This discussion group focuses on Hidalgo Falls on the Brazos River. Currently the Texas Rivers Protection Association maintains a 13-acre park there open only to registered paddlers and their guests, not fishermen, sunbathers, or swimmers. The property is adjacent to the only significant class II rapid in southeast Texas (for photos, click here), and it provides a secure and easy access for non-whitewater paddlers interested in a leisurely float trip on the Brazos downstream.

To be certified (and get the combination to property gate lock), paddlers have to be either "Protector" members of TRPA ($25/yr), Hidalgo Falls lifetime donors (at least $500), or someone who is sponsored by a paddling club or who has donated at least five hours of work each year at the site. In addition, paddlers have to go through an orientation to the property. To arrange for an orientation, send a note to this list.

More than 200 paddlers have given more than $100,000 (some as much as $8,000 each) to create the private park where paddlers can enjoy this unique resource. Maps, photos, links to more pictures, and other information can be found at http://philosophy.tamu.edu/~sdaniel/hidalgo.html. Your contributions help defray our on-going road maintenance costs, property taxes, and monthly electric bills. To make a tax-deductible donation, make your check out to the Texas Rivers Protection Association. Note on your check that it is for Hidalgo Falls and send it to Tom Goynes, President, TRPA, 444 Pecan Park Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666.

Your support, either in terms of money, labor, or both is really appreciated.