This series provides readers with the opportunity to learn about the unique insights and experiences of the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) Board of Directors and their personal connection to the San Antonio River in hopes of inspiring stewardship of area creeks and rivers.
What were your goals and top priorities as a board member in 2025?
My top priority this past year was ensuring that the River Authority attracts and retains the most talented and dedicated professionals. The San Antonio River Authority is by far the best organization I have ever had the honor to be a part of and has the best employees! By empowering an exceptional team, we can maximize the effective and efficient use of our resources to enhance our creeks and rivers, while improving flood protection for everyone who lives within our jurisdiction.
San Antonio River in Wilson County
The River Authority has had several signature events this fall in the Southern Basin. Is there one you would like to highlight?
My favorite event by far is the Fall Fest at Helton Nature Park in Wilson County. This year, the event was moved to the Pecan Grove, where the campsites are located near the San Antonio River. The site provided ample shade and comfort for a day full of festivities. A few of those festivities included a Birds of Prey flight demonstration and a baking contest. We are grateful for our partnership with St. Philip’s College and their time as judges of the baking contest. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
I would also be remiss not to mention this year’s SASPAMCO Race the River event in September and the upcoming Fall Household Hazardous Waste Event at the Wilson County Expo Center on Saturday, November 22.
What new River Authority initiatives would you like to highlight in Wilson County?
There are three exciting new initiatives that I would like to highlight in Wilson County. First, the Board of Directors is dedicated to mitigating the risks and impacts of flooding in the San Antonio River Basin. Through a collaboration with Wilson County Judge Whitman and Commissioners the River Authority will install flood gauges at critical high-risk areas over local streams and rivers. Next, plans are underway to install exercise equipment, add a disc golf course, and complete paving the access roads at Helton Nature Park. Lastly, during your next visit to Graytown Park, explore the newly upgraded parking lot. It provides easier access to the pavilion and restrooms and showcases nature-based solutions in practice!
New Parking Lot at Graytown Park
What river or River Authority historical fact would you like to share?
As an Aggie civil engineer, I find the installation of the flood tunnels beneath San Pedro Creek and the San Antonio River to be an extraordinary engineering achievement. After their completion in 1997, downtown San Antonio experienced a major flood event the following year, with over a foot of rainfall—an event that would have devastated the River Walk in years past. Thanks to the tunnels, the threat of catastrophic flooding was greatly reduced, and both the historic River Walk and the surrounding neighborhoods were protected, effectively paying for the project.
The San Antonio River Flood Tunnel during construction.
How can we support the San Antonio River in our day-to-day actions in keeping it safe, clean, and enjoyable for all?
First, we need to practice proper trash disposal so that it does not wash down storm drains and into our creeks and rivers. Second, we need to be vigilant in reporting illegal dumping near our creeks and rivers to our city or county code compliance offices. The River Authority also has an environmental investigations team where you can report illegal dumping.
How can we preserve the river for future generations?
The best thing we can do is bring our family and friends to River Authority parks, share the beauty of our area with them, and help them fall in love with these natural spaces and all the benefits they offer.
Disc Golf at Graytown Park
About Derek Gaudlitz, Wilson County Board Member
Derek Gaudlitz of Floresville is the owner and CEO of Freedom Mowing LLC. He is a member of the Military Officers Association of America, Floresville Chamber of Commerce, and he is the Past Commander of the American Legion Post 38. He served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years upon his retirement in 2014. Gaudlitz received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University.
