Jill Boullion’s Retirement Marks Major Conservancy Growth

**Bayou Land Conservancy Executive Director Jill Boullion Announces 2026 Retirement, Leaves Legacy of Growth and Conservation**

HOUSTON, TX – Jill Boullion, the visionary Executive Director of the Bayou Land Conservancy (BLC), has announced her plans to retire on January 30, 2026, concluding a remarkable 12-year tenure that profoundly shaped land conservation efforts across the Houston region. Under her transformative leadership, the non-profit organization saw unprecedented growth in protected acreage, financial stability, and strategic direction.

Boullion’s time at the helm, which began in early 2014, witnessed the conservancy’s protected land holdings more than double. When she took charge, BLC had conserved approximately 7,000 acres. By her projected retirement date, that figure is expected to surpass 17,000 acres, marking a significant expansion of vital green spaces primarily along the Spring Creek Greenway and within the critical San Jacinto River watershed. These efforts are crucial for safeguarding water quality, enhancing flood mitigation, and preserving essential wildlife habitats for the greater Houston community.

“It has been an incredible privilege to lead the Bayou Land Conservancy for over a decade,” Boullion stated. “Seeing our protected acreage more than double and knowing the tangible impact we’ve had on water quality, flood resilience, and vital wildlife corridors for the Houston region fills me with immense pride. I am confident that the strong foundation we’ve built will allow the next leader to take BLC to even greater heights.”

Beyond the acres, Boullion was instrumental in fortifying the organization’s financial health. She successfully secured over $22 million in funding, directly fueling land acquisition and stewardship initiatives. A cornerstone of her legacy is also the establishment of a $2 million endowment, a strategic move designed to ensure the conservancy’s long-term stability and capacity for future conservation work. She also spearheaded the development and implementation of key strategic plans, including ‘Path to 2025’ and the ongoing ‘Path to 2030,’ providing a clear roadmap for the conservancy’s mission and growth.

The Spring Creek Greenway, a linear park stretching for miles through Harris and Montgomery counties, stands as a testament to BLC’s work under Boullion, offering both ecological protection and recreational opportunities for residents. The San Jacinto River watershed, a primary source of drinking water for millions in the Houston area, has also been a central focus, with BLC’s efforts directly contributing to its health and resilience against increasing flood risks.

“Jill’s unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and ability to forge strong partnerships have truly transformed the Bayou Land Conservancy,” said David Rodriguez, Chair of the BLC Board of Directors. “Her leadership has secured a future for thousands of acres of precious land, ensuring cleaner water, reduced flood risks, and thriving habitats for generations to come. While we will deeply miss her, we are committed to finding a successor who can build upon this incredible legacy and continue our critical work for the Houston area.”

The Bayou Land Conservancy’s board of directors began a comprehensive national search for Boullion’s successor in January 2024. The goal is to identify a leader who can not only uphold the conservancy’s established mission but also innovate and expand upon the solid foundation Boullion has meticulously laid for this vital local conservation group.

The Bayou Land Conservancy, founded in 1996, is a nationally accredited land trust dedicated to preserving forests, wetlands, and other natural resources that protect water quality, provide flood mitigation, and support wildlife.

For more information about the Bayou Land Conservancy and its work, please visit www.bayoulandconservancy.org.