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Karl Flocke has been appointed as the new director of Hays County Parks and Natural Resources, which recently became its own independent department in accordance with the FY2026 budget.
With a bachelor’s degree in Renewable Natural Resources from Texas A&M and a master’s degree in forestry from the University of Florida, a career in parks and natural resources was a “no-brainer” for Flocke.
“I was fortunate enough to identify at a young age that I am happiest when I am outside, and that I am passionate about conserving the natural environment,” he said. “From there, it was a logical step to start researching careers that would allow me to accomplish this.”
As a native of the county, Flocke said he welcomed the opportunity to serve with enthusiasm.
“I was born and raised in Hays County and was lucky to be able to explore many of our parks and preserves long before it was ever imagined that the County could have its own park system,” Flocke said. “When I heard about the position, I jumped at the opportunity to help manage and preserve the land that got me into this field to begin with.”
As Hays County grows, the Parks Department has evolved rapidly to meet its demands.
“We struggle to have enough parks and conservation lands needed for our current population,” he said. “With our meteoric population growth and increasing property values, it will be that much harder to meet the demands placed on parks in the future. Everything we do now must have an eye toward the future.”
Flocke will oversee the department’s flagship project - the opening of Sentinel Peak Preserve in the southwest part of the County, which will open to the public in 2027.
In the meantime, several new parks, playgrounds and sports facilities are being opened by the county and municipalities as a part of the 2020 Parks and Open Spaces Bond.
“On top of this, we are continuously looking for opportunities to upgrade, improve and expand our facilities to best serve Hays County residents,” Flocke said. “Most importantly, residents can help make their vision a reality by volunteering to get things done. Whether you were born in Hays County or moved here later in life, the natural environment of the region probably plays a key role in why you chose to call this place home.”
For more information, visit www.hayscountytx.gov/parks-and-recreation.
