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.
This 11-minute video, produced by local company ev1pro.com, tells the fascinating story of how the Willow Waterhole detention lakes and greenspace came to be, from conception to completion and beyond.
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
Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) determined the optimum location for a regional basin was along Brays Bayou between Chimney Rock and Stella Link but could not find a suitable site.
1995
The City of Houston Planning Department facilitated organizing the Westbury Area Improvement Corporation (WAIC) to revitalize the area around Westbury High School.
1996
The WAIC proposed a site along Willow Waterhole Bayou with over a dozen dilapidated buildings. They recommended the site also serve as a park.
1997-2000
BBA and Westbury community members advocated for the current site as a dual-use flood detention and park.
1998
BBA presented a conceptual design for a conservation reserve on the Willow Waterhole site at a public meeting at Johnson Middle School.
2000
HCFCD received $75 million in funding for Willow Waterhole from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of Project Brays and began purchasing properties.
2001
The BBA sponsored the Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy (WWGC), which became the recognized steward of the facility.
2002-2003
HCFCD acquired 279 acres for the park, starting the groundwork for trails and park infrastructure.
2005
WWGC held its first annual Fun Run and Walk.
2006
Excavation of the Clematis Basin, now Willow Lake, was completed. The Jack Rafferty Memorial was dedicated during the second annual Fun Run.
2007
The Houston Audubon Society began monthly bird surveys at Willow Waterhole. Wildflower planting and the first Conservation Workdays were initiated.
2011
Triangle Lake was completed, and the inaugural Sunday Music in the Park event was held.
2013
Construction was completed on Westbury Lake, and WWGC hosted its first JazzFest and tree planting event.
2019
HCFCD completed all construction on the six lakes, making them fully functional for stormwater detention.
2020
HCFCD completed work on the 15-acre Native Prairie Conservation Reserve, and Naturescape sculptures were installed and commissioned.
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