Formed in 2000, the purpose of the Stakeholder Steering Committee (SSC) was to produce a consensus among stakeholder representatives of how best to use the Water Quality Protection Lands without compromising the initial mandate, as described in the bond election language. The commitment of the committee members was substantial. They attended numerous meetings over an 18-month period beginning in October 2000 and agreed to achieve consensus on recommendations. They also were asked to bring resources "to the table" that would facilitate the implementation of any recommended and approved uses.

It is from these initial meetings and decisions that several stakeholders partnered to approach the City about creation of interpretive trails. That effort led to formal agreements between stakeholders and the City for a trail on a WQPL property in the Bull Creek area and in the Slaughter Creek area. Through acquisition of grant funding and tremendous effort and dedication, these trails are anticipated to open in 2007/2008.

Still active today, the Stakeholder Steering Committee (SSC) meets once a year, typically in late summer, or more often if necessary. It is a mechanism by which citizens can provide input and request an opening of discussions on various topics related to management of the WQPL properties. Specific stakeholders volunteered at different times to manage the administrative aspects of the SSC such as sending out communiqués and scheduling meetings. Citizens should contact Kevin Thuesen, the WQPL Program Manager, by email or at (512) 263-6432 for more information on how to contact the stakeholder group currently overseeing the process.

Upcoming meetings of the SSC will be posted on the Division's calendar.