Mar 3, 2026 - News

Houston Audubon acquires 128-acre sanctuary in Montgomery County

Shafaq Patel

Dense green forest with tall trees and a grassy clearing in the center. Branches and foliage surround the area, creating a natural, peaceful woodland scene. — Houston Audubon's 18th sanctuary protects vital stopover habitat for migratory birds traveling the Central Flyway. Photo: Courtesy of Houston Audubon.

Houston Audubon has secured 128 acres in Montgomery County as protected habitat as development surges north of Houston.

The big picture: The Peach Creek Woods Nature Sanctuary along Peach Creek marks Houston Audubon's 18th sanctuary. The mixed pine and hardwood forest area by the San Jacinto River watershed provides critical habitat for migratory and resident birds.

Between the lines: The sanctuary sits in a region that has experienced significant population growth over the last decade.

Context: The sanctuary was made possible through a land bequest from the late Thomas Lee Maddux, an educator and naturalist who spent his life teaching others about conservation.

What they're saying: "Protecting habitat for birds and providing nature experiences for people is more important than ever," Pete Deichmann, Houston Audubon's land conservation director, said in the announcement last week.

"Peach Creek Woods serves as a testament to the impact one individual can have on the future of our ecosystem."

By the numbers: With this addition, Houston Audubon now manages more than 4,300 acres across the Upper Texas Coast.

What's next: Houston Audubon plans to make improvements for safe, sustainable public access before welcoming visitors in early 2027.

Add Axios on Google

Houston Audubon acquires 128-acre sanctuary in Montgomery County

More Houston stories