Ascarate Park

Urged the county to save the duck pond and use funds for its repair instead of building a new wetland.

Argued that removing water features could negatively impact the surrounding Riverside neighborhood and ecosystem.

Urged the county to listen to local residents rather than out-of-town consultants regarding desert water resources.

Supported saving the duck pond, questioned the need for a permanent stage, and requested working drinking fountains.

Representing the Ascarate Fishing Club, emphasized decades of youth angling education and the need to protect both lakes.

A registered nurse shared how bicycling aided his pandemic stress and called for financial transparency in county projects.

Emphasized that the duck pond serves as a critical backup ecosystem when the main lake suffers algae blooms.

Criticized the current condition of the park and lakes, emphasizing the need for ADA accessibility and keeping the duck pond.

Raised concerns about wildlife rescue, protection of migratory birds, and the strong community opposition to removing the duck pond.

Emphasized the moral and historical importance of the lakes and duck pond to generations of El Paso families.

Questioned project costs, lack of clear figures from architects, and safety concerns regarding mixed walking and bike trails.

A military veteran with PTSD shared how the park provides healing and urged the county to preserve the duck pond.

Called for basic improvements, better lighting, shade, and educational hubs rather than sweeping changes.

Highlighted that the small lake supports a thriving fish population and serves as a crucial blue space.

Shared how fishing at the park improved his health and noted that water toxicity levels at the pond have improved.

Advocated for walking trail users, requesting that the path around the lake remain a passive walking trail separated from cyclists.

Speaking as a Texas Parks and Wildlife urban biologist, discussed bird conservation, burrowing owls, and waterfowl management.

Emphasized the importance of the duck pond and lake access for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

The speaker advocated for dredging Ascarate Lake and adding amusement park features for local youth.

Expressed concern about the potential removal of the Ascarate Park duck pond, domestic duck welfare, and regional water allocation to corporate data centers.

Advocated for keeping the duck pond open, citing strong public survey support and warnings from wildlife rescues that dumped domestic ducks could face euthanasia.

Asked the court to protect the Ascarate Park duck pond and local water resources, noting community support for preserving the area for families and wildlife.

Advocated for keeping the duck pond open, highlighting concerns from wildlife rescuers about domestic ducks being displaced or euthanized.

A concerned citizen expressed that current Ascarate Park improvement plans miss opportunities to create a major regional economic driver with camping, RV sites, and outdoor recreation.