The Austin Environmental Department reflects Austin’s strong environmental ethic through its various programs. These encompass city programs and initiatives, conservation and recycling efforts, management of animals and wildlife, and the maintenance of parks. Initiatives include the Urban Forest Grant, Erosion Control Projects, Watershed Protection Programs, and the Austin Brownfields Revitalization Office. Conservation efforts feature the Universal Recycling Ordinance (URO) and water-saving tips. The department also focuses on animal protection, salamanders, and the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. Park-related activities include maintaining a park directory and information about Barton Springs Pool. Austin Water manages wildlands that protect the water supply, endangered species habitat and mitigate for habitat loss.
