and Gates charities paid for the research.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Geology of Correlative Rights</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-09T09:03:19-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/0d49b3b31a22c53f8b3df5969a7274dd-32.php#unique-entry-id-32</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/0d49b3b31a22c53f8b3df5969a7274dd-32.php#unique-entry-id-32</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Whose water is it? &nbsp;  What's it worth? &nbsp;  Well owners rights, new laws and the reality of geology. &nbsp;  Click this link for the informative article&nbsp;Geology of Correlative Rights.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Water Availability Studies</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-07T13:24:48-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/23844ea8e01744cb19aa92f10d5df223-31.php#unique-entry-id-31</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/23844ea8e01744cb19aa92f10d5df223-31.php#unique-entry-id-31</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Kerr County is the only Texas Hill country County that does not require water availability studies for new developments.


&nbsp;


I pulled up a newspaper article from 2006 (wow can't believe I found it) that says a little more about it.   Read the article here.


...Let's hope Bandera County doesn't copy us in this regard as well. 


Later, 


Mary J.   Matthews for Kerr County Conscience]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Editorial: SENATOR TROY FRASER REPORTS ON THE DROUGHT HEARINGS</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-07T12:56:28-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/7dc6efefa2c8eafb28513ebef951de7f-30.php#unique-entry-id-30</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/7dc6efefa2c8eafb28513ebef951de7f-30.php#unique-entry-id-30</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I understand that the results of the Executive Session will be made known at the next UGRA meeting, but they began talking about retail systems, which led to the Kerrville South Sewer System, and one of the board members then said they &ldquo;did not want to spend $15,000 of taxpayer money,&rdquo; so it appears that they voted down paying for a $15,000 environmental study for one of Letz&rsquo;s proposed sites for the new Water/Wastewater facility, across from the ballpark as you enter Center Point on Highway 27, coming from the west.   Later in the conversation someone added, in a discussion of their water/wastewater goals, that they would &ldquo;divest ourselves of Kerrville South,&rdquo; and again mentioned &ldquo;seed money for $15,000,&rdquo; so I believe that means that they have made a decision about their involvement in that project, it may be in the paper today, I haven&rsquo;t looked yet. 


...Fraser is Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, and recently sponsored legislation that basically said that if a private party has water under their land, this law gives them the right to drill a well for that water, but whether they are able to utilize the well and how much water they are able to take will be up to the local water conservation agency.


...Representatives from the City of Kerrville stated that the decisions about how much water the City could take from the Guadalupe River, made by the Water Master, appeared to be somewhat arbitrary, and that they would like the Water Master&rsquo;s process to be backed up with more scientific fact. ...  Fraser responded by saying that the river between Comfort and Canyon Lake went dry, with no flowing water&mdash;and the question has been asked, &ldquo;Why does the City of Kerrville get any water, if the river is not flowing?&rdquo;


...Another problem, Senator Fraser said, is high schools and other educational institutions use water for their playing fields&mdash;and since there isn&rsquo;t any water for this, they are all clamoring to drill wells to make their football fields green. 

...He said that right now the frackers are exempt from reporting requirements to local water conservation agencies, as to how much water they are using and where they are getting it, and he said, &ldquo;That is going to change.&rdquo; 

...Senator Fraser said, to the audience composed of UGRA board and staff;  HGCD board; the Mayor, City Manager, and Water/Wastewater Manager of the City of Kerrville; Commissioners Overby and Letz; and one private Kerr County resident, namely me: &ldquo;I want everyone talking to each other.&rdquo;
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Wheatcraft</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-07T12:25:02-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/740bbfb8a40c8de11acc145db7bd9761-29.php#unique-entry-id-29</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/740bbfb8a40c8de11acc145db7bd9761-29.php#unique-entry-id-29</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[	Center Point citizens have become aware of another attempt by Wheatcraft gravel mining operations to obtain a permanent&nbsp;rock and cement crushing permit &nbsp;for their HW 27 quarry site. ...  Indeed the rock crusher construction had begun without a permit but the Wheatcraft owners were forced to dismantle the structure when a knowledgeable neighbor requested a TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) &nbsp;investigation. &nbsp;&nbsp;


...The large amount of water being pumped from the Guadalupe for the gravel washing process was evident with a noticeable decrease in flow below the Wheatcraft river&nbsp;pump. 

...Concerns were voiced over airborne particulates posing a health threat to the nearby Center Point school children and the high concentration of frail elderly. &nbsp;

...	If granted a cement crushing permit the old cement would be arriving from distant locations with unknown makeup and a high likliehood of toxic material content including silicone, lead, mercury and asbestos. &nbsp;

...	Over a period of months GREAT established its tax free status by aligning with the Texas Rivers Protection Association, hired legal council, prepared for the local TCEQ hearing and began maneuvering the legal system. &nbsp;

...Wheatcraft has pumped huge amounts of aquifer water for their gravel washing operations in the area of the county at greatest risk for dry wells.&nbsp;


...GREAT members and local citizens met on Nov. 1, 2011 in opposition to Wheatcraft's application for a permanent permit. &nbsp;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>OVERHEARD</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-21T18:29:21-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/4b963f76933928c843eac10c68d87a4c-28.php#unique-entry-id-28</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/4b963f76933928c843eac10c68d87a4c-28.php#unique-entry-id-28</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Hill Country Alliance Discussion Session, Oct. 20, 2011, in response to comments by various Kerr County community leaders that downstream metropolitan water usage is the cause of Kerr County's water crisis:


...&nbsp;"We in Kerr County can negatively affect downstream by overpumping our groundwater and the river--but, in general, we are not affected by what downstream users do&nbsp;[there may be rare exceptions].&nbsp;  Poor watershed management in our region affects our groundwater and springflows. &nbsp;  The effects of overpumping groundwater and/or droughts, depletes our springs,&nbsp;which are the main sources of our creeks and the Guadalupe River."


...Native of the area (San Antonio), grew up during the Fifties Drought; a&nbsp;retired Water Planner,&nbsp;San Antonio Water System.&nbsp;   Retired Water Specialist TX Water Resources Institute @Texas A&M - covered from Region J (Kerr Co.)&nbsp;and across all of West Texas.&nbsp;   Current member of Guadalupe River Environmental Flows Committee and Advisory Board for Hill Country Alliance.&nbsp;   Co-founder and Advisory Board, Texas Riparian Association.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Taxpayers Take Note&#x21;</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-18T22:22:59-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/f9b351f5fa158e5d75be3ab5fac13774-27.php#unique-entry-id-27</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/f9b351f5fa158e5d75be3ab5fac13774-27.php#unique-entry-id-27</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[You may soon be asked to pay for the cost of collecting data when developers are drilling privately owned permitted &ldquo;public&rdquo; wells in Kerr County.&nbsp; ...  Up to now, the developer of the public well has paid for the data logging equipment usage and a geologists time to collect the data and submit it to the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation Board.&nbsp; ...  I believe both conservative and more liberal thinking citizens can agree that the developer, who will obviously benefit the most from a successful project, should pay for the data collection.&nbsp;   Developers pay for other costs including streets, sewer, curb, park space, etc. that they recover from those who buy into or rent portions of their development.&nbsp;


...Mark your calendars for October 19(Hearing on Rescinding Rule 8.5) and November 9th(the HGCD Board will vote to Rescind Rule 8.5)&nbsp; I know that about 75% of the voters in Kerr County tend be conservative voters and desire to keep the individualistic entrepreneurial spirit alive.&nbsp;   Now is the time to attend the above meetings and let the HGCD Board of Directors know that developers should pay their own way.&nbsp;   If a $5000 data collection cost related to developing a $100,000 to $250,000 &ldquo;public&rdquo; well would nix a developer&rsquo;s project then the developer should review the business plan.&nbsp; ...  These seemingly minor costs passed to the taxpayer can result over time in less money available for your children and grandchildren&rsquo;s education.&nbsp; ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&#x2a;&#x2a;&#x2a;TAXPAYER WATER ALERT&#x2a;&#x2a;&#x2a;</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-17T21:05:16-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/527171916d1916f3bf1c0c9568356881-26.php#unique-entry-id-26</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/527171916d1916f3bf1c0c9568356881-26.php#unique-entry-id-26</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, October 19 to gain public opinion on Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District board member Pratt's proposal to switch the cost of well sample collection and analysis from new subdivision drillers to the HGCD thus the taxpayers of Kerr County.


Attention Private Well Owners: &nbsp;Calls to Kerr County &nbsp; Conscience indicate a continuing pattern of misinformation by the usual suspects i.e. a few unscrupulous developers, realtors and investors in Kerr County. &nbsp;

...Pratt's proposal passes the cost of well samples and analysis for large well permits (new subdivision/commercial/industrial development) will become the responsibility of the HGCD and thus the county taxpayers. &nbsp;

...This information is currently obtained&nbsp;by securing well samples during the drilling of new large&nbsp;permitted wells which are usually for&nbsp;a new subdivision and public&nbsp;water supply for the subdivision.&nbsp; ...  There is no such requirement for domestic well drilling&nbsp;only those developments/new public water systems with multiple connections or pumping huge amounts of water.&nbsp;&nbsp;


...Questions: 1) &nbsp;Should the county&nbsp;taxpayers bear the expense of well samples for large water systems who will be selling the water for profit to the new subdivision residents thus &nbsp;making a profit from the same taxpayers main water supply--- the Trinity Aquifer?


&nbsp; 2)&nbsp; Can you expect private well owners as taxpayers to bear the expense of well samples and also live with the new subdivision residents next door pumping their aquifer to the point of depletion?&nbsp;


...&nbsp;1) Would the absence of any absolute scientific information on groundwater stores in the county lead to the same unplanned growth and water shortages Kendall County is experiencing. &nbsp;
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Build--Build--Build&#x21; Where&#x27;s the Water?</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-09-25T21:41:58-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/e3c7f9e10fcc80dd5a26fc723be2093d-25.php#unique-entry-id-25</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/e3c7f9e10fcc80dd5a26fc723be2093d-25.php#unique-entry-id-25</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The audience at the 9-14-11 Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District Board meeting was keenly focused on disparity of water allotment throughout the groundwater district and expressed concern the HGCD was not doing enough to avoid the same disastrous water shortage faced by neighboring Kendall County. &nbsp;...  Even though the HGCD has no enforcement authority it is within the jurisdiction of the commissioner's court to issue such a directive as has been done in Kendall County.


...In the past developers and new water systems have been responsible for collecting and paying the fee for well samples and analysis which helps to map geological formations and water availability in various areas of the county. &nbsp;

...	&bull;	developers do not pay the fee it is paid by the water companies responsible for drilling and selling the water to the new subdivision residents. &nbsp;  The water companies are in the business to make money and the $4,0000 to $6,000 fee is part of their business expense and does not deter them


	&bull;	the data is needed and current taxpayers whose water is being pumped by the new development will bear the future financial burden of lower aquifer levels and possible depletion


	&bull;	the cost should not be paid by the HGCD---as a tax based entity this would mean individual taxpayers are paying water company expenses for a developer who is putting more stress on the water supply


...The individual taxpayers of Kerr County including Kerrville, Center Point, Ingram & Hunt residents need to show up and offer your opinion to our groundwater district board. &nbsp;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Center Point Wastewater/Water Project</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-09-19T09:30:24-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/25ca5dd10343c50c208fb5810b1bc935-24.php#unique-entry-id-24</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/25ca5dd10343c50c208fb5810b1bc935-24.php#unique-entry-id-24</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Some time ago Commissioner Bill Williams held a public meeting in Center Point announcing a proposed sewage project which would collect and transport raw sewage along a pipeline north of Highway 27 to the Comfort wastewater treatment plant. &nbsp;  Later Commissioners Williams and Letz &nbsp;found a property owner willing to sell land for a sewage treatment plant in Center Point----thus the project expanded to a sewage treatment plant in Center Point.


&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Upper Guadalupe River Authority has been working on a water project for the Center Point Area for several years. &nbsp;  Their proposal includes using &nbsp;their river pumping rights to pull water from the river, treat the water, store it in an ASR and sell it wholesale to the public water systems in the area such as Aqua Texas and Weidenfeld Water Works.


&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Now the two projects seem to have merged or perhaps the original or total plan was just not revealed at the Center Point meeting which served as the required public hearing for the sewage project. &nbsp;


&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;We now know the targeted property for the sewage treatment plant (County Commissioners) and water treatment plant (UGRA)&nbsp;is across from the Center Point little league fields. &nbsp;...  The additional cost to each individual residential water user in Center Point has been projected to be $70 per month when last mentioned.


...The Texas Water Development Board staff has required such studies from the UGRA but our UGRA Board of Directors has now gone around the TWDB staff and sent a letter directly to the TWDB Board of Directors asking them to intervene and allow the water treatment plant to use the studies from the wastewater project. &nbsp;
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Kerr County&#x27;s Bridge to NOWHERE</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-09-07T17:19:13-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2f5c83dfb6cb10b4ba59b89c520f2d34-23.php#unique-entry-id-23</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2f5c83dfb6cb10b4ba59b89c520f2d34-23.php#unique-entry-id-23</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[After crossing the bridge there is a turnaround in a dirt field with a closed ranch gate and a distant house in site. &nbsp;


...Because this is a traditionally funded bridge the county pays a portion of the cost.   State funded road projects originate at the local level with your elected county commissioner, in this case Jonathan Letz, Precinct 3. &nbsp;  Do not blame TxDOT for this questionable expenditure, they will not proceed with any project not requested by the responsible commissioner and approved by the commissioner's court. &nbsp;  TxDOT depends on elected County Commissioners to inform their constituents and hold public hearings to secure public opinion prior to beginning any project. &nbsp;  How many voters in Precinct 3 have heard about the bridge replacement on Ehler Lane? &nbsp;

...Could this bridge replacement have been delayed while Commissioner Letz was posturing over expenditures for EMS/Fire protection and opposing library funding? &nbsp;...  You can offer your opinion to TxDOT at&nbsp;http://www.txdot.gov/contact_us/form/&nbsp;and the Kerr County Commissioner's Court at&nbsp;commissioners@co.kerr.tx.us.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dust from Martin Marietta&#x27;s Bedrock Mine&#x2c; 8-25-2011&#x2c; 7:48 a.m.</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-08-25T11:30:07-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/9feb6b84287bd07419c80307b812e098-22.php#unique-entry-id-22</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/9feb6b84287bd07419c80307b812e098-22.php#unique-entry-id-22</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Attached are two photos of the dust streaming from Martin Marietta's Bedrock Mine gravel crusher, taken at 7:48 a.m. on Thursday, August 25, 2011.


...There are several homes and ranches within the immediate area where elderly residents live, with&nbsp;respiratory problems--is it any wonder?&nbsp;  They are limited in income and have no power in our political system--in other words, they are expendable.&nbsp;&nbsp;

...Kerr County Conscience is dedicated to stopping the horrifying &nbsp;environmental consequences of the numerous gravel mines still allowed to operate in eastern Kerr County.&nbsp;   We are also working to stop, at federal, state, and local levels, ANY PERMITS FOR NEW MINES and any renewal permits for existing mines.


...Renew your membership by sending $5.00 to: Kerr County Conscience, P.O.   Box 127, Center Point, Texas, 78010--and volunteer to work on the mining project.   Only by working together can we make a difference.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Petition</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-07-27T14:40:50-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/7711379033da8a7b889fc259ff2f7341-20.php#unique-entry-id-20</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/7711379033da8a7b889fc259ff2f7341-20.php#unique-entry-id-20</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The petition appealed the Trinity Aquifers average drawdown of 30 ft. supported by the HGCD. &nbsp;  The actual projected drop in water level in Kerr county would be 39 ft. over the next 50 years according to the Texas Water Development Board. &nbsp;  A 39 ft. drop in aquifer level translates into using all the recharge which comes into the Trinitys plus another 39 ft before 2060. &nbsp;  Many consumers feel this 39 ft. projected depletion of the Trinity Aquifers is ill advised. &nbsp;

...Our designated GMA 9 consists of Kerr, Bandera, Kendall, Medina, Bexar, Blanco, Comal, Hays and Travis counties.&nbsp;http://www.twdb.state.tx.us/GwRD/GMA/gma9/gma9home.htm. &nbsp;  A year ago HGCD joined other representatives of these boards and voted on desired future conditions (DFC) of 30 ft. depletion. &nbsp;

...The petition in Kerr county joins Hays, Bandera, and Northern Bexar well owners in appealing the general 30 ft. decrease for the Trinity aquifers water level. &nbsp;  The HGCD can now act upon the petition or forward it to the Texas Water Development &nbsp;Board for review.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>RV Park</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-06-13T23:58:29-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2aca844751c6a2db34a40f89a357c034-19.php#unique-entry-id-19</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/2aca844751c6a2db34a40f89a357c034-19.php#unique-entry-id-19</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[An auction sign is now posted on this proposed RV site property. &nbsp;  The high-end RV park plan discussed on this website&nbsp;has apparently been abandoned.&nbsp;&nbsp;  Previous city applications expired last September.   Over the past year Kerr County Conscience and the Welborn family members have actively pursued preservation of their family cemetery located under the ancient oak on the property. 


...Unfortunately, heavy equipment has done considerable damage to the property's river banks during Richard Colvin's ownership. &nbsp;  The neighboring Drymala quarry owner has altered flood drainage from highway 27 which will probably divert more water onto the property even during regular rains. &nbsp;   The property itself is in the most hazardous of flood plains and becomes a floodway during periods of severe flooding.


The auction signs indicate the property can be viewed Sunday afternoon June 12 and the auction will be held June 28.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Open Letter to Kerrville Daily Times</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Water</category><category>Hill Country Rivers</category><category>Open Letter</category><dc:date>2011-06-03T14:02:00-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/36dedc40ff07139c9b819b43a1ffe622-18.php#unique-entry-id-18</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/36dedc40ff07139c9b819b43a1ffe622-18.php#unique-entry-id-18</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Specifically, "restrictions imposed by the state on how much water the city can pull from the Guadalupe River have curtailed the city's safe operating capacity". &nbsp;...  TCEQ only requires the city to maintain the same river flow out of Town Lake that flows into the lake during periods of low flow. &nbsp;  During periods of above normal flow the city is required to simply maintain normal flow over the dam.   There has been very little flow into Town Lake for months and the TCEQ cannot produce additional river water. &nbsp;  The city of Kerrville has free access to all the water in Town Lake they simply must assure that the same amount flows over the dam as flows into the lake.&nbsp;


You should be aware that Charlie Hastings, Director of Public Works, has blamed the TCEQ's watermaster program for Kerrville water restrictions in previous years by promoting the idea that the city is being punished. &nbsp;...  I hope you will take a critical look at the facts surrounding river pumping and provide a factual analysis to your readers.


...I believe a brief check of this data is invaluable to understanding that our current river water situation is indeed a crisis which we cannot blame on the state. &nbsp;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>WILL GROWTH AFFECT OUR WATER?</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Water</category><dc:date>2011-05-18T10:31:33-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d00c45eaa4fae80bb3002ce89e39d6e8-16.php#unique-entry-id-16</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d00c45eaa4fae80bb3002ce89e39d6e8-16.php#unique-entry-id-16</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[That viral disease has seized even small town Texas and the Hill Country seems to be a major target area due to its beauty, climate, many rivers, springs and convenient location to major cities. &nbsp;  We seem to be in the process of sometimes killing or destroying what we came here to enjoy and appreciate in these quaint small towns with their clear rivers, history and peaceful rural life.


The Hill Country and many areas of Texas cannot handle a lot of growth simply because there are not the water supplies to support higher populations, especially during prolonged, severe drought. &nbsp;

...On a ranch or in a pasture, it means the numbers of animals, including livestock, deer and exotics, which can be maintained without damaging the desired rangeland vegetation. &nbsp;

...There is a practical and ethical limit to how much water we can beg, borrow, buy or steal from adjoining neighbors without damaging either them or the environment. &nbsp;

...Many areas of the state are now beginning to realize that our groundwater &ndash; aquifers &ndash; do not exist on county lines, so geographic groups of counties utilizing the same aquifers are forming Groundwater Management Areas (GMA&rsquo;s). &nbsp;...  This is an improvement in groundwater management and protection as people then work together to arrive at plans for water pumping and to derive a view of what they want their aquifer to look like in the distant future&hellip;&hellip;maybe: the same as now, or wells averaging 20 ft. lower, or other standards? &nbsp;&nbsp;  It is causing some heartburn for people in neighboring counties or towns with differing goals for their groundwater and their area&rsquo;s growth. &nbsp;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pardise</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Industrial Corridor</category><dc:date>2011-05-16T13:19:49-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/1a171949ec9a1e32353b755f755315dc-15.php#unique-entry-id-15</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/1a171949ec9a1e32353b755f755315dc-15.php#unique-entry-id-15</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[As I drive what I refer to as the industrial corridor between Center Point and Kerrville many thoughts spin in my head.&nbsp; 

...That you don't know what you got till it's gone


...That you don't know what you got till it's gone


They paved paradise and put up a parking lot


We bought our &ldquo;paradise&rdquo; 5 years ago after the hefty rains---- the grass was green and the tank was full.&nbsp; ...  As such we are working to heal the misuse of said land and use it in a way that adds value to the ecosystems and economy of the Hill Country rather than destroying for economic gain.&nbsp;   I marvel that Texas and its rich history does not do more to protect its treasures....

...Each time I pass through the industrial corridor I begin to sing &ldquo;Big Yellow Taxi&rdquo; and think are lessons never learned.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title></title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><dc:subject>KCC News</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-05-13T17:04:13-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/84caea7939ee975e5c85d5fdec257989-14.php#unique-entry-id-14</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/84caea7939ee975e5c85d5fdec257989-14.php#unique-entry-id-14</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Do you think Kerrville City Councilman


Bruce Motheral


should be an engineering consultant for


Drymala Quarries


on a project under the city's jurisdiction


in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction, the ETJ?]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Motheral Conflict of Interest</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>elections</category><dc:date>2011-05-13T12:35:33-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/3bc8afe0ed159ba2d5982ff269eb6a22-13.php#unique-entry-id-13</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/3bc8afe0ed159ba2d5982ff269eb6a22-13.php#unique-entry-id-13</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Could anyone, living in the Kerrville area, travelling on Highway 27 to Center Point, or driving down &ldquo;scenic&rdquo; Sutherland and River Roads, not be aware of the curse of gravel quarries in this area, disfiguring the landscape and polluting the Guadalupe River? 

...Much of the gravel located immediately south of Highway 27, east of the airport, comes from a major tributary to the north, &ldquo;Nowlin&rsquo;s Hollow&rdquo; (more on why this is called Nowlin&rsquo;s Hollow later.) &nbsp;

...A few weeks ago, people living in the area east of the airport noticed some heavy duty bulldozing and construction going on, right next to the highway, in the area of one of these culverts&mdash;on property owned by Joe Drymala.   Since the area under construction is located in the 100-year flood plain, before any work was done, Drymala needed a Floodplain Permit from Kerr County Floodplain Administrator John Hewitt (technically, since the construction area is in the ETJ, the City of Kerrville should be conducting the floodplain permitting, but since the City and the County are fighting over development jurisdiction in the ETJ, this area has been given to Kerr County for floodplain review.) &nbsp;

...Do you think that, under these circumstances, it is a conflict of interest for Councilman Bruce Motheral to serve as Drymala&rsquo;s Engineering Consultant?


...Naylor Ranch Historic District, and just SE of the Kerr County Airport, Bruce Motheral wrote the engineering study that said it was okay for MM to &ldquo;demolish&rdquo; Nowlin&rsquo;s Hollow tributary and build a road right across the floodplain. ...  Do you think that under these circumstances, it was a conflict of interest for the Chair of the City of Kerrville&rsquo;s Planning and Zoning Commission to also serve as Martin Marietta&rsquo;s Engineering Consultant? 


...After knowing this area so well, Motheral, during his tenure as a Kerrville City Councilman, also was a strong proponent of Richard Colvin&rsquo;s disastrous plan to develop a 280-unit RV Park on the flood plain SW of the present quarries. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Friends of Center Point</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Lions Park</category><dc:date>2011-05-03T17:43:21-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/227ca73b03b5498dfb23785c1190a531-12.php#unique-entry-id-12</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/227ca73b03b5498dfb23785c1190a531-12.php#unique-entry-id-12</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[A drive through the Center Point Lions Park will answer &nbsp;that question. &nbsp;  This group has spent many months talking, meeting and negotiating with county officials over safety issues and general improvement of the park. &nbsp;

...	&bull;	Safety grates have been installed on the bridge to prevent undertow of swimmers


	&bull;	Large jagged rocks have been removed from the swimming area between the dam & bridge


	&bull;	Debris has been removed from the same swimming area


	&bull;	Large limestone blocks have been moved from the back of the park to establish a boundary


...	&bull;	A driveway through the park has been established and the entire area graded


	&bull;	The oak tree and picnic area has been cleaned and enhanced with limestone blocks
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>NEW Excellent Resource</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Water</category><dc:date>2011-05-03T14:54:14-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d65cbb5518095b0f162eb23610a92e91-11.php#unique-entry-id-11</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d65cbb5518095b0f162eb23610a92e91-11.php#unique-entry-id-11</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Texas Water Journal is an online, peer-reviewed journal devoted to the timely consideration of Texas water resources management and policy issues from a multidisciplinary perspective that integrates science, engineering, law, planning, and other disciplines.   It also provides updates on key state legislation and policy changes by Texas administrative agencies.   To view the journal click here.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>HISTORIC CAMP VERDE ROAD SAVED</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Camp  Verde Road</category><dc:date>2011-03-01T10:11:04-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/63a0aac9088223c3e8889599a66afd92-10.php#unique-entry-id-10</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/63a0aac9088223c3e8889599a66afd92-10.php#unique-entry-id-10</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[There were archaeologists; a beleaguered Kerr County Historical Commission Chair; a Native American; old-timers and recent immigrants; a recused Kerr County Commissioner; and a friendly, smooth-talking spokesperson for a multi-million dollar international corporation&mdash;the Kerr County Courthouse had its share of drama on Monday, Feb. 28, when the Commissioners Court met to receive public input on a proposed plan to abandon and sell the historic Camp Verde Road (owned by Kerr County) to Saint Christopher Properties, LLC (see accompanying article by Frances Lovett.)


...Guy Overby, Precinct Two&rsquo;s new Commissioner (chosen by Judge Tinley for the Precinct, to replace deceased Commissioner Bill Williams) ignored the pleas of many of his own constituents by supporting SCP LLC&rsquo;s petition. &nbsp;

...Early in the afternoon, during Jimenez&rsquo;s presentation (also lengthy), Oehler said that he &ldquo;wasn&rsquo;t convinced&rdquo; that SCP LLC&rsquo;s petition carried enough merit to outweigh the concerns of Kerr County residents. 

...&ldquo;Buster&rdquo; Baldwin (Precinct 1), the Commission&rsquo;s Liaison Appointment to work with and support the Kerr County Historic Commission, didn&rsquo;t say a word, but beamed upon hearing that Robert E. 

...One of the protesters&rsquo; dramatic triumphs of the day occurred when Commissioner Jonathan Letz (Precinct 3), the Court&rsquo;s &ldquo;enfant terrible,&rdquo; recused himself from all proceedings on the subject, a scant few seconds before the meeting began. 

...Due to the fact that the item on the Agenda was misworded (&ldquo;Verde Creek Road&rdquo; was used instead of the proper name, &ldquo;Camp Verde Road&rdquo;), Judge Tinley moved the issue to a later date, in spite of Mr. 

...Julia Mosty Leonard, the current Chair of the Kerr County Historical Commission, had the unenviable job of supporting the community&rsquo;s concerns, while at the same time being politic with the Commissioner&rsquo;s Court, which provides all of the Historical Commission&rsquo;s funding. 

...Gerald Witt, a former pilot and author of one of the County&rsquo;s seminal histories (which now sells for over $100 a copy on Ebay), spoke eloquently to the Court about the road&rsquo;s significance and the need for its preservation. &nbsp;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Camp Verde Road ---- UPDATE</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Camp Verde Road</category><dc:date>2011-02-23T09:19:12-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d4ee4601278ffed308dc3558fd0ecc78-9.php#unique-entry-id-9</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d4ee4601278ffed308dc3558fd0ecc78-9.php#unique-entry-id-9</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Commissioners Court vote on closure of the Camp Verde Road was not taken at the December 13th meeting. &nbsp;  The agenda item had erroneously listed Verde Creek Road thus it will be rescheduled for a public hearing and vote at the February 28 Commissioner's Court Meeting. &nbsp;


...Commissioner Letz originally scheduled the road closure vote as a "security issue" for the adjoining landowners now we know the landowners plan to build an up-scale restaurant. &nbsp;

...	&bull;	&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Do the beneficiaries of a Camp Verde Road closure have any interest in historic preservation of the road or do they need the county real estate &nbsp;the road occupies for their own expansion?&nbsp;&nbsp;  Christopher Jimenez represented Christopher Properties the adjoining land owner and Camelot Hills Group owners of the Camp Verde Store. &nbsp; 

...	&bull;	&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Should county and state historic tourism interests and revenue be sacrificed for the corporate interests of Christopher Properties and Camelot Hills Group?


	&bull;	&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Will commissioners consider the value of Camp Verde Road as a part of the overall beauty and tourism for the Camp Verde area?&nbsp;


The public hearing and vote is scheduled for the February 28th Commissioner's Court meeting at the Court House. &nbsp; ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>WHEN WILL TX PARKS &#x26; WILDLIFE STEP IN TO SAVE THE HILL COUNTRY&#x2019;S WHITETAIL?</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Invasive Species</category><dc:date>2011-01-25T08:51:49-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/4d772cb1ddac4f1b13d9ff7dcb84943b-8.php#unique-entry-id-8</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/4d772cb1ddac4f1b13d9ff7dcb84943b-8.php#unique-entry-id-8</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[What I want to know is, since Texas Parks and Wildlife is supposed to be the agency that protects whitetail deer (they are owned by the state of Texas), when are they going to start protecting them? 

...We didn&rsquo;t know then that the grass was momentary, that a development would be planned that would take all of our water, that all of our live oaks would eventually be wiped out by oak wilt, that we would soon succumb to &ldquo;cedar fever,&rdquo; and that our taxes would skyrocket. ...  Now, in mid-winter and facing yet another drought, we are beginning to believe that perhaps the realtor&rsquo;s greatest omission in his sales pitch was not any of the above, but his failure to mention a very serious problem facing all landowners&mdash;invasive species depredation.


...After all, someone had told us that whitetail live within 5 miles of the place where they were born, so these were OUR whitetail, and we felt responsible for them. 

...Anyone who has observed the fragility of fawns&rsquo; legs and the whitetails&rsquo; overall propensity to be easily damaged can imagine the carnage that takes place after a heavy net falls on a whitetail and it struggles to free itself. 

...At the same time that a few axis are being trapped and tranquilized (the axis soon know about the net and won&rsquo;t go under it), mother axis are cheerfully having many, many more babies!


...On any given afternoon, he comes and shoots and fixes the fences&mdash;and a few hours &nbsp;later, by the time we put feed out for the whitetails, there are 50 axis that appear from nowhere and have it all eaten in 15 minutes. 

...We are beginning to resign ourselves to the fact that we can&rsquo;t feed the whitetails without the axis stealing the feed&mdash;so we are going to be seeing our whitetails starve this winter, and our land totally devastated. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Keeping Them Safe or Keeping Citizens Out</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Camp  Verde Road</category><dc:date>2010-12-02T08:45:53-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/33ad12233955957c7708c74b6adb7a90-7.php#unique-entry-id-7</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/33ad12233955957c7708c74b6adb7a90-7.php#unique-entry-id-7</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Why are there security concerns on this stretch of Camp Verde Road and not on the stretch to the west of HW 173? &nbsp;...  Wouldl the loss of this section of Camp Verde Road to a private property owner diminish the attraction of the Camp Verde area's heritage tourism? &nbsp;

...This road dates back hundreds of years to the Commanche Trail from east Texas and was the only original access to the old Camp Verde Store established in 1857. &nbsp;&nbsp;

...As increasing numbers of Kerr County citizens and planners look toward tourism as a source of revenue the Camp Verde area should be preserved and maximized. &nbsp;

...Recent losses to the area include destruction of the old government crossing bridge, commissioner's plans to replace the Center Point Dam bridge, loss of historic cemeteries and progressive gravel mining and industrialization along the river. &nbsp;  All of the above have had a detrimental effect on Center Point's current recreation and &nbsp;potential to promote future recreation and tourism.


The commissioners will most likely vote on the road closure request at their 12-13-10 meeting immediately after the 10:00 am hearing. &nbsp;...  Additionally, you can tell us what you think right here by clicking on the green word &ldquo;comments&rdquo; below or if you have a white box login (it&rsquo;s safe) and type in the big box. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Are Water Well Meters a Phantom or Reality?</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Water</category><category>Distractions</category><category>Diversions</category><dc:date>2010-07-23T09:20:38-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/842dee38d437cef3de5ede75c8149eb5-6.php#unique-entry-id-6</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/842dee38d437cef3de5ede75c8149eb5-6.php#unique-entry-id-6</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[	I became interested in water issues several years ago when I heard the government was planning to place meters on residential water wells. &nbsp;...  It could mean a limit on the amount of water I could pump from my own well or maybe a tax on the water I did pump. &nbsp;

...What could I do to stop this interference with my own private property rights especially my right to pump water from underneath my own land? &nbsp;


	After all, the 2005 Texas Legislature had determined that our state might not have enough water during future droughts if our projected population growth materialized. &nbsp;...  It might not just be the local authorities but the state might really have an interest in my personal water well. 


...A select few investor/developer/realtor types are very skilled at attending local board meetings and water workshops to threaten a citizens uprising when any responsible water planning item is scheduled. &nbsp;&nbsp;

...	I have come to the conclusion that any time I spend worrying about a meter on my well means I have been outfoxed into wasting my time and energy on a phantom threat. &nbsp;  I now know the water meter threat is a sly diversion from the real issue of whether there will be any water in my well to pump.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Agenda &#x2013; Kerr County Conscience Meeting </title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Meetings</category><dc:date>2010-06-02T10:05:30-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/636103946b389c79871d9363374939bf-5.php#unique-entry-id-5</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/636103946b389c79871d9363374939bf-5.php#unique-entry-id-5</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Despite published announcements of slight increases, county taxes have risen substantially for some folks in the eastern part of Kerr County. 

...Now that the law regarding the Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) has been interpreted to avoid arbitration between the city and the county, we&rsquo;ll discuss what the ETJ is and how it affects us all.


Learn the proper and legal way to handle it, when you know someone has begun a building or clearing project that involves waterway or floodplain, or on the banks of a waterway.


...	◦	Sign-in and Opportunity to Join Kerr County Conscience


...You&rsquo;re cordially invited to join Kerr County Conscience, if you have not done so already.&nbsp; 

...If you&rsquo;re mailing your membership, or a (much needed, much appreciated) contribution to the cause, please send % KCC Membership Chairman, PO Box 127, Center Point, TX&nbsp; 78010.&nbsp; 

...Refreshments are served to members and guests, before and after the meeting, at no charge.&nbsp;   However, if you would like to donate to the &ldquo;Treats Kitty,&rdquo; KCC would like to say, &ldquo;Thank you!&rdquo;
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>A QUARRY NEIGHBOR&#x27;S QUANDARY</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Quarries</category><category>Invasive Species</category><dc:date>2010-05-28T12:19:30-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/59c644473f6309b728ea4fa44bbb32e1-4.php#unique-entry-id-4</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/59c644473f6309b728ea4fa44bbb32e1-4.php#unique-entry-id-4</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Martin Marietta Aggregates has made no attempt to control thistle growth on their property that adjoins River Road and Sutherland Lane. 

...This quarry neighbor guesses they have a license to purchase those potent, federally regulated chemicals in large quantities, since Drymala obviously used a lot of whatever noxious chemical it is.


...The runoff from whatever they are, those herbicides or herbicide, seeps directly into the river and is undoubtedly detrimental to the downstream neighbors as well as to fish and to river plants.


...Neighbors wonder why this international corporation controls the musk thistle at their high profile front fence that runs alongside the highway, but ignores the infestation beyond the view of Highway 27 motorists.


...Do neighbors have a right to expect more appropriate thistle control, given the high risk of chemicals soaking into the soil, the river&rsquo;s alluvial system and the main river stream?


Quarry neighbors also suffer from unattended quarry thistles, and nearby farmers and ranchers lose the productivity of their land, since these weeds aren&rsquo;t suitable as agricultural feed and they are sharp and tall, poising injury to livestock and wildlife.


...The quarries are not operating on this Sunday but thistle seeds are still blowing in the wind, soon to land and germinate.


Wouldn&rsquo;t it all be better, if gravel quarry owners would simply make concerted efforts to control thistles on their property, before they morph from seeds to weeds?
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Do quarry neighbors have rights?</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Quarries</category><dc:date>2010-05-20T21:11:10-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/00191468eb7ccaac0f39a1a749b57437-3.php#unique-entry-id-3</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/00191468eb7ccaac0f39a1a749b57437-3.php#unique-entry-id-3</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Our recent rains have been great, but KCC folks have been in the county a goodly many years, and we know that with summer upon us, the dust and noise from our neighboring quarries will soon pick up again.


...As our county officials support the industrialization of the Highway 27 corridor, and while all that dust and noise billows up from the quarry properties, mine owners are allowed to do whatever they choose.&nbsp; 

...Over here on my property, I breathe nasty air, and I can&rsquo;t even enjoy a peaceful evening, relaxing in my own home, much less by the river, not with the quarries pounding away, day and night, night and day.&nbsp;


At a town hall meeting in New Braunfels, over in Comal County, I heard a Martin Marietta lobbyist boldly state that their company adheres to all state laws.&nbsp; 

...Also, that lobbyist failed to inform the audience that he and other powerful quarry lobbyists had successfully defeated a modest regulatory bill previously introduced by Texas State Senator Troy Fraser.&nbsp; 

...The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) applies these laws to quarry operations in an effort to control emissions of particulates and dust into the air. 

...Our elected officials should report to water authorities, such as the TCEQ and HGCD, the amount of river- and well water that is being used to facilitate mining, gravel-washing processes and dust control.


We also need an objective assessment by those officials on the short term tax gain vs. the long term loss of land productivity, river tourism and road repairs caused by heavy truck traffic. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Thistle Control</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Invasive Species</category><dc:date>2010-05-20T21:01:36-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/aa3ab705a7e1d05c92afe260fd906224-2.php#unique-entry-id-2</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/aa3ab705a7e1d05c92afe260fd906224-2.php#unique-entry-id-2</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s not often that a kindred spirit comes along, but one did in TV and radio personality Bruce Deuley, when he and his friend and kin, Chuck Meadors, stopped in on May 18 to visit KCC member Mary Matthews.


...Sitting high on a rise between two floodplains that feed into the Guadalupe River, the property is under constant attack from the ravages of time, not to mention water runoff from the airport, from pollution caused by area quarries, and from the kudzu of the 21st Century, MUSK THISTLE.


...Yet Bruce Deuley, well-known expert and author in organic gardening and living, pointed out that goats can actually eat those thorny stalks.&nbsp; 

...But if you&rsquo;re not in the market to buy or rent a few goats, you can still stymie the spread of thistle seeds.&nbsp;   Carefully cut the flower from the stalk&mdash;be sure to wear protective gloves and clothes&mdash;and then dispose of the flower in an airtight container.


...While they do kill thistles, they also kill needed and wanted greenery, and they seep into water supplies, such as the Guadalupe River, Kerr County&rsquo;s important source of drinking water.


...According to Deuley, there&rsquo;s a fellow over in Georgia who is an expert on thistle control, and Steven Bissonet markets a non-selective MSDS, EcoSmart.&nbsp; 

...KCC learned that Bruce Deuley, also a herpetologist, hails from Valdosta, Georgia, but he went West early on, to study a rare reptile at Canyon Lake.&nbsp; ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Kerr County Conscience Meeting&#x2c; April 21&#x2c; 2010</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>Meetings</category><dc:date>2010-04-09T09:54:03-05:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d41060649464163e585e461644b3ce2a-1.php#unique-entry-id-1</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/d41060649464163e585e461644b3ce2a-1.php#unique-entry-id-1</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Please join us for coffee and dessert, as we enjoy good interaction between folks who are concerned about&hellip;


&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Protecting our property and families from the adverse affects of runaway development&hellip;


&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The lowering of single family, private property values&hellip;


&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stopping unwise floodplain management that jeopardizes lives and property&hellip;


...&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stopping the downward spiral in our Kerr County quality of life.


Our meeting is set for:


...American Legion Hall, Center Point 

...Please pass the word about the meeting to interested individuals.&nbsp; ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>River bank destruction continues</title><dc:creator>kerrcountyconscience@aol.com</dc:creator><category>ATV Park</category><dc:date>2010-02-10T17:11:31-06:00</dc:date><link>http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/a1b1be0ad0bffef1199c272ee2819535-0.php#unique-entry-id-0</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://kerrcountyconscience.com/KCC%20news/files/a1b1be0ad0bffef1199c272ee2819535-0.php#unique-entry-id-0</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A permit is required for construction in any&nbsp;flood plain.&nbsp;   The owners have not applied for a permit.&nbsp;   Kerr County Conscience informed the flood plain administrator, John Hewitt,&nbsp;in January.&nbsp;   He informed the property owner by certified mail of flood plain violations.&nbsp;   The racing, deafening noise, excavation and river bank destruction continues.]]></content:encoded></item></channel>
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