Episode Description
This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine the transformation of Mitchell Lake on San Antonio’s South Side—from decades as a city sewage dump to its current status as a 1,200-acre urban wildlife sanctuary and a critical stop along the Central Flyway for hundreds of migratory bird species.
Cory Ames is joined by Erin Magerl, Senior Education Coordinator at the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, to detail the lake’s complicated history, its current ecological significance, and what its rebirth says about conservation in a rapidly growing city.
They discuss:
• The origins of Mitchell Lake as a natural water body and its years serving as the city’s sewage outflow
• The environmental turnaround—from polluted waters to a revived ecosystem supporting over 350 bird species annually
• The role of public investment and the latest bond-funded improvements aimed at expanding community access and education
• The ongoing challenges facing bird populations and local conservation efforts in the face of urban development
• Practical ways San Antonians can support urban wildlife and participate in community science
This episode offers a grounded look at what’s possible when cities confront past mistakes and the continuing challenges of balancing growth with the preservation of natural habitats in San Antonio.
RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:
▶️ #139. How San Antonio is Turning Construction Waste to Community Wealth – If you found Mitchell Lake’s story of renewal inspiring, take the next step with this episode on San Antonio’s efforts to turn building waste into local opportunity. Cory Ames sits down with Stephanie Phillips to discuss the city’s pioneering deconstruction policy and how it’s fueling environmental innovation, workforce growth, and stronger communities.
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