The Big Thicket Association (BTA)

Photo by Michael Black

The Big Thicket Association, a 501-c-3 organization, founded in 1964, was formed to save remnants of the once extensive historic Big Thicket forests with its remarkable diversity.  The Association's efforts led to the establishment of the Big Thicket National Preserve in 1974 (a National Park System Unit, the first National Preserve).  Threats to the fledgling Preserve have proliferated over the years and in 2003 the Preserve was designated by the National Parks Conservation Association as one of America's Ten Most Endangered National Parks, and in 2007, the Neches River (part of the Preserve) was named by the American Rivers Association as one of America's Most Endangered Rivers.

The purpose, as identified in its charter, is as follows:

• To work for the preservation of the flora and fauna of the Big Thicket area;
• To promote the conservation of the natural resources and natural beauty of the big thicket area;
• To maintain and perpetuate the many types and species of trees, plants and animals found in the Big Thicket area...;
• To promote and to fund research contributing to knowledge of the Big Thicket Area;
• To publish or support publication of cultural and scientific Big Thicket literature;
• To promote the welfare of the Big Thicket National Preserve
• To manage the Big Thicket National Preserve Field Research Station

Big Thicket Association Charter-Constitution and Bylaws

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Executive Director, (936) 274-1181, email: director@bigthicket.org