Texas Pineywoods Experience

In 2006, The Conservation Fund and Fermata, Inc. launched the Pineywoods Experience, a large-scale initiative aimed to revitalize and protect the economy and environment of the Pineywoods region of East Texas.

East Texas is blessed with a rich history and an abundance of natural resources. From an economic development perspective, it makes good sense to take a closer look at how we can better utilize these assets to promote job growth and to strengthen our regional economy.

- Trent Ashby, Executive Director, Pineywoods Economic Partnership

Challenge

Sandwiched between two of the nation’s fastest-growing population centers, Dallas and Houston, the river corridors and forests of the Pineywoods are vulnerable to fragmentation and development. At the same time, the Pineywoods region is remarkably accessible to millions of potential visitors.

Solution

Together, Fermata and The Conservation Fund aim to inventory the Pineywoods’ natural resources, cultural heritage, historic sites, and goods and services to preserve and promote the region, known for its lush forests, azalea trails and meandering rivers. The groups aim to market the experience to city dwellers a short drive away, offering natural, cultural and historic destinations they hope will drive tourism and bolster local economies.

Results

In its first phase, the $35 million initiative aims to combine land conservation and tourism to protect 30,000 acres of forestland and leverage millions of dollars from public and private sources to promote economic growth in the area.