ROBBER BARON PRESERVE

Robber Baron Restoration Project

As San Antonio has grown and urbanization surrounded Robber Baron, vandalism of the cave became a problem, as did worries about unauthorized visitation, especially by children who might become lost.  Over the years, four seperate gates were installed, each replacing a former gate that had been violated by vandals.  The fourth gate was the most secure, a 5 ton concrete bunker with a metal door. The bunker was effective at preventing vandalism, but presented other problems.  It restricted airflow and prevented nutrients from reaching the cave's endangered species.  Its weight was also causing the entrance shaft through the underlying fill (put in the sinkhole during various nearby construction projects) to begin to collapse.  TCMA received a Partners Grant from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), originally to modify the gate, but ultimately changed to replace the gate.

After reviewing options, TCMA decided to restore the entrance to as near the original sinkhole bottom surface as possible using a secure but ecologically sound gate that would allow the natural passage of air, water, nutrients, and organisms.  A new fence has been constructed around both the grounds and the sinkhole that is more attractive and provides more safety.  Steps have been constructed into the sinkhole to make access easier and to reduce erosion.  Additionally, the grounds will be xeriscaped, using appropriate plants, and the grounds will be fenced, but not locked.   An educational kiosk will be built to explain important historical, biological, and geological information about the cave.

Removing the old bunker entrance.	Digging open the second entrance.

The trench into the sinkhole, finished with steps and a bridge.  Photo by Jim Jasek.

Project Funding

Besides many thousands of dollars of volunteer donations and allocations from the TCMA Board, a large portion of the project funding has been through several grants.  A USFWS Partner's Grant provided $5000 for restoration of the cave entrance.  A second phase of funding was received through a $4500 grant from the Magnolia Charitable Trust.  An additional $7000 of funding was acquired through the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) for restoration of the surface of the property by removing non-natives, controlling erosion, and xeriscaping.  However, TCMA is still raising funds for other portions of the project by soliciting private donations and other material assistance.

Mixing cement for fence post footers.	Stacking rocks for the trench retaining wall.

What's Left To Do?

• Stabilize area around gate

• Install a parking area

• Install gate at rear of property

• Xeriscape with native vegetation

• Install decorative, educational kiosk

How Can You Help?

Volunteer labor is always appreciated but is usually in strong supply.  Our biggest need right now is the donation of specific materials for the renovation of the surface and monetary donations.  For more information please e-mail Linda@tcmacaves.org or joe.mitchell@tcmacaves.org.

For more information please e-mail joe.mitchell@tcmacaves.org

Preserve Manager: Joe Mitchell

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