New reporting and longtime mammal inventories show more than 100,000 free‑roaming exotic mammals in Texas — from nilgai to blackbuck — raising disease and regulatory questions. The split between free‑roaming animals and fenced game ranches complicates management.

Enchanted Rock’s new Backcountry Area opens on Tuesday with about 10.5 miles of rugged trail and limited facilities, after the park more than doubled in size.

After 20 years of planning, New Braunfels opened the 150‑acre Zipp Family Sports Park on June 20. Phase 1 fields, reclaimed‑water irrigation and plans for more amenities are now online.

Lakeway will break ground Monday on Butler Rough Hollow Park, a 2024 bond-funded project adding an amphitheater, mountain-bike course and multisport field, due summer 2027.

Buda will break ground this July on a 40‑acre Garison Park along Onion Creek with a swimming hole, kayak launch and new trails. Construction is expected to take about a year.

APD says jet skis, wet bikes and motorized surfboards are banned on Lake Austin from sunset July 3 to sunrise July 5. Lake Patrol will enforce.

City officials warn the emerald ash borer is closing in on Central Texas and outline signs, treatments and where to report suspected sightings.

A renovated bathhouse at East Austin's Parque Zaragoza reopened Wednesday, adding accessible restrooms, a lifeguard office and a new pavilion while honoring the park's long community legacy.

City staff found thick mats of potentially toxic blue‑green algae at Red Bud Isle and Walsh Boat Landing; samples are being tested and residents are urged to keep pets away.

Rock'N River has reopened after a $19.3M, bond-funded expansion at Old Settlers Park that adds an action river, VIP cabanas and more parking.

A 54,000‑acre Hill Country ranch will become Silver Lake State Park after the Moody Foundation donated most of the land and TPWD bought the remainder.

Comal County approved backing for a federal design bid tied to the Texas Bicentennial Trail, a regional project planners say could deliver millions in conservation and visitor dollars. Local officials approved design support while flagging safety and funding questions.

Phase II of the Waterloo Greenway — The Confluence — opens June 6 with a 13‑acre stretch of trails, nearly 1,600 trees and an 800‑foot boardwalk in downtown Austin.