ABOUT US
The Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy, founded in 2001, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to nature conservation, community engagement, and enhancing the Willow Waterhole Greenway. Made up of a diverse group of citizens and guided by a committed Board of Directors and Advisory Board, we strive to preserve and develop this vital green space through strategic partnerships with local schools, environmental organizations, government agencies, and the community at large.
Our mission is to lead conservation efforts, organize enriching community events, and facilitate the development of recreational amenities at the Willow Waterhole Greenway. As a key component of Houston’s flood control infrastructure, the Greenway reflects the collaborative efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Harris County Flood Control District, City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, among others.
Through ongoing partnerships with the Harris County Flood Control District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Project Brays, the Conservancy remains committed to both flood control and environmental stewardship, ensuring the Greenway continues to serve as a hub for wildlife, recreation, and community connection.
🎥 The Story of Willow Waterhole
Watch this 11-minute video to see how flood control, conservation, and community vision came together to shape the park you see today.
Produced by local filmmakers ev1pro.com, this mini documentary traces the evolution of Willow Waterhole from early concept to completed lakes, restored prairie, and a growing network of trails.
HISTORICAL TIMELINE
1985
Two engineering studies funded by the Brays Bayou Association (BBA) determined that a regional stormwater detention basin was required in the Brays Bayou Watershed east of Gessner.
1992–1994
HCFCD determined the optimal location was between Chimney Rock and Stella Link but couldn’t find a suitable site.
1995
The City of Houston Planning Department helped organize WAIC to revitalize the area near Westbury High School.
1996
WAIC proposed a site along Willow Waterhole Bayou and recommended it also serve as a park.
1997–2000
BBA and the Westbury community advocated for the current site as a dual-use flood detention basin and park.
1998
BBA presented a conceptual design for a conservation reserve at a public meeting at Johnson Middle School.
2000
HCFCD received $75M in federal funding and began acquiring property for Willow Waterhole.
2001
The Brays Bayou Association sponsored WWGC, which became the park’s steward.
2002–2003
HCFCD acquired 279 acres and began preparing the land for trails and water detention basins.
2005
WWGC held its first annual Fun Run and Walk.
2006
Excavation of the Clematis Basin (Willow Lake) completed. The Jack Rafferty Memorial was dedicated.
2007
The Houston Audubon Society began monthly bird surveys. Wildflowers and Conservation Workdays were introduced.
2011
Triangle Lake was completed and the first Sunday Music in the Park event was held.
2013
Westbury Lake was completed, and WWGC hosted its first JazzFest and tree planting event.
2016
Gazebo named in honor of Bob Schwartz. Native Prairie Garden and Willow Waterhole sign installed at Triangle Lake.
2018
Flagpoles installed at Westbury Lake entrance. Arboretum Trail opened at Triangle Lake.
2019
HCFCD completed excavation and connection of all six lakes. Full flood control functionality achieved.
2020
Work completed on the 15-acre Native Prairie Conservation Reserve. The Dabney Kennedy Scout Pavilion was opened.
2021
WWGC celebrated its 20th anniversary and unveiled naturescape sculptures at Westbury Lake. The $12M Discover Your Greenway Capital Campaign was launched with support from Harris County Precinct One and the Kinder Foundation.
2022
The Dryad parking lot and access road were paved. Capital Campaign donations reached $10 million.
2023
Construction began on 3.5 miles of ADA trails around Westbury Lake. A new pier was installed, and the campaign reached its $12 million goal.
2024
Eight miles of ADA-compliant trails were completed across all six lakes. Upgrades included 50 wayfinding signs, 5 safe crossings, 40 new benches and tables, and 3 new parking lots. The Dryad lot was expanded, adding 130 spaces. Security bollards and gates were installed throughout the Greenway.
2025 (Projected)
The number of Scout-led Eagle and Gold Award projects is expected to reach 80. The Blue Heron sculpture was installed at Heron Lake. The Boardwalk at the Native Prairie Preserve is scheduled to open.
Dig Deeper
Form 990 is a federal tax form that describes our programs and activities, revenue sources, and sustainability. It shows that we are operating lawfully and responsibly and helps the public evaluate the strength and viability of our organization.
We’re excited to share that Willow Waterhole has earned the 2024 Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid GuideStar! This recognition reflects our commitment to accountability and transparency in serving our community. By achieving this status, we’re dedicated to sharing clear and comprehensive information about our work, goals, and impact. Thank you for your support as we continue to protect and enhance Willow Waterhole for generations to come