HOUSTON, TX – January 21, 2026 – Houston Audubon is proud to announce the successful completion of its "Save Bolivar" campaign, officially closing on the acquisition of the final 52.53 acre parcel of land required to fully protect the Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary. On January 15, the organization finalized the purchase, bringing the critically important Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary to 1,307.83 acres, ensuring that one of the most ecologically significant coastal habitats in the world is permanently safeguarded from development.
The acquisition marks the culmination of a dedicated multi-year effort to protect the entire footprint of Bolivar Flats. This globally recognized sanctuary serves as a critical lifeline for hundreds of thousands of birds annually, providing essential habitat for nesting, wintering, and refueling during grueling migratory journeys along the Upper Texas Coast.
“Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary is an incredibly special place for birds along the Upper Texas Coast, and the response to protect it was overwhelming,” said Jed A., President & CEO of Houston Audubon. “The passion and generosity of people who care about birds, nature, and the environment made it possible to permanently safeguard this habitat.”
The "Save Bolivar" campaign saw an unprecedented wave of support, with contributions arriving from local community members, foundations, organizations, and donors from all over the country and the world. By closing on this final piece of property, Houston Audubon has effectively completed a "conservation puzzle," creating a unified landscape that protects the wildlife that calls this coastline home.
“The preservation of special places for birds, such as Bolivar Flats, is only possible through strong partnerships with our donors,” said Pam Smolen, Board Chair. “We are deeply grateful for the stewardship shown in protecting this extraordinary place today and for the ongoing commitment to its sustained management for generations to come.”
For more information about the Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary or to learn about Houston Audubon’s ongoing conservation initiatives, please visit www.houstonaudubon.org.
About Houston Audubon
Houston Audubon is a regional non-profit conservation organization focused on protecting birds and their habitats. Established in 1969, Houston Audubon owns and manages a network of sanctuaries across the Upper Texas Coast and offers a variety of educational programs and community conservation initiatives to connect people with nature.
About Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary
A site of international importance to shorebirds, Bolivar Flats is a unique combination of salt marsh, mudflats, and beach. It is designated as a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network (WHSRN) Site of International Importance and a Global Important Bird Area (IBA).
Media Contact: Zineera Chong, Communications Director, zseth@houstonaudubon.org (832) 566-3200
Photo Credit : Brian Traylor
