The Economic Value of Water and Ecosystem Preservation

3.3. Ecotourism in the San Antonio Bay Region
Texas ranks consistently as one of the top locations in the United States for
ecotourism due to its high amount of biodiversity. There are 12 eco-regions
within the state, which range from deserts and hills to plains and piney woods
(Griffith, Bryce et al., 2004). There have been 6,273 different species recorded in
Texas, of which 340 are endemic. Texas is the number one birdwatching
destination in the United States, with over 600 species of birds that account for
more than 75% of the bird diversity in the country (Stein, 2002). Most of these
birds reside or migrate along the 367 miles of the Texas Gulf coast, “offering
birders unparalleled opportunities to see an impressive variety of birds within a
relatively consolidated area (Eubanks, 2003).” One of the best places for birding
along the Gulf Coast is in the San Antonio Bay region. It is a paradise for
ecotourists, including birders, who come to the region for its natural abundance
(Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), 2001).
Ecotourism in the region focuses primarily on birding, but also
accommodates other wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Aransas National Wildlife
Refuge is often listed as one of the top birding sites in North America (Konrad,
1996). ANWR and Matagorda Island are also included as a part of the American
Bird Conservancy’s “Important Bird Areas Program (American Birding
Conservancy, 2006).”
3.3.1. Protected Areas of the San Antonio Bay: Valuable Natural Assets
By establishing various wildlife refuges and management areas, the
remaining fragments of the San Antonio Bay’s regional ecosystem are effectively
protected. These protected areas are valuable natural assets that serve as a
base for a variety of ecotourism activities within the region.
The most well known protected area in the region is the Aransas National
Wildlife Refuge Complex, which is comprised of five units. The two largest units
that make up the Refuge are the Blackjack Peninsula in Aransas County and
Matagorda Island. Other units include the Tatton Unit, the Lamar Unit and the
Myrtle Foester-Whitmire Division (Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 2005c).
Together, they create a 115,651-acre complex, which is managed by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service.
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