HOUSTON – Houstonians are mourning the loss of a beloved member of the community.
Terry Hershey died Thursday at the age of 94.
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The city of Houston describes Hershey as a well-known environmentalist who was the force behind the movement to halt the planned straightening of Buffalo Bayou for flood control in the 1960s.
"Without Terry Hershey, Buffalo Bayou would not be the signature waterway that it is today," said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. "The bayou runs through the heart of our bustling city and provides a connection to Mother Nature and recreation for thousands of Houstonians every day. Just imagine if the meandering bayou had been channelized and its lush green banks had been paved with concrete. It is due to Terry Hershey's drive and passion that this did not happen. She has left a legacy that will serve Houstonians for generations to come, and for that, we are very thankful."
Hershey's work had an impact on the state of Texas as well. She served as a member of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, appointed by Governor Ann Richards in 1991.
Hershey also founded the Park People to advocate for parks and open space in Houston.
A park in West Houston that runs along Buffalo Bayou is named after Hershey, where bikers, runners and bird watchers enjoy themselves.