Through the generous contributions of the many Friends of Mount Bonnell in matching a $1,500 grant from the Austin Parks foundation, the first major Covert Park project undertaken by the West Point Society under PARD's Adopt-a-Park program--the restoration of "...the fabulous views of the Colorado River Valley and the City of Austin skyline." through selective pruning and the raising of tree canopies at four key locations on Mt. Bonnell's summit, was completed on January 31st, 2011. Work was done by Austin Tree Specialists under PARD and BCP supervision. Vistas were cleared and broadened at the two picnic tables, the stone wall overlook just north of the pavilion and at the pavilion overlooking the river valley.

Clearing the view eastward from the pavilion was restricted by the potential presence of the bracted twistflower, a protected species growing in the wooded area where substantial work would have been required. The upcoming bracted twistflower survey to be conducted in the May/June timeframe by the Balcones Canyonland Preserve staff will clarify its distribution and the amount of additional work that can be accomplished. Still, the many visitors to Mount Bonnell will be pleased with the extensive view enhancements already accomplished.

Our next improvement project will focus on the placement of two kiosks on the summit near the pavilion. They will be used to provide visitors with timely information on upcoming events, history, flora, fauna and geology. PARD is in the process of developing specifications for standardized park kiosks, probably resulting in sturdier construction and greater cost. Negotiations with PARD officials are ongoing.

Concurrently, we are working with the Covert family to assist in the replacement of the damaged and worn limestone marker recognizing Frank Covert, Sr.’s 1938 gift of the land on which the park stands. The family has agreed to fund the replacement with a granite stone. Details are still being worked out.

We continue to work with neighborhoods and other Friends of Mount Bonnell to identify and support other future projects.