Our History
The Cibolo
The Cibolo Center for Conservation (The Cibolo) began in 1988 as a grassroots effort driven by a close-knit group of friends passionate about restoring the natural beauty of the Cibolo Creek. United by a shared love of nature and a deep commitment to conservation, this group launched what would become a transformative movement in the Texas Hill Country. Over the decades, The Cibolo has grown into a thriving organization, guided by a "Circle of Friends" dedicated to fostering community connection and environmental stewardship. This unique model of community-driven conservation remains the foundation of The Cibolo’s success, blending vision, action, and collaboration.
The roots of this movement can be traced back even further, to 1964, when the City of Boerne purchased 125 acres along the Cibolo Creek, laying the groundwork for future conservation efforts. By 1987, concerned citizens advocated for a Landscape Ordinance to protect green spaces and heritage trees, a landmark decision that catalyzed the creation of The Cibolo Center for Conservation the following year. Initially known as Friends of the Cibolo Wilderness, the organization began with a small group of volunteers who cleaned the creek, developed nature trails, and initiated environmental education programs. These early efforts grew into a regionally recognized model of conservation and education, earning The Cibolo a reputation as a leader in environmental sustainability.
In the years that followed, The Cibolo expanded its impact through bold initiatives, including the acquisition of the historic Herff Farm in 2000 and the establishment of the Cibolo Conservation Corridor. These efforts have not only preserved vital natural spaces but also created opportunities for community members to engage with nature through outdoor recreation, research, and education. Today, The Cibolo is an anchor in the Hill Country, connecting people to the land and fostering a deep respect for the natural world.
The Nest
In 2020, The Cibolo achieved a major milestone with the opening of The Nest Nature School (The Nest), an innovative program that stands as a cornerstone of the organization’s mission to nurture future generations through nature-based education. The Nest provides young children with an immersive, hands-on outdoor learning experience, where exploration, play, and connection with nature are central to the curriculum. Through a thoughtfully designed environment that blends indoor learning with the natural world, The Nest fosters curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of nature.
The Nest represents the evolution of The Cibolo’s vision to make conservation not just a practice but a way of life, starting with the youngest members of the community. As a model of progressive education, The Nest reflects the broader goals of The Cibolo Center for Conservation: to inspire a deep connection to the land, teach the importance of stewardship, and empower future generations to take action to preserve the environment.
