City approves deal to prevent development near Bracken Cave

A reader observes that the millions of bats from Bracken Cave consume tons of potentially virus-carrying mosquitoes. A reader observes that the millions of bats from Bracken Cave consume tons of potentially virus-carrying mosquitoes. Photo: Eric Gay / Associated Press Photo: Eric Gay / Associated Press Image 1 of / 12 Caption Close City approves deal to prevent development near Bracken Cave 1 / 12 Back to Gallery

SAN ANTONIO — The City Council has unanimously approved a deal that will prevent development on a significant swath of land north of Bexar County that's home to the Bracken Cave, where millions of bats reside each year.

Plans for the property in the last couple years had called for dense development -- ranging between 3,500 and 4,500 homes on 1,521 acres.

The city worked with the Nature Conservancy and Bat Conservation International to jointly fund the purchase of the land for $20.5 million.

The conservation effort will not only protect bats but also water quality and quantity, along with habitat for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.

The city, which contributed $5 million toward the purchase price, will hold a conservation easement over the entire property.

For the full story, visit expressnews.com or read the Friday edition of the San Antonio Express-News.

jbaugh@express-news.net

Twitter: @jbaugh