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History

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A Little History

Water Oriented Recreation District of Comal County (W.O.R.D.) is a park and recreation district created by the Texas Legislature in 1987 and voted for by the residents of Comal County in 1988.

The W.O.R.D. district encompasses Canyon Lake and over 30 miles of floatable water on the Guadalupe River above and below Canyon Lake. It exists within Comal County north of highway 46 to the west beginning at Guadalupe River State Park and runs east to the New Braunfels city limits.

Our Mission

The purpose of W.O.R.D. is to improve the environment and welfare of the district by conserving natural resources, improving public health, promoting water safety, and operating public parks located in the district.

To carry out the mandate, W.O.R.D. issues permits to water-related businesses allowing them to collect user fees from customers visiting the district.

The majority of the collected fees are expended on services such as:

  • Regular clean-up efforts along the river, lake, and popular roadways.
  • Law enforcement and emergency medical services.
  • Contributions to local projects and organizations to promote and improve the district.
  • Community education and outreach programs to promote safe and responsible water recreation.
  • Public health and sanitation to include dumpsters and portable toilets for public use.

W.O.R.D. is governed by a Board of Directors composed of seven members who are appointed by the Comal County Commissioners Court. The Board hires and oversees the manager and assistant manager who conduct the day-to-day business of the district.