2026 Gala

The Board of Directors and supporters of the Coastal Prairie Conservancy gathered at the Houston Country Club on May 5 for Boots on the Ground: Where Conservation Happens, raising more than $300,000 to support conservation efforts across Southeast Texas.

The evening honored two longstanding champions of the Katy Prairie and working lands conservation: The McAnelly Family and C. W. Henderson Electric, Inc.

For more than 30 years, the McAnelly family has played a foundational role in building the Katy Prairie Preserve, helping conserve more than 1,120 acres of land through their leadership, stewardship, and enduring commitment to the prairie landscape. The evening recognized James “JJ” McAnelly, Kathryn McAnelly Schwartz, Melissa McAnelly, and the legacy of W. J. “Jim” McAnelly Jr.

C. W. Henderson Electric, Inc., along with owners Scott and Dean Henderson, were recognized for their ongoing stewardship and hands-on conservation efforts at Warren Ranch. Through their long partnership with CPC and active restoration work on the land, they exemplify the spirit of conservation in action.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, seated dinner, and online auction featuring curated experiences and items, including guided hunts, birding tours, custom boot-making experiences, artwork, and private excursions.

Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on the importance of protecting the region’s remaining coastal prairie, wetlands, farms, and ranches at a time of rapid growth and development across Southeast Texas. Today, CPC protects more than 34,000 acres of connected landscapes that support wildlife habitat, flood resilience, agriculture, and public access to nature.

The Coastal Prairie Conservancy extends sincere gratitude to this year’s underwriters, sponsors, auction donors, volunteers, and supporters whose generosity made the evening possible.