SUMMER 2005 NEWSLETTER

Public Affairs:

The Board of Directors would like to update you on pending development in the Friedrich Park environs, and to notify you of our efforts to mitigate its impact on the Park. The property at the corner of Heuermann Road and IH-10 will soon be transformed into a commercial and multi-family development. FOFWP successfully fought the initial request for zoning change necessary to allow multi-family residences on this parcel, as we were concerned about the effect of so many new residents close to Friedrich Park . The requested zoning change was turned down by the San Antonio Zoning Commission, but subsequently approved by City Council. However, this approval came after several concessions were made in response to our concerns. The developer signed a legally binding agreement to limit the number of multi-family units, and to include a mini-wilderness preserve on the property (1 acre above and beyond the park dedication requirements of the City) as a means to curb demand on Friedrich Wilderness Park .

Areas bordering Friedrich Park (parcels of the unrealized “Woodland Hills” project) are also poised for residential and commercial development. FOFWP has reached an agreement with the developer of the residential sub-division that will border the North and West sides of the Park. This promises that residents will have no rights to enter Friedrich Park from their yards or from the subdivision, that the developer will consult with the FOFWP and Natural Areas staff to consider constructing a fence border between our common properties, and that a significant spring within the subdivision will be protected and preserved.

It appears that the rural, Hill Country character of Friedrich Park ’s environs may soon evolve into suburbia, and that some of the unobstructed views from within the Park will disappear. These inevitable changes remind us of the foresight and generosity of Norma Friedrich Ward in donating this property to the City of San Antonio , and for the dedication of the Natural Areas staff and others in purchasing a good portion of the Woodland Hills property. This recently acquired land will now serve as a buffer between the original boundaries of the Park and new development. We also congratulate the citizens of San Antonio for passing the Aquifer Protection Initiative in May. This will allow for the continued purchase and preservation of additional parcels of undeveloped land in and around our City.

Nature notes- Feral Hogs in Friedrich Park:

As you walk the trails of Friedrich Wilderness Park, have you noticed areas where it looks like someone has been roto-tilling the ground? No, we are not planning to plant potatoes and onions in the Natural Area. This is the work of feral hogs rooting through the Park searching for food. Many of you have asked why we don't do something about the hogs? To find out more about these creatures and the Natural Areas concerns, read the entire article at www.sanaturalareas.org

PLEASE don’t forget to renew your membership (adult $25; senior $15; family $30; contributing $50) Your membership expiration date is shown on the address label. Friends of Friedrich Wilderness Park is a non-profit, charitable organization; contributions are tax-deductible. Dues and donations may be sent to Friends of Friedrich Park, 21395 Milsa Dr., San Antonio, TX 78256-9610.