With governor's signature, Caddoan Mounds will transfer to THC Sept. 1

If the governor signs HB 12 into law, then Caddoan Mounds State Park will be transferred to the Texas Historical Commission on Sept. 1.

The legislation was approved by both the House and the Senate in the waning hours of the 80th Legislature which adjourned May 28.

Under the provisions of the bill, 18 historic sites will be transferred from TPWD to THC, along with $13 million from the sporting goods tax to operate them over the next biennium.

The bill's author, state Rep. Harvey Hilderbran (R-Kerrville), felt the transfers will give historic sites more individualized attention because THC specializes in historic preservation.

A TPWD regional manager recently expressed concern about the costs THC will incur, especially at Caddoan Mounds.

The state historic site, located just west of Alto, is within six miles of another state park, Mission Tejas.

"Those two parks have been complexed," said Ellen Buchanan, regional director of TPWD. "While Caddoan Mounds has a site manager, there is a single superintendent for both parks."

Maintenance crews split their time between both parks, and the two parks share resources whenever possible.

TPWD and THC are working together for a smooth transition on Sept. 1.