Sometimes the easiest way to enjoy Central Texas’ cool spring-fed rivers and pools is slowly, a toe at a time.

The same can be true of shepherding the future of the land surrounding that cool water. Last week, Hays County stuck its first toe in by voting to pursue a plan, partnering with the Nature Conservancy, to secure for the public 530 acres of pristine Hill Country real estate.

The acreage is part of the historic El Rancho Cima, which was,  for years, owned by the Sam Houston Area Coun...