In 2013, a high-density development was proposed next to the Spring Lake Preserve and required easements from nearby properties. Besides issues of impervious cover affecting recharge, the area was also highly prone to flooding. SMRF, after much deliberation, purchased the key property—the 75-acre Geiger Farm– to place a conservation easement on it and protect its recharge features from heavy development. Extensive clean ups began, and various geological and biological studies were started. The Geiger Ranch was always of great concern because of its location: proximity to Spring Lake and Sink Creek, its proximity to the city and the likelihood of development, and its position in the flood plain, where dense development could easily exacerbate flooding. SMRF has worked for eight years to negotiate the appropriate conservation easements and find a buyer willing to meet the high standards set forth in the agreement. In 2021, the new owner put a conservation easement on the Geiger land and gave SMRF a trail easement for future expansion in Spring Lake Preserve and SMRF was able to conserve a neighboring property of 75 acres, Owl Bluff, with SMRF holding the conservation easement
