At the Flying X

On Sunday we finally arrived at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge for our volunteer assignment.  We’ll be here for the next two months, and although we’re just learning about the Refuge, we wanted to share our home at the Flying X Ranch.
As background, BCNWR was established in 1992 to protect the habitat of two endangered bird species – the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Black-capped Vireo.  It is made up of a number of tracts of land which have been purchased since the refuge was established.  It currently contains approximately 20,000 acres, but its potential size (based on additional purchases) could approach 70,000 acres.
One of the earlier acquisitions of the Refuge was the 2000 acre Flying X Ranch, located just off FM 1184 approximately 10 miles south of Bertram, Texas (see map).  From what we understand, it was originally acquired and built in the late 1960’s as a “Hill Country residence” by a family from Houston, and even included their own private airstrip.  The main ranch house is approximately 4500 square feet and, although dated, is still in pretty good shape, and is used by researchers and other visitors to the refuge.  It is located on the crest of a fairly significant ridge, and the 360 degree views of the Hill Country are awesome.
Our RV pad is located adjacent to the house, and we have access to all the facilities in the house.  The only downsides are that the wind blows a bit up here (but that’s pretty welcome given the almost 100 degree heat), and that its about 20 miles from here to the Refuge headquarters.  However, we have a been assigned a 4WD Blazer to use for all of our volunteer activities, so the Interior Department is taking care of our commute.
The other big advantage of this location is that its only about 20 miles south of our kids (and grandkids) in Liberty Hill.  Since we only have to work 3 days a week, we’ll be able to spend plenty of time with our family.
Enough narrative – here are some pictures of our place (double-click on any of them to enlarge) :




The entrance gate to the Ranch
























 The ranch house, our Phaeton, and Texas skies











Hill Country views from the patio looking south












We’ve even got our own weather station
(station MTS899 on weatherunderground.com)






















We’ll be posting more pictures of our family and the refuge as soon as we get settled in.