About
AN URGENCY TO PROTECT
In just four decades, Wells Branch has transformed from manicured suburban landscapes to a vital green oasis amidst urban sprawl. As Austin’s rapid growth continues to encroach, protecting these natural spaces is more critical than ever. Climate change, increasing population, and water shortages threaten even the smallest pollinators, making our 84 acres a crucial link in the green corridor.
Our Background
Wells Branch’s rich history, from its roots with the Tonkawa and Comanche tribes to its agricultural past, has evolved into a thriving suburban community. Today, it boasts 84 acres of parkland and 6 miles of trails, serving as a vital habitat for over 1,300 species recorded on iNaturalist and 230 bird species on eBird. Thanks to community efforts, Wells Branch has become an essential stopover for migrating birds.
What we Do
Collaborative Efforts
We work closely with the MUD board to protect and enhance the natural spaces in Wells Branch, including:
- Working with the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) to revise the property guidance for wildlife habitats
- Working with the Parks and Recreation Department to publicize the park-wide herbicide and pesticide applications
Community Engagement
We educate the community about the vital ecosystem services provided by our parklands. As part of our engagement strategy, we have public monthly meeting at the Wells Branch Recreation Center. Meetings are held the 2nd Saturday of each month at 9 am.
Building Partnerships
We form alliances to enhance our stewardship strategies. Our closest partners include the Wells Branch MUD Board, the Wells Branch Parks and Recreation Department, and the Wells Branch Neighborhood Association. We also provide a garden mentor for Wells Branch Elementary.
Certification Goals
We strive to achieve the National Wildlife Federation Community Wildlife Habitat Certification.
Ensuring Prosperity
Together, we safeguard the survival and prosperity of Wells Branch’s natural environment.
Promoting Conservation
We advocate for policies and practices that prioritize the preservation of Wells Branch’s natural spaces.
Board of Directors
Jill Douglass brings a lifelong passion for science, stewardship, and community engagement to protecting local natural spaces. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology and a PhD in Oceanography, providing a strong scientific foundation for understanding ecosystems and environmental change.
Professionally, she works as a software development manager, where she applies analytical thinking, collaboration, and leadership to complex projects. In addition to her role with the Conservancy, she has a long history of volunteer service, including involvement with Scouts BSA and parent-teacher organizations at her children’s schools.
Outside of work and volunteering, she enjoys spending time outdoors backpacking and hiking, cultivating plants through gardening, and contributing observations to iNaturalist. These activities reinforce her commitment to conservation, education, and fostering a deeper connection between the community and the natural world.
Natasia Moore received her Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management and a Master’s degree in Wildlife, Aquatics, and Wildland Science and Management from Texas Tech University. She is currently an Urban Wildlife Biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife, where she performs professional planning, management, research and public outreach associated with wildlife, habitat and natural resource management specific to the Greater Austin area. Natasia is also the TPWD coordinator for the Bird City Texas program. Her research interests include ecological effects of urban development, specifically as it relates to raptors and other avian species.
Bio coming soon.
Rebecca Benz has lived in central Texas since 1972 and years ago began visiting Wells Branch in the spring to experience its magnificent spring bird migrations. She and her husband became permanent residents of Wells Branch in 2022 and are now happy to bird here year-round.
Now retired, Rebecca is the former Executive Director of Camp Fire Central Texas and Principal and Associate Superintendent of one of the first Charter High Schools in the state of Texas. She is a founding member of the Children in Nature Collaborative of Austin, a former Board member of the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, and recipient of the Camp Fire National Executive Leadership Award.
Rebecca is pleased to be a founding board member of Wells Branch Wild Conservancy and is dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit for future generations of residents to cherish the natural outdoors.
Matthew grew up hiking and exploring nature from north central Texas through the hill country. He loves all facets of the natural world, especially how the different parts of the environment interact. Matthew has a PhD in chemistry from the University of Texas and is a recent Texas Master Naturalist and is proud to help bring more wildlife to Wells Branch.
Audry became a board member in 2025 and she loves working to have an impact on nature in her local community. She is also a Texas Master Naturalist, so she brings a lot of knowledge about our local Texas landscapes and enjoys sharing it with anyone who wants to learn. Her day job is as a veterinarian, where she helps dogs and cats, as well as volunteers with Austin Bat Refuge to provide care to Austin’s bat population. When she is not out in nature, she can be found reading, playing soccer, riding horses, or hanging out with her husband and pets (four cats, one dog, and a tortoise). Her favorite Texas wild animal is either an American Kestrel or Ringtail Cat.
Angela grew up in Virginia, lived in Germany for 17 years, and moved to Wells Branch in 1999. She retired in March 2020 from the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she served supporting the computer infrastructure.
Angela enjoys being outdoors. The park system throughout Wells Branch is one of her favorite things about Wells Branch; she has appreciated all the improvements made to it over the last 15 years. Since retiring, she has utilized the parks daily, as well as fostered her interest and curiosity in how to preserve our local environment. She has modified her yard and registered it as a Natural Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation, and she has worked with Austin Water on creating a backyard that qualifies as Water Wise. She joined the Wells Branch Wild Conservancy to align her interest with further action and advocacy in her community.
Bio coming soon.
Bio coming soon.
Linda Welsh, Ph.D. is a former consultant in early childhood and higher education. Linda’s roles include Dean of Graduate Students and Academic Support at National American University; a faculty member and Child Development Chair at the Austin Community College District; and the first Early Childhood Coordinator for the City of Austin, Texas, where she facilitated community-wide planning and program development for the early childhood system of Austin.
Linda resides in Wells Branch on the greenbelt behind Katherine Fleischer Park. She has two wonderful sons and five grandchildren ages 7 to 17. Linda serves in leadership positions for the Texas and Austin AAUW (American Association of University Women).
Linda loves the beauty of our outdoor environment and is proud to serve as a founding board member of the Wells Branch Wild Conservancy. Her priority is connecting children and families to the beauties and benefits of nature.
Diana Wheeler has a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Yale with a concentration in environmental education. Since being in Austin she has worked in IT but her passion remains working on programs that facilitate environmental protection. She currently works for Austin Energy as an IT Manager. Diana was on the Board of Camp Fire Central Texas from 2004-2020, on the Allendale Neighborhood Association (ANA) Board from 2016-2021, and she currently serves on the City’s Joint Sustainability Committee.
“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.”
JOHN MUIR
American naturalist, “Father of the National Parks”
FAQ
How can I make my yard more wildlife-friendly?
Plant native species, reduce or eliminate chemical use, and provide food, water, and shelter for wildlife. Even small changes—like leaving fallen leaves, adding a birdbath, or replacing a portion of turf with native plants—can make a meaningful difference.
Are native plants harder to care for than non-native plants?
No. Native plants are adapted to our local climate and soils, which often makes them easier to maintain once established, requiring less water, fertilizer, and maintenance.
What should I do if I find an injured or orphaned wild animal?
Do not attempt to handle wildlife. Observe from a distance and contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control for guidance. Many young animals are not abandoned, even if they appear alone.
What do i do if i find a skunk in my yard?
If you find a skunk in your yard, give it space and keep pets and children indoors. Skunks are generally non-aggressive and will move along on their own. Do not approach or try to handle it; if it appears injured or sick, contact local animal control or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
How can kids get involved in helping wildlife?
Kids can help by planting native plants, creating simple wildlife habitats, keeping outdoor spaces litter-free, and learning to observe wildlife respectfully without disturbing it.
Resources
National Wildlife Federation
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is dedicated to inspiring Americans to protect wildlife and their habitats through advocacy, education, and conservation efforts.
Xerces Society
The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is an international nonprofit that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats.
Audubon Society
The Audubon Society concentrates on protecting birds and their habitats through advocacy, education, and community action.
Homegrown National Park
Homegrown National Park (HNP) raises awareness and urgently inspires everyone to address the biodiversity crisis by adding native plants and removing invasive ones where live, work, learn, pray, and play.
The Native Plant Society of Texas
Protecting the Texas environment through conservation, research and utilization of native plants
