Austin’s preserve system began in 1935 with the creation of Zilker Nature Preserve. Over the years, the City of Austin has acquired over 2200 acres of preserve land. Preserve land is a unique type of park land that is set aside because it provides essential endangered species habitat, includes a unique natural feature such as a cave or stream, or provides a prime example of a specific type of ecosystem. Preserve land is set aside by either purchasing property from private or commercial land owners, if an area is designated as endangered species habitat or if it is deeded to the city.