Jill Boullion’s Decade: BLC Expands to 15,000 Acres

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Bayou Land Conservancy Marks a Decade of Transformative Growth Under Executive Director Jill Boullion**

**HOUSTON, TX – [Current Date, e.g., April 23, 2026]** – As July 2026 approaches, Jill Boullion, the Executive Director of the Houston-based Bayou Land Conservancy (BLC), reflects on an extraordinary decade at the helm, marking her 10-year anniversary in a role that has seen the conservation nonprofit achieve unprecedented expansion and impact across the greater Houston region.

Under Boullion’s visionary leadership, BLC has dramatically expanded its protected landholdings, growing from a modest 1,700 acres when she became Executive Director in July 2016, to an impressive 15,000 acres today. This monumental achievement encompasses vital green spaces across a seven-county region, safeguarding critical ecosystems and enhancing community resilience.

“It’s been an incredible journey, far exceeding what I could have imagined when I first stepped into this role,” Boullion shared. “Our growth is a testament to the dedication of our small but mighty team, our passionate board, and the incredible generosity of our supporters who understand the vital importance of protecting our natural bayous, forests, and wetlands in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country.”

When Boullion, who initially joined BLC as Development Director in December 2014, took on the ED position, the organization’s primary conservation focus was the Spring Creek Greenway. While the Greenway remains a cornerstone of BLC’s efforts, spanning over 15,000 acres of contiguous parkland and forest along its namesake creek, its reach has since extended significantly. BLC now actively conserves land in Harris, Montgomery, Waller, Fort Bend, Liberty, Chambers, and Galveston counties, protecting diverse landscapes from urban encroachment and providing essential flood mitigation, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities.

This expansion includes significant projects such as the **Little Cypress Creek Preserve** in Hockley, critical for its role in mitigating flooding and preserving diverse wildlife habitat; the **Peckinpah Preserve** near Cleveland, offering pristine bottomland hardwood forest; and the **Carroll Lake Bottomlands Preserve** in Liberty County, a vital freshwater wetland system. Each preserve contributes uniquely to the region’s ecological health and environmental quality.

Beyond acres, the Bayou Land Conservancy itself has matured into a robust and influential force for conservation. The lean team of two or three staff members has grown to five full-time employees, bringing specialized expertise to land stewardship, community engagement, and fundraising. The annual budget, once in the hundred-thousands, now consistently exceeds $1 million, reflecting increased capacity and ambitious program delivery.

A strategic plan adopted in 2021 has charted an ambitious course for BLC’s future, setting a target to double the amount of land protected over the next decade. This goal is underscored by a renewed focus on deepening membership engagement, expanding educational initiatives for all ages, and strengthening community outreach to foster a greater appreciation for the region’s natural heritage.

“Our goal isn’t just to acquire land, but to ensure these places thrive for generations to come, providing clean water, wildlife corridors, and places for people to connect with nature,” Boullion emphasized. “As we look ahead, engaging our community through membership, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities will be paramount to building a sustainable future for conservation.”

Founded in 1996, Bayou Land Conservancy has evolved significantly, adapting to the dynamic needs of the region while remaining steadfast in its mission to protect natural lands that provide essential ecosystem services, including clean water and flood control. Boullion’s tenure stands as a testament to strategic vision and dedicated execution, cementing BLC’s role as a leading land trust in the Gulf Coast region.

The public is encouraged to learn more about the Bayou Land Conservancy’s work, become a member, or explore volunteer opportunities by visiting their website at [bayoulandconservancy.org](https://www.bayoulandconservancy.org/).

**About Bayou Land Conservancy:**
Bayou Land Conservancy is a Houston-based land trust working to protect the natural lands that clean our water, absorb floodwaters, and provide homes for native plants and wildlife. Through land acquisition, conservation easements, and stewardship, BLC works to preserve the critical natural resources of the Gulf Coast region for current and future generations.

**Media Contact:**
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