I am very pleased to announce that the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District has awarded the Barton Hills Neighborhood Association (that's all of us!!) the recipient of the 2004 Innovation Conservation Award.

Please note this is a particularly significant honor as this is the first year this category of award has been offered and it will only be awarded "when a nomination is deemed extraordinary and a true model for future activities, and may not be given every year."

The Innovation category honors efforts that "incorporate new and creative practices or represent outstanding efforts in communication and partnership toward the betterment of the aquifer and related environmental issues." Derek Stuart, BHNA Treasurer (and secret expert gardener!) and Glee Ingram, Chair extraordinaire of Greenbelt Guardian, will accept this award on behalf of BHNA at a luncheon this Friday.

It has been suggested to have a commemorative plaque made for each of the entrances to the Greenbelt (Gus Fruh and Homedale). That sounds like a great idea and we shall put it to a vote at our next BHNA general meeting, October 12.

This award is in recognition of all the efforts made by our members and community in acting on our commitment to protect and enhance the natural beauty and bounty of the Barton Springs and Edwards Aquifer area. It is also an affirming tribute to all those in the past and those in the future who have and will similarly cherish this land. Congratulations on preserving this heritage.

Don Long
President
Barton Hills Neighborhood Association