This series provides readers the opportunity to learn about the unique insight 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.
H.B. “Trip” Ruckman III graduated from Karnes City High School and, in 1967, received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas. In 1984, he graduated from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University. In 1974, Ruckman joined the Karnes County National Bank after serving 7 years on active duty in the Navy. At the bank, he specialized in lending and became president in 1985. In 1991, he retired from the Navy Reserves as a Captain. In 1995, he became chairman of the bank’s board. He has served on the River Authority Board since 1987, proudly representing Karnes County and the southern basin community, and served as Chairman from 2001-2005.
What have been your top priorities as a River Authority board member in 2024?
It has been great to follow and support the San Pedro Creek Culture Park (SPCCP) project, a transformative initiative in downtown San Antonio. This project is revitalizing the historic San Pedro Creek, turning it into a linear park that celebrates the area’s cultural heritage while providing flood control and ecosystem restoration.
San Pedro Creek Culture Park
Additionally, the Westside Creeks (WSC) Restoration project has also been a great priority for the River Authority. This project aims to restore and enhance Alazán, Apache, Martinez, and San Pedro Creeks. This comprehensive project will also maintain flood control, water quality, and recreational opportunities in San Antonio’s west side.
Having the privilege of being a first-hand witness to the River Authority’s commitment to both flood control and the environment has been a great experience. I was lucky enough to tour the 26-foot diameter flood control tunnel that runs right under downtown San Antonio as it was being built. Today it is out of sight and rarely thought of, but it is there ready to protect San Antonio from the next big rain along with the dams in Bexar and Karnes County. Also, the River Authority has been a national leader in ecological restoration with the completed museum and Mission Reaches of the San Antonio River and continuing now with the San Pedro Creek. I was honored to be present when these projects were first presented to the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, and our congressional delegation for funding.
What new River Authority initiatives would you like to highlight in Karnes County?
I would like to highlight the continued planning of the Escondido Creek Parkway (ECP) project in Karnes County. This initiative will extend the scenic hiking and biking trails along Escondido Creek and connect them to downtown Kenedy. The new trails will provide additional miles of pathways for outdoor recreation and exercise. Additionally, I would like to see the San Antonio River Authority explore opportunities to partner with the Texas Department of Transportation and Texas Parks and Wildlife to create more access points for paddling in Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties where the river is really wild.
Escondido Creek Parkway
Describe one of your favorite memories related to the river.
I remember having cookouts with family on our farm on the banks of the San Antonio River and swinging on grape vines like Tarzan with my Karnes County grandparents when I was a kid, as well as walking on the San Antonio Riverwalk with my San Antonio grandparents. These cherished memories highlight the personal connection my family and I had with the river, underscoring the importance of the River Authority’s work in preserving and enhancing these waterways for all to appreciate.
Share Your Story
What do you love about your waterway? Do you have fond memories of growing up, playing along one of the creeks? Do your family traditions include celebrating holidays or special events at a park near the water? Does your ideal day off work involve fishing, going for a walk or paddling the river? Whether you’re in Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, or Goliad counties, we want to hear how one of the waterways in the San Antonio River Basin has made a positive impact on your life. Head to the My River Way oral history project page to share your story today!
