Resolution passed to protect bat cave

1,500 acres around Bracken Bat Cave will be protected from development

Both sides of a major land deal that could affect the world's largest bat colony are in the midst of negotiations, but the clock is ticking.

SAN ANTONIO – Bexar County commissioners passed a resolution recognizing the importance of the Bracken Bat Cave.

District 8 City Councilman Ron Nirenberg said the plan is to buy 1,500 acres of land near the cave and protect it from development.

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He said that would cost about $20 million, with the city paying $5 million, which would be matched by private funds. He said grants would also be used.

Nirenberg said the purchase would do more than just protect bats.

"It's a big tract of land in the middle of the Texas Hill Country, which is directly upstream from the Comal Springs," he said. "If you follow water laws in Texas, this is absolutely vital that we protect the recharge in that area for the health of San Antonio's water system."

He said endangered species would also be protected.