update 81 - Groundwater Is the Deciding Battle — Here’s Where We Stand

1/30/26

​Dear Friends and Supporters,
​
As we move into the next phase of our effort to stop the proposed rock crushing facility on FM 3509, we want to provide a clear, straightforward update on where things stand today, what matters most right now, and what comes next.
This is a long fight — but it is far from over. In many ways, the most important decisions are still ahead.

📍 Where We Are Right Now
Here is the current status:

• ❌ No groundwater permit application has been submitted to the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) by Burnet Ranch Investments / Asphalt Inc.
• ⏳ Because no permit has been filed, no public hearing has been scheduled.
• 📊 Well drilling and drawdown testing have occurred, and the data is being reviewed as part of an upcoming hydrology report.
• 🏛️ Burnet County leadership has taken a stand, unanimously approving a resolution opposing the proposed quarry.
• 🤝 SaveBurnet.com continues active coordination with:
  • CTGCD
  • City of Burnet officials
  • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality | TCEQ
  • Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency | US EPA
  • State leadership and legislative offices

This process is deliberate — and that works in our favor.

💧 Why Groundwater Is the Deciding Battleground
The groundwater permit is now the most consequential remaining approval Asphalt Inc. needs.
An industrial groundwater permit of the size being discussed would:

• Compete directly with and impact homes, ranches, and small businesses
• Place heavy stress on the Hickory Aquifer, which is already declining
• Undermine water conservation efforts residents are being asked to follow
• Set a dangerous precedent for industrial pumping in rural Burnet County

This is no longer just about one site on FM 3509 — it affects the entire community.

📊 What the Well Testing Really Means
Drawdown testing measures how much water a well can produce and how that pumping affects surrounding wells.
So far:

• CTGCD has been monitoring multiple nearby wells
• Preliminary observations show measurable impacts during testing
• Long-term effects still must be modeled and reviewed

The forthcoming hydrology report will play a major role in whether a permit is:

• Denied
• Reduced
• Or approved with strict limitations

This science matters — and CTGCD is taking it seriously.

📢 What Supporters Should Be Ready For
Once a groundwater permit application is filed:

• CTGCD will provide at least 30 days’ public notice
• A public hearing will be scheduled
• Community turnout will be critical
  • While we had over 850 attend the TCEQ public meeting, we are expecting well over 1000 in attendance for the CTGCD public meeting.

When that time comes, SaveBurnet.com will:

• Provide clear talking points
• Help coordinate attendance
• Assist residents in submitting effective comments

We will give you plenty of notice — but being prepared now is key.

💪 Why This Fight Is Still Winnable
It’s important to remember:

• Asphalt Inc. has not secured the hardest permits
• Industrial water demand remains a major red flag
• Local, county, and community opposition is:
  • Organized
  • Informed
  • Growing

And if agencies fail to protect the community, legal options remain available.
We are not reacting — we are building a record, step by step.

🤝 How You Can Help Right Now
While we wait for the next formal action:

• Stay subscribed and share updates with neighbors
• Talk with others about groundwater impacts
• Attend local meetings when possible
• Support SaveBurnet.com financially if you are able — donations help fund research, monitoring, and advocacy
  • Please Click Here for link to how to donate page on SaveBurnet.com. Scroll down to "Donate to our cause"

Every action, no matter how small, strengthens this effort.

🌿 Moving Forward — Together
This is a patient fight. A disciplined fight. And one we are prepared to win.
Thank you for staying engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and standing up for Burnet County’s water, land, and future.
We will continue to keep you informed — and we will be ready when the next step comes.

With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 80 - stay warm, stay informed, and stay determined

1/23/26

Dear Friends and Supporters,

❄️ As we head into the weekend, we want to wish everyone a warm and safe few days ahead.
Our area is under a winter storm warning for the next three days, so please take precautions, check on neighbors when possible, and stay safe.
We also want to share an important update addressing three questions that many of you have raised recently. Transparency, accuracy, and persistence remain at the heart of our mission, and we appreciate how engaged and thoughtful this community continues to be.

❓ Question #1: Radium Levels & Quarry Water Use
In Update #75, we reported that the City of Tow, Texas documented radium levels up to 8× above federal limits in wells drawing from the Hickory Aquifer.
Because the proposed rock quarry plans to use large volumes of groundwater for dust suppression, many of you asked:
Does the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) test or monitor radium levels in the wells drilled by Asphalt Inc.?

✅ Answer
We contacted CTGCD directly to clarify this.
• CTGCD does monitor and regulate many aspects of groundwater wells (such as spacing, pumping volumes, and reporting)
• However, CTGCD does not currently test for or monitor radium levels in production wells
• This includes the wells drilled by Asphalt Inc. and those proposed for quarry operations
⚠️ Why this matters:
If radium-contaminated groundwater is used for dust suppression, the water evaporates — but the radioactive material does not.
It can be left behind in dust, sediment, and sludge, potentially spreading beyond the quarry site.

❓ Question #2: How Much Water Is 322 Acre-Feet Per Year?
Many followers asked us to help put Asphalt Inc.’s reported water usage into context.
💧 What does 322 acre-feet per year really mean?

✅ Answer
• 322 acre-feet = over 105 million gallons of water per year
• This is an enormous amount of water for a single industrial operation
• Especially when you consider that the average size APO or Quarry in Texas only employs ~15 people
📊 Important comparison
Based on:
• Using TCEQ Water Usage Reports (WUR) and groundwater estimates, the city of Burnet will use about 312 acre feet of ground water in a year.
➡️ This single proposed rock quarry would pump more groundwater each year than the entire City of Burnet — a city of 7,000+ residents.
This highlights the disproportionate burden such an operation places one of our aquifers.

❓ Question #3: Has a Groundwater Permit Been Filed? Is There a Public Hearing Date?

✅ Answer
Many of you are understandably watching this very closely.
📅 Current status (as of January 22, 2026):
• ❌ No groundwater permit application has been submitted by Asphalt Inc. to CTGCD
• ❌ No public meeting has been scheduled
📢 What happens next?
Once a permit application is submitted:
• CTGCD is required to provide at least 30 days’ advance notice
• Notices will be placed in local newspapers
• SaveBurnet.com will immediately notify the community and provide guidance on how to participate

🌱 In Closing
This effort has never been about just one permit or one company.
It’s about protecting our water, our air, our health, and our Hill Country way of life.
💪 Because of your teamwork, vigilance, and determination:
• Questions are being asked
• Agencies are being contacted
• And accountability is increasing

If you are able, please consider donating to support our ongoing work — legal review, technical analysis, public outreach, and community education all require resources.
CLICK HERE to donate, and then scroll down.
Every voice matters. Every action counts.

​With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 79 - ​MAJOR WIN! Burnet County Commissioners sign resolution Opposing Groundwater Permit until a thorough study is performed

1/16/26

Friends and Followers,

We have incredible news to share! In a massive step forward for our cause, the Burnet County Commissioners Court has unanimously approved a formal resolution opposing the issuance of new groundwater production permits—temporary or permanent—until a "thorough study" is presented to the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD).

This resolution is a direct response to the threat posed by high-volume industrial operations, specifically the proposed Asphalt Inc. rock crushing plant on FM 3509. Our leaders are now formally demanding that any such application prove it poses "no risk" to domestic wells, agricultural operations, public water systems, natural resources, or the long-term sustainability of the Hickory Aquifer.

Why Your Support Matters
This victory belongs to you. Seeing our county leaders stand up for the health, safety, and water security of Burnet County proves that when we speak with one voice, we cannot be ignored. We are profoundly thankful to County Judge Bryan Wilson and Commissioners Jim Luther, Damon Beierle, Chad Collier, and Joe Don Dockery for standing up for what is best for the City and County of Burnet.

What’s Next?
The SaveBurnet.com Team is currently working closely with the Mayor of Burnet, the City Council members, and the City Manager to secure their support for a similar resolution. Uniting both the City and County is critical to stopping this facility and protecting the resources we all share.

View the Resolution
You can read the full text of the signed resolution on our website. It is available under the following tabs:

• Take Action SaveBurnet.com/take-action.html.
• Reference Material / Water Related  SaveBurnet.com/water-related-info.html

How You Can Help
To keep up this momentum and fund our ongoing mission—including legal fees, signage, and community outreach—we need your continued support. If you are able, please donate to our cause. Every contribution helps us stand strong. Details and instructions on how to donate via check, QR code, or our GoFundMe page are available on our website at SaveBurnet.com/take-action.html.

Stay Strong
This is a marathon, not a sprint, but the momentum is firmly on our side. Remain committed. Remain strong. We are fighting for our water, our safety, and our children's future.

With sincere appreciation,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 78 - ​Half of Burnet’s Drinking Water Comes from Inks Lake — Here’s Why That Matters

1/4/25

​Dear Neighbors and Supporters,

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year as we head into 2026.

As we begin the new year, we want to share an important reminder about why this fight matters to every resident of Burnet County—even those who do not live near the proposed rock crusher site.

Why This Impacts the Entire City of Burnet
Approximately 50% of the City of Burnet’s drinking water comes from Inks Lake, delivered through a 13-mile-long, 16-inch water pipeline. This water is drawn from the Devil’s Backbone cove, the same cove as Inks Lake State Park and Devil’s Watering Hole.
This matters because that same cove is fed by Spring Creek.
And Spring Creek, in turn, is directly downstream from the property where Asphalt Inc. proposes to build and operate a rock crushing quarry.

The Risk We Cannot Ignore
If the proposed quarry becomes operational, stormwater runoff, sediment, and industrial contamination from the site could travel downstream via Spring Creek, eventually reaching Devil’s Backbone cove on Inks Lake—the very location where Burnet draws half of its municipal water supply.
This means that even residents who live miles away from the quarry site could be affected. Please Click Here for related Map & Information about the Quarry's effect on Devil's Backbone cove. Scroll down to "General water related information", then select "Understanding where the Rock Quarry's sediment and Contamination will flow".
And the risk doesn’t stop there.
Water from Inks Lake continues downstream through the Highland Lakes chain, ultimately contributing to Austin’s drinking water supply. What enters Inks Lake does not stay isolated—it moves.

Massive Industrial Water Use
As a reminder, Asphalt Inc. is seeking an industrial groundwater pumping permit from CTGCD exceeding 300,000 gallons per day. That amount of water is equivalent to the daily usage of more than 1,200 family households.
In a region already experiencing water stress, this level of industrial extraction puts our aquifers, creeks, lakes, and communities at serious risk.

Stay Informed. Stay Involved.We encourage you to visit SaveBurnet.com for additional details, updates, and supporting documentation. If you are able, please consider donating to support our continued efforts—every contribution helps us protect our water, our parks, and our future.
Thank you for standing with us, for staying engaged, and for caring deeply about our community. We enter 2026 with gratitude, determination, and hope—knowing that together, our voices make a difference.

With sincere appreciation,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 77 - Our groundwater is not unlimited - and it is worth protecting

12/19/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,
As we head into the holiday season, we want to pause and talk about one of the most critical issues facing Burnet County today: our groundwater.

Groundwater Is the Lifeline of Burnet County 
Unlike large cities, Burnet County does not rely on a centralized water system. Most residents, ranchers, small businesses, youth camps, and rural communities depend almost entirely on private groundwater wells drawn from the Hickory, Ellenburger, and related aquifers.
These aquifers:

• Recharge slowly
• Are highly sensitive to over-pumping
• Are already under stress from drought, growth, and climate variability

Groundwater is not just another resource — it is our only reliable source of water.

Water Tables Are Dropping — and the Community Is Feeling It
Across Burnet County, we are already seeing the effects of declining groundwater levels:

• Wells taking longer to recover
• Pumps running harder and failing prematurely
• Water quality changes as deeper zones are tapped
• Increased costs for repairs, deepening wells, or drilling new ones

These are not theoretical concerns. They are happening now, to our neighbors.

Why an INDUSTRIAL Groundwater Permit Is a Serious Threat
The proposed rock quarry off FM 3509 is not asking for household or agricultural use — it is seeking industrial-scale groundwater pumping to support rock crushing operations, including dust suppression.
Industrial pumping:

• Removes millions of gallons of water per month
• Does not replenish at the same rate it is extracted
• Lowers the water table for surrounding wells
• Shifts the burden and cost to nearby homeowners and ranchers

Once groundwater is depleted or destabilized, it cannot be easily or quickly restored.
Allowing an industrial groundwater permit in an area already under water stress risks:

• Drying out neighboring residential wells
• Forcing families to drill deeper or abandon wells
• Reducing water availability for ranching and livestock
• Creating long-term economic and environmental hardship

This is not responsible water stewardship — especially when residents are already being asked to conserve.

Why We Are Standing Firm
Burnet County’s groundwater should serve:

• The people who live here
• The land that sustains us
• Our youth camps, parks, and rural communities

It should not be sacrificed for short-term industrial gain.
That is why SaveBurnet.com continues to oppose granting an industrial groundwater permit for this rock quarry. Protecting groundwater protects everyone — today and for generations to come.

Looking Ahead — and Staying United
We know this fight takes time. We know it can feel exhausting. But real change happens because people refuse to give up.
As we celebrate Christmas with our families and neighbors, let us remember what we are fighting for:

• Clean water
• Strong communities
• A future where Burnet County remains a place worth calling home

Please continue to:

• Stay informed
• Stay engaged
• Support SaveBurnet.com if you are able to donate
• Encourage friends and family to sign up for updates

From all of us at SaveBurnet.com — Merry Christmas.Thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your belief that protecting our water is worth the fight.
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 76 - common apo violations & How you can help protect burnet county

12/5/2025:

​Dear Neighbors and Supporters,
As we continue monitoring the proposed FM 3509 rock quarry and the growing number of Aggregate Production Operation (APO) sites across Burnet County, our team has been gathering detailed information on the most frequent violations committed by APOs right here in our region.

After 16 months, Asphalt Inc. still does not have all the permits required to construct and operate a rock quarry on Hoover Valley Road in Burnet, Texas. Even though this quarry isn’t yet operational, our County already has numerous active APOs—so it’s important for everyone to understand what kinds of violations commonly occur and how they impact our community.
Burnet County’s terrain, aquifers, and lake systems make us especially vulnerable when APOs cut corners—and unfortunately, many do. Below is a list of the most common violations, followed by clear steps you can take to report problems and protect our land, water, and air.

I. The Most Common APO Violations in Burnet County
1. Sediment Runoff Into Creeks and Lakes
Uncontrolled erosion and stormwater runoff routinely wash sediment into:
Hamilton Creek · Spring Creek ·  Peters Creek · Shaw Creek · Morgan Creek · Oatmeal Creek · Reese Creek
These creeks feed directly into Lake LBJ, Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, and the Colorado River, making this one of the most common and damaging violations.
2. Operating Without a Stormwater Permit
Some APOs begin clearing land or operating before obtaining the required TCEQ Construction General Permit or Multi-Sector General Permit.
3. Failure to Install Adequate Erosion Controls
Frequent problems include:

• Missing or broken silt fencing
• Overflowing sediment ponds
• Unstabilized slopes
• Stormwater bypassing containment areas entirely

4. Improper Dewatering of Pits
Many operators illegally pump turbid, muddy water into roadside ditches or natural drainages—especially after large storms.
5. Dust Leaving Quarry Boundaries
Airborne dust affects:

• Hoover Valley
• Inks Lake State Park
• Camp Longhorn
• Homes along FM 2341, FM 3509, and FM 963

This includes PM10/PM2.5 crystalline silica, known to cause respiratory illness.
6. Running Crushers Without Dust Suppression
Violations include:

• Broken or missing spray systems
• No water trucks on-site
• Running dry during drought conditions

7. Groundwater Pumping Violations (CTGCD)
Frequent issues reported to the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) include:

• Pumping without authorization
• Exceeding permitted volumes
• Failing to submit well logs or reports
• Fuel or chemical leaks near recharge zones

8. Unsafe Blasting Practices
Residents often report:

• House-shaking vibrations
• Blasts outside permitted hours
• No advance notice
• Flyrock leaving site boundaries

9. Unsafe Truck Traffic
Hazards include:

• Trucks entering FM 281, FM 2341, or FM 3509 without flaggers
• Mud and rock tracked onto public roads
• Overloaded trucks damaging pavement

10. Administrative & Reporting Violations
Common problems:

• Failing to register as an APO
• Missing permit documents
• Misreporting distances, acreage, or water usage

II. How Citizens Can Help — Your Actions Matter
Burnet County has far more APOs than TCEQ has inspectors. Most enforcement actions begin because residents speak up.
Here’s how you can make an impact:

1. Document What You See
   • Take photos or videos (from public roads or your own property).
   • Record date, time, weather, direction of dust or water flow, and duration.
   • Multiple witness reports strengthen your case.
2. File Complaints With TCEQ
   • Use the TCEQ Online Complaint Form or call 1-888-777-3186.
   • Named complaints receive faster response (anonymous submissions are also allowed).
3. Report Well or Groundwater Issues to CTGCD
   • Visit ctgcd.org or call 512-756-4900.
   • Report sudden well level drops, pump strain, or water discoloration.
4. Report Road Hazards or Unsafe Truck Traffic
   • Contact the Burnet County Road & Bridge Department or the Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency line).
5. Report Blasting Concerns
   • For off-hour blasts or excessive vibrations, call the Burnet County Sheriff’s Office and record details.
6. Share Information With SaveBurnet.com
   • Your photos and documentation help us submit verified reports, build enforcement cases, and keep the public informed.
7. Attend County and CTGCD Meetings
   • Your presence matters—officials act when they see the community engaged.

III. Together, We Make a Difference
Burnet County is one of the most environmentally sensitive areas in Central Texas. Our lakes, creeks, and aquifers depend on us staying vigilant.
Your reports, your voice, and your ongoing support ensure that officials remain accountable and that our Hill Country remains protected for generations to come.
Thank you for your continued dedication to this cause — we are making progress because of you.
​
With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 75 - radiological risks in the hickory aquifer & highland lakes

11/21/2025:

Protecting Burnet County: Understanding the Radiological Risks of Using Hickory Aquifer Water at the Proposed FM 3509 Rock Crushing Plant

Burnet County residents rely heavily on groundwater from the Hickory Aquifer and surface water from the Highland Lakes as our primary sources of drinking water. These water bodies are connected parts of a regional hydrologic system that supports more than one million Central Texans. Because of this, any industrial activity that interacts with groundwater or creates runoff toward the Highland Lakes needs to be examined with exceptional care.

The proposed rock-crushing plant on FM 3509 would withdraw large volumes of water from the Hickory Aquifer for dust suppression and rock washing. Scientific, regulatory, and historical records show that this aquifer contains naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) — including radium-226, radium-228, gross alpha emitters, and radon — at levels that in many locations exceed federal drinking-water standards. This is not theoretical: multiple systems in Burnet, Llano, and San Saba Counties have documented exceedances.

1. What the Data Already Tells Us: The Hickory Aquifer Has Radiological Hotspots
Local and regional agencies have been aware of these issues for years:

• LCRA has operated a specialized radium-removal treatment system for the Tow Village Water System because the raw Hickory Aquifer water contained radium levels 8× above federal limits and gross alpha near 140 pCi/L.
• Region K Water Planning Group (supported by LCRA) published a section titled “Radionuclides in the Hickory and Marble Falls Aquifers,” identifying multiple water systems — including some in Burnet County — with radium and gross alpha levels above the EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).
• CTGCD documents that the Hickory aquifer locally contains alpha and radium concentrations above standards, and flow within the aquifer is “restricted by block faulting,” meaning water movement is complex and can shift with pumping demands, seismic activity or explosions.

These findings make one thing clear: the Hickory Aquifer is not uniformly safe, and its chemistry can vary dramatically by depth, location, or pumping conditions.

2. Can Contaminated Water from the Tow/Lake Buchanan Area Migrate Toward FM 3509?
Even if wells near the proposed quarry test “clean” today, that does not guarantee long-term safety.
The Hickory Aquifer is part of a regional sandstone system encircling the Llano Uplift. Water can and does move long distances underground —  and its pathways can change when new, high-volume wells begin pumping. Because block faulting creates partially isolated compartments, a new pumping center can begin to pull water from deeper zones or from adjacent blocks that previously contributed little flow.
In simple terms:

• “Clean today” does not mean “clean tomorrow.”
• Pumping for the FM 3509 quarry could gradually pull in water with a different, more radiologically elevated signature, similar to the Tow/Lake Buchanan area.

This risk alone justifies a detail geological study prior to the CTGCD permit being issued. SaveBurnet.com would also request time to have it's own independent 3rd party engineering firm confirm the findings before the CTGCD permit gets approved. If the Rock Quarry is allowed to build and operate, then CTGCD shall demand a baseline testing AND ongoing annual radiological monitoring for any production wells feeding the quarry.

3. Safety Concerns at the Plant: NORM Concentration in Dust, Sludge & Aerosols
Using raw Hickory water at a rock-crushing facility creates additional risks beyond drinking exposure.
When radium-bearing water is sprayed into the open air, washed across rock, or allowed to evaporate in settling ponds, the water disappears but the radioactive minerals remain. Over time, they concentrate in:

• wash-plant sediment
• settling-pond sludge
• haul-road dust
• fine particulate matter (PM10 / PM2.5)
• rock coatings and tailings

EPA research shows that radium strongly binds to fine sediments, creating TENORM (Technically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) — the same issue that drinking-water plants face when filtering radionuclide-rich groundwater.
These particles can be:

• Inhaled by workers,
• Blown onto neighboring properties, or
• Washed into waterways during storms. Please reference the presentation provided to LCRA warning of a potential flood at the proposed Rock Quarry site which would wash all sludge from the Rock Quarry location into the highland Lakes water supply. this information was provided to LCRA 1 month prior to the July 3rd devastating floods. Also reference updated presentation on the SaveBurnet.com website that shows pictures of the floods at the proposed rock quarry site. Both presentations ( "Irresponsible & Incompetent that LCRA & TCEQ issued permits to Asphalt Inc."  &  "Water concerns related to the proposed Rock Crushing plant on FM 3509") can be found by Clicking Here, then scroll down to LCRA related information.

The information above is not hypothetical — it is a predictable chemical behavior of radium and uranium in sediment systems.

4. Downstream Risk: Sludge and Contaminated Sediment Entering the Highland Lakes
The FM 3509 site drains toward waters that eventually feed the Highland Lakes, including Inks Lake, and Lake LBJ. These lakes are:

• Texas’ primary drinking-water reservoirs
• Used by over 1–1.4 million residents
• Managed and protected by LCRA’s Highland Lakes Watershed Ordinance

If radionuclide-bearing quarry sludge or fine sediments enter these waters, even intermittently, several long-term risks emerge:
A. Sediment ContaminationRadium adheres to fine particles and settles at the bottom of lakes, creating “hot spots” in coves and shallow areas. Over time, this can impact lake ecology and accumulate in biologically active zones.
B. Increased TENORM burden at water-treatment plantsEven if lake water looks clean and dilute, radium can concentrate inside municipal treatment facilities, increasing operational costs and sludge-disposal challenges.
C. Risk to recreation and shoreline usersFamilies swim in shallow, silt-rich coves — exactly where contaminated sediment settles.

Preventing these exposures requires:

• Lined, engineered ponds
• Zero-discharge designs
• Radionuclide testing of sludge
• Stormwater controls
• Routine radiological monitoring of downstream water bodies

5. What Burnet County Should Require Before Any Quarry is Approved
Based on the scientific and regulatory record, the following steps are justified:

1. Full radiological testing of all on-site wells
2. Annual radiological monitoring (gross alpha, Ra-226/228, uranium, radon)
3. Engineered, lined settling ponds with storm-event capacity equal to that of the recent July 3rd 2025 flood.
4. No discharge of wash water or sludge toward Highland Lakes
5. TENORM screening of all sludge, fines, and sediment
6. Third-party hydrogeologic review of pumping impacts
7. Coordination with LCRA, given its long history of managing radium in Hickory water

Burnet County deserves full protection and transparency when our drinking water and environment are at stake — not assumptions, not promises, and not bare-minimum regulatory filings.
A copy of this presentation ("Understanding the Radiological Risks of Using Hickory Aquifer Water at the Proposed FM 3509 Rock Crushing Plant") can be found by Clicking Here, then scrolling down to CTGCD related information.

Together, We Make a DifferenceYour continued support keeps this movement strong. By staying informed and engaged, we ensure that decision-makers understand how much our community values its water, its land, and its parks.
Thank you for standing with us. Together, we will protect the Texas Hill Country we love.

​With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 74 - new presentations: groundwater & Recycled water impact

11/14/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,
We’re excited to announce that two new presentations have just been added to our website. These updates provide critical information about our ongoing efforts to protect Burnet County’s groundwater and expose misleading claims surrounding “recycled water” used by rock crushing operations.
📘 View both new presentations here: 👉 www.SaveBurnet.com

1. Update on Groundwater, Wells & Monitoring (November 2025)
2. Recycled Water – What Does It Really Mean? (November 7, 2025)

(Available under the “Reference Material" tab, then select "Water Related Info" and scroll down to "General Water Related information".)

💧 1. Update on Groundwater, Wells & Monitoring (November 2025)
This new report summarizes the latest well testing and monitoring data gathered near FM 3509 and posted by the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD).
Key points include:

• Drawdown testing completed: Asphalt Inc. (Burnet Ranch Investments) conducted 24-hour tests on two of its newly drilled wells, each roughly 650 feet deep and likely drawing from the Hickory Aquifer.
• Measured declines: CTGCD monitored seven surrounding wells and recorded noticeable water-level drops during Asphalt Inc.’s testing period. These early results are concerning and will require detailed modeling to determine long-term impacts on local residents and ranchers.
• Next steps: Westward Engineering, working for Asphalt Inc., is finalizing a Hydrology Report that CTGCD will have independently reviewed by a third-party firm—to assess the true impact of large-scale or industrial pumping.
• Public hearing to come: Before any groundwater permit is approved, CTGCD will hold a public meeting  with 10–30 days’ notice. This will be the community’s opportunity to voice concerns, and we’ll need every SaveBurnet.com supporter present.

This presentation illustrates the potential scale of water use--up to 9.7 million gallons per month—for dust abatement alone. It is estimated that 1/2 of this will need to come from the local aquifer.

🔄 2. Recycled Water – What Does It Really Mean? (November 7, 2025)
The second presentation clarifies how rock crushing operators often claim to use “recycled” or “reclaimed” water—but in reality, most of this water originates from local groundwater wells.
Key takeaways:

• Recycled ≠ Sustainable: While some water may be reused for dust suppression, the majority is still drawn from the aquifer, and significant portions are lost to evaporation, overspray, and absorption into the rock base.
• Water loss estimates: Studies suggest that between 40–60% of water used for dust control at rock crushers is permanently lost—not recycled.
• Hot, dry climate factor: In Central Texas, with high heat and low humidity, evaporation rates are among the highest in the country, making “recycling” even less effective.
• Real-world impact: Industrial-scale operations could deplete groundwater resources critical to local ranches, residences, and ecosystems, especially during drought conditions.

This presentation was created to give residents clear, factual talking points when discussing “recycled water” claims with officials or agencies.

📊 Next Steps & What to Expect
Both presentations are preliminary updates. Once the Hydrology Report is complete and verified, SaveBurnet.com will post the findings online and distribute them to all followers. This report will be essential in understanding how Asphalt Inc.’s groundwater use could affect neighboring wells and the overall aquifer health.

💪 Together, We Make a Difference
Your continued support keeps this movement strong. By staying informed and engaged, we ensure that decision-makers understand how much our community values its water, its land, and its parks.
Thank you for standing with us. Together, we will protect the Texas Hill Country we love.

​With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 73 - "recycled water" at rock quarries - what it really means for our wells

11/7/2025:

​Initial Monitoring Results: A Clear Warning

The initial well data from the monitoring network off of FM 3509 "Hoover Valley Road" show a strong correlation between the water pumped from the Asphalt Inc. Test wells and the declining water levels in nearby residential wells. This confirms what many of us feared — that large-scale groundwater withdrawals for industrial use will adversely impact surrounding homeowners and will continue to have a long-term effect on the Burnet County aquifer if left unchecked.

What the APOs Are Saying
Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) and rock-crushing facilities often claim that they will use “mostly recycled” or “reclaimed” water for dust abatement. While that sounds responsible, the truth is far more complicated — and far less sustainable — especially in our hot, dry, windy Texas Hill Country environment.

What Really Happens to That Water
APOs spray large amounts of water on roads, crushers, conveyors and stockpiles to keep dust down. Some of this water is collected in ponds and reused, but a large share is permanently lost through evaporation, drift, leakage, and infiltration.
Here’s a breakdown based on environmental and engineering data:

Source of Water Loss - Typical Loss % - Explanation

1. Evaporation - 20–40% - Fine mist evaporates instantly in 90–100°F air and low humidity.
2. Overspray & Drift - 10–20% - Wind carries water away from target areas.
3. Infiltration / Leakage - 10–30% - Water seeps into unlined roads, pits, or leaks from ponds and pipes.
4. Carried Offsite - 2–5% - Water leaves with crushed rock, truck tires, and equipment.

Even under best-case engineered conditions (world class systems with lined ponds and closed-loop systems), at least 20–30% of the water is lost for good.

But most APOs in Burnet County operate open-air, unlined systems, where 40–70% of their water use is effectively consumed — gone from the aquifer forever.

The Real Numbers Behind “Recycling”
Let’s put this in perspective:

• The Air Quality permit granted to Asphalt Inc. by TCEQ lists water usage for dust abatement at 21,600 - 324,000 gallons per day.

• An APO pumping 300,000 gallons of water per day for dust control may claim it’s “recycling” the water — but in reality:
• At 50% loss, that’s 150,000 gallons/day gone.
• Over a month, that’s 4.5 million gallons permanently removed from the aquifer.
• That’s equivalent to the monthly water use of about 600 Burnet County households.

Why It Matters
These “recycling” claims can sound environmentally friendly, but they mask the true groundwater impact. Every gallon lost to evaporation or infiltration comes directly from the same aquifers that supply our homes and wells.

The Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) manages local well permits, but current permits often don’t account for total water loss — only for the amount pumped. That gap makes it critical for residents to stay informed and involved.

What You Can Do
✅ Ask CTGCD and TCEQ to require complete water-balance reporting in APO permit applications. More information will be provided in future SaveBurnet.com updates.
✅ Support and expand well monitoring programs to document water level changes.
✅ Share this update with neighbors and encourage them to subscribe at SaveBurnet.com.
✅ Stay engaged — data and persistence are our strongest tools to protect our wells and the Texas Hill Country we love.

Together, we can ensure that Burnet County’s groundwater remains clean, available, and protected for generations to come.
– The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 72 - CTGCD response & next steps in the fight to protect our water

10/24/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

Thank you to everyone who took the time to write to the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD). Your messages are making a real difference — the board is aware that our community is paying close attention.

Many of you have received a response similar to one of the following:
“Thank you for your email. Your comments have been received and will be retained for the record. A permit application has not yet been submitted. Once a permit application is administratively complete, a permit hearing will be scheduled and posted, at which time public comments will be accepted.”
“Hi, thanks for your note. As of this morning (10/15/25), we have yet to receive an application at the District office. I can assure you that the Groundwater District will follow the law and follow the science in the evaluation of a permit when or if we receive it.”

You’ll notice that both responses confirm that Burnet Ranch Investments (aka Asphalt Inc.) has not yet submitted a groundwater permit — this is true. But activity is happening behind the scenes, and your continued involvement will be critical as the process moves forward.

Where Things Stand Now
By reviewing well data on the CTGCD Well Map (Click Here to View), you will see the outline of Burnet County, zoom in on FM 3509 just south of Williams Road to see the three light blue dots representing the Asphalt Inc. wells. Here’s what we know so far:

1. Well #1 — 24-hour drawdown test began on October 1st. Estimated output: ~100 GPM.
   (Note:, Looking at the Well map data, the large dips on Sept. 11–13 reflect pump removal, not test results.)
2. Well #2 — Drilled with a 2" casing; this is a monitoring well only, not suitable for production.
3. Well #3 — 24-hour drawdown test began on September 29th. Estimated output: ~50 GPM.
   (Note: Looking at the Well Map data, the Large dips on Sept. 11–15 reflect pump removal, not test results.)
4. CTGCD is monitoring seven surrounding wells and collecting data from Asphalt Inc.’s monitoring well (#2).
   Early data shows negative impacts on nearby well levels during Asphalt Inc.’s 24-hour drawdown test — a serious concern for area residents and ranchers. Long-term effects must still be modeled.
5. Westward Engineering (hired by Asphalt Inc.) is preparing the Hydrology Report, expected in the coming weeks.
6. Once submitted, CTGCD will review and correspond with Westward — a process that may take several more weeks.
7. Asphalt Inc. is expected to request an “Over 50 GPM or Industrial” groundwater permit for the two production wells combined (well #1 & well #3).
8. Before any decision is made, CTGCD will hold a public meeting.
   👉 This will be our community’s opportunity to speak out — we will need ALL 3,000+ SaveBurnet.com followers to attend and voice concerns.
9. After the public hearing, the CTGCD Board will deliberate. There are only three possible outcomes:
   • Permit Rejected ✅
   • Permit Approved as Submitted ❌
   • Permit Approved with Reduced Pumping Limits ⚠️
     Let’s hope for the first outcome — a full rejection of the permit.

Additional Updates

1. Lake Buchanan Community Alliance (LBCA) Meeting
LBCA has been a tremendous supporter of SaveBurnet.com and continues to lead in water resource advocacy. Please join us and show your support at their upcoming meeting — wear your green SaveBurnet T-shirt!
📅 Monday, October 27th @ 6:30 PM
📍 Herman Brown Free Library
100 E. Washington St., Burnet, TX 78611
(Enter through the Main Street side entrance)
Featured Speaker: Reno Lamb — an expert in groundwater conservation and rainwater harvesting. Even though our lakes are currently full, Reno will share how vital it is that we continue to be responsible stewards of our groundwater resources.

2. Groundwater and Recycling Awareness
Today’s Highlander newspaper featured a full-page flyer on the Burnet County Recycling Program, emphasizing how critical groundwater is to Texans.  Click Here and scroll down for a copy of the flyer.
It raises an important question:
If our groundwater is so precious, why are state officials allowing an industrial rock crusher to use millions of gallons per month—while CTGCD asks residents to conserve?
This is a question worth asking at the next CTGCD meeting.
For your reference, the CTGCD Board of Directors are:

• Paul King – Director
• Kathy Griffis-Bailey – Secretary/Treasurer
• Ryan Rowney – President
• Ceferino “Reno” Lamb – Director, Precinct 3
• Ricky Bindseil – Vice President

Stay Strong and Stay Engaged
Your voices, letters, and presence continue to make an impact. Each message you send and each meeting you attend reminds decision-makers that the community of Burnet County will not stay silent while our natural resources and state parks are threatened.
​
Together, we will keep pushing forward — protecting our water, our parks, and our Hill Country way of life.
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 71 - our new billboard and the fight for burnet's water

10/17/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We’re excited to share some great news — our new billboard is up and shining bright!

You can see it on Highway 29, just as you leave Bertram heading toward Liberty Hill and Austin.
The fully lighted billboard proudly reminds everyone that we are still fighting to stop the proposed rock crusher on Hoover Valley Road (FM 3509) in Burnet County.

This is a major milestone for our campaign — a visible sign of our united effort to protect the Hill Country, our state parks, and our water supply.

The Current Situation
Burnet Ranch Investments (also known as Asphalt Inc.) has already drilled three deep wells, roughly 650 feet into the Hickory Aquifer, right off FM 3509. The proposed rock crushing facility could require millions of gallons of water every month just to control dust.
Our residents, ranchers, and local businesses all depend on this same water source.
With Burnet County still under watering restrictions and little rain for nearly two months, we simply cannot afford to let a commercial rock crusher drain our precious aquifers.

How You Can Help
We need your voice!
Please take a few minutes to send a short, polite email to the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) expressing your concern about groundwater use for the proposed rock crushing facility.
CTGCD’s mission is simple but vital:
“To manage and protect Burnet County’s groundwater through responsible conservation, monitoring, and regulation—ensuring a sustainable, high-quality water supply for current and future generations.”
Your message can be brief — just tell them you oppose granting permits that would allow a rock crushing facility to use millions of gallons of groundwater while residents are being asked to conserve.

Where to Send Your Message
Please email all five CTGCD Board Members and CC the General Manager, Mitchell Sodek.
Board Emails:

• [email protected]
• [email protected]
• [email protected]
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

CC:

• Mitchell Sodek, General Manager – [email protected]

Mitchell and his team work out of the CTGCD office on the square in downtown Burnet and have been very helpful in listening to community concerns. If you have questions, feel free to stop by or call their office.

Together, We Make a Difference
Your support is invaluable. Every letter, every message, every donation makes a real impact.
Please visit SaveBurnet.com for more details, updates, supporting information for writing your letters and donation options.
Stay strong, stay united, and keep fighting to protect our Hill Country.
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.
​
With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 70 - protect our water: speak up to ctgcd

10/10/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

The fight to protect our community, our water, and our Hill Country heritage continues. We want to share an important update and ask for your help once again.

Groundwater Testing Update

Burnet Ranch Investments (also known as Asphalt Inc., LLC) has recently completed drawdown testing on two of its newly drilled wells. Each well is approximately 650 feet deep and most likely taps into the Hickory Aquifer—a critical groundwater source for Burnet County residents, ranchers, and local businesses.

The drawdown test typically runs 24–48 hours continuously to measure how much water a well can produce (in gallons per minute, or GPM) and how this affects surrounding wells. The results of this testing will be included in the hydrology report that helps determine the potential long-term impact on our aquifers.

We are encouraged that the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) has been diligent and engaged throughout this process. The district has placed five monitoring wells around the test sites to track changes in groundwater levels. These wells are located adjacent to, or in close proximity to, the proposed rock crusher site on Hoover Valley Road.
CTGCD will review all of this data and decide whether Burnet Ranch Investments’ water permit should be approved, amended, or denied.

About CTGCD and Its Authority

The CTGCD Board oversees all of Burnet County’s groundwater management. Their responsibilities and powers include:

• Adopting and enforcing rules under Chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code.
• Issuing, denying, or amending well permits and regulating groundwater production.
• Requiring well registration and water use reporting.
• Managing groundwater monitoring and conservation programs.
• Holding public hearings and voting on permit applications.

(You can learn more at www.central texas gcd.org)

Why Your Voice Matters

Now is the time for every Burnet County resident to speak up.

We ask that you write or email the CTGCD Board to express your concern about granting a groundwater permit to Burnet Ranch Investments (Asphalt Inc.).
Your message can be simple but powerful:

• Thank the board members for their service.
• Express your concern for the Hickory Aquifer and your local water supply.
• Remind them that the proposed rock crushing facility could use up to millions of gallons of groundwater per month—a burden our community cannot sustain.
• Ask why CTGCD continues to post “Water Conservation Required” signs for residents while considering a permit that would allow industrial-scale pumping.
• Request that they deny the groundwater permit for Burnet Ranch Investments (Asphalt Inc., LLC).

Please include your name, address, and contact information in your letter or email so the board recognizes you as a concerned local resident.
👉 Click Here for the List of CTGCD Board Members and Contact Information
(Available on the https://www.saveburnet.com/take-action.html website under the Take Action section.)

Stay United and Stay Engaged

We are not done yet. Once the hydrology report is released, SaveBurnet.com will share a detailed analysis and next steps.
Until then, please:
✅ Write to CTGCD.
✅ Encourage friends, neighbors, and family to get involved.
✅ Visit SaveBurnet.com to sign up for updates and donate to keep this fight going.

Together, we are making a difference. Thank you for your continued dedication and for standing strong for the future of Burnet County.
​
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 69 - letters + Well testing - our fight continues

9/26/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

Thank you for continuing to stand strong with us in this long fight. Every effort you make adds strength to our cause, and your voices are making a difference.
​
Why Writing to Governor Abbott Matters

In Update #68, we asked you to send letters to Governor Greg Abbott through his official website portal. Many of you have already written, and some of you have received responses referring you back to TCEQ, LCRA, or your State Representative.
This is normal and expected. Do not let these replies discourage you. The key is persistence: the more letters Governor Abbott’s office receives, the more he and his advisors will recognize the depth of community concern. This is how we keep the pressure on and ensure our voices are heard at the very top level.

👉 Governor’s Contact Page: Click Here to Access

• Fill in all required fields (marked with an *).
• Keep your letter under 500 words.
• Focus on one clear topic per letter.
• Be polite, firm, and specific about what action you want the Governor to take.

Groundwater Well Testing – Round Two

Meanwhile, Asphalt Inc. (also known as Burnet Ranch Investments) will be attempting their second round of groundwater well testing on September 29th. These tests are designed to determine:

• How many gallons per minute (GPM) the test wells can produce.
• What impacts this pumping may have on surrounding residents, ranchers, and the local water table.

The LCRA will be monitoring this testing and reviewing the hydrology report that follows. Once the report is released, we will carefully review the findings and provide a full update so our community understands the potential impacts.

Stay Strong, Stay United

This is a long fight, and it will take persistence. Together, we have already built an incredible movement and made our voices heard in powerful ways. Please continue to support SaveBurnet.com — with your letters, your donations, and your steady resolve.
We are not backing down. With your support, we will protect our state parks, our water, and our community.
​
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 68 - please write to governor abbott

9/12/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

Thank you for continuing to stand strong with us. Our fight to protect Inks Lake State Park, Longhorn Caverns State Park, and Camp Longhorn youth camp from the proposed rock crushing facility is far from over. The next step in our campaign is critical: we need Governor Abbott to hear directly from YOU.

Governor Abbott has the authority to stop or delay this rock crushing quarry until he knows it is safe for the adjacent youth camp and our precious state parks. Writing to him now ensures he understands the risks this facility poses to our state parks, our community, and our children. The more letters he receives, the clearer it becomes that Texans will not allow this facility to harm our natural treasures and youth camp.

How to Submit Your Letter
​
Please use Governor Abbott’s official website portal to send your message:
👉 Click Here to Access the Governor’s Contact Page

Instructions:

• Fill in all required fields (*marked with an asterisk).
• Select the topic that best matches your concern.
• Keep your letter under 500 words.
• Focus on one key topic per letter. If you can, send a different topic each week.

What to Include in Your Letter

• Thank Governor Abbott for his leadership and commitment to keeping Texas strong.
• Politely but firmly request his personal help in this urgent matter.
• Note if you have written before and only received a referral to other agencies — which did not resolve your concerns.
• Clearly state what action you want him to take.

Examples of Requests:

• Require additional environmental studies before Asphalt Inc. can receive new permits.
• Investigate TCEQ’s decision to deny three Motions to Overturn, despite its own Office of Public Interest Counsel recommending approval.
• Block blasting activity so close to Camp Longhorn youth camp.
• Ensure TCEQ works directly with TPWD’s Environmental Review Team and releases their findings.
• Support new legislation to protect state parks and youth camps from industrial encroachment.

Sample Topics for Your Letters

1. Lack of Air Monitoring in Burnet County

• No baseline air quality data was collected before TCEQ issued the permit.
• There are already 18+ APO/Rock Crushing sites in Burnet County, yet the nearest monitor is 40 miles away.
• Without proper monitoring, TCEQ cannot fulfill its mission to protect public health and natural resources.

2. Mishandled TCEQ Public Meeting (Dec. 2024)

• Over 5,000 written objections and 850 attendees — yet TCEQ cut speaking time without notice and left many questions unanswered.
• Asphalt Inc. refused to address water use and blasting concerns.
• This was the largest public response TCEQ has ever received, yet community voices were disregarded.

3. Inadequate TCEQ Responses to Public Concerns

• Thousands of objections were reduced to 17 vague “answers.”
• Most responses fell into four dismissive categories: Not Our Authority, Cost Prohibitive, Report It Yourself, or Trust the Process.
• Governor Abbott should require TCEQ to rescind this permit until real answers are provided.

4. Threat to Camp Longhorn Youth Camp

• Camp Longhorn has served 2,000 children every summer for 50+ years.
• Blasting could spook horses and endanger the lives of youth campers.
• Open-air cabins will expose children to harmful dust.
• Allowing a rock crusher next to a youth camp is far more dangerous than one located near a school.
• Urge Governor Abbott to prohibit blasting so close to a youth camp.

Why Your Letter Matters
Governor Abbott has the power to influence this fight. Your letters show him that Texans care deeply about protecting their natural heritage, their children, and their water resources. Together, our voices can ensure he and his advisors understand the urgency of stopping this project.

Call to Action
Please write your letter this week and encourage friends and family to join you. Every message counts.
Together, we will protect the Hill Country.
One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 67 - thank you for your letters - tpwd & Governor abbott are listening

8/29/2025:

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Thank you to everyone who submitted letters to Governor Abbott’s office and to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Commissioners. Because of your efforts, both TPWD and the Governor’s office have formally responded. Many of you should have already received reply letters. For those who haven’t, we’ve attached sample copies here and posted them on the SaveBurnet.com website.

The reason we continue writing to Governor Abbott is simple: he must be aware of the imposing danger this proposed Rock Crushing facility poses to our two state treasures--Inks Lake State Park and Longhorn Caverns State Park—as well as to Camp Longhorn youth camp, which would literally share a fence line with the Rock Crushing facility.

Governor Abbott personally appointed all the TPWD Commissioners. If the Governor requires additional information, it is likely that he will turn to these commissioners for guidance. That is why it was so important for our community’s concerns to be documented and voiced—and thanks to you, we accomplished that.

On August 20th, hundreds of letters were received and dozens of speakers—including many of our SaveBurnet.com supporters—presented their testimony directly to TPWD. This was an important milestone in our process, and one we could not have achieved without your help.

Right now, our state officials are focused on implementing new laws that address the devastating natural disasters Texas has faced this year. Once those urgent matters stabilize, we will begin the next phase: a renewed letter campaign and trips to the Capitol to ensure our voices continue to be heard where decisions are made.

Until then, please stay strong, remain engaged, and keep supporting SaveBurnet.com. We have not given up—and neither should you. Together, we will protect our parks, our water, and our community.

With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 66 - recognizing lbca & Wayne Shipley's powerful voice against the rock crusher

8/24/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

In our last update, we shared the success of the TPWD meeting on August 20th and gave thanks to those who spoke on behalf of our community. However, I unintentionally left out one very important voice.

🎤 Wayne Shipley’s Compelling RemarksAt 6:09 on the YouTube video scroll bar, you can hear a strong and compelling statement from Wayne Shipley, President of the Lake Buchanan Community Alliance (LBCA). For those of you who may not know Wayne or LBCA: Click Here for YouTube video of the TPWD meeting.

• LBCA is a well-run organization made up of property owners’ associations, small businesses, civic groups, and individuals throughout the Highland Lakes area.
• Their combined membership represents the majority of residents around Lake Buchanan, as well as members from Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, and Lake Travis.
• LBCA has been a steadfast partner and a great supporter of SaveBurnet.com, working tirelessly to help stop the proposed rock crushing facility on Hoover Valley Road.

We are grateful for Wayne’s leadership and for the strength of LBCA in standing united with us.

📅 Upcoming LBCA MeetingLBCA meets once a month, and their meetings are open to the public. We encourage our supporters to attend and stay informed.

Next Meeting:
📍 Lakeshore Library
7346 RR 261
Buchanan Dam, Texas 78609
🗓 Monday, August 25th @ 6:30 PM
For more information about LBCA, please visit their website: https://www.lb-ca.org/

💚 Closing
Together, with strong community voices like Wayne’s and organizations like LBCA, we are building the momentum needed to protect our state parks and community. Thank you all for your continued dedication and support.
​
With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 65 - strong showing at the tpwd meeting!

8/22/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

On August 20th, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) held their public meeting, and our community was well represented.

💌 Written Comments
Our supporters mailed in approximately 100 comments to TPWD commissioners, each highlighting the risks the proposed rock crusher poses to Longhorn Caverns State Park and Inks Lake State Park. These thoughtful letters made it clear that Texans care deeply about protecting these natural treasures. Special thanks to all of you who mailed in your comments. 

🎤 In-Person Testimony
SaveBurnet.com also sent a delegation of about 15 members to the meeting. Many distinguished individuals spoke powerfully on behalf of the community, including:

• Dr. Jim Baran
• Doug Golding
• Nan Manning
• Clyde Goodenough
• Larry Black
• Fermin Ortiz

We thank them for their leadership and strong voices in defense of our state parks.

🎥 Watch the Meeting
The full TPWD meeting was recorded and is available online. It was a lengthy session, but you can skip to 5:26, where our SaveBurnet.com team began presenting comments and data.

👉 Click Here to Watch the Recorded TPWD Meeting

🚩 What’s Nex
tIn the coming weeks, we will be asking all of you to continue the email campaign—this time to Governor Abbott and the EPA. These next steps will be critical in making sure our concerns are heard at the highest levels.

Until then, please stay strong and stay engaged. Together, we can stop this rock crushing facility from devastating our state parks and beloved community.
​
With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 64 - keep your letters moving forward!

8/16/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

In our last update (#63), we asked that you email the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commissioners and CC the following state officials:

• Governor Greg Abbott – [email protected]
• Lt. Governor Dan Patrick – [email protected]
• Attorney General Ken Paxton – [email protected]
• Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham – [email protected]
• Representative Ellen Troxclair – [email protected]
• Representative Terry Wilson – [email protected]
• Senator Pete Flores – [email protected]

Unfortunately, we are running into the same issue we faced a few months ago: emails to Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and Attorney General Ken Paxton often bounce back as non-deliverable (75–90% of the time).

If you received a kickback notice, please take one of these alternate steps to ensure your message still reaches them:

• Governor Greg Abbott – Submit your comments via USPS mail or through his official website portal → Click Here.
• Lt. Governor Dan Patrick – Submit by USPS mail or through his official website portal → Click Here.
• Attorney General Ken Paxton – Submit by USPS mail or call the number listed on his official site → Click Here.
• 
  

✅ Action Reminder: If your email bounced, don’t stop there—please use one of these official channels so your voice is still heard!

Together, we are showing our leaders that the proposed rock crushing plant near Inks Lake and Longhorn Caverns is unacceptable. Thank you for taking the time to send your letters and for following through when obstacles like this arise.
Stay strong, stay united, and let’s keep the pressure on.

With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 63 - urgent: your voice needed at tpwd meeting - protect our state parks

8/12/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We are continuing to work closely with our state representatives and senators, as well as making Governor Greg Abbott’s office fully aware of the dangers the proposed Rock Crusher poses to Inks Lake State Park, Longhorn Caverns State Park, and the National Fish Hatchery downstream from potential contaminated runoff.

If Governor Abbott is to make a factual decision, he will rely on input and guidance from his advisors and commissions—including the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). That’s why we need your help now.
The TPWD Commissioners must hear directly from the community about how this rock crushing facility could devastate our state parks. Please take a few minutes to send a physical letter, email, or—if possible—attend the upcoming TPWD meeting in person.

TPWD Meeting Information:

• Dates: August 20–21, 2025
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Rd., Austin, TX 78744
• Public Comment: August 20 at 2:00 PM
• Rules: You will have 3 minutes to present. If submitting materials, bring 15 copies and arrive at least 1 hour before the start time.
• TPWD Rules for Comments: Available on SaveBurnet.com "Take Action Tab"
• 
  

Please send your letters by Friday, August 15 so the commissioners have time to read them.
If emailing, send to: [email protected] — she will distribute your letter to the commissioners.

Key Concerns to Include in Your Letter:

• The proposed facility is less than 3 miles from Longhorn Caverns and Inks Lake State Parks—blasting vibrations threaten cave structures and visitor safety.
• Dust, noise, and light pollution will degrade the visitor experience, hiking trails, and campgrounds.
• Contaminated stormwater runoff could harm aquatic life and ecosystems at the National Fish Hatchery.
• Potential negative impact on tourism and local businesses that rely on the parks’ pristine environment.
• Air quality concerns—TCEQ’s air permit allows significant particulate matter emissions without adequate nearby monitoring stations.
• The site is within a short distance of a children’s summer camp—posing health risks to youth.
• In September 2024, TPWD’s own Director of State Parks submitted a letter opposing this facility.
• After TCEQ approved the air permit, three Motions to Overturn were filed. TCEQ’s own Office of Public Interest Counsel recommended overturning the permit, citing flawed emissions data and inadequate modeling—yet the TCEQ Commission voted against their own legal counsel’s advice.

Email Template / Example You Can Use:
To: [email protected]
CC:

• Governor Greg Abbott – [email protected]
• Lt. Governor Dan Patrick – [email protected]
• Attorney General Ken Paxton – [email protected]
• Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham - [email protected]
• Representative Ellen Troxclair – [email protected]
• Representative Terry Wilson – [email protected]
• Senator Pete Flores – [email protected]

Subject: Urgent: Protect Our State Parks – Oppose Proposed Rock Crusher Near Inks Lake & Longhorn Caverns
Body:
Dear TPWD Commissioners,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Asphalt Inc. rock crushing facility on Hoover Valley Road in Burnet, Texas. This site’s proximity to Longhorn Caverns State Park, Inks Lake State Park, and the National Fish Hatchery poses unacceptable risks to our environment, public health, and local economy.
[In your own words insert 2–3 bullet points from the Key Concerns list above.]
I urge TPWD to stand with our community, protect our state parks, and oppose this facility.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]

Let’s stay strong, stay united, and keep pushing forward. Together, we can protect the beauty and integrity of our Texas Hill Country for generations to come.
Visit SaveBurnet.com website "Take Action Tab" for supporting information & Documents.

Warm thanks,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 62 - well monitoring data & ongoing efforts to stop the rock crusher

8/8/2025:

​Dear Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

We wanted to share important new information regarding the water impact of the proposed Rock Crusher on FM 3509. Please take a few minutes to review the attached PDF, which provides detailed maps, well locations, and monitoring data from the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD).

Key Highlights:

• Two monitored wells are now in place along FM 3509 — one on the San Saba Aquifer (#2568) and one on the Hickory Aquifer (#3737).
• In the past six years, Well #2568’s water level has dropped about 30 feet — with 8 feet of that drop occurring in just the last 12 months.
• The proposed rock crusher facility could require up to 9.7 million gallons of groundwater per month for dust abatement alone.
• Three test/production wells have already been drilled, but even at maximum output they would fall short of the water needs stated in the Air Quality permit. Additional wells would be required.
• CTGCD is installing monitors on additional wells within a 2,500-foot radius of the production wells to produce hydrology reports and assess the project’s impact on local water supply.

As the presentation shows, our groundwater levels remain critically low, and many wells along FM 3509 are already dry or near dry. The July flooding filled the lakes, but it did little to nothing for our groundwater table.

We will share the results of the hydrology reports as soon as they become available.

We are still fighting hard on multiple fronts to stop Asphalt Inc. from operating this facility. Over the next few weeks, we’ll share more about our ongoing initiatives
.
If you can, please donate to help us continue the fight — details are available on the SaveBurnet.com website. If you can’t donate, you can still help by getting friends and family to sign up for our weekly newsletter at SaveBurnet.com.
Stay strong. Stay together. Keep supporting the cause.
​
– The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 61 - volunteer opportunity - help our flood-affected neighbors

7/19/2025:

​Dear SaveBurnet.com supporters,

Our State Representative, Ellen Troxclair, has been an incredible ally in our fight—now she’s asking for our help in a different way: flood relief. Many areas of Burnet are still recovering from recent floods, and Ellen’s organizing a volunteer cleanup this Tuesday, July 22nd. Let’s show our appreciation by stepping up and helping where it’s needed most.

🛠️ How You Can Help
📅 Date: Tuesday, July 22
⏰ Time: Briefing begins at 8 AM, followed by deployment to work areas
👕 Wear: Your green SaveBurnet T-shirt (if you don’t have one, let us know—we’ll get you one)
👟 Bring: Closed-toed shoes and, if possible, supplies (see sign-up link for details)
📍 Sign up here: [Click Here for sign-up sheet]
Last cleanup saw 80 volunteers from across our region—let’s beat that number! Invite your friends, neighbors, church groups—anyone who wants to help.

💬 Message from Rep. Troxclair
Dear Friends,
Thank you. The past few weeks have been exhausting and inspiring. Our lakes are full, but our hearts still ache as we mourn and help those who’ve lost so much.
In the Hill Country, we've come together—in prayer, work, and donations—to support our flooded neighbors. New friendships have formed, reminding us we are all in this together.
Let’s keep it up. The work is ongoing, and compassion doesn’t end when the waters recede.
Volunteer with me this Tuesday, July 22nd, in Burnet. We’ll meet at 8 AM to deploy in teams—removing debris, disinfecting, demo-ing damaged areas, and restoring homes.
Please wear closed-toed shoes and, if you can, bring donated supplies.
Let’s show the Hill Country's resilience and kindness—together.
See my Facebook page for updates and volunteer details.
Rainbow over Kerrville—God's promise shines after the storm.

Why This Matters

• Community-strengthening: This is our chance to give back and support those who supported us.
• Solidarity: Wearing our SaveBurnet green shows unity—not just for our cause, but for the people behind it.
• Team-building: Working together reinforces the bonds that fuel our fight to protect the Hill Country.

✅ What You Can Do Now

1. Sign up via the link above.
2. Spread the word—share the link with friends, family, and groups.
3. Wear green on Tuesday to show we're united in BOTH disaster response and environmental protection.

🌟 In Closing
Ellen Troxclair has stood by SaveBurnet.com—this is our chance to stand by her and our community. Let’s bring the same passion and energy we bring to the rock crusher fight to flood relief. Together, we can lift each other up—one cleanup at a time.
Stay strong, stay compassionate, and see you Tuesday in green.

With gratitude and hope,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 60 - flood risks, permits, and what's ahead

7/14/2025:

Dear SaveBurnet.com Family,

We've just released an important presentation summarizing recent Texas flood events and how agencies like LCRA and TCEQ have still approved permits in flood‑sensitive areas. Here are the key takeaways:

🌊 Highlights from the Presentation

• Record Rainfall & Floodgate Releases
  Central Texas has experienced significant flooding recently, prompting LCRA to open floodgates at Wirtz and Starcke Dams to manage swollen rivers   https://www.dailytrib.com/2025/07/14/buchanan-dam-floodgates-open-for-first-time-since-2019/Flood Gates Open.

• Permits Issued in Flood Zones
  Despite these high-water events, LCRA and TCEQ approved permits—including those for rock quarry operations—within sensitive watershed areas, highlighting gaps in their flood-risk assessments.
• Stormwater Runoff Threats
  Uncontrolled runoff from such operations could carry sediment, diesel, contaminants, and fine particulates into Peters Creek, Spring Creek, Lake LBJ, Inks Lake, and sensitive karst-fed aquifers. Our region’s fragile karst systems are especially vulnerable to rapid contaminant infiltration.

📣 What You Can Do

1. Read the short presentation (attached) for detailed insights on recent floods and permit implications.
2. Stay engaged—we have several initiatives underway to prevent Asphalt Inc. from moving forward:
   • Ongoing actions related to the permits from LCRA, CTGCD, TxDOT, TPWD, and other State Agencies.
   • Groundwater well testing on FM 3509.
   • Preparing for legal action if asphalt quarrying proceeds unchecked.
3. Support the cause—every donation helps sustain our fight. Visit SaveBurnet.com to donate, or if you can’t, please encourage family and friends to sign up for updates on our website.

🙌 Stay United, Stay Strong
We are far from defeated. This community response—standing together, informed, and empowered—is exactly what will protect our Hill Country home. Our work continues, and with your commitment, the future is bright.
Additionally our local media outlets have done a great job of continuing to highlight the dangers of the proposed and how it may affect our beautiful state parks and highland lakes.
​
Stay strong—stay unified. Together, we will prevail.
Warm thanks,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 59 - protecting our water: well monitoring data + what's next

7/11/2025: 

​💧 Well Monitoring Presentation Summary

We recently posted to SaveBurnet.com a detailed presentation outlining our groundwater monitoring strategy. The presentation is attached and it can also be accessed on our website by Clicking Here.

Here are the key highlights:

• Cooperation with Central Texas GCD
  We’ve partnered with the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District to install dedicated monitoring wells near the proposed FM 3509 quarry site. One well is already active in the Ellenburger aquifer, and a second—deeper into the Hickory aquifer—is coming online soon.
• Why this matters
  Both the Ellenburger and Hickory aquifers supply drinking water to residents across Burnet County. The karst geology in this area makes it especially vulnerable to contamination from surface runoff—particularly near quarry activity.
• Real-time tracking & data collection
  Central Texas GCD operates a network of 50+ monitoring wells using pressure transducers and quarterly manual readings to build accurate hydrographs and identify long-term trends.
• Regional aquifer status
  Recent reports show that aquifers in Burnet County—such as Hickory and Ellenburger—have dropped to near-record low water levels. This underscores the urgency to monitor and protect our underground water resources now more than ever.

🔍 What You Can Do Now

1. Download and review the full presentation (attached). It includes maps, charts, and a comprehensive analysis.
2. Reach out if you’re interested in assisting with future monitoring efforts—more wells may be added in strategic locations.
3. Help spread the word: Forward this update to friends and family, and encourage them to sign up for our newsletter via SaveBurnet.com.

🔜 What’s Next?
Over the coming weeks, we’ll introduce several new initiatives aimed at preventing Asphalt Inc. from establishing a rock quarry on FM 3509. You’ll be the first to hear when they launch.

🤝 We Need Your Support
If you're able, please consider making a donation—every dollar helps fund monitoring, research, and legal defense efforts. Information on how to donate is available on the SaveBurnet.com website. Can’t donate? No problem—please invite friends and family to subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed.

✊ Stay Strong, Stay United
We’ve still got plenty of fight ahead. This monitoring work is a vital layer in our long-term strategy to protect the Texas Hill Country—and together, we will prevail.

Stay strong, stay together, and keep supporting.
​
With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 58 - important news & our next steps

6/19/2025:

​1) LCRA's Decision on Asphalt Inc.

By now, many of you have received the LCRA email/letter dated June 18, 2025, confirming that more than 2,000 public comments were reviewed, and despite concerns, LCRA has approved the quarry/mine permit. While this is a disappointment, it does not derail our mission.

👉 What’s next?
We are now intensifying our focus on the remaining critical permit processes:

• Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD): We are monitoring local wells near FM 3509 and engaging the District to challenge groundwater impacts.
• TXDOT, TPWD & Federal Fish Hatchery Discussions: We are in talks with each about traffic, wildlife, and environmental protections.
• Legal Readiness: Should Asphalt Inc. secure all permits, we are prepared to file a misrepresentation lawsuit in Burnet County.

We remain committed to doing all we can—by all means possible—to stop this project.

2) Keeping the Momentum

• Our team is working hard behind the scenes—gathering data, honing legal strategies, and preparing for every avenue of defense.
• Supports like yours—through staying informed, donating, and spreading the word—keep this movement alive and strong.

💚 Stay Strong… We’re In It for the Long Haul
Though LCRA’s decision is not what we’d hoped, it hasn’t shaken our resolve. We have a multi-front plan and a dedicated team ready to fight at every turn. Even if Asphalt Inc. obtains all permits, we’ll challenge them in court.

Your ongoing involvement truly matters—we’re building something powerful together. If you can, please donate via our GoFundMe or mail a check to SaveBurnet.com to help cover legal and monitoring efforts.
👉 Click here to visit our website & learn how to give

Thank you for staying engaged, supporting our mission, and believing that, united, we can protect Burnet County.
​
With gratitude and hope,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 57 - strategic patience pays off

6/16/25

Hi friends,

We’ve had many inquiries lately: “When will LCRA make their decision?”
We want you to rest easy—this is good news, not cause for concern.
Why slower is better:

• 🔍 Thorough review: LCRA’s Application Review & Response Program (ARRP) is conducting a detailed technical evaluation under the Highland Lakes Watershed Ordinance saveburnet.comlcra.org+6lcra.org+6lcra.org+6.
• 💪 We want delay: The more time LCRA takes to scrutinize stormwater runoff and contamination risks, the better for our strategy.
• ⏳ No rush: A decision in 2026—or even 2027—gives us more time to gather data, build support, and influence outcomes.

What we’re doing now:

• Providing critical information to all relevant permitting agencies
• Monitoring future permits (LCRA, CTGCD, TxDOT, etc.)
• Preparing for legal options if Asphalt Inc. gets all necessary approvals

✅ Your Role:

• Stay updated--no need to call LCRA, we’ve got it covered
• Continue supporting and donating to fuel our ongoing efforts
• Keep bringing awareness--your voice matters

We are in this for the long haul. If Asphalt Inc. pushes forward with permits, we are fully prepared to challenge them at every turn—even if that means going to court. We’ve got a strong team, community support, and unwavering resolve.

Thank you for your continued support—stay strong, stay involved, and let’s keep protecting our Texas Hill Country together.

​— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 56 - we're still in the fight

6/13/25

Dear Friends,

You might have noticed a bit less messaging from us this week—but don’t worry! The SaveBurnet.com team is still hard at work behind the scenes and busy planning our next moves to protect the Hill Country.

1️⃣ Waiting on LCRA Decision
We’re currently in the home stretch waiting for the LCRA’s ruling on Asphalt Inc’s water runoff permit. As of now, no decision has been released, and LCRA has indicated it’ll take a few more weeks before we hear back.

2️⃣ More Permits Still Needed
Asphalt Inc still must secure additional permits before any operations can begin—this includes permits from the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD).
We’re already working closely with CTGCD:

• A monitoring well on the Ellenburger group, off FM 3509, is actively being tracked.
• Within the next week, a second well in the Hickory Aquifer, located directly across from the proposed rock crushing site, will be added to the monitoring network.

This groundwater monitoring is essential—we’ll be able to document any impacts to our precious water supply before anything happens.

3️⃣ Ready for What Comes Next
If, against all odds, every agency approves Asphalt Inc’s permits—including water, air, and other critical reviews—we’re fully prepared to move forward with legal action. We won’t let this project proceed unchecked, no matter what hurdles we face.

💪 In Closing

• We haven’t gone quiet—we’re simply working diligently behind the curtain.
• LCRA’s decision and CTGCD’s monitoring are key right now.
• If all else fails, we’re ready to defend our community through the courts.

Thank you for your dedication and support.

​Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It."
Have a wonderful weekend. Stay strong, stay engaged, and continue supporting SaveBurnet.com 

update 55 - staying the course - our fight continues

6/6/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We want to reassure you that, despite a recent lull in communications, our commitment to protecting the Texas Hill Country remains unwavering. Our team is diligently working behind the scenes, strategizing and preparing for the next phases of our advocacy.

Awaiting LCRA's Decision
Currently, we are awaiting a decision from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) regarding Asphalt Inc.'s permit application for a proposed rock quarry near Inks Lake State Park and Camp Longhorn. The LCRA is conducting a thorough technical review to assess the potential impact on water quality in the Highland Lakes area. As of now, no decision has been made, and we do not anticipate one for several weeks. dailytrib.com

Multiple Permits Still Required
Even if the LCRA approves the permit, Asphalt Inc. must still obtain additional approvals from other agencies, including the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District and the Texas Department of Transportation. Each of these permits presents an opportunity for public input and scrutiny.

Prepared for Legal Action
Should all permits be granted, we are prepared to challenge the approvals through legal channels. Our legal team is ready to advocate for the protection of our environment and community.

Your Continued Support Matters
Your involvement is crucial. Here's how you can help:

• Stay Informed: Visit SaveBurnet.com for the latest updates and resources.
• Donate: Contributions help fund our ongoing efforts, including potential legal challenges.
• Spread the Word: Share information with friends, family, and neighbors to raise awareness.

Together, we have achieved significant milestones, and together, we will continue to fight for the preservation of our natural treasures.
Thank you for your dedication and support.
​
Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It."

update 54 - our commitment to protecting the texas hill country

5/29/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We continue to stand united in our mission to protect the Texas Hill Country from the proposed rock crusher near our cherished state parks. While we await the Lower Colorado River Authority's (LCRA) decision on the stormwater permit, our efforts persist on multiple fronts.

Engaging State Leadership
We are actively reaching out to the following key state officials to ensure they are informed about our concerns:

• Governor - Greg Abbott
• Lieutenant - Governor Dan Patrick
• Attorney General - Ken Paxton
• Land Commissioner - Dawn Buckingham

Continuing the Fight
Our commitment remains unwavering. We are:

• Monitoring the LCRA's review process and providing additional information as needed.
• Engaging with other agencies responsible for issuing necessary permits to Asphalt Inc.
• Preparing for potential legal actions should all permits be granted.

Stay Involved
Your support is crucial. Here's how you can help:

• Stay Informed: Visit SaveBurnet.com for the latest updates and resources.
• Donate: Contributions help fund our ongoing efforts, including potential legal challenges.
• Spread the Word: Share information with friends, family, and neighbors to raise awareness.

Together, we have achieved significant milestones, and together, we will continue to fight for the preservation of our natural treasures.
Thank you for your dedication and support.

​Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It."

update 53 - Hb 5151 - what happened, what's next, and how we keep fighting

5/24/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication throughout our efforts to pass House Bill 5151. While the bill did not advance this session, our collective voice has made a significant impact, and our mission to protect the Texas Hill Country remains steadfast.

🏛️ What Happened to HB 5151?
On May 15, 2025, HB 5151 reached its second reading in the Texas House. Two points of order were raised by Representative Terry Canales of District 40:

1. First Point of Order: Claimed the bill's caption did not provide proper notice regarding taxes or fees and that it was impermissibly limited to certain political subdivisions. This point was withdrawn.
2. Second Point of Order: Argued that the committee substitute was not germane to the original bill because it broadened the scope from "mines, quarries, or rock crushing facilities" to "facilities used for the production or crushing of aggregates." This point was sustained, and the bill was returned to the Calendars Committee, effectively halting its progress.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is HB 5151 dead? Can it be revised and brought up again?
A1: HB 5151 is effectively dead for this legislative session. The next regular session is not until 2027.
Q2: What is a Point of Order?
A2: A point of order is a parliamentary procedure used to object to a violation of the rules. It can halt proceedings until the issue is resolved. In this case, the sustained point of order was based on the argument that the bill's scope had been impermissibly broadened.
Q3: Why would a representative from 300 miles away oppose HB 5151?
A3: The specific motivations are unclear. However, it's worth noting that Representative Canales has received significant campaign contributions from construction-related political action committees.
Q4: Did Asphalt Inc. or its parent company donate to Representative Canales?
A4: As of now, there is no record of donations from Asphalt Inc. or Construction Partners Inc. to Representative Canales. We will continue to monitor campaign finance disclosures.

🌊 LCRA Stormwater Permit Update
The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) is still reviewing comments related to Asphalt Inc.'s stormwater permit application. We appreciate everyone who voiced their concerns. To further illustrate the uncontrollable nature of stormwater runoff at the proposed site, please visit SaveBurnet.com and scroll to the bottom to view photos of runoff from Peters Creek. These images demonstrate the potential for silt and contaminants to flow into Inks Lake and Lake LBJ during heavy rains.

🔗 New Resource: Website Links PageWe've added a new "Website Links" page on SaveBurnet.com to provide quick access to:

• State agencies
• Air quality maps
• Quarry locations
• Partner organizations

This resource is designed to help you stay informed and engaged.

💪 The Fight Continues
While HB 5151's journey has ended for now, our mission to protect the Texas Hill Country is far from over. Asphalt Inc. still requires multiple permits, including approvals from the LCRA, Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District, and the Texas Department of Transportation. We will continue to oppose these permits and, if necessary, pursue legal action.
Our community's strength lies in our unity and determination. Together, we will continue to fight to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of our region.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
​
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 52 - reflecting on hb5151 and charting our path forward

5/16/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

Last night, after extensive deliberation, House Bill 5151 reached its second reading in the Texas House. However, it was met with two points of order—procedural objections that led to the bill being returned to the Calendars Committee, effectively halting its progress this session.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to State Representatives Terry Wilson and Ellen Troxclair for their unwavering commitment to protecting the Texas Hill Country. Their dedication and leadership have been instrumental in bringing HB 5151 to the forefront.

Our Path Forward
While this setback is disappointing, it does not deter our mission. Asphalt Inc. still requires several permits—including approvals from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District, and the Texas Department of Transportation—before they can operate the proposed rock crusher.
Think of this as not even being halftime in a challenging game. The initial permit was just the beginning, and we're prepared for the long haul. Our strategy includes:

• Monitoring Upcoming Permits: We'll stay vigilant on Asphalt Inc.'s applications and mobilize when public comments are needed.
• Community Engagement: Continuing to raise awareness and gather support to protect our environment.
• Legal Preparedness: If necessary, we're ready to pursue legal avenues to safeguard our community.

Our unity and determination have brought us this far, and together, we'll continue to stand strong for the Texas Hill Country.

Stay Connected
For updates and ways to get involved, visit SaveBurnet.com.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 51 - urgent call to action - sorry about the short notice

5/14/25

Thanks to your incredible efforts—over 1,000 phone calls and 5,000 green sheets submitted—House Bill 5151 has been unanimously advanced to the Texas House floor! This is a monumental achievement, and we couldn't have done it without your dedication.

Next Critical Step: Second Reading and Vote
HB 5151 is scheduled for its second reading today, May 14th. However, the House is currently running behind schedule, and the vote may occur late tonight or early tomorrow morning. This step is crucial for the bill's passage, and your immediate action is needed.

Action Required: Call Your Representatives
We urge every supporter of SaveBurnet.com to contact as many of the 150 Texas House Representatives as possible by midnight tonight. Express your strong support for HB 5151 and emphasize the importance of protecting our State Parks.

Suggested Message:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and my phone number is [Your Phone Number]. I fully support HB 5151 and urge you to vote in favor of it to protect our State Parks. Thank you."

How to Find Representative Contact Information:
You can find contact details for all Texas House Representatives at the official Texas House website:
👉 Texas House Members Directory

Tips for Calling:

• Leave a Voicemail: If you reach an answering machine, please leave your message.
• Be Polite and Concise: Clearly state your support for HB 5151 and the importance of protecting State Parks.
• Call Multiple Representatives: The more calls made, the greater the impact.

Your voice matters, and your calls can make a significant difference in the passage of HB 5151. Let's continue to stand together to protect the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
Thank you for your unwavering support.

​— The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 50 - HB5151 advances & LCRA meeting tomorrow

5/12/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have two important updates to share:

1️⃣ HB 5151 Scheduled for Second Reading
House Bill 5151, championed by Representatives Terry Wilson and Ellen Troxclair, is scheduled for its second reading today, May 12, on the General State Calendar.
Due to a packed legislative agenda, the reading may occur later today or possibly tomorrow. Your continued support has been instrumental in advancing this bill.
Last Friday, we asked for your assistance in contacting members of the Calendars Committee and providing permission to include your name and phone number on green sheets supporting HB 5151. We're thrilled to report that over 1,000 calls were made, and more than 5,000 green sheets were generated and hand-delivered to all 11 committee members on Mother's Day, May 11. This remarkable effort showcases our community's dedication.

2️⃣ Reminder: LCRA Public Meeting – May 13The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) will host a come-and-go public meeting tomorrow:Click here for info.

• Date: Tuesday, May 13
• Time: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Location: Burnet County Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St., Burnet, TX

Attendees will have three minutes to provide comments at designated stations. Please be polite and thank LCRA for their service and note that LCRA's jurisdiction is limited to water quality issues related to stormwater runoff. Topics such as air quality, traffic, noise, or blasting are outside their purview. 

Key Points for Your Comments:

• Potential for sediment, diesel residue, and fine particulate matter entering nearby streams and tributaries, impacting Lake Buchanan and Inks Lake.
• Erosion from stripped topsoil and blasting zones accelerating sediment deposition into creeks like Peter's Creek.
• High-velocity runoff during flash floods due to impermeable surfaces at the crusher site, leading to increased downstream murkiness in the Colorado River.
• Proximity to karst limestone formations allowing pollutants to enter the aquifer, contaminating drinking water supplies for wells and springs across Burnet County.

SaveBurnet.com will have tables set up outside the entrance to assist attendees. We'll provide information, answer questions, and have T-shirts available next to the donation box.

Thank You for Your Continued Support

Your unwavering commitment is making a significant difference. Together, we are working to protect our Texas Hill Country.

​Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
​“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 49 - urgent action requested: support hb5151 by 1:00PM tomorrow (with correction)

5/9/25

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have a critical opportunity to advance House Bill 5151, which aims to protect our cherished Texas Hill Country from the adverse effects of rock crushers and aggregate production operations. The bill is currently under consideration by the Texas House Calendars Committee, and your immediate action can make a significant difference.

✅ Action 1: Grant Permission for Green Sheet SubmissionTo demonstrate widespread support for HB 5151, we are compiling a "Green Sheet"—a list of supporters' names and phone numbers—to hand-deliver to each of the 11 members of the Calendars Committee at the Capitol.

Here's how you can help:

1. Visit the SaveBurnet.com Contact Page:
   SaveBurnet.com Contact Page
2. Provide Your Information:
   • Name
   • Phone Number
   • Email Address
   • Comments Section:
     Please include the following statement:
     "Yes, I give you permission to use my name and phone number to support HB 5151."
3. Submit by 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 10th:
   To ensure your support is communicated effectively to the Capitol, please complete your submission by 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 10th.

📞 Action 2: Call Calendars Committee MembersIn addition to granting permission, we urge you to personally call each member of the Calendars Committee to express your support for HB 5151.

Suggested Message:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am a resident of [Your City/Town]. I am calling to express my strong support for House Bill 5151. I urge you to prioritize HB 5151 and place it on the calendar. Thank you for your time and service."

Calendars Committee Members:
Member Capitol - Phone
Rep.Todd Hunter (Chair) - (512) 463-0542
Rep. Toni Rose (Vice Chair) - (512) 463-0664
Rep. David Cook - (512) 463-0374
Rep. Charlie Geren - (512) 463-0610
Rep. Cole Hefner - (512) 463-0271
Rep. Ana Hernandez - (512) 463-0614
Rep. Ann Johnson - (512) 463-0389
Rep. Jared Patterson - (512) 463-0694
Rep. Shelby Slawson - (512) 463-0628
Rep. James Talarico - (512) 463-0670
Rep. Ed Thompson - (512) 463-0707

If the representative is unavailable, please leave a message or ask the person who answers to take down your information and relay it to the representative. You may call now till late Saturday night (May 10th).

Your prompt action is crucial. By completing these two steps, you contribute to the collective effort to safeguard our natural resources and quality of life in the Texas Hill Country.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication.

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

5/9/25

Dear followers of SaveBurnet.com

I apologize for the additional emails. I promise this will be my last email tonight. If you are calling the list below should be correct.
​
Please use this list below highlighted in yellow with 3 corrections in Bold. Or use the link below.

Corrected contact list for Calendars Committee Members:

Member
Capitol Phone

Rep.Todd Hunter (Chair)
(512) 463-0672

Rep. Toni Rose (Vice Chair)
(512) 463-0664

Rep. Terry Canales
 512-463-0426

Rep. Stan Gerdes
(512) 463-0682

Rep. Cody Harris
(512) 463-0730

Rep. Ana Hernandez
(512) 463-0614

Rep. Ann Johnson
(512) 463-0389

Rep. Jeff Leach
(512) 463-0544

Rep. Janie Lopez
(512) 463-0640

Rep. Ramon Romero
 (512) 463-0740

Rep. Carl Tepper
(512) 463-0676

You may also refer to the official Texas House of Representatives website: Texas House Committee on Calendars

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”
SaveBurnet.com

update 48 - ​Stay the course: one hill country, one voice

5/6/25 

Dear Friends and Supporters,

We have several important updates to share with you as we continue our collective fight to protect the heart of the Texas Hill Country. While we’ve encountered a setback, we’re also seeing meaningful legislative progress—and your continued dedication makes all the difference.

❌ Motion to Overturn (MTO) – Denied by Action of Law
We’re disappointed to report that all three Motions to Overturn (MTOs) related to TCEQ Air Quality Permit #176835 were overruled by action of law on May 1, 2025. This means the TCEQ Commissioners chose not to act within the required timeframe, effectively letting the motions expire without discussion or vote.

We are deeply grateful to Catherine Van Arnam from Rep. Ellen Troxclair’s office, who worked diligently to obtain and share an official statement from TCEQ with the SaveBurnet.com committee.

As a reminder:
🟢 This is the easiest permit Asphalt Inc. will face.
🟢 This setback does NOT change our plan.
🟢 We are in this for the long haul—together.

✅ Legislative Momentum – HB 5151 Moves Forward
We are pleased to share that Representative Terry Wilson’s House Bill 5151 is now co-authored by Rep. Ellen Troxclair and is officially on the legislative calendar. This bill would prohibit the construction and operation of rock crushers and APOs near sensitive areas like youth camps and state parks.

We are in daily contact with both Representative Wilson’s and Troxclair’s offices. Soon, we’ll ask for your help in calling the Capitol—but not just yet.

📞 Please hold off on calling state officials for now.

We will tell you whom to contact, and when to act to maximize our collective impact. Stay tuned!

🗓️ LCRA Public Meeting – May 13th, 8:00–11:00 AM

Don’t forget! The LCRA public meeting is just around the corner.
📍 Burnet County Community Center
401 E. Jackson St., Burnet, TX
🕗 Tuesday, May 13 | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
This come-and-go style meeting allows members of the public to speak for up to 3 minutes. Comments will be recorded and considered by LCRA staff. There will be no presentation or Q&A, so this is your chance to be heard.
⚠️ Important: LCRA only evaluates issues related to stormwater runoff and water quality. Please avoid topics like dust, traffic, noise, or blasting—LCRA does not have authority over those.
✅ Focus your comments on:

• Runoff carrying sediment and pollutants into Inks Lake and Lake Buchanan
• Erosion and sediment flow into nearby creeks
• Water contamination from high-velocity runoff or karst formations
• Violations of LCRA’s Water Quality Protection Program

The SaveBurnet.com team will be on-site with tables outside to help guide your comments and provide materials. For more tips and talking points, visit our website: www.SaveBurnet.com

💪 We Stay United – This Is Far from Over
Asphalt Inc. is counting on us to get tired, to get discouraged, and to give up. But that’s not who we are. That’s not what SaveBurnet.com stands for.
Even if Asphalt Inc. secures all its permits, we are prepared and committed to taking legal action to challenge the construction and operation of this rock crushing facility.
Now more than ever, it is essential that we stay united, engaged, and focused.

🌟 In Closing – Strength in Unity
This journey is not easy—but it's worth it. The Texas Hill Country is worth protecting. Your voice, your time, and your passion are shaping the outcome of this fight.
Together, we’ve already made a lasting impact. Now let’s keep going.

​With strength, gratitude, and hope,
—The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.

update 47 - ​big progress on hb5151 & Critical lcra meeting may 13

5/2/25

Dear Friends and Supporters,
We have GREAT news to share and an important call to action coming up soon!

✅ 1) HB 5151 Passes Out of Committee – Unanimously!
We are thrilled to inform you that House Bill 5151, sponsored by our tireless champion State Representative Colonel Terry Wilson, was unanimously approved by the House Environmental Regulation Committee yesterday with a vote of 9–0! 🎉
This is a major step forward in our mission to stop the proposed rock crushing facility and protect the fragile ecosystems of the Texas Hill Country.
A huge thank you to the hundreds of you who submitted your support online, by mail, or in person at the Capitol. Your voices made this happen.
We'll update you next week with ways to continue supporting HB 5151 as it advances through the Texas House.


📣 2) Important: LCRA Public Comment Meeting – May 13
The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) will host a public come-and-go meeting to receive feedback on the stormwater runoff permit application for the proposed rock crusher site:
🗓 Date: Tuesday, May 13
🕗 Time: 8:00 – 11:00 a.m.
📍 Location: Burnet County Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St., Burnet, TX
This meeting will not include a formal presentation or Q&A session. Attendees will visit stations to provide up to 3 minutes of spoken comment, which will be recorded and included in LCRA’s permit review.
SaveBurnet.com will have tables set up outside to assist community members with talking points and guidance.

🔍 What You CAN and CANNOT Say at the LCRA Meeting:
LCRA is only authorized to consider issues related to stormwater runoff and water quality under the Highland Lakes Watershed Ordinance (HLWO).
🚫 Please avoid comments about:

• Air quality or dust
• Traffic, roads, or truck safety
• Blasting, noise, or light pollution
• Water usage or pumping amounts
• Property values

✅ Focus your comments on stormwater runoff and water quality, such as:

• Sediment, diesel residue, and toxins from the crusher site will flow into nearby creeks, Inks Lake, and Lake Buchanan, contaminating reservoirs under LCRA jurisdiction.
• The site’s karst limestone geology allows pollutants to quickly reach the aquifer, threatening wells and springs.
• Erosion from exposed topsoil will increase during Hill Country rains, carrying debris into Peter’s Creek and other tributaries.
• The permit only addresses a 25-year flood event, which is inadequate in a region prone to sudden flash flooding.
• Uncontrolled runoff could flood the spring-fed pool at Camp Longhorn, impact ranchers’ livestock, and harm the federal fish hatchery on Lake LBJ.
• High-velocity runoff caused by compacted surfaces could worsen downstream turbidity and strain culverts and rural infrastructure.
• The site’s location on a documented fault line raises concerns about groundwater contamination via recharge zones.
• The application lacks a comprehensive stormwater detention plan—common with rock crushers that try to minimize costs.
  
  

🎥 3) Must-See Video: “Running Dry” – Central Texas Water Crisis
We also urge you to watch this compelling KVUE special report hosted by Judy Maggio, which outlines the escalating water crisis in Central Texas:
▶️ Running Dry – Watch the Video
LCRA warns in this report that without significant rainfall or flooding soon, our water reserves could be depleted in just a few years.
Now more than ever, we must prevent stormwater pollution from adding to the crisis.

💚 In Closing – We Stand United
​We are proud of the progress we’ve made together—from the Capitol to the community—and we're just getting started.
Let’s keep the momentum going:

• Celebrate the HB 5151 committee win
• Show up strong on May 13 to protect our water
• Keep spreading the word

Together, we are one voice for the Hill Country.

With gratitude,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It."

update 46 - hope, progress, and unity at saveburnet.com

4/25/25

​Dear Friends and Supporters,
We have BIG news and important updates to share following another critical week in our fight to protect the Texas Hill Country:

1️⃣ House Bill 5151 — Championing Protection for Texas’ Natural Treasures
On April 24th, Colonel Terry Wilson’s HB 5151 was formally discussed before the Texas House Environmental Regulation Committee at the Capitol.
You can watch the full discussion by Clicking Here. (Note: HB 5151 begins at -3:09:30 on the video player.)
Summary of HB 5151 Key Points:

• Prohibits the construction and operation of Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) and rock crushing facilities near critical environmental areas.
• Directly protects places like Longhorn Caverns, Inks Lake, youth camps (such as Camp Longhorn), and sensitive water resources.
• Prioritizes human health, tourism, recreation, and the environment over industrial profits.
• Recognizes the irreplaceable cultural, historical, and environmental value of the Texas Hill Country.

We are incredibly grateful to Colonel Terry Wilson for authoring and championing this bold and necessary bill.
💬 About the Hearing:
The Environmental Regulation Committee conducted a highly professional hearing, allowing for an open and respectful exchange of information. However, it was clear that TCEQ continues to struggle to defend its permitting processes and adherence to its mission of protecting public health and natural resources.
SaveBurnet.com was exceptionally well represented:

• Approx 25 individuals spoke in support of HB 5151.
  • Including 3 representatives from the distinguished organization TRAM, 15 from SaveBurnet.com, and 5 from Camp Longhorn!
  • Out of respect for the committee member's time, we did not bring hundreds of speakers to the capital.
• Special thanks to our tireless advocates who also walked the halls of the Capitol delivering information packets as well as speaking with committee members and state representatives.
  🏆 Special Recognition List: Kristin Meredith and  Heidi Meredith, David Owens, John Braun, Doug Golding, Kenda Avery, Sherrye McAnelly, Alan Mc Anelly, Rachel George, Jay George.

This was a phenomenal show of strength and unity—and it made an undeniable impact.
📈 Support Numbers:
When HB 3482 (Rep. Ellen Troxclair’s bill) was presented on April 9th, we celebrated an incredible 660 public support comments.
Today, we are even more thrilled to announce that HB 5151 received over 710 support comments!
👏 THANK YOU to everyone who submitted your comments—you made a real difference!

2️⃣ News Coverage — Our Voices Are Being Heard Loud and Clear
The media coverage of our efforts continues to be outstanding, both in Austin and across local outlets. We owe a huge thanks to dedicated reporters like Connie Swinney and Elizabeth De Los Santos for their fair, timely, and accurate reporting.
Here are three excellent articles covering our recent milestones:

• 📜 Save Burnet installs air monitors near quarry sites to track pollution risk — DailyTrib
• 📜 Mining Opponents Go to Capitol — Highlander
• 📜 Texas House Environmental Regulation Committee Video Coverage — House Website

Please take a few minutes to read and share these important stories to help amplify our cause.

3️⃣ Upcoming LCRA Meeting on May 13th — Focus on Water Quality!
Many of you may have already received a letter from LCRA announcing a "Come and Go" Public Meeting on May 13th regarding Asphalt Inc.'s water quality permit application.
👉 Click Here for a copy of the letter.
More detailed guidance about this meeting will be coming soon, but here are the key points for now:
✅ LCRA is still accepting public comments by:

• Their website,
• In-person at the May 13th meeting,
• By mail.

⚠️ Important:
When commenting to LCRA, remember that they ONLY regulate water runoff — not air quality, noise, traffic, or groundwater consumption.
Focus your comments on:

• Contamination risks to stock tanks, creeks, lakes, and rivers,
• Control and monitoring methods for polluted runoff,
• Impacts on aquifer recharge zones,
• Long-term effects on surrounding ecosystems and drinking water sources.

By keeping comments focused and targeted, we increase our credibility and our influence.

💚 Closing: United We Stand, Stronger Than Ever
Friends, we have made incredible strides in just a few short months.

• We have galvanized thousands of Texans,
• Influenced meaningful legislation,
• Captured media attention,
• And brought our community together to stand up for what is right.

We are stronger because we stand together—and we are winning hearts and minds across Texas.
Let’s continue to push, to speak out, and to protect the only Hill Country we have.
Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we will save Burnet County and our Texas treasures.

With gratitude and hope,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
"One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It."

update 45 - ​final chance to show your support for hb5151 & Ride with us to the capitol!

4/23/25
​
Dear Friends and Supporters,
We have an important opportunity TOMORROW—Thursday, April 24th at 10:30 AM—when House Bill 5151 will be formally presented to the Texas House Environmental Regulations Committee at the Capitol.
This bill is a critical step in our fight to protect the Texas Hill Country from the harmful impacts of Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) and rock crushing facilities. Let’s make our voices heard—tonight is the last night to submit your support online!

🔧 Here’s how to help right now:
✅ Texas residents who wish to electronically submit comments related to agenda items on this notice without testifying in person can do so until the hearing is adjourned by visiting:
Click here to submit your comment now »
Just 2–3 sentences is enough. Tell the committee why you support HB 5151 and why rock crushers have no place near Texas parks, lakes, and youth camps. Please note Supporting Comments MUST be completed before April 24th!, Please don't wait.
✅ For those persons who will be testifying, information for in-person witness registration (optional), can be found here:
Witness registration link »
✅ Email the Committee on Environmental Regulation:
Committee contact page »
✅ Watch the hearing live (April 24th, 10:30AM):
Texas House Video Broadcast »
 This is the kind of legislation that doesn’t just slow down bad permits—it stops them completely. But it won’t pass unless we show overwhelming public support. We did it for HB 3482. Let’s do it again.

🚌 Ride With Us to the Capitol – Just 5 Seats Left!
We’ve chartered a small bus, and 5 seats are still available for supporters who want to:

1. Speak during the hearing (optional)
2. Stand in solidarity with our group at the Capitol

Even if you don’t want to speak, just showing up makes a difference! Please wear your green SaveBurnet.com shirt. Don’t have one? No problem—we’ll have extras available on the bus.
🗣️ Example Statement (3-minute max):
Dear Members of the Environmental Regulations Committee,
I am writing to express my strong support for House Bill 5151. Unique and irreplaceable natural landmarks like Longhorn Caverns deserve full protection from the harmful impacts of Aggregate Production Operations and rock quarries.
These Texas treasures are not just scenic—they are vital to our environmental heritage, tourism economy, and the well-being of surrounding communities.
I respectfully urge the committee to approve HB 5151 and take a stand for the preservation of our state's most precious resources.

📍 Want to Ride With Us? Sign Up Tonight!
Go to the SaveBurnet.com Contact Page and submit Click Here for Link:

• Your name
• Email address
• Phone number
• In the message box: "I want to speak (or attend) on April 24 and ride the bus."
• Be sure to check the opt-in box to submit

⏳ Spots are first come, first served. Confirmations will be emailed tonight by 9 PM.

🕖 Bus & Hearing Day Details

• Meet at: AgriLife Extension Building (North Parking Lot)
  📍 607 N. Vanderveer, Burnet, TX 78611
• Arrival Time: 7:00 – 7:15 AM
• Departure: 7:30 AM sharp
• Return: Approx. 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM (after the hearing concludes)

💬 Why HB 5151 Matters
HB 5151 doesn’t call for more studies—it prohibits new rock crushing plants and APOs from being located near:

• State Parks like Inks Lake and Longhorn Caverns
• Youth Camps like Camp Longhorn
• Federally protected water sources and fish hatcheries

This is real protection. Real change.

💚 In Closing
Thanks to your continued engagement, legislators are listening. Now is the time to step forward again and show the state that the people of Burnet County are united and determined.
Let’s bring our voices to Austin and support HB 5151 with strength, clarity, and hope.

With gratitude and determination,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 44 - ​speak up for house bill 5151 this thursday!

4/21/25

​Dear Friends and Supporters,

We’ve got a critical opportunity this Thursday, April 24th at 10:30 AM, when House Bill 5151 will be formally presented to the Texas House Environmental Regulations Committee. This is a big step forward in our fight to protect the Texas Hill Country from the harmful effects of Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) and rock crushing facilities.

🚌 Travel With Us – Speak Up at the Capitol!
We’ve chartered a small bus (18-20 seats) to help get supporters to the Capitol—and 16 spots are still available for those who are willing to present a short, supportive statement during the hearing.
Speaking is easy, and you’ll have up to 3 minutes, though even a short, heartfelt message makes a difference. Here’s a sample statement to inspire you:

Dear Members of the Environmental Regulations Committee,
I am writing to express my strong support for House Bill 5151. Unique and irreplaceable natural landmarks like Longhorn Caverns deserve full protection from the harmful impacts of Aggregate Production Operations and rock quarries.
These Texas treasures are not just scenic—they are vital to our environmental heritage, tourism economy, and the well-being of surrounding communities.
I respectfully urge the committee to approve HB 5151 and take a stand for the preservation of our state's most precious resources.

📍 How to Sign Up for the Bus and Speak
If you would like to ride with us and present your support, please visit the SaveBurnet.com Contact Page, fill in your:

• Name
• Email Address
• Phone Number
• In the message box: State that you will speak on April 24th and want to ride the bus
• Be sure to click the opt-in checkbox to submit.

🚨 Spots are first come, first served. You will receive a confirmation if you’re one of the 15 selected.
🕖 Logistics for the Day:

• Meet at: AgriLife Extension Building
  📍 607 N. Vanderveer, Burnet, TX 78611
• Arrival time: Please arrive by 7:00 - 7:15 AM
• Departure: Bus will leave between  7:30 AM sharp
• Return: Bus will head back after hearing is over sometime around Noon to 4PM

💬 Why HB 5151 Matters:
HB 5151 isn’t asking for studies or suggestions—it proposes prohibiting new APO or rock crushing facilities from operating near our most sensitive areas, including:

• State parks like Inks Lake and Longhorn Caverns
• Youth camps like Camp Longhorn
• Federally managed lakes and hatcheries

Together, we can show the committee that Texans want real protection—not permits for pollution.

💚 In Closing
We are incredibly proud of the momentum we've built. You’ve made your voices heard, and legislators are listening. Now let’s take it one step further and stand united in Austin for HB 5151.
We believe in this cause, we believe in each other, and we believe we can win this fight—if we show up, speak up, and stand together.
​
With gratitude and hope,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 43 - our voice is being heard....Let's keep the momentum going!

4/18/25

​Dear SaveBurnet.com supporters,
We have some incredible updates to share and another urgent call to action that needs your attention this week. Please read on and take a few minutes to act—it really makes a difference!

✅ Part 1: Summary for HB 3482 – Overwhelming Support in Committee Public Hearing!
On April 9th, State Representative Ellen Troxclair's House Bill 3482 was formally presented before the Texas House Natural Resources Committee.
📝 Most bills heard that day received between 0–10 public comments. One bill received 149 comments.
🌟 But HB 3482? Over 660 positive or supportive comments! That’s a record-breaking number and sends a powerful message to the committee and to the rest of the Legislature that Texans care deeply about protecting our state parks, camps, neighborhoods, and water supplies from dangerous aggregate mining operations.
🔁 Troxclair's team is currently revising HB 3482 based on feedback from committee members. We will update you as soon as there is movement or a vote scheduled. This was a huge success, and we thank all of you who submitted comments and made your voices heard!

🚨 Part 2: Support Needed NOW for HB 5151 (Filed by Rep. Terry Wilson)
Our next mission is even more bold and direct.
HB 5151, filed by Rep. Terry Wilson, does not ask for environmental studies or hydrological models before a rock crushing operation is permitted. Instead, it prohibits the creation of new aggregate production operations (APOs), rock crushers, and quarries in areas near:

• 🏞️ Lakes operated by Texas river authorities with national fish hatcheries
• 🌄 State parks with national natural landmarks (e.g., Longhorn Caverns)
• 🏕️ Youth camps licensed by the Department of State Health Services

📜 In short: HB 5151 would outright block new industrial mining operations from being permitted in these highly sensitive and irreplaceable areas.
📅 The Environmental Regulation committee will hear HB 5151 on April 24th--and we only have a few days left to submit our support.

🔧 Here’s how to help right now:
✅ Texas residents who wish to electronically submit comments related to agenda items on this notice without testifying in person can do so until the hearing is adjourned by visiting:
Click here to submit your comment now »
Just 2–3 sentences is enough. Tell the committee why you support HB 5151 and why rock crushers have no place near Texas parks, lakes, and youth camps. Please note Supporting Comments MUST be completed before April 24th!, Please don't wait.
✅ For those persons who will be testifying, information for in-person witness registration (optional), can be found here:
Witness registration link »
✅ Email the Committee on Environmental Regulation:
Committee contact page »
✅ Watch the hearing live (April 24th, 10:30AM):
Texas House Video Broadcast »
 This is the kind of legislation that doesn’t just slow down bad permits—it stops them completely. But it won’t pass unless we show overwhelming public support. We did it for HB 3482. Let’s do it again.

📬 Part 3: Corrected Contact Info (emails) for State LeadersSome of the email addresses we provided previously are being filtered or rejected. Please use these corrected addresses when contacting Texas leaders:

Governor Greg Abbott      [email protected]
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick      [email protected]
Attorney General Ken Paxton      [email protected]
Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham      [email protected]

Your voice matters—please take 5 minutes to send a short message to these officials. You can express support for HB 3482 and HB 5151, and share your concerns about the proposed rock quarry off FM 3509 and the impact it would have on Camp Longhorn, Longhorn Cavern State Park, Inks Lake, and surrounding families and wildlife.

💚 In Closing…We are making real progress—but it takes all of us. Legislators are hearing us, because you showed up, submitted comments, and spread the word.
Let’s keep the pressure on and give HB 5151 the same surge of support we gave HB 3482. Together, we are building a powerful movement to protect the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

With gratitude and determination,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 42 - hb 3482 committee hearing recap & what comes next

4/10/25 

Dear Friends and Supporters,

We’re excited to share some great news about our continued fight to protect the Texas Hill Country. Yesterday--April 9th--House Bill 3482, championed by our State Representative Ellen Troxclair, was formally presented before the Texas House Natural Resources Committee at the Capitol.
📽️ You can watch the full recording by Clicking Here
(Note: HB 3482 begins at 1:01:13 on the video player.)

🔍 What Happened at the Hearing?
The committee engaged in a meaningful discussion, asking thoughtful questions that reflected concern for both public safety and environmental protection, while also recognizing considerations for developers and economic interests. This kind of balanced inquiry is exactly what we hoped to see—a real dialogue about how to protect what matters while ensuring responsible development.

💬 Strong Testimonies from Our Community
We’re incredibly proud of Nan Manning, Fermin Ortiz, and Todd Sifleet, who did an outstanding job speaking on behalf of our community and in support of HB 3482. Their testimonies were heartfelt, factual, and compelling. This bill matters, and our local voices made that very clear.

🔎 LCRA’s Role and Status
LCRA's representative presented at the hearing and answered questions. We believe that due diligence is being conducted on the permit submitted by Asphalt Inc. LCRA appears to be working primarily from permit documentation and calculations—with no indication that any site visits have been conducted yet.
This may become a concern.
Because without setting foot on the ground, how can LCRA fully understand the real-world impact of water runoff—particularly as it flows toward Camp Longhorn, where children swim daily in an open-air pool?
We trust LCRA will ultimately do what’s right for the community, but we encourage them to conduct thorough site inspections to supplement their paperwork.

😠 TCEQ’s Troubling Testimony
Then came the presenters from TCEQ, and frankly—it was disheartening. It’s clear that something is broken.
A few glaring examples:

• TCEQ granted an Air Quality Permit without a single Air Quality Monitor in all of Burnet County.
• TCEQ’s testimony claimed the quarry operations “may involve blasting.”
  ➤ But in the TCEQ-hosted town hall on Dec 20, Asphalt Inc.'s COO stated clearly: YES—there will be blasting.
• TCEQ also stated that they do not regulate blasting, as it’s outside their authority.
  ➤ Yet blasting is one of the most significant sources of dust pollution, and dust is at the very heart of air quality concerns.

These are not minor oversights. They reflect either ineptitude, incompetence, or duplicity—none of which are acceptable from an agency tasked with protecting public health and natural resources.

🧾 Reminder of TCEQ’s Mission Statement:“The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality strives to protect our state's public health and natural resources consistent with sustainable economic development. Our goal is clean air, clean water, and the safe management of waste.”
Let’s be honest—if TCEQ sees itself only as a permitting agency, and not a watchdog for our air and water, then maybe it doesn’t need 2,800+ employees and a full state-funded budget.

💪 Hope for HB 3482 and the Hill Country
We are hopeful that the Natural Resources Committee sees what we see—a fragile, irreplaceable region under threat, and a bill that offers real, common-sense protections. HB 3482 simply ensures that when mining operations are proposed near lakes, state parks, and youth camps, the state must first determine whether harm could be done. That’s smart, responsible, and absolutely necessary.

📺 MEDIA COVERAGE – Tune in to KXAN!
We’re also thrilled to share that KXAN will be covering House Bill 3482 and the broader quarry controversy in a segment airing tomorrow night, Friday, April 11th, on the evening news. Be sure to tune in to support the cause and hear the latest insights.

🙌 In Closing…
We’re energized, encouraged, and incredibly grateful for the continued support of every single one of you. From those who showed up at the Capitol, to those spreading the word online, to the thousands who have submitted letters, comments, and emails—you are making a difference.

Please continue to follow updates, stay engaged, and keep believing in the power of united voices. Together, we can and will protect the Texas Hill Country from irresponsible industrial development.

With gratitude and hope,
– The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 41 - how you can help 3482 pass the committee, please act today! plus message from ellen troxclair

4/6/25 

​Please see below and note that WE only have a couple days before the committee hearing begins, please don't hesitate, act TODAY!

We write today with BIG NEWS: We now have a date set for Representative Ellen Troxclair’s HB 3482 regarding quarries, to be heard in the Texas House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee.
 
WHAT: The bill will need to be passed by this Committee, for it then to advance to the full House, then Senate, and be signed into law by the Governor. Here is where you can read more about this bill: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3482
 
WHEN: The Committee will be starting at 8:00 am on Wednesday, April 9th, gavel out when the House convenes at 10:00 am, and then resume work after the House adjourns. We do not know when, during the day, the bill will be called to be heard.
 
WHERE: Room E1.036 in the Capitol Extension.
Map of the Capitol: https://tspb.texas.gov/plan/maps/doc/capitol_visitors_guide.pdf 
Parking information: https://tspb.texas.gov/plan/parking/parking.html
 
HOW you can help: Please consider providing in person or written support for HB 3482 to the Committee. The public comments are limited to three minutes, and will be the most powerful way to provide support. All comments are considered carefully, so don’t hesitate to contribute any way you can.

• In person testimony: https://house.texas.gov/committees/witness-registration
• Written comments: https://comments.house.texas.gov/home?c=c390
• Watch the hearing here: https://house.texas.gov/videos
• Please FORWARD this email to any friend or neighbor who may be willing to speak up about this!

 
WHO: The Representative’s colleagues on the Natural Resources Committee will appreciate your perspective, and a friendly tone and a compelling personal story may best communicate that. The Committee members may all also be emailed here: https://house.texas.gov/committees/committee/390
 
WHY: The proposed quarry and rock crushing plant would cause innumerable harms to our community and natural environment. We are hopeful that we can stop it. Just today Representative Troxclair filed another letter with the TCEQ to ask them to do just that. You may go to https://www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eFiling/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.home and search for Docket Number 2025-0338-AIR to see that, and related filings.   
__________________________________________

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM ELLEN TROXCLAIR:
Representative Troxclair is honored to stand with YOU and the many local neighbors, campers, ranchers and officials at all levels who are working together to stop this proposed quarry from advancing. In particular we are grateful for the team with Save Burnet for their leadership and diligent work. Thank you for considering testifying or providing written support for HB 3482, it is just one positive step forward in our shared effort.   
 
Sincerely,
The Office of State Representative Ellen Troxclair | HD 19
Room E1.322 | (512) 463-0490
__________________________________________

With appreciation,
The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 40 - Exciting Opportunity to Make a Difference!

4/5/25

Hello, friends and advocates!

We have thrilling news to share. Our dedicated State Representative Ellen Troxclair has championed a groundbreaking bill, HB 3482, and it’s on the fast track to making an impact! This vital piece of legislation is set for a committee hearing on Wednesday, April 9th. 

Why is this so exciting? Because many bills don't even make it this far. Having the chance to be heard in committee is a huge win and a testament to the importance of this issue.


**About HB 3482:**
Rep. Troxclair’s bill ensures that comprehensive studies are conducted to assess any possible harm a rock quarry might inflict on our community's well-being, our businesses, and our treasured environment, including our parks and lakes and landmarks like Camp Longhorn. This thoughtful approach ensures that safety and environmental integrity come first. It’s common sense, and it’s about protecting what we love!

**Join Us in Supporting This Cause:**
The committee hearing will take place before the esteemed Natural Resource Committee at the Capitol, in room E2.036. Join us at 8 AM to show your support and, if you're inspired, to speak your mind! 🗣️ Registration is simple—just sign up at the kiosk outside the hearing room.

**Can’t Attend but Still Want to Help?**
Your voice still matters! Reach out to Mr. Robert Moncada, the Natural Resources Committee Clerk, at 512-463-0802. Express your support for HB 3482 and urge the committee to propel this essential bill forward to the full House for a vote.

Together, let's stand for progress, safety, and the beauty of our community. Your participation can make all the difference. 

Thank you for your passion and commitment!The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
​“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 39 - How you can Help pass hb 3482

4/4/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

In a previous update, we mentioned that two important bills have been filed to help protect our Texas Hill Country:

• House Bill 3482 by Representative Ellen Troxclair
• House Bill 5151 by Representative Terry Wilson

As of today, HB 5151 has not yet been assigned to a committee. However, we have great news--HB 3482 has officially been referred to the Texas House Natural Resources Committee. This is an important first step in the legislative process, but we need your help to make sure the bill continues to move forward. Copies of HB 3482 and HB 5151 are located on the SaveBurnet.com website.

🧭 What Happens When a Bill is Referred to Committee?
Getting a bill referred to the committee is just the beginning. Unfortunately, only 1 in 8 bills makes it out of committee and onto the House floor for debate. The rest are often left to die in committee, never receiving a hearing or vote.

Here’s how the process works:

1. The House Speaker assigns the bill to a committee.
2. The Committee Chair decides which bills will be considered.
3. If the bill is taken up, a public hearing is held.
4. The committee may then vote to advance the bill—or take no action, which kills the bill quietly.

The Texas State Legislative Process Handbook explains this in more detail. You can download it directly from the SaveBurnet.com website or by Clicking Here.

🔧 Our Immediate Goal: Get HB 3482 a Hearing
The most important thing we can do right now is to encourage the Texas House Natural Resources Committee to schedule HB 3482 for a hearing. Without a hearing, the bill will stall.
To do this, we need to contact the committee members and express our support for the bill.

📬 Who Should You Contact?
✅ 1) Your State Representatives & SenatorsUse this link to find your elected officials:
🔗 Who Represents Me – Texas Legislature
✅ 2) Texas House Natural Resources Committee MembersThis is the committee reviewing HB 3482. You can find all committee member names and background and the phone number for the county clerk who can provide additional guidance:
🔗 Natural Resources Committee Members

📄 How to Send Your Message

📧 Email or Call:

• Use the information linked above to email or call your officials.
• Be brief, clear, and respectful. Explain how the quarry would negatively affect our health, environment, and community.
• Share that you support HB 3482 and want it scheduled for a hearing.

📬 Mail Letters:
Mail is another effective option. Use the format below:

Texas House of Representatives
The Honorable [Insert Name]
P.O. Box 2910
Austin, TX 78768-2910

Texas Senate
The Honorable [Insert Name]
P.O. Box 12068
Austin, TX 78711-2068

Texas Governor
The Honorable Greg Abbott
P.O. Box 12428
Austin, TX 78711

🗣️ What to Say in Your Message
Use your own voice and personalize your message. Here's a quick outline:

• Introduce Yourself: Name, city, and why this issue matters to you.
• Support HB 3482: Mention you support this bill and urge it to be scheduled for a hearing.
• State Why It Matters: Explain that the proposed quarry on FM 3509 is near:
  • Two state parks (Inks Lake & Longhorn Caverns)
  • A youth camp (Camp Longhorn)
  • A fragile aquifer recharge zone
  • And could impact the federal fish hatchery on Lake LBJ
• Request Action: Ask them to vote in favor of the bill.

🟡 Tip: Stay positive, respectful, and fact-focused. Avoid political commentary or personal attacks.

🔁 What Happens After the Bill Passes Committee?
If the bill is voted out of committee:

1. It is scheduled for floor debate in the House.
2. It must be approved by the House in two votes.
3. Then it moves to the Senate, where the process repeats.
4. If both chambers pass it, the bill goes to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.

✅ Summary: What You Need to Do Today

1. Read and understand HB 3482 Click here
2. Identify your representatives and Natural Resources Committee members
3. Email, call, or write them with your support
4. Ask them to support HB 3482 and schedule it for a hearing
5. Share this update with friends, family, and neighbors
   

💚 We Are Gaining Ground – Let’s Keep Going!
Thanks to your efforts, HB 3482 is alive and moving. This bill represents a real chance to protect our children, our parks, and our water from the destructive impact of industrial mining. But we must act now to keep the momentum going.
Together, we can stop Asphalt Inc. and preserve the beauty, health, and heritage of our Texas Hill Country—but only if we all do our part.
Let’s stay committed, stay vocal, and keep fighting for what’s right.
​
With appreciation,
– The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“One Hill Country. One Voice. One Chance to Save It.”

update 38 - Major news on the motions to overturn (MTos)! important progress to protect the texas hill country

3/28/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have some great and very important news to share with you today regarding the Motions to Overturn (MTOs) that were filed in response to TCEQ's approval of Air Permit #176835 for Asphalt Inc.’s proposed rock crushing plant on FM 3509.
We’ve now received the official responses from all parties involved—and there’s reason for hope.

⚖️ Three Official Responses to the Motions to Overturn:
These responses have now been submitted to the TCEQ Commissioners, who must decide whether to grant or deny the MTOs.
You can read all three responses on our website at SaveBurnet.com or access them directly by clicking the links below:

1. Asphalt Inc. LLC’s Legal Counsel – Recommends denying the MTOs
   📄 Click Here to View
2. TCEQ Executive Director’s Legal Counsel – Also recommends denying the MTOs
   📄 Click Here to View
3. TCEQ Office of Public Interest Counsel (OPIC) – Recommends granting the MTOs
   📄 Click Here to View

🟢 What Happens Next?
Now that all responses have been submitted, the matter rests with the three TCEQ Commissioners. They have 45 days from the mailing date of the permit approval notice to make a decision. If they take no action, the motions are automatically denied.
📅 Based on our estimate, that 45-day window will expire around May 2nd , unless an extension is granted.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and update you immediately once a decision is made. We are hopeful that the Commissioners will listen to the OPIC recommendation and do what is right for Burnet County and the Texas Hill Country.

🏛️ Understanding How TCEQ Works – A Quick Overview:
To help you better understand who’s making these decisions and how TCEQ functions, here’s a summary of the agency’s structure:

1) Office of the Commissioners
TCEQ is led by three full-time commissioners, appointed by the Governor of Texas with confirmation by the Texas Senate. Their job is to establish overall policy and make final determinations on contested permitting matters like ours.
Current Commissioners:

• Brooke T. Paup, Chairwoman
• Bobby Janecka, Commissioner
• Catarina R. Gonzales, Commissioner

Commissioners serve six-year terms, staggered so that one expires every two years. The Governor designates the chairperson.
These commissioners will soon decide whether to grant or deny the MTOs. Let’s hope they prioritize the health of our children, the protection of our parks, and the safety of our water.

2) Office of the Executive Director (ED)
The Executive Director is hired by the Commissioners and is responsible for managing the agency’s day-to-day operations, including:

• Reviewing and recommending actions on permits and enforcement.
• Running 17 statewide TCEQ offices.
• Approving uncontested permit applications.

Key Personnel:

• Kelly Keel, Executive Director
• Steven Schar, Deputy Executive Director

In this case, the ED recommended denial of the MTOs and supports the air permit for Asphalt Inc.

3) Office of Public Interest Counsel (OPIC)
This office is a critical ally for the public. Created by the Texas Legislature, the OPIC exists to represent the people’s interest in TCEQ proceedings. While they do not represent individuals, they help ensure fairness and public accountability.
Garrett T. Arthur, Public Interest Counsel, and his staff:

• Participate in contested hearings on permits and rules.
• Provide input to the Commission from a public health and environmental perspective.
• Work independently from the ED and other TCEQ offices.

Most importantly, OPIC has officially recommended that the Commission GRANT the MTOs and overturn the permit approval. This is a major win in our corner and shows that our concerns are valid and serious.

🙏 Final Thoughts
We are cautiously optimistic. For the first time in this permitting process, an internal TCEQ office has sided with us—the citizens, parents, park lovers, and defenders of the Hill Country.
We urge the Commissioners to follow OPIC’s recommendation and do what’s right:
✅ Grant the Motions to Overturn
✅ Revoke Asphalt Inc.’s air permit
✅ Protect our kids, our parks, and our water
We’ll continue to pray, monitor, and fight—and with your support, we’re confident we can win this battle.
Stay strong. Stay united. And stay ready.

​With hope and gratitude,
— The SaveBurnet.com Team
🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com
“Together, we are the voice of the Hill Country—and together, we will protect it.”

update 37 - how to write an effective email to your state officials - help stop the rock quarry on fm 3509

3/21/25

Dear Supporters,

We need your help more than ever. With the proposed rock quarry off of FM 3509 in Burnet County, it's critical that we speak up and demand action from our state officials.

Before you do anything, please review the presentation titled:
📄 "Marble Falls APO’s – Dust Pictures 3-21-25" which is on the SaveBurnet.com website. Click Here to View.
This short but powerful slideshow shows real images and facts from active Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) just 15 miles away in Marble Falls. It is a shocking visual reminder of what we can expect if Asphalt Inc. is allowed to build another site in our community.

💬 Step-by-Step: How to Write an Effective Message to State Officials
We’re asking you to personally email the key leaders listed below. Your message does not need to be long—it just needs to be clear, respectful, and personal. Here’s how:

✅ What to Include in Your Message

1. Start with Who You Are
   • Your name and where you live (especially if in Burnet or nearby areas).
   • Explain you're a resident or concerned citizen who loves the Hill Country.
2. Clearly State Your Opposition
   • Example: "I am strongly opposed to the proposed rock quarry by Asphalt Inc. on FM 3509 in Burnet County."
3. List the Key Concerns (choose 2-4 most relevant to you)
   • 🚫 Dangerous Proximity: The site is located next to Camp Longhorn and near two state parks—Inks Lake and Longhorn Caverns.
   • 💨 Dust & Air Quality: TCEQ admitted they have no air monitors in Burnet County. Hazardous dust from other APOs already impacts our area (see SaveBurnet.com for supporting presentations).
   • 💦 Water Contamination: Polluted runoff could harm Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, and the federal fish hatchery.
   • 🚱 Groundwater Depletion: The operation could use over 9 million gallons per month just for dust suppression—while we’re being asked to conserve.
   • 🏡 Public Health & Safety: Children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions will be at risk.
   • 📉 Economic Damage: Tourism, property values, and the natural heritage of Burnet County will suffer.
4. Request Action
   • Ask them to oppose the quarry, support House Bill 3482 & 5151, and call for a moratorium on new APO permits near residential and recreational areas.
   • Urge them to demand TCEQ and LCRA perform proper environmental impact studies.
5. Close Politely
   • Thank them for their time and service to Texas.
   • Offer to share more information or discuss your concerns further.

❌ What NOT to Include

• ❌ No profanity, sarcasm, or threatening language.
• ❌ Don’t make accusations or attack individuals.
• ❌ Avoid overly emotional language—stick to facts and personal impact.
• ❌ Don’t use pre-written form letters--make it your own.

📬 Send Your Email To:Please send your email to all of the following officials:

• Governor Greg Abbott – [email protected]
• Lt. Governor Dan Patrick – [email protected]
• Attorney General Ken Paxton – [email protected]
• Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham – [email protected]
• Senator Pete Flores – [email protected]
• Rep. Ellen Troxclair – [email protected]
• Rep. Terry M. Wilson – [email protected]
• Rep. Dustin Burrows (Speaker) – [email protected]

📌 Subject line suggestion: “Urgent: Oppose Rock Quarry on FM 3509 – Protect the Texas Hill Country”

🗂 Where to Find More Info
All materials, including the full dust photo presentation and additional details about the TCEQ and LCRA permitting process, are available at 🌐 www.SaveBurnet.com Website "Reference Materials" Section

Thank you for standing up for our community, our environment, and our future. Together, we will keep the Texas Hill Country safe, clean, and beautiful for generations to come.
​
— The SaveBurnet.com Team 💚
Fighting for clean air, clean water, and a stronger Texas Hill Country.

update 36 - Three mtos filed & new subdivision proposal

3/14/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,
We have two major updates to share with you, both of which could have a significant impact on our fight to protect the Texas Hill Country.

1) Update on the Motions to Overturn (MTO) – We Have THREE!
Last week, I shared that we had two Motions to Overturn (MTOs) filed against TCEQ Permit #176835—but I was wrong… we actually have THREE!

A huge thank you to Myra Habbit for also filing an MTO. This means that three separate challenges are now in place to fight TCEQ’s flawed approval of the air permit for Asphalt Inc.’s proposed rock-crushing plant.
📄 You can view a copy of Myra’s MTO on the SaveBurnet.com website by Clicking Here.

More Good News: LCRA Commission Will Review All Three MTOs!
The TCEQ decision has now reached the LCRA Commission, which will be reviewing all three MTOs. This is significant because:

• Very few MTOs actually make it to the commission for review, so this is a positive step forward!
• The review process extends the decision timeline for up to 90 days (May 2nd, 2025).

This additional time gives us more opportunities to fight back and continue making our voices heard.
📄 The official March 13th, 2025, TCEQ letter regarding the MTOs is available on the SaveBurnet.com website under “Air Related Info” & “Deeds, Permits, Applications & Legislation.” You can also view the letter by Clicking Here.

2) Proposed Legacy Oaks Subdivision – Our Stance
Many of you have recently received letters from LCRA regarding a proposed new subdivision, Legacy Oaks, which would be built on the adjacent property next to the proposed rock-crushing plant. Like the rock crusher permit, LCRA is allowing the public to post comments and objections. Copy of the LCRA letter is on the SaveBurnet.com website under the LCRA & Water information page or by Clicking Here to View.

However, after careful consideration, we strongly recommend that we DO NOT protest this subdivision via the LCRA website.
Why?
It all comes down to what is best for our community and our Hill Country:
🚧 A Rock-Crushing Plant? OR 🏡 A Subdivision?
In our opinion, the choice is clear—our community is better off with a subdivision rather than an industrial facility that will create air pollution, water contamination, and blasting impacts.
At a later date, we will provide more information about this process, but for now, we wanted to get this important message out to our 3,000+ supporters.
📄 For more details about the Legacy Oaks Subdivision, visit the SaveBurnet.com website under the "Reference Material" page or Click Here to view and download the documents.
⚠️ Note: Some of the Legacy Oaks files are very large and may take time to download or open.

Stay Strong – We Are Making Great Progress!
These updates show that our efforts are working, and we are gaining ground in our fight to preserve the Texas Hill Country.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support. We will keep pushing forward and making our voices heard.
💪 Together, we are making a difference!
​
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

CORRECTION BELOW

Please accept my apologies for the 2nd email update. I mis-typed LCRA when it should have said TCEQ in my update part 1) highlighted below:

1) Update on the Motions to Overturn (MTO) – We Have THREE!Last week, I shared that we had two Motions to Overturn (MTOs) filed against TCEQ Permit #176835—but I was wrong… we actually have THREE!

A huge thank you to Myra Habbit for also filing an MTO. This means that three separate challenges are now in place to fight TCEQ’s flawed approval of the air permit for Asphalt Inc.’s proposed rock-crushing plant.

📄 You can view a copy of Myra’s MTO on the SaveBurnet.com website by Clicking Here.

More Good News: LCRA   TCEQ Commission Will Review All Three MTOs!
The TCEQ decision has now reached the LCRA  TCEQ Commission, which will be reviewing all three MTOs. This is significant because:

• Very few MTOs actually make it to the commission for review, so this is a positive step forward!
• The review process extends the decision timeline for up to 90 days (May 2nd, 2025).

This additional time gives us more opportunities to fight back and continue making our voices heard.

📄 The official March 13th, 2025, TCEQ letter regarding the MTOs is available on the SaveBurnet.com website under “Air Related Info” & “Deeds, Permits, Applications & Legislation.” You can also view the letter by Clicking Here.

Randy Printz
3610 FM 3509,
Burnet, Texas 78611

SaveBurnet.com
​

update 35 - protect the texas hill country from blasting and destruction!

3/9/25

Below are three Videos and Comments Posted by Jack Wheeler the founder & Operations Manager of Lone Star Paving the dba for Asphalt Inc. LLC.

As a Reminder an Alabama based, publicly traded company called Construction Partners Inc (CPI) has purchased Asphalt Inc. LLC. To contact CPI directly please Click Here for the link. 

As a resident of the Texas Hill Country, I am deeply disgusted by the idea of being thankful for rain solely to enable the devastation of our beautiful landscape for profit.

POST #1. The following video and commentary were recently posted on Jack Wheeler’s LinkedIn page (Click Here for the link). Jack Wheeler, the founder of Asphalt Inc., dba Lone Star Paving, shared:
"It's amazing how the sight and smell of a bonfire can transport you to another time and place. It's as if a distant memory of humans being around the campfire throughout time is ingrained in our DNA. Thankful for the rain to allow us to clear off the next parcel of land and get ready to strip, drill, and blast."

For most of us in the Texas Hill Country, rain is a blessing. We are grateful for the rain because it replenishes our precious water supply, nourishes our plants and trees, and sustains our wildlife. Rain helps keep the dust down, supports our ecosystem, and is a critical resource for our community’s wellbeing.

It is unfathomable to think that anyone would view rain as an opportunity to strip, drill, and blast the natural beauty of this area. This sentiment not only reflects a complete disregard for the environment but also reveals a profit-driven mentality that prioritizes industrial gain over nature’s preservation.

While many of us see rain as a symbol of life and renewal, it is appalling to witness it being celebrated as a means to destroy the very land we cherish. Our mission remains clear: to protect the Texas Hill Country, ensuring that our land, air, and water remain safe and abundant for generations to come.

POST #2. Jack Wheeler of Lone Star Paving - Asphalt Inc. recently posted a video and statement on LinkedIn (view here: Blasting Video) that truly highlights the threat facing our community.
In his own words:
"Drilling and blasting are the first steps in the mining process here at Lone Star Aggregates. We work with Buckley Powder Co. for our blasting needs and are very happy with the results that we are seeing in our production reports. Thanks Buckley for all of your hard work!"

While Asphalt Inc. celebrates its production gains, the Texas Hill Country faces the real risk of destruction. The massive dust clouds and ground-shaking blastsshowcased in the video are more than just production steps—they are a direct threat to:

• Thousands of children attending summer camps nearby.
• Residents living less than a mile away.
• The natural beauty of two state parks, only three miles away.

You may also recall that when TCEQ recently approved the air quality permit for Asphalt Inc., they did not consider any dust abatement from blasting activities.

📢 Where is the government’s protection for our kids, residents, and state parks?
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) mission is to protect public health and natural resources while supporting sustainable economic development. Their goals include achieving:

• Clean air
• Clean water
• Safe waste management

However, the video of blasting operations and the approval of a flawed permit clearly show that TCEQ is not living up to its mission. Instead of protecting the community, TCEQ's decision seems to prioritize industrial profits over public safety.

🚨 Imagine this scenario:

• Blasting operations creating massive dust clouds that settle over camps, homes, and parks.
• Respiratory risks for our children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
• The economic impact of reduced tourism and property value declines.

Now, more than ever, we need your support to hold TCEQ & your State Officials accountable and prevent this dangerous project from moving forward.

POST #3. Jack Wheeler of Lone Star Paving - Asphalt Inc. recently posted another video on LinkedIn, showcasing blasting operations with the following quote:
"Starting the day with a 180-shot explosion is just another day at Lone Star Aggregates!"
🔗 View the post and video here: Blasting Video.

For most of us, the Texas Hill Country represents tranquility, natural beauty, and a peaceful start to the day. We moved here to enjoy nature’s serenity, not to be jolted awake by industrial explosions.
It is unacceptable for this kind of industrial activity to occur so close to residential neighborhoods, children’s camps, and our beloved state parks. The impact of these blasts on our community, air quality, and safety is profoundly concerning.

🚨 We must act now to prevent this from becoming our new normal!
I urge all of you to get involved. Contact your state officials and make your voices heard. Our community deserves better protection from industrial encroachment.

📲 For contact information on all Texas officials, please visit the SaveBurnet.com website or Click Here.
Together, we can preserve the Texas Hill Country, ensuring it remains a safe, beautiful, and peaceful place for generations to come.
​
👉 Please join our cause to protect the Texas Hill Country and if you can... please donate.
Visit SaveBurnet.com to learn more, get involved, and make your voice heard. Together, we can make a difference and safeguard our community for future generations.

update 34 - two motions to overturn filed & Media coverage!

3/7/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,
We have some positive news to share regarding the Motion to Overturn (MTO) filed with TCEQ to challenge the approval of Asphalt Inc.'s Air Quality Permit. The fight to protect our Texas Hill Country is gaining momentum, and we are grateful for your continued support.

1. TWO Motions to Overturn Filed with TCEQ
The good news is that not just one but TWO Motions to Overturn have been filed:

1) State Representative Ellen Troxclair’s MTOWe are fortunate to have such a strong advocate in State Representative Ellen Troxclair, who has consistently supported our efforts to protect the Hill Country. Her MTO highlights the significant health and environmental risks posed by the proposed rock-crushing plant.
📄 To view a copy of Ellen Troxclair’s MTO, visit our SaveBurnet.com website or CLICK HERE.

2) MTO Filed by Attorney Larry G. BlackThe second MTO was filed by the Law Firm of Larry G. Black on behalf of Randy Printz and Nan Manning. Larry Black is an exceptional attorney with a proven track record of successfully litigating cases just like ours.
📢 This MTO calls out critical points, including where TCEQ has failed to perform its duties or live up to its mission statement:

🛡️ TCEQ’s Mission: “To protect public health and natural resources while supporting sustainable economic development.”
Key Highlights of the MTO:

• The need for an environmental study to protect thousands of children from respiratory risks associated with the rock quarry.
• Evidence that TCEQ failed to address critical environmental concerns, including a report from Dr. David L. Mitchell, Ph.D.

📄 To view a copy of this MTO and all of its attachments (A-F), visit our SaveBurnet.com website or CLICK HERE to view just the MTO.
📥 To download Dr. David L. Mitchell’s full report, CLICK HERE.

2. Positive Media Coverage!
Our cause is gaining important media attention, which is critical for raising awareness and keeping the pressure on.
📰 Today in The Highlander:The front page featured an article titled:
🗞️ “State Rep. Takes Steps to Block Crusher Permit”
This is yet another example of how Representative Ellen Troxclair is working tirelessly for her district and all Texans.
📝 Yesterday in The Burnet Bulletin:A thoughtful Letter to the Editor titled:
📰 “Despite Water Restrictions, TCEQ Grants Permit” by Jim and Ginny Jensen of Burnet.
We sincerely thank the Jensens for taking the time to write and share their perspective—it truly makes a difference!
📺 Airing Tonight on FOX7 News:Be sure to tune in to FOX7 with Lauren Rangel at:

•  9 PM, and 10 PM

The segment will provide an overview of our fight to stop the proposed Rock Crushing Plant.
This coverage will help us reach more people and amplify our message.

Stay Strong & Keep the Momentum Going!
As we continue this battle, we need everyone to remain positive and engaged. Each action you take—whether it's writing letters, sharing information, or simply talking to your neighbors--helps our cause.
​
💪 Together, united, we can and will protect our Texas Hill Country from this dangerous rock-crushing plant.
Thank you for being an integral part of this movement. Your voice matters!
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 33 - motion to overturn, water restrictions, air quality monitors & New legislation!

2/28/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have several important updates to share with you, covering the Motion to Overturn (MTO), LCRA water restrictions, air quality monitoring efforts, and a new bill introduced by State Representative Ellen Troxclair to protect our Hill Country.

1) Questions About the TCEQ Letter from Samuel Short
Many of you recently received a letter from Samuel Short, TCEQ’s Deputy Director of the Air Permits Division regarding Permit #176835. We’ve been receiving a lot of questions, so here are some answers:
a) The 23-Day Deadline for Filing a Motion to Overturn (MTO)The letter states that we have 23 days from the date of the letter (February 14th) to file an MTO. However, the postmark was February 20th, and most of us didn’t receive it until February 24th or 25th—meaning nearly half of our response time was lost.
We are currently looking into whether this delay was intentional, simple inefficiency, or incompetence. Regardless, this shortened timeframe makes it harder for multiple MTOs to be filed.
b) Mailing List Header: "PROTESTANTS/INTERESTED PERSONS"The letter includes a header stating "PROTESTANTS/INTERESTED PERSONS: See Attached List", but no list was included. Again, we are investigating whether this was an oversight or something more intentional.
c) Is SaveBurnet.com Filing a Motion to Overturn?✅ Yes! We have drafted an MTO and it will be filed next week. As soon as it is submitted, we will post it on the SaveBurnet.com website for transparency.

2) LCRA’s Plan for Additional Water Restrictions in March 2025
Several Hill Country news outlets (DailyTrib, Burnet Bulletin, Picayune, etc.) have covered LCRA’s upcoming water restrictions, set to take effect in March 2025. You can find details on our SaveBurnet.com website.
Many of you have asked:
❓ How can LCRA continue asking Hill Country residents to conserve water while other Texas agencies are granting permits to Asphalt Inc., allowing them to use over 9,000,000 gallons of water per month—just for dust suppression?
This is yet another reason why the proposed Rock Crushing Plant should not be built in its current location off Hoover Valley Road.

3) TCEQ Admits to Having NO Air Quality Monitors in Burnet County
During public comments, TCEQ publicly admitted that they do not have a single air quality monitor in Burnet County.
Additionally, in TCEQ’s Poor Response #6, they stated:
📌 “Due to cost and logistical constraints, the placement of air monitors is prioritized to provide data on regional air quality in areas frequented by the public.”
Meanwhile, SaveBurnet.com has been actively monitoring air quality:
✅ An Air Quality Monitor has been recording data for over 7 weeks.
✅ Solar-powered remote monitors are being installed around the proposed Rock Crushing Site off Hoover Valley Road.
✅ We just received 4 additional Air Quality Monitors, which will be installed and operational in March.
🔗 Visit SaveBurnet.com to see pictures of the solar units. Click Here, then scroll to the bottom of the page.

4) NEW BILL: State Rep. Ellen Troxclair Introduces House Bill #3482
Great news! Our State Representative Ellen Troxclair has introduced House Bill #3482, which would require environmental impact studies before permits can be issued for quarries or mining operations in sensitive areas.
📌 Key Provisions of HB #3482:
A quarry or mine cannot receive a permit unless a study confirms that it will not harm:
✔ Any lake owned or operated by LCRA (within 4 miles)
✔ The entrances to two or more state parks or caverns (within 4 miles)
✔ A youth camp licensed by the Department of State Health Services (within 2 miles)
When passed, this bill will go into effect in September 2025.
We will continue providing updates as this bill progresses through the legislative process. We are fortunate to have a representative who fights for Texans, and we encourage you to show your support for Ellen Troxclair and this important legislation.
🔗 Visit SaveBurnet.com to access or view House Bill #3482. Click Here. 

Final Thoughts: Stay Engaged & Keep Fighting!
We know this fight is long and challenging, but we must stay strong. The TCEQ Air Permit was expected to be the easiest approval for Asphalt Inc., but we are far from done.
🔥 Our focus is now on the LCRA Permit. We need to ensure that LCRA requires Asphalt Inc. to conduct thorough environmental impact studies before approving any permits.
🚨 We still need more public comments submitted! So far over 2,000 objections have been filed--we are short of our goal!
📢 Make sure you submit your objection! Instructions and a link to the LCRA website are available on SaveBurnet.com.

Thank you all for your unwavering support. This is a battle worth fighting, and together, we will protect our Texas Hill Country!
💚 Stay strong, stay engaged, and keep spreading the word!
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 32 - answering  your questions & Next Steps

2/22/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

First and foremost, thank you for your continued support, comments, and suggestions! Some of your feedback has been extremely helpful, while others brought a smile to our faces—we truly appreciate your passion and dedication to this cause.

Answering Your Most Asked Questions
1. When and Where is the LCRA Public Meeting?
Many of you have asked for details about the upcoming LCRA public meeting where we can voice our concerns.
➡ Answer: No official date, time, or location has been set yet. Based on past timelines, our best guess is that it will be held sometime in April or May. As soon as we have more details, we will notify you immediately and post all updates on SaveBurnet.com.

2. How Can We Defund TCEQ?
While this idea has certainly been suggested, a better approach would be to ask:
👉 How can we hold TCEQ accountable for performing their job per their mission statement?
TCEQ claims their goal is to “protect the public's health and natural resources while supporting economic development”, ensuring clean air, clean water, and safe waste management. However, they have failed to uphold these standards—instead, they have become little more than a rubber-stamp permitting department.

Here’s what we CAN do to hold them accountable:
✅ Contact your elected officials – Their contact information is available on SaveBurnet.com. Make sure they hear your voice loud and clear.
✅ Stay active in the SaveBurnet.com coalition – We need to keep applying pressure and making noise.
✅ Invite friends and family to join the fight – The more people involved, the stronger our movement.

TCEQ Air Permit Approved – But We’re Fighting Back
We always knew that the TCEQ Air Permit would be the easiest one for Asphalt Inc. to obtain. However, this does not mean the fight is over.
🚨 We will be filing a Motion to Overturn TCEQ’s approval of the air permit. 🚨
We will provide more details soon as this initiative progresses. Remember, the remaining permits will be much harder for them to obtain and will take more time.

⏳ Time is money—and our goal is to stretch this process out for years to make it as difficult as possible for Asphalt Inc. Stay steadfast and don’t get discouraged!

Focus on the LCRA Permit – Water Protection Matters!Now, our focus shifts to Asphalt Inc.’s LCRA permit, which determines how they will manage water runoff and prevent contamination to surrounding landowners, businesses, and state parks.

We need EVERYONE to take action!
👉 Submit your concerns to LCRA and demand that they require Asphalt Inc. to conduct thorough environmental assessments before considering permit approval.
📢 As of today, only 2,000 comments have been submitted—we are still short of our goal.
If you have not yet submitted your opposition, please do so immediately! Instructions and a link to the LCRA website are available on SaveBurnet.com.

A Fun Way to Support the Cause – Crossword Puzzle!
To bring some attention to our cause in a fun way, Jonell Kirk has created a custom crossword puzzle related to our fight against the quarry.
🔎 Check it out below! The answers are posted on the SaveBurnet.com homepage (scroll to the bottom).
We hope you enjoy it, and most importantly, stay strong, stay committed, and stay engaged. Together, we WILL protect Burnet County and the Texas Hill Country!

💚 Thank you for being part of this fight!
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 31 - urgent update: tceq approves asphalt inc.'s air quality permit

2/16/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We regret to inform you that TCEQ has officially approved Asphalt Inc.'s Air Quality Permit (#176835) despite overwhelming public opposition. More than 4,880 public comments were submitted against the proposed rock-crushing facility, yet TCEQ managed to reduce nearly 5,000 objections into just 17 questions, providing generic and weak responses in return.

The 17 Key Concerns and TCEQ’s Responses
After reviewing TCEQ’s official response, we have categorized their answers into the following themes:
Category 1: "TCEQ Does Not Have Authority"

• Question 5: Water Concerns, Water Availability, and Other Required Authorizations – TCEQ states that water issues are not within their scope and should be addressed by other agencies.
• Question 11: Location/Zoning/Historic Sites/Local Economy – TCEQ says they have no jurisdiction over land use, zoning, or economic impact.
• Question 12: Truck Traffic/Roads/Public Infrastructure – TCEQ states that it does not regulate road use, traffic, or infrastructure concerns.
• Question 13: Quality of Life/Property Values/Aesthetics – TCEQ claims it cannot consider quality of life, property values, or visual impacts in its decision-making.
• Question 14: Noise/Light/Operating Hours – TCEQ states that noise and light pollution are outside their regulatory scope and should be handled by local authorities.
• Question 15: Quarry/Mining/Blasting – TCEQ admits they do not regulate quarries or blasting activities, which are controlled by other federal agencies.

Category 2: "Cost Prohibitive"

• Question 6: Air Quality Monitors – TCEQ says adding air monitors in Burnet County is not feasible due to cost and logistical constraints.

Category 3: "If a Violation Happens, You Can Report It"

• Question 3: Dust Control/Nuisance/Winds – TCEQ acknowledges potential dust concerns but simply states that if a violation occurs, residents can report it.
• Question 9: Complaints/Violations/Enforcement – TCEQ outlines a complaint process but places the burden on residents to prove violations.

Category 4: "Trust the Process"

• Question 1: Health Effects / Air Quality / Cumulative Effects – TCEQ insists their "protectiveness review" ensures no harm, despite numerous public concerns.
• Question 2: Environmental Concerns – TCEQ says emissions should not exceed national air quality standards and will not harm wildlife or plants.
• Question 4: Environmental Impact Study – TCEQ refuses to conduct additional environmental studies, claiming their existing review is sufficient.
• Question 7: Permit Review Process/Application Representations – TCEQ asserts that their review process is thorough and that applicants are required to be truthful.
• Question 8: Demonstrate Compliance with Permit – TCEQ states that companies must self-monitor and submit reports but does not require third-party verification.
• Question 10: Compliance History – TCEQ reviewed Asphalt Inc.'s compliance history but does not consider violations from other states.
• Question 16: Financial Gain/Corporate Profits – TCEQ says they cannot consider financial motivations when reviewing permits.
• Question 17: TCEQ’s Responsibility to the Community – TCEQ acknowledges public opposition but insists they must approve permits if the applicant meets minimal requirements.

Is This Helpful to Our Cause?
No. TCEQ’s responses fail to adequately address community concerns. Instead, they repeatedly shift responsibility to other agencies, dismiss calls for additional environmental review, and rely on self-regulation by the applicant.

What’s Next?
What Does This Mean for Our Fight?
As we anticipated, TCEQ acted as more of a permitting department than a regulatory agency concerned with public health and environmental protection. However, we must remember that this is only one battle--this was the easiest permit for Asphalt Inc. to obtain, and its approval does not change our strategy.

Our Next Steps

1. Filing a Motion to Overturn – We will now take legal action to challenge the approval of this permit.
2. Focusing on the Next Permits – The LCRA permit is still pending, and we need every supporter to submit opposition comments. Instructions are on SaveBurnet.com.
3. Keeping Up the Fight – We must remain engaged and continue to push back against this facility at every level.

A copy of TCEQ’s approval letter can be found here:
🔗 TCEQ Response to Air Permit #176835

Stay Strong – We Will Make a Difference
We only have one Texas Hill Country, and it is up to us to protect it. Thank you for your continued support, donations, and determination in this fight. Together, we can stop this Rock Crushing facility.

update 30 - Support from State representative ellen troxclair

2/16/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We are pleased to share that State Representative Ellen Troxclair has taken a strong stand in support of our fight to protect Burnet County from the devastating impact of the proposed rock-crushing facility. She is calling on all Texans to oppose this permit and demand hydrological and geological studies before approval.

Ellen recognizes the serious threats this facility poses to Camp Longhorn, Longhorn Caverns State Park, Inks Lake, and surrounding residents. The dust, noise, and water contamination risks are unacceptable, and we must continue to push back.

How You Can Help:
📧 Email LCRA at [email protected] and reference LCRA PERMIT #2024-5606
📢 Clearly state your opposition and request hydrological and geological studies before any permit is approved
🙌 Show support for Ellen by visiting her Facebook page and signing up for updates: Sign Up Here

We have also posted a copy of Ellen’s Facebook statement on SaveBurnet.com. Please take a moment to review it and share with others.

​While we have secured a public meeting, we still need thousands more opposition comments to LCRA. Every voice counts, and we must act now.

​Thank you for your unwavering support in protecting our Texas Hill Country!
— The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 29 - positive movement from our elected officials - keep the momentum going!

2/11/25

​Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have some encouraging news! Our efforts to protect the Texas Hill Country from the harmful impacts of unregulated rock quarries are gaining attention. Our elected officials are starting to take action!

A recent FOX 7 Austin article highlights two new Texas House bills aimed at addressing concerns about rock quarries and their effects on nearby communities. These bills focus on increasing oversight, improving regulations, and protecting residents from the environmental and health risks posed by these operations. This is exactly the kind of legislative attention we need to continue our fight.
📄 Click here to read the full article .

While this is a step in the right direction, our work is far from over. We must keep up the pressure, continue submitting our comments, questions and opposition to the LCRA, and ensure that lawmakers understand the full impact of these operations on our land, air, and water.

Thank you for your unwavering support, dedication, and donations—we could not do this without you! Together, we are making a difference.
Stay engaged, stay vocal, and stay strong!

​With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 28 - public meeting update, extended comment deadline, air quality monitoring efforts & request for donations

2/7/25

​Dear Save Burnet Supporters,

We have several important updates to share in our fight to protect our Texas Hill Country:

LCRA Public Meeting Confirmed – Date TBD
LCRA has officially confirmed that a Public Meeting will be held regarding Asphalt Inc.’s permit application. However, the date, time, location, speaking rules, and meeting format have not yet been set. As soon as we have these details, we will inform you immediately.

Opposition Comment Deadline Extended
The original Feb. 7th deadline has been extended until the close of the Public Meeting. That means there is still time to submit opposition comments! If you, your family, or your neighbors have not yet done so, please act now. Every comment counts.

Air Quality Monitoring – Taking Action Where TCEQ Has Not
Shockingly, TCEQ does not have a single air quality monitor in Burnet County—but we do!
✅ Active Monitor: SaveBurnet.com has already set up an air quality monitor on Hoover Valley Road.
✅ Upcoming Monitor: This month, we will install a second monitor in Spicewood next to the existing Asphalt Inc. rock crushing plants.
✅ More Coming Soon: We have purchased four additional air quality monitors that will be installed across the surrounding area.
All of these monitors will be added to the national air quality map and made publicly available for everyone to track.

We Need Your Help – Donate to Protect Our Hill Country
To continue our efforts, we need funding for:
🔹 Additional air quality monitors
🔹 Ads in local newspapers to spread awareness
🔹 Updated signs and posters to inform the community

Please remember that SaveBurnet.com is a fully volunteer-run effort—our committee and staff are working pro bono and have not taken a single dollar for their services.

If you believe in preserving our land, air, and water, please consider donating to this important cause. Every contribution makes a difference!

Thank You for Your Support!
We are incredibly grateful for the loyal and passionate community standing together to protect our Texas Hill Country.
Together, we can and will make a difference.

​- The SaveBurnet,com Team

update 27 - encouraging news - lcra asking tough questions & Public meeting confirmed!

2/3/25

​Dear Save Burnet Supporters,

We have some good news to share in our ongoing fight to protect our Texas Hill Country!

1) LCRA is Asking the Right Questions
While the TCEQ response has been slow and unhelpful, LCRA appears to be taking a more thorough and technical approach in reviewing Asphalt Inc.'s permit application.
LCRA has submitted a detailed review letter with 64 technical questions that Asphalt Inc. and their engineering firm (Westward) must address.
To view or download a copy of this letter, visit SaveBurnet.com:
📌 Go to "Reference Material" in the navigation menu
📌 Select "Water Related Info"
📌 Find "LCRA’s Review Letter Submitted to Asphalt Inc."

2) Comment Deadline Extended & Public Meeting Confirmed!
More good news: The Feb. 7th deadline for submitting opposition comments has been extended until the close of the Public Meeting! That means we have more time to submit concerns and opposition to LCRA.

3) Keep Submitting Your Opposition & Concerns
We must continue sending LCRA our opposition comments. To help spark ideas, we are sharing a letter from William "Bill" McCartney, who raised a great question:
"What happens when temperatures drop below freezing? Will the rock crushing plant stop spraying water and shut down? Or will they continue running while failing to control dust pollution?"
Bill's letter is attached and is just one of many valid concerns that need to be addressed. If you have questions, now is the time to submit them to LCRA. Do not wait—send yours in today!

4) KXAN News Coverage Tonight
KXAN will be airing a special segment tonight covering the impact this proposed rock crushing plant will have on our groundwater supply and the risk of contaminated runoff flowing into Inks Lake and Lake LBJ. Be sure to tune in and help spread the word!

Call to Action
We are making progress, but we cannot slow down now. Keep submitting your comments, encouraging your neighbors to do the same, and staying engaged.

As always, we are incredibly grateful for your support, donations, and dedication to protecting our Hill Country.
Together, we are stronger!
  - The Save Burnet Team  

​

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update 26 - keep the pressure on - we need more opposition comments!

1/31/25

Dear Save Burnet Supporters,

First and foremost, thank you to everyone who has submitted their opposition and requested a public meeting with the LCRA! Your voices have made a difference—with over 1,000 comments submitted, LCRA will hold a public meeting.
However, our work is far from over.

We set a goal of 5,000 comments, and we are still way behind. While a public meeting is secured, we need thousands more comments to ensure that LCRA takes this issue seriously and conducts necessary hydrological and geological studies before considering Asphalt Inc.'s permit application.

Why This Matters
We cannot allow the possibility of contaminated runoff water from this rock crushing plant to flow into Inks Lake and the fish hatchery at Lake LBJ. If we do not keep pushing, this permit could be approved without proper environmental oversight.

What You Need to Do Right Now:
✅ Submit your opposition to LCRA (visit SaveBurnet.com for instructions and links).
✅ When submitting, include these three critical points:
1️⃣ Your opposition to the permit.
2️⃣ A request for a Public Meeting.
3️⃣ A request for hydrological and geological studies before the permit is approved.
✅ Encourage at least 5 others (friends, family, neighbors) to submit their comments.
✅ Share this message on social media and within your community.

Strength in Numbers
We have the momentum, but we must keep pushing. The more opposition we generate, the harder it will be for LCRA to ignore the serious risks this project poses to our land, water, and way of life.
Time is running out—submit your opposition today!
​
Thank you for standing with us in this fight. God bless Texas, and God bless America.
- The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 25 - urgent: submit your opposition to lcra permit before february 7th!

1/24/25

Dear Save Burnet Supporters,

The time is now to take action and make your voice heard! The deadline to submit your opposition and request a public meeting with LCRA regarding Asphalt Inc.'s permit application is February 7th, 2025. We are targeting 5,000+ submissions opposing this permit, and your participation is critical to achieving that goal.

For additional details about the dangers of this permit, including its impact on groundwater usage and water runoff, we encourage you to view the presentation on the SaveBurnet.com website. CLICK HERE to go directly to the webpage and scroll down to the section titled "Water Concerns Related to the Proposed Rock Crushing Plant at 3221 FM 3509, Burnet Texas."

This permit is even more important than the TCEQ air permit. If approved, it would allow Asphalt Inc. to jeopardize our way of life and the pristine beauty of our Texas Hill Country. Please don’t delay—file your comments today! 

You can  CLICK HERE for the link that will take you to the LCRA website. Additional information on submitting your comments is also available on the SaveBurnet.comwebsite.

Exciting News: Our First Air Monitor Is Live!
We are thrilled to share that our first air monitor is now operational, and live air quality data is available on the SaveBurnet.com website. CLICK HERE to go directly to the Air Quality Map page and see the results in real-time.
In the coming weeks, we will be installing additional monitors across Burnet County and improving the website to give our community even better access to critical air quality information. This is a vital step in holding companies like Asphalt Inc. accountable for the environmental impact of their operations.

Call to Action
We cannot overstate how important it is for each and every one of us to submit comments opposing Asphalt Inc.'s LCRA permit and to request a public meeting. There is strength in numbers, and our success depends on all of us acting together.

Please share this message with your family, friends, and neighbors—encourage them to join us in protecting our Texas Hill Country.

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we will protect the air, water, and land that make our community special.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Let’s reach that 5,000-comment goal and show LCRA that Burnet County stands united!
​
With determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 24 - fighting for clean air and water

​1/18/25

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We hope this message finds you well. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to protecting our community. Here are important updates regarding the ongoing efforts to stop the proposed rock-crushing plant and protect the air and water in Burnet County.

1. TCEQ Air Quality Permit #176835
Many of you have asked about the status of TCEQ’s Air Quality Permit #176835. As of now, TCEQ has not made a decision.
According to the Texas Administrative Code and TCEQ’s Public Interest Counsel, the Executive Director has 60 days to make a decision after the last public comment period ends. For this permit, that deadline appears to be February 7th, 2025.
Remember, this air permit is the easiest permit to obtain in this process. Please stay tuned, and we’ll notify you as soon as we hear any updates.

2. Air Quality Monitors
One of the most critical revelations from the December 10th public meeting was the acknowledgment by a TCEQ representative that Burnet County does not have a single air quality monitor. TCEQ stated that the closest monitoring station is in Leander, TX. After further investigation, TCEQ's closest Air Monitoring station is in Austin, upwind and over 45 miles away!
This is unacceptable for Burnet County, which is the second-fastest-growing county in Texas and already has over 15 active Aggregate Production Operations (APOs) in operation. How is TCEQ monitoring and enforcing the current air quality standards?
To address this gap, the SaveBurnet committee has taken action:
·        We have purchased and are installing air quality monitors in multiple locations across Burnet County to establish a baseline for air quality.
·        Monitors will also be installed near all operational Asphalt Inc. APO sites.
By next month, you’ll be able to log in to our website and view real-time air quality data. A summary of  TCEQ's air monitoring stations and additional insights are available on our website—please click here and then scroll down to "TCEQ Air Monitoring Stations (none in Burnet County)" to review the presentation.
We’ll share more about the air monitoring efforts in future updates.

3. Importance of Opposing the LCRA Permit
Many of you have seen signs around Burnet County urging residents and businesses to conserve water due to dangerously low water levels. Some wells have gone dry, forcing residents to haul water or rely on rainwater collection.
The introduction of a rock-crushing plant will place an enormous strain on local water resources. At the December 10th public meeting, Ben Liggett, COO of Asphalt Inc., was asked how much water the proposed plant would use. His response: He did not know.
Based on Asphalt Inc.’s Air Permit #176835, we estimate the plant could use 648,000 to 9,720,000 gallons of water per month—equivalent to the water usage of a subdivision with 100 to 1,000 homes. Detailed calculations are available on our website—please click here  and then scroll down to "Water Usage Calculation for Dust Abatement only" to review.
It’s critical that you submit your opposition to LCRA and request a public meeting. Instructions and additional details are on the SaveBurnet.com website.

Together, We Can Make a Difference
This fight is about more than opposing one rock-crushing plant. It’s about protecting the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country for generations to come.
Unity is our strength. By working together as a united team, we can preserve our precious Hill Country. Every comment, every action, and every voice matters.

Thank you for staying engaged and committed for the long haul. Together, we will protect the place we call home.

With gratitude and determination,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 23 - a united effort to protect texas hill country in 2025

1/10/25

​​Dear Save Burnet Supporters,

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year! Your incredible support throughout 2024 has been the backbone of our efforts, and we couldn’t have come this far without you. As we step into 2025, your dedication will be more vital than ever as we continue our fight to protect our beloved Hill Country.

Important Update on LCRA Permit
Last night, we sent out Update #22 in a hurry to ensure you had the opportunity to log on to the LCRA website and submit your comments. If you missed it, don’t worry! The instructions and links to the LCRA website mentioned in Update #22 are now available on our website, SaveBurnet.com.
On our website, you’ll also find a copy of the 65-page LCRA application and the official notice that many of you who live near the proposed quarry site will receive in the mail today or tomorrow.

What You Need to Know
Many of you have asked whether this application is different from the previous one you commented on. The answer is yes.

• Previous Permit (176835): Related to Air Quality, filed with TCEQ.
• Current Application (#2024-5606 ): Filed with LCRA and pertains to watershed ordinance requirements.

While the permits address different aspects of the proposed rock-crushing plant, the process for submitting your comments remains similar.

How You Can Take Action

1. Visit the link provided in the flyer or on SaveBurnet.com.
2. Submit your opposition to the application.
3. Request a public meeting.

It’s crucial that we gather as many comments and public meeting requests as possible. While the LCRA website will be open for a couple of weeks, submitting your comments sooner rather than later strengthens our position.

Together, We Can Make a Difference
This fight is about more than just a rock-crushing plant; it’s about preserving the safety, health, and beauty of our Hill Country for future generations. Your voice matters, and your unity is our greatest strength.
Also, if you haven’t seen it yet, The Daily Tribune published a compelling article today titled "Rock Crusher applies for LCRA permit." Be sure to check it out for additional context.

Thank you for standing with us. Let’s keep up the momentum and show the strength of our community.

With gratitude and hope,
The SaveBurnet.com Committee
SaveBurnet.com

update 22 - urgent call to action, please see attached flyer for details

1/9/25

Dear Followers of SaveBurnet.com,

Please read the attached flyer, we need everyone to provide LCRA your comments / objections and request a public meeting.

Additional information is also available at the SaveBurnet.com website.

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Committee

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update 21 - important information about central texas groundwater conservation district

​12/20/25

​Dear Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

As we’ve previously shared, obtaining a TCEQ air quality permit is one of the easiest steps for a proposed rock quarry. Unfortunately, this process does not rely on localized data, as there is not a single TCEQ air quality monitor in Burnet County. While we will continue to oppose the air permit, our focus is shifting toward the upcoming water permit, where we see an opportunity to protect our resources and make a greater impact.

Collaborating with Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District
We are actively working with the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD) to map existing wells near the proposed quarry site. CTGCD plans to monitor four deep water wells surrounding the area to assess the potential impact of quarry operations on our groundwater.
Here’s an update on the progress:

• Well Monitoring Progress:  My well at 3610 FM 3509 and another well owned by one of our supporters who also lives on FM 3509 have already been tested in preparation for ongoing monitoring.
• Additional Locations Needed: CTGCD has identified two more wells to monitor, one on Patton Trail and another on FM 3509. We’ve contacted the owners of these wells and are awaiting their response.

Why Allow Your Well to Be Monitored?

1. Know Your Water Level and Depth: The water table in Burnet County has been dropping by 2-5 feet annually. Testing your well now will provide crucial insights into its current depth and water level, helping you predict its long-term health and sustainability.
2. Establish a Baseline for Future Protection: If, in the unfortunate event the quarry becomes operational and wells in the area begin to dry up, having a baseline record of your well’s depth and water levels will be invaluable. This data is critical in litigation and can help protect your rights as a property owner.

CTGCD: A Valuable Partner, Not a Threat
CTGCD’s role is to evaluate and manage water resources responsibly. They are not here to monitor your personal water usage but to help ensure sustainable groundwater for all. Their partnership offers an opportunity to gather essential data about the health of our aquifers and the impact of potential developments.

To learn more about CTGCD, we’ve included their contact information and a link to their website, where you can view all wells currently on record. Many wells in the area are unregistered or have outdated contact details.

How You Can Help:

• Register Your Well: Contact CTGCD to ensure your well is listed and your contact information is up to date.
• Free Well Measurements: CTGCD offers free measurements of your well’s depth and water level. Take advantage of this service to better understand your well’s status. The nice young man that came out and measured our wells was "Shrader Davis".
• Reach Out: If you have concerns about working with CTGCD, visit their office on the Burnet City square or give them a call (contact information is below). They are approachable and committed to helping our community. 

Moving Forward Together
Whether we win or lose the air permit battle, we remain united in our commitment to challenging the proposed rock quarry and protecting our beautiful Texas Hill Country. Together, we will make a difference and safeguard our water, air, and land for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support,
SaveBurnet.com Team
​
P.S. Visit the CTGCD website to learn more about their work and see how you can get involved: 
Click HERE to access the CTGCD contact information.
Click HERE to access the CTGCD well location map

update 20 - summary of the december 10th tceq meeting

12/21/24

​Dear Supporters,

Thank you for your continued commitment to protecting Burnet County from the environmental and health risks posed by the proposed quarry and rock crushing facility on Hoover Valley Road. We know many of you were unable to attend the public meeting on December 10th, so here’s a summary of what transpired.

The meeting, hosted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), was a powerful display of community engagement. Approximately 800 people attended, with 550 signing in and 100 registering to speak. Due to the meeting extending well past 11:00 PM, some speakers had to leave, but a total of 91 individuals voiced their objections to the permit application.

One of our Committee members, William McCartney, wrote a compelling Op-Ed that not only summarizes the meeting but also highlights critical facts that were revealed. His piece is included below for your reference.

We are also thrilled to share that the total number of comments submitted to TCEQ on permit #176835 has now surpassed 4,800, setting a new state record! This achievement reflects the strength of our community and the urgency of this issue. We sincerely thank all who submitted comments, attended the meeting, and spoke passionately on behalf of our shared cause.
A special thank you goes to William McCartney for his insightful Op-Ed, which underscores the importance of holding TCEQ accountable for protecting our air quality.

William McCartney’s Op-Ed:  TCEQ representatives stated that the only issue under consideration at this time is the impact the proposed quarry would have on air quality. While opponents voiced concerns about water runoff issues, significant negative impacts on aquifers (with estimated water usage of roughly 50,000 gallons per hour or 400,000 gallons over an 8-hour period and up to 600,000 gallons over a 12-hour operating day), and other environmental hazards, TCEQ made it clear that these issues would only be addressed after the current application is approved. During the meeting, one of the Commission’s representatives made a stunning admission that should spark outrage among policymakers and residents—not just in Burnet County, but across the state. TCEQ admitted that there are no air quality monitors in Burnet County or the surrounding area. The agency tasked with protecting the quality of Texas air collects no data in an area saturated with rock crushing operations, which are known to release pollutants into the air. One speaker mentioned that there may be a single air monitor in Llano and perhaps one in Cedar Park, but none in Burnet County itself. This is, frankly, beyond belief. Anyone who has driven through Burnet County knows the area is home to numerous quarry and rock crushing operations. For example, driving along Highway 281 between Marble Falls and Burnet reveals a string of rock crushers on the east side. Additionally, there are multiple quarries on Fairland Road and along Highways 71 and 29, as well as in other locations. Despite the presence of these operations—discharging dust containing harmful particulates, including carcinogens—TCEQ does not monitor the air quality in Burnet County. Now, the agency is on the verge of approving another rock crushing facility without the ability to tell residents whether the county’s air quality already exceeds acceptable limits. These quarries may already pose a severe health risk, yet the regulatory agency charged with safeguarding Texas’ air quality has no way of determining whether the existing operations are endangering public health. TCEQ—do the right thing. Put this application on hold until air monitoring equipment is installed and sufficient time is given to establish an air quality baseline for the air that we, our animals, and our vegetation depend on to survive. Protecting air quality is your responsibility. It’s time to act.  

Let’s keep this momentum going! Your voices are making a difference, and together, we can demand better for our community and future generations.
Thank you for standing with us.

Warm regards,
SaveBurnet.com Team

update 19 - urgent update: submit your comments to Tceq during tonight's public meeting

12/10/24

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We have an important update for those who are unable to attend tonight’s TCEQ Public Meeting in person:

TCEQ will allow written comments to be submitted on their website during the meeting. This means you still have a couple of hours to make your voice heard while the meeting is taking place. However, time is short! As soon as the meeting is adjourned, the opportunity to submit comments via the TCEQ website will close.

Here’s how to submit your comments:
1️⃣ Use this link: TCEQ Online Comment Submission
2️⃣ Enter Permit Number: 176835
3️⃣ Complete the form and submit your comments.
Important Note, don't forget to hit submit at the bottom of the TCEQ page.

In your comments, please make sure to voice your strong opposition to the proposed rock crushing plant and explain the impact it would have on our community, environment, and health.

This is your chance to make a difference, even if you cannot attend the meeting in person. Together, we can protect our beautiful Hill Country and preserve it for future generations.

Thank you for your quick action and continued support!

In solidarity,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 18 - new additions to saveburnet.com + important reminder for tomorrow's public meeting

12/9/24

​Dear Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

We’re thrilled to share three exciting updates now available on the SaveBurnet.com website:

1️⃣ New Presentation Mapping Quarry Impacts:
One of our dedicated supporters has created a detailed presentation that maps and provides statistics on other rock crushing quarries. This resource highlights the alarming proximity (just 3 miles) of the proposed quarry site to two state parks and the Highland Lakes water supply.

2️⃣ Geological Map from Tyson Broad:
Tyson Broad has provided a geological map of Hoover Valley Road, showing the proposed site of the rock crushing plant along with fault lines in the area. This critical information underscores the potential risks to our land and water.

3️⃣ Download “Between a Rock and a Hard Place” – Our New Anthem:
We are proud to share the hit song, "Between a Rock and a Hard Place," written by Burnet’s own talented Randy Wright and performed by Jeff Haese. This song champions our cause and opposes the proposed quarry. Download it now at SaveBurnet.com and let it inspire you as we continue this fight!

🎤 TOMORROW’S PUBLIC MEETING – MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!
This is a crucial moment in our efforts. We need everyone to show up in full force to make an impact. Here are the details:
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Time: Meeting begins at 7:00 PM (arrive 20–40 minutes early to sign up to speak)
Location: Hill Country Fellowship Church, 200 Houston Clinton Drive, Burnet, TX 78611
Speaker Sign-Up:

• Arrive early if you wish to speak sooner, as the sign-up order determines when you will be called.

Meeting Format:

• First Part: Ask questions directed at TCEQ and the applicant. (These will not be documented by TCEQ)
• Second Part: Share your concerns and opinions (up to 3 minutes per speaker and will be documented by TCEQ).

Even Brief Statements Matter:
Your presence and voice are powerful! Even if your statement is as simple as giving your name and saying you oppose the plant, it makes a difference. The goal is to have as many voices as possible speaking out against this quarry.

💚 Wear Green for Unity
We ask everyone to wear green—preferably your “Stop the Rock Crusher” T-shirts (available on our website). A unified sea of green will send a powerful message to officials, the applicant, and the media.
​
Together, We Are Stronger
We are at a critical juncture, but together, we can protect our community, our state parks, and the beautiful Texas Hill Country for generations to come. Each of us has a role to play, and by standing united, we can overcome this challenge.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you all tomorrow. Let’s make our voices heard loud and clear!

In unity and hope,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 17 - important information from lbca supporting our fight

12/5/24

Dear SaveBurnet.com Supporters,

We are forwarding an important email from the Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance (LBCA), a dedicated organization committed to protecting the Highland Lakes community. LBCA has been a steadfast supporter of SaveBurnet.com’s efforts to oppose the proposed rock-crushing plant, and we are fortunate to have them as an ally in this fight.

In this email, LBCA provides detailed and valuable insights, including:

• The proximity of key Texas landmarks to the proposed rock-crushing plant site, highlighting the potential risks to these cherished areas.
• The alarming state of the ongoing drought and low water flow into the Highland Lakes, which amplifies the potential environmental impact of the plant.
• A summary of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s letter to TCEQ, which raises serious concerns about adverse impacts on Texas fish and wildlife resources, the outdoor environment, and the health of park visitors.

We encourage you to take the time to read LBCA’s detailed analysis. Their work is invaluable, and their support strengthens our cause. Please consider supporting LBCA as they continue to advocate for the health and well-being of our community.

​Together, with allies like LBCA, we are building a coalition strong enough to protect our Hill Country for generations to come.

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance <[email protected]>
Date: Wed, Dec 4, 2024 at 11:15 PM
Subject: Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance Special Action Alert - Rock Crushing Plant - TCEQ Public Meeting Notice
To: <[email protected]>

To: Save Burnet, Randy Printz
Hi everyone,
This is a special action alert. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has scheduled a public meeting concerning the proposed rock crushing plant on FM 3509. Lots of information.  Please read to the end.
Here is the time and location:
Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 7:00 PM
Hill Country Fellowship
200 Houston Clinton Drive
Burnet, Texas 78611
We need to have as many supporters in attendance as possible. Please plan to arrive early and WEAR GREEN to show our solidarity.
The meeting will be broken down into two parts.
First, a question and answer session. Questions and answers are informational only and will not be considered in the final decision.
Second, is a formal comment period. There will be a table at the front to sign up to speak. Speakers will be given 3 min each.  Comments WILL BE considered during the decision process. 
Three minute time slots go by in a flash. Please have comments written and ready to present.
Here are a few, but not all the talking points to consider.
1. "Save Burnet" is the name of the excellent coalition formed to protest this proposal. However, the affected area is much larger than Burnet County and, as shown below, encompasses the entire Lake Buchanan area along with much of Llano County. It also affects Northwestern Travis County.
2. This proposal affects the most environmentally sensitive area in the Highland Lakes Region. (see below)
3. The dust produced by this plant would devastate the grape crops of at least five vineyards in Burnet, Llano and Travis Counties.
4. The plant would directly affect the environmental quality of Inks Lake State Park, which is one of the most beautiful, and most visited of all Texas State Parks.
5. The Longhorn Cavern Park and cave system is within three miles of the proposed site. The explosions required to mine the rocks would be devastating to this nearly 100 year old Texas gem built in the 1930's by the CCC.
6. Dust produced by the plant can travel up to 30 miles. Smaller particles can travel up to 50 miles.
7. A rock crushing plant uses 1.5 million gallons of water per month, or the equivalent usage of 265 families.
8. Currently, there is not a published plan to deal with the used water?
9. The Highland Lakes and the groundwater beneath them are the main source of drinking water for the Austin and Central Texas Region. We are already in a prolonged, severe drought situation. Every drop counts.
10. Beside drinking water, The Highland Lakes system also provides water for agriculture.
11. Truck traffic from the plant would very adversly affect the already congested roads in the area.

There will be more on this to come.  Please go to https://www.saveburnet.com/for updated information

Here is a copy of the protest letter from LBCA that was hand delivered to the TCEQ office:

Texas Parks and Wildlife has written a formal letter raising "concerns regarding potential adverse impacts on the fish and wildlife resources of Texas, as well as impacts to the outdoor environment and the health of Park visitors". 
Here is their letter:

Again, please come let your voice be heard. Please be there early and be sure to WEAR GREEN in solidarity.

Your continued support is so much appreciated!

If you are interested in becoming a member, you may download our membership application here:
Membership Applications

Please follow us on social media here:
Facebook:
LBCA Facebook
Twitter:
LBCA Twitter - X

Please consider joining with us.  With your help, we have a chance to do something important for our community.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
The Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance
Copyright © 2024 Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our Contact information is:
Phone: 512-775-3689 or 512-441-5606
[email protected]

Lake Buchanan Communities Alliance
PO Box 11
Buchanan Dam, TX 78609
Add us to your address book

update 16 - continuing the fight together

12/2/24

​We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, filled with family, gratitude, and joy. As we reflect on what we are thankful for, we want to recognize you, our incredible supporters, for your unwavering commitment to preserving our beloved Texas Hill Country.

Preparation Session: December 3rd
As the critical December 10th TCEQ Public Meeting approaches, we want to remind you that SaveBurnet.com has rented the Reed Building for a dry run session:

• Date & Time: Sunday, December 3rd, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Location: Reed Building, 402 E. Jackson Street, Burnet, TX 78611

This is a valuable opportunity for anyone planning to speak at the meeting. You can practice, refine, or even seek guidance on your presentation. The SaveBurnet.com committee will be on hand to provide support and answer any questions.

TCEQ Public Meeting: December 10th
This meeting is critical, and we need a massive turnout to make an impact. Here are the details:

• Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024
• Time: Meeting begins at 7:00 PM (arrive 20-40 minutes early to sign up to speak)
• Location: Hill Country Fellowship Church, 200 Houston Clinton Drive, Burnet, TX 78611

Speaker Sign-Up
Many have asked about speaking early. Please note that the order of speakers is determined by the sign-up sheet, so arrive early if you wish to speak sooner.

• First Part of the Meeting: Ask questions directed at TCEQ and the applicant.
• Second Part of the Meeting: Share your concerns and opinions (up to 3 minutes per speaker).

Remember: Even a brief statement is impactful. Simply giving your name and stating your opposition to the plant is incredibly effective. The goal is to have as many voices as possible.

Show Up in Green
We ask that everyone wear green to the meeting—preferably your “Stop the Rock Crusher” T-shirts (available on our website). This visual display of unity will send a powerful message to local and state officials, the applicant, and the media.

Growing Momentum and Support
Our coalition continues to grow, and our message is being heard. Texas Parks and Wildlife has joined our fight, submitting a formal letter to TCEQ and confirming their participation at the December 10th public meeting. (Please see attached Letter, which is also posted on the SaveBurnet.com website)

The Fight Is Just Beginning
As a reminder, the TCEQ Air Permit is just the first hurdle. Regardless of the outcome, this is only the beginning of a longer battle to protect our Hill Country. Asphalt Inc./Construction Partners Inc. will face numerous obstacles in the coming years, and with your steadfast support, we will be there every step of the way to oppose their efforts.

Together, We Can Make a Difference
Let’s stand as one united team to protect the landmarks, natural beauty, and way of life that make our Texas Hill Country so special. With your help, we can stop this rock-crushing plant and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued dedication. Together, we will prevail.

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

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update 15 - a big thank you and final push for december 10th

11/22/24

To our incredible supporters,

First, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has volunteered to speak at the upcoming TCEQ meeting and to those who have worked tirelessly to distribute thousands of meeting flyers. Your dedication is making a real difference.

For those who still need flyers, a downloadable copy is available on the SaveBurnet.com website (located at the bottom of the "Take Action" page). Please share it widely with your neighbors, friends, and local businesses to help us spread the word.

Strength in Numbers: December 10th TCEQ Meeting
As we approach the December 10th TCEQ Public Meeting, it cannot be stressed enough how critical it is to have a huge turnout. We need as many people as possible to sign up and speak to ensure our voices are heard. As of today we have confirmed the we will have speakers and representation from the following offices:

• Willie Gonzalez - Pete Flores office - State Senator 
• Stacy Smith & Ciara Hall, Ellen Troxclair’s office- State Representative
• Jim Luther, Precinct 1 Commissioner
•  Martha Tyroch, Dawn Buckingham's Office,  Texas Land Commissioner
• Gary Wideman, Mayor of Burnet
• James Oakley, Burnet County Judge
  

Meeting Details:

• Date & Time: Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM
• Location: Hill Country Fellowship Church, 200 Houston Clinton Drive, Burnet, TX 78611
• Arrival Time: Please arrive 20–40 minutes early to sign up to speak.

Speaking Guidelines:The meeting will have two parts:

1. Informal Discussion Period: Ask questions about the permit and operations.
2. Formal Comment Period: Speak for up to 3 minutes to voice your concerns.

Your speech does not have to be long. Simply stating your name and expressing your opposition to the plant is incredibly impactful. The goal is to have a large number of speakers to show the depth of community opposition.

Preparation Session: December 3rd
To help you feel confident, we have rented the Reed Building for a dry-run session:

• Date & Time: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 4:00–7:00 PM
• Location: Reed Building, 402 E. Jackson Street, Burnet, TX 78611

The SaveBurnet.com committee will be there to assist with speech preparation and answer any questions.

What’s Coming Next

• Starting next week, look for half-page ads in local newspapers, as well as advertisements and commentary in our community papers and on local radio stations.
• Large 4'x4' signs announcing the December 10th meeting will begin appearing around town in the coming days, similar to the one pictured below.

Let’s Show Our Unity
Please wear green to the meeting and, if possible, your green “Stop the Rock Crusher” T-shirts. These shirts are available through our website.
​
Together, we are sending a clear message: Our community stands united in protecting the Texas Hill Country.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment and hard work. Let’s keep the momentum strong and make December 10th a day of action and solidarity.

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Committee

update 14 - let's make a stand on december 10th!

11/15/24

​To all SaveBurnet.com supporters,

The TCEQ Public Meeting on December 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM, is a pivotal moment in our fight to stop the proposed rock crushing plant. We need every single one of you to show up, stand united, and make your voices heard.

Strength in Numbers
A large turnout will send a powerful message about our community’s opposition to this project. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors—this is the time to act.
As a show of unity, we are asking everyone to wear green, preferably your green “Stop the Rock Crusher” T-shirts. If you don’t have one yet, visit our website for ordering information.

Meeting Details

• Date & Time: Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM
• Location: Hill Country Fellowship Church, 200 Houston Clinton Drive, Burnet, TX 78611
• Arrival Time: Please arrive 20–40 minutes early to sign up to speak.

Speaking at the Meeting
The meeting will be divided into two parts:

1. Informal Discussion Period: Ask questions about the permit and operations.
2. Formal Comment Period: Each speaker will have up to 3 minutes to voice their opposition.

You don’t need to use the full 3 minutes. A simple statement of your name and your opposition to the plant is incredibly valuable. The more speakers we have, the stronger our message.

Prepare with Us
To help everyone feel confident, we’ve rented the Reed Building for a dry-run session:

• Date & Time: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 4:00–7:00 PM
• Location: Reed Building, 402 E. Jackson Street, Burnet, TX 78611

The SaveBurnet.com committee will be there to answer questions and provide guidance for your presentation.

Help Spread the Word
We’re printing new flyers this weekend to announce the December 10th meeting. While we have volunteers covering local neighborhoods, we need more help distributing flyers to local businesses and asking them to display them in their windows.
If you can volunteer to hand out flyers, please sign up in the comments section of our website and indicate your interest. A committee member will contact you with further instructions.

Let’s Save Our Hill Country
Remember, there is strength in numbers. Together, we can stop this project and preserve the beauty of our Texas Hill Country. Show up, speak out, and stay united—we will prevail!
Thank you for your continued dedication. Let’s make December 10th a day to remember!

Sincerely,
The SaveBurnet.com Team

update 13 - working together to protect our hill country

11/1/24

​Dear Supporters,

Update on Construction Partners Inc.
In update #12 we covered the recent acquisition of Asphalt Inc. LLC by Construction Partners Inc. (CPI). Currently our legal team is working tirelessly to find the best avenues to engage with the new owner "CPI". Our aim is to educate CPI on the significant political and environmental impacts their proposed rock-crushing plant would have on the unique beauty of our Texas Hill Country and nearby state parks. We are committed to making sure they fully understand the risks and community concerns around this project.

Help Us Protect Our Environment: Identifying Endangered Bird Species
You can support our cause by helping to identify any endangered bird species in the Burnet, Texas area. Documenting the presence of these birds can help protect critical habitat and provide a stronger case against the quarry. To aid in this effort, we recommend using the Merlin Bird ID app, an easy-to-use tool developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology that helps users identify birds in real time.
How to Get Started with Merlin Bird IDDownload the Merlin App:

• For Android: Go to the Google Play Store and search for Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab.
• For iPhone: Go to the Apple App Store and search for Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab.

Once installed, simply open the app and follow the prompts to download a bird pack for your region (choose Texas for the most relevant results). To identify a bird, just answer a few questions about its color, size, and location or upload a photo if possible. While using the microphone on your phone Merlin will provide likely matches, helping you confirm the species.

Why Your Observations Matter
By helping us track endangered species like the Golden-cheeked Warbler, already spotted in our area, you’ll be contributing valuable information to our conservation efforts. Camp Buckner, just a few miles away, has already identified two endangered species, the Fan-tailed Hawk and Yellow-billed Cuckoo, on their property. Your findings could be crucial for strengthening our case to preserve this land.

Keeping the Momentum Going
We deeply appreciate your donations to our GoFundMe page and the checks mailed in. Every contribution fuels our efforts, allowing us to keep up this important fight. Your support is what keeps us moving forward.

Together, we can and will stop this rock quarry from being built. Thank you for standing with us to protect the beauty of Burnet.

With gratitude,
The SaveBurnet.com Committee
SaveBurnet.com

update 12 - asphalt inc., llc purchased by construction partners inc.

10/25/24

Dear Followers of SaveBurnet.com,

We wanted to take a moment to update you on a significant development regarding the company seeking to build a rock crushing plant off of Hoover Valley Road. Asphalt Inc., LLC has recently been acquired by a large publicly traded company known as Construction Partners Inc. (NASDAQ: ROAD).

Overview of Construction Partners Inc.
Construction Partners Inc. is a leading infrastructure company specializing in the production of asphalt and other construction materials. The firm operates numerous locations across the southeastern United States and is focused on growth and expansion, particularly within Texas. Their strategic vision includes increasing their production capacity to meet the demands of a rapidly growing market. This acquisition raises questions about what it may mean for our cause; while we do not yet know if this transition will help or hurt our efforts to protect the Texas Hill Country, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocate for our community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to those followers who reached out to notify us about this acquisition. Your communication is vital to ensuring that we stay informed and united in our mission.

The SaveBurnet.com legal committee is actively working to set up a meeting with Construction Partners Inc. This will allow us to directly address our concerns and advocate for the preservation of our cherished landscape. We believe that open dialogue may lead to a better understanding of their intentions and the potential impact on our community.

For further insights, we have included a link below and under the Reference Material section on our SaveBurnet.com website. The link will display an Investor Update regarding Construction Partners Inc., which details their goals for expansion in Texas. We encourage you to review this document as it provides additional context on the company and its operations.
https://d1io3yog0oux5.cloudfront.net/_f65f579c936cff2a2d6c9947835801f9/constructionpartners/db/857/7595/pdf/ROAD+Investor+Update+-+vFinal.pdf

As we navigate this new chapter, let us remain hopeful and united in our efforts. Together, we will continue to fight for the preservation of our precious Texas Hill Country. We are grateful for each of you who stands with us in this noble cause.
Thank you for your ongoing support.

Warm regards,
SaveBurnet.com Committee

update 11 - status and additional information from saveburnet.com

10/18/24

Followers and Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

I hope this letter finds you well. I want to take a moment to update you on our ongoing efforts to protect the Texas Hill Country and provide important information regarding our initiatives.

1. TCEQ Public Meeting Update
As many of you know, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) had previously scheduled a public meeting for December 10, 2024. However, they have since removed all references to this meeting from their website. At this time, we do not have a confirmed date, location, or time for a rescheduled meeting, but we anticipate it may occur in the first part of 2025. A continued delay in Asphalt Inc., LLC's progress is beneficial to our cause, allowing us more time to prepare and gather support.

2. T-Shirts and Yard Signs
We appreciate your enthusiasm in supporting our cause by wanting to display our messages. T-shirts and yard signs are currently available at two local Burnet businesses:

• Pickens by Sassy
  Address: 901 S Water St, Burnet, TX 78611
  Hours: 
  Friday10 AM–5 PM
  Saturday10 AM–5 PM
  SundayClosed
  Monday10 AM–5 PM
  Tuesday10 AM–5 PM
  Wednesday10 AM–5 PM
  Thursday10 AM–5 PM
  Phone: (512) 755-1509
• The Sign Shop
  Address: 1844 TX-29, Burnet, TX 78611
  Hours: 
  Friday10:30 AM–5 PM
  SaturdayClosed
  SundayClosed
  Monday10:30 AM–5 PM
  Tuesday10:30 AM–5 PM
  Wednesday10:30 AM–5 PM
  Thursday10:30 AM–5 PM
  Phone: (512) 755-0362

All proceeds from the sale of these items directly support SaveBurnet.com and our mission. Shirts are $15 each and the 18" x 24" yard signs are available for a $5 donation. Larger signs are also available for purchase at the Sign Shop.

3. How You Can Continue to Support Us
We are still in need of additional experts who can testify on our behalf at the upcoming TCEQ public meeting. If you have any names or contacts for experts that you believe could contribute to our discussions, please reach out to us. Your input is invaluable.

Additionally, your donations play a critical role in our efforts. We aim to support our committee members, lawyers, geologists, and other experts on a pro bono basis. However, as we progress, we will require additional funds to hire expertise to adequately represent and testify for us. We have set a fundraising goal of $100,000, and thanks to the generosity of our community, we are currently about 20% of the way there. Contributions can be made through our Go Fund Me page or by sending checks made out to SaveBurnet.com. For further details on donations, please visit our website.

In closing, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. We are united in this cause, and together, we will prevail.
Thank you for your continued commitment.

Warm regards, The SaveBurnet.com Committee
SaveBurnet.com

update 10 - the tceQ public meeting

10/11/24

​Dear Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

We hope this message finds you well. We would like to update you on the latest developments regarding our fight to stop the proposed rock crushing plant on Hoover Valley Road. Many of you have written in with inquiries about the time and location of the upcoming TCEQ public meeting, and we appreciate your enthusiasm and support.

Tentative Meeting Date - TBD
Currently, the TCEQ public meeting has not been scheduled yet, so we have time to prepare. We want to emphasize that this TCEQ public meeting is just one part of a lengthy process aimed at preventing the establishment of the rock crushing plant. Part of our strategy is to delay this meeting as much as possible. Each and every day we are adding 10 to 20 followers.
As soon as the meeting is officially scheduled and documented on the TCEQ calendar, we will promptly inform all of you and post the details on our website.

Importance of Unified Attendance
It is vital for our community to demonstrate a strong, unified presence at the meeting. Many supporters have recommended and suggested involving local  professors, doctors and environmental experts to speak on our behalf, and we wholeheartedly encourage this. Additionally, we invite all our followers to prepare comments to present during the meeting, limited to one or two minutes each.
When crafting your comments, we ask that you focus on:

• Economic impact
• Environmental impact
• Effects on our state parks
• Highway safety
• Effects on our cherished Hill Country treasures
• Implications for tourism, our water supply, and endangered species
• Etc.

While we recognize that concerns about property values, noise pollution, and dust are important, we believe that emphasizing broader issues will be more effective in advancing our cause.

Preparation Resources
In the coming weeks, we will draft several sample presentations and scripts that are one to two minutes long, covering various community impacts such as water, tourism, safety, and wildlife. These will serve as templates for your own presentations at the public meeting.
Additionally, we will schedule a dry run meeting in November where you can come to practice and present your comments. We will keep you posted with the exact location and time for this dry run as soon as it is confirmed.

Thank You for Your Support
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our donors for their contributions, which enable us to professionally represent the interests of affected neighbors in Burnet County. Your united efforts are crucial to the ongoing success of our mission to stop the rock crushing facility quarry on Hoover Valley Road.

Together, we can protect our precious Texas Hill Country!

Best regards,
The Save Burnet Team
SaveBurnet.com

update 9 - preparing the tceq public meeting

10/4/24

Dear SaveBurnet.com Followers,

We are reaching out to share a significant update regarding our ongoing efforts to protect our community. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has scheduled a public meeting for December 10th, 2024. This presents us with a crucial opportunity to voice our concerns and advocate for the well-being of Burnet and the Texas Hill Country.

As we prepare for this important meeting, we have a lot of work ahead. Over the next few weeks, we will be providing updates outlining specific actions for our group to take. Our goal is to rally as many concerned neighbors as possible to attend the public meeting and clearly express our concerns. Your speeches should be short and concise, focusing on tangible issues that affect our community's economic well-being and the environment.

We will soon send out guidelines that include key talking points and topics that will help us achieve the most favorable outcome. Additionally, we will provide a list of topics to avoid to ensure our message remains focused and effective.

We hope to have between 1500 and 2000 SaveBurnet.com followers at the public meeting, all proudly wearing Green shirts and speaking as a united voice for the good of our community. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding a scheduled dry run prior to the actual TCEQ Public Meeting, where we can practice and refine our presentations.

To strengthen our position, we are seeking testimonials, documented letters, and expert speakers for this meeting. If you know of any experts—such as professors, doctors, geologists, or individuals with hands-on expertise—who can address the following critical issues, please reach out to them and encourage them to speak on our behalf:

• Stability of the area's caves and sinkholes
• Additional traffic and safety concerns
• Effects from the dust coming from the rock crushing plant
• Impact on wildlife and endangered species, such as the Tri-Colored bat and the Fan-tailed hawk
• Effects on homes near blasting sites
• Watershed contamination
• Economic impact on tourism and local businesses (Faulkenstein Castle, Camp Longhorn, Longhorn Caverns, wineries, etc.)

Your support is essential as we engage and prepare these experts to present at the TCEQ meeting on December 10th, 2024.
Together, we can make a significant impact for our community and the environment.

Thank you for your continued commitment to SaveBurnet. We look forward to working together towards a successful outcome.

Sincerely,
Randy Printz
SaveBurnet.com

update 8 - please file an addendum to your tceq protest

9/28/24

Dear Followers of SaveBurnet.com,

I am excited to share some encouraging news about our ongoing efforts to protect our community. As of today, we have collectively submitted more than 4,000 protests and comments regarding the proposed rock crushing plant, with over 350 of those specifically requesting a public meeting. This is a testament to the power of our united voice!

It appears we may have another day or two to submit additional protests to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). If you have already submitted a protest or comment, I urge you to go back and add an addendum to your original submission.

You can use the following statement for your addendum:
"I have previously filed a comment. After further investigation into the proposed plant location, I am adding to my original comment and requesting to have a public meeting on the proposed Rock Crushing plant."

It’s important that we drive up the number of requests for a public meeting, as this will significantly strengthen our position.

We anticipate that the public meeting will be held in either December or January, and once the final date is determined, we will notify everyone well in advance. The more people we have attending the public meeting, the greater our impact will be.
Please visit SaveBurnet.com to access the TCEQ link and instructions for filing or amending your protest.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support and commitment to our cause. Together, we are making a difference!

Randy Printz, Affected Neighbor
SaveBurnet.com

update 7 - the fight against the proposed rock crushing plant continues

9/23/24

Dear Friends of SaveBurnet.com,

Thank you for taking the time to submit your protest against TCEQ Permit #176835. We know many of you are asking, “I’ve filed my protest, so what’s next?”

Filing your protest was an important first step, but it’s only the beginning of what will be a long and determined effort to prevent the construction and operation of the rock crushing plant off of Hoover Valley Road. We, the committee and our dedicated volunteers, are working diligently behind the scenes with experts and officials in several key areas, including:

• Fish & Wildlife: We are collaborating with wildlife biologists and ecologists to assess the potential impact the rock crushing plant may have on local species and habitats. Disruptions to wildlife migration patterns, water quality, and natural vegetation could have lasting effects on the local ecosystem.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: The Corps plays a key role in regulating waterway protection and land use. We are working with them to ensure that no federal laws governing environmental protection, especially those regarding water bodies are violated by the proposed project.
• Historical Society and Texas State Historical Association: Preservation of our community’s cultural and historical heritage is a top priority. We are collaborating with these organizations to ensure that any historical or archeological sites in the vicinity are protected from the threat of construction and industrial operations.
• Local and State Officials: Our ongoing communication with county and state officials is crucial in making sure our voices are heard at the policy level. We are working with them to explore all legal and regulatory avenues to halt or delay the permitting process.
• Inks Lake State Park & Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery: These natural and recreational resources are integral to the local community and economy. We are concerned about potential impacts on water quality, air quality, and the tranquility of the area, and are working with park officials and hatchery representatives to protect these important assets.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife: As stewards of Texas’ natural resources, Texas Parks and Wildlife shares our concern about the potential environmental harm caused by the rock crushing plant. Texas Parks and Wildlife is the administrator of Longhorn Caverns. Together, we are reviewing the project’s potential impacts on local wildlife and conservation efforts.
• Texas General Land Office: The GLO oversees public lands and resources, and we are working with them to ensure that public lands are not adversely affected by the plant’s operations, which could lead to long-term environmental degradation.
• Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA): The LCRA is tasked with protecting the water supply and environmental resources of the Colorado River Basin. We are engaged with them to monitor any potential threats to the quality of the water supply and the overall health of the river and its tributaries.
• Local Wineries (Torr Na Lochs, Uplift, & Perissos): These local businesses not only contribute to our local economy but also depend on the pristine environment of the Hill Country for their operations. We are working with them to amplify the economic argument against the plant and to raise awareness about its potential impact on tourism and local agriculture.
• Longhorn Caverns: A geological marvel and significant natural resource, Longhorn Caverns is at risk of being negatively affected by nearby industrial operations. We are consulting geologists and conservationists to determine the extent of the threat to this natural wonder and are preparing a case to protect it.
• Texas Wildlife Association: As an organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife habitats across Texas, TWA is helping us raise awareness and gather data to show the negative effects this project could have on local wildlife populations and natural resources.
• National Park Service: The National Park Service is a partner in helping us understand the potential broader regional impacts, particularly regarding conservation efforts and the protection of natural resources that cross state and federal boundaries.
• Geologists and Environmental Scientists: The unique topography and geology of the Hill Country make this area especially sensitive to industrial operations. We are consulting with geologists to explore how the blasting and crushing of rock could disrupt the area’s fragile karst formations, potentially leading to issues like groundwater contamination and sinkholes.
• Texans for Responsible Aggregate Mining (TRAM): TRAM is a statewide coalition focused on ensuring that aggregate mining operations are conducted responsibly. We are working with them to utilize their expertise and connections to push back against this permit and advocate for more stringent environmental reviews.
• Protect Texas Hill Country: This advocacy group shares our mission of protecting the unique beauty and resources of the Hill Country from overdevelopment and industrial encroachment. We are partnering with them to organize community events, raise awareness, and mobilize more residents to take action.

Together, we believe this proposed plant will have a significant environmental impact on our community, our water supply, and our local wildlife. Numerous studies and thorough reviews must be conducted before any construction can begin, and we are committed to ensuring this process is followed to the letter.

We stand united with a common goal: to protect our beautiful Hill Country and preserve the quality of life for everyone in our community. Rest assured, we are in this for the long haul, and we will continue fighting for as long as it takes.

Your continued support is invaluable, and we appreciate everything you’ve done to help so far. Please stay tuned for updates on the next steps and ways you can continue to be involved in this vital cause.

Thank you again for your commitment and for standing with us to protect the Texas Hill Country.

Sincerely,
Randy Printz, Affected neighbor 
SaveBurnet.com

udpate 6 - do you need help filing your tceq protest?

9/20/24

​Dear Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued dedication and support as we work together to protect our community from the proposed Rock Crushing Plant. Your involvement has already made a tremendous impact, and we are grateful to everyone who has taken the time to raise their voices and submit a protest on Permit #176835 to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
​
However, we understand that some of our members have reached out, either through email or at our recent Town Hall meeting, expressing that they need help navigating the protest process. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate and that no one is left behind, we have arranged a way to make this process as smooth as possible for you.

Cooper Wilson, a dedicated committee member of SaveBurnet.com, has kindly volunteered to assist anyone who needs help filing the protest. He will have a computer available and ready to go this Sunday, September 22nd, from 1–3 PM CST, at Pickens by Sassy, located at 901 S. Waters Street (Hwy 281). If you haven’t yet submitted your protest or need help with the process, we encourage you to stop by during this time.

This is an important opportunity to ensure your voice is heard. Filing a protest with the TCEQ is a crucial step in our efforts to prevent this permit from being approved, and your participation could make all the difference. Whether you need technical support, assistance with the wording, or just reassurance, Cooper will be there to guide you through the process.

Thank you again for your unwavering support and commitment. Every action we take, no matter how small, brings us closer to achieving our goal of safeguarding Burnet. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, and we look forward to seeing many of you this Sunday.

Together, we will continue to make a difference.

With appreciation,
Randy Printz, Affected neighbor
SaveBurnet.com

update 5 - summary of the sept 14th meeting

9/16/24

​Dear Friends and Supporters of SaveBurnet.com,

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for your incredible support and attendance at the September 14th meeting. With over 750 local residents from the Burnet area showing up, your presence sent a powerful message: our community is united and determined to protect Burnet from the proposed Rock Crushing Plant.

This meeting was a critical step in our ongoing efforts to raise awareness, share vital information, and strengthen our collective resolve. Randy Printz delivered an informative and detailed presentation about the proposed plant, including its size, hours of operation, and proximity to our treasured Texas landmarks. Understanding these details is key as we move forward in our efforts to safeguard our community.

Our Q&A session, expertly hosted by Fermin Ortiz, was enriched by the participation of representatives from Texas DPS and Burnet County Deputies, who addressed safety concerns and provided valuable insight into the potential impacts of the plant.

We were also honored to hear from several distinguished guest speakers:

• Burnet Mayor Gary Wideman shared the importance of standing strong as a community.
• County Commissioner Jim Luther emphasized the county’s role and our ability to influence change.
• Stacy Smith, representing State Representative Ellen Troxclair, reaffirmed our local government’s awareness and involvement.
• Martha Tyroch, representing Texas General Land Office Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, highlighted the broader state perspective on land use and environmental protection.

Their words of encouragement and commitment were inspiring, reminding us that we are not alone in this endeavor. Our local officials and representatives are hearing us and standing with us.

The success of this meeting was made possible by you—the concerned citizens, the advocates, and the supporters who continue to show up for Burnet. Your engagement, your questions, and your passion for this cause are what make this movement so powerful. While we know there is still much work to be done, the energy and unity we witnessed at this meeting prove that we are on the right path.

As we move forward, let’s continue to stay informed, connected, and resolute. Every voice matters, and together, we will ensure that our community’s best interests are protected.

We stand united in our goal to protect the heart of Burnet from the looming threat of the Rock Crushing Plant, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude and unwavering confidence in all of you. Your dedication, passion, and resolve have already made a difference, and together we will continue to move forward, step by step, toward a brighter future for our community.

The journey ahead will not be easy. We know that battles of this nature can be long and challenging, often filled with moments of doubt or frustration. There may be setbacks, obstacles, and times when it feels like we are losing ground. But I want to remind you: every battle, whether won or lost, is part of a greater struggle. Our goal is not just about stopping one plant from being built; it's about standing up for the health, safety, and well-being of our families, our neighbors, and future generations. We are working to preserve the natural beauty of Burnet, to ensure clean air, and to protect the legacy we leave behind.

In every movement for justice, the path is rarely smooth. But the strength of a community, its resilience, and its ability to come together in times of adversity are what carry it through. This is our strength. Each of you is a crucial part of this effort, and it is your voices, your actions, and your determination that will continue to fuel our desired goal.

It is important to remember that progress is not always linear. Some days will feel like giant leaps forward, and others may feel like steps back. But every moment we spend raising awareness, gathering support, and advocating for our cause is a victory in itself. And ultimately, no matter the individual skirmishes, ... we will be triumphant.

There will be victories, both small and large, along the way. Whether it's a court ruling in our favor, a delay in the plant's construction, or new supporters joining our cause, each step forward brings us closer to success. And when the challenges feel overwhelming, remember that we are not alone. We are a powerful, united community standing together for what we believe is right.

Stay the course. Keep pushing forward. Even when the road seems long, know that your efforts matter. Know that you are part of something much bigger than yourself, and that together we are making a lasting impact.

Thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your steadfast determination. 

REMINDER... We have about 10 days left for everyone to file a protest with TCEQ, please see SaveBurnet.com or Save Burnet Facebook for details.
​
In solidarity and hope,
Randy Printz, Affected neighbor 
SaveBurnet.com

update 4 - need everyone to attend saturdays meeting! info below:

9/12/24

​Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to invite you to an important town meeting regarding a serious issue that will affect all of us in the Burnet area—the proposed construction of a Rock Crushing Plant in our city. This meeting will be a critical moment for our community to voice our concerns and stand together in opposition to this development.

Meeting Details:

• Date: September 14th, 2024
• Time: 2PM - CST
• Location: Hill Country Fellowship Church, 200 Houston Clinton Dr. , Burnet TX
• Special Attendees: Mayor "Gary Wideman and other city officials, as well as lots of media coverage

Why Should You Attend?

1. Environmental Impact: Rock crushing plants are notorious for releasing dust and harmful particles into the air. These pollutants can damage local ecosystems, wildlife, and even our own health, leading to respiratory issues, allergies, and other long-term problems.
2. Quality of Life: The constant noise, vibrations, and truck traffic from a crushing plant can disturb the peace of our town, lowering property values and reducing our overall quality of life. This could affect our homes, schools, and businesses.
3. Water Supply Concerns: Such facilities often consume large amounts of water and have the potential to contaminate local water sources, threatening our precious natural resources.
4. Safety Hazards: Increased industrial activity brings increased risks, including traffic hazards from heavy trucks, and potential accidents that could put our families and children in danger.
5. Community Unity: This is our chance to come together and let city officials know how we feel. The decisions made in this meeting could shape the future of Burnet for generations to come. If we don't make our voices heard now, we may lose the opportunity to protect our town from this harmful development.

Your presence is crucial! Please join us to stand united against the building of this Rock Crushing Plant. The more voices we have, the stronger our message will be. Together, we can show our officials that we care deeply about the future of Burnet and its residents.
​
Feel free to share this email with friends, neighbors, and anyone who cares about the future of our city.
Looking forward to seeing you there and making a difference together!

Sincerely,
Randy Printz, Affected neighbor
SaveBurnet.com

update 3 - call for action - need everyone to file their protest on tceq website

9/6/24

Urgent Call to Action: Burnet Residents Urged to Protest Rock Crushing Plant on Hover Valley Road

Burnet, TX – Local residents are rallying to protect their community from a proposed rock crushing plant slated for Hover Valley Road. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is currently reviewing the permit application for this facility, and concerned Burnet residents are being urged to file a formal protest.

Why Your Protest Matters:

1. Environmental Concerns: Rock crushing operations can produce significant dust and noise pollution, which may adversely affect air quality and the overall environment in Burnet. This could lead to potential health risks, including respiratory issues, for local residents.
2. Economic Impact: Reduced visitor enjoyment at attractions like Longhorn Caverns and state parks, as well as decreased appeal for local wineries, could lead to a decline in tourism revenue. This, in turn, could affect the local economy, which benefits significantly from these attractions.
3. Community Well-being: Burnet is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful living. The addition of a rock crushing facility may disrupt the tranquility of Hover Valley Road and surrounding neighborhoods, affecting the quality of life for many.
4. Wildlife and Natural Habitat: State parks and Longhorn Caverns are home to various species of wildlife that thrive in undisturbed natural environments. The construction and operation of a rock crushing plant could disrupt these habitats, potentially displacing wildlife and affecting local ecosystems.
5. Regulatory Oversight: By filing a protest, residents can ensure that the TCEQ thoroughly reviews the potential environmental impact of the plant and considers alternative solutions. Protests can prompt additional scrutiny and may lead to modifications or even the rejection of the permit.

How to help:
We need all of you to submit your written protests to the TCEQ before the September 27th deadline. The protest should include specific concerns and how the rock crushing plant could impact the community. It is crucial for all residents to make their voices heard to protect their environment and way of life.
Please log on to the TCEQ site and let your concerns be known (Website Link is Below). Please take action now, must be filed by September 27th, 2024. Use Permit #176835

www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/index.cfm?fuseaction=main.welcome&error1=You%20must%20enter%20a%20permit%20number.

Your participation is vital in safeguarding Burnet's future. Stand up for your community and ensure that your concerns are considered in the decision-making process.

For more information on how to file a protest and details about the proposed plant, please go to SaveBurnet.com or Save Burnet facebook page.

Randy Printz, Affected neighbor at
SaveBurnet.com

update 2 

9/3/24

Dear neighbors of Burnet,

We have a lot going on each and every day, below is a summary of activities and Important information on the Sept 14th town meeting "We need a large turn out".

Before getting into the details I would like to call out Nan Manning from Camp Longhorn. Nan has been working tirelessly on multiple fronts calling her contacts, meeting with various officials and helping to organize the meetings. In addition Nan and the camp longhorn team will be placing an electronic sign on FM 3509... making all drivers aware of the pending Rock Crushing facility. Sincere thanks to Nan and the Camp Longhorn team.

Jay, Cooper and the team are having signs made up and starting tomorrow (Sept 4th) they will be placing them along various properties on FM 3509 and in the town of Burnet. In addition there will be flyers printed that will go in the windows of our Burnet businesses.

Our GoFundMe page is up and active as of 6PM today (Sept 2nd) we have raised $5200. Special thanks to all of you that have contributed. This is a great start but we have a long way to go. Please please send the link or encourage your friends to donate. 
https://gofund.me/b48bb5b8

There was a very nice write up in the Daily Trib "Residence Protest Burnet Rock Crusher"
https://mailchi.mp/dailytrib/residents-protest-rock-crusher-near-burnet?e=265edce43b

Some more good news, our congresswoman Ellen Troxclair has sent a letter to TCEQ requesting a public hearing with the citizens of Burnet. We will keep you informed on this upcoming meeting.

Lastly, please make sure to attend the Town Meeting on September 14th at 2PM  at Hill Country Fellowship Church, located at 200 Houston Clinton Dr. 
There will be guest speakers and lots of media coverage... so we need a good turn out!

Please continue to check our website at SaveBurnet.com and our Facebook page Save Burnet for updates and information.
In closing, I know this can be a stressful time and we all love our neighborhood... Please remember to be polite when posting or commenting on various social platforms. We are all in this for the long haul and together we will succeed

Randy Printz, Impacted neighbor
SaveBurnet.com

update 1

9/2/24

Dear neighbors of Burnet,

I would like to thank each and everyone of you for taking time out of your holiday weekend to attend our meeting. It was great to see so many informed and concerned residents that truly care about our community. We had roughly 200 attendees and we have email information for a little over 150. We also had about 60 attendees who said they are available to perform volunteer work and about 40 who said they would be able to help out monetarily.

For those who can volunteer; in the next week we will send out a list of items that we need help with.

For those who may not have the time, but are willing to help out financially, we have set up a "Go Fund Me"  page. Link is below:
https://gofund.me/b48bb5b8

Below are a few pictures of the meeting, it was standing room only. I anticipate each public meeting will get bigger and bigger. We will send out an announcement when the next meeting will be.

I would like to call out just a few of the wonderful neighbors who have already helped out so much.

• Jay Folta, who made the signs, rented the room and made numerous calls to get all of this kicked off. 
• Larry Black and Fermin Ortiz, who have been through this process before and who have won! Both Larry and Fermin have a wealth of knowledge and have been great to work with. We are all lucky that they have decided to help our cause.
• Maylin LeGualt, who has been taking notes and performing research.
• Tara Axley, who pulled together a great PowerPoint presentation, deed documents and lots of other helpful information. I will get it posted to the web-site as soon as I can.
• Cooper Wilson, who built the SaveBurnet Facebook page which includes our go fund me information. Cooper is great to work, glad he is our neighbor. Below is the link and the QR code to the SaveBurnet facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/523318286870870

Randy Printz, Impacted neighbor
SaveBurnet.com