May Conservation Round-Up Highlighting conservation efforts & events from across the Lone Star State
CONSERVATION EVENTS May Parks & Trails Cleanup Month
Keep America Beautiful’s Great American Cleanup (GAC) is the nation’s largest community improvement program, taking place annually each spring from March through May. We've recently introduced themed months to help inspire events in your community. For the last month of GAC, we're making May Parks and Trails Month and invite you to host an event focused on beautification of our public spaces.
Learn more about getting involved in a cleanup near you or organizing one of your own. Keep Texas Beautiful is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:www.ktb.org/gac.com
Date: 5/1/2021
For all media inquiries: Brianna Fuller [email protected] 512-961-5264
Fairy Door Scavenger Hunt
Twenty Artists in Mills County have designed Fairy Doors for our Garden Scavenger Hunt. Search pages can be picked up at the Welcome Center or the Jennie Trent Dew Library.
See if you can find all 20! Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:www.legacyplaza.org
Date: 5/1/2021
For all media inquiries: Susan Lindsey Director [email protected]
1 Miles For The Wild
Get active. Earn points. Save wildlife.
Miles for the Wild is a virtual fitness fundraiser supporting the Houston Zoo’s wildlife-saving programs. Join as an individual or in a team and earn your miles in any number of ways—ride, run, walk, or choose your own challenge! Houston Zoo is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
How you will help save wildlife:
● Fundraise: Support saving animals around the world —from sea turtles off the Texas Gulf Coast to Asian elephants in Borneo. Help us reach our goal of $100,000! You will earn cool swag for reaching fundraising milestones. Learn more ● Earn Points: You can earn extra points starting right now by sharing your story, getting a friend to donate, tracking your fitness progress, and more! Earning points will help you win prizes including a cheetah walk or a three species Zoo tour! ● Spread the word: Post about this virtual fitness fundraiser on social media and encourage your family and friends to get involved! Tag #HoustonZooWildMiles.
Link:https://p2p.onecause.com/wildmiles
Date: 5/6/2021 - 5/9/2021 Cost: Registration fee: $35 ($25 for kids 10 and under)
For all media inquiries: Lauren Wappler PR Manager [email protected] 713-533-6613
Waking Up With Wildflowers
Savannah Early will lead a tour through the Gardens to view the wild flowers in bloom. Hazel McCoy will answer any gardening questions following the tour. Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:http://legacyplaza.org/2021/04/fairy-door-hunt-may-1-31/
Date: 5/7/2021
2 For all media inquiries: Savannah Early Garden Manager [email protected] 325-648-2447
Bike Ride Along Playa Drain Trail
This will be a 6.8-mile round-trip bike ride. You will see burrowing owl habitats and green-infrastructure water harvesting installations on your ride. Meet at the Playa Drain Trail trailhead (near Ascarate Park across the street from the parking area).
RSVP by email to [email protected]. Frontera Land Alliance is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:www.facebook.com/fronteralandalliance
Date: 5/8/2021 Time: 8:30 AM Location: 301 Manny Martinez Dr El Paso, TX 79905
For all media inquiries: [email protected]
Grab-N-Go Nature Lessons: Be A Friend To Animals
Stop by our tables to pick up a Grab-N-Go bag filled with activities to help you explore the park. This month’s bag will focus on what animals need to survive and how we can help them. How can you make the world around you a safer place for birds, bees and toads? Pick up a bag to learn some new ways of making the world a better place for our animal friends. No registration necessary and supplies are limited. Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://www.philhardbergerpark.org/calendar-events/grab-n-go-nature-lessons-be-a-friend-to-animals
Date: 5/8/2021
For all media inquiries: Teresa Shumaker Assoc. Director
3 [email protected] 210-492-7472
Land Stewardship: A Community Conversation
Thanks to a grant from the Institute of Museum & Library Services (IMLS) and the American Library Association (ALA), our community will host a conversation about conservation. We have Olivia Kost, Texas Parks & Wildlife Biologist, Tom Guthrie, Mills County Extension Agent, Bruce Gillam, Mills County Prescribed Burn Association and C. T. Head, 2019 Lone Star Land Steward and President of the Texas Sheep and Goat Association. Tommy is the current Vice President for the Tx. Botanical Gardens.
The event will take place in the pavilion located in the TX Botanical Gardens. The Gardens were built as a model to showcase native plants and grasses. Del Barnet, the Mills County Archaeology Steward will be on site. He will look at any objects of interest that land owners might want to identify.
The Southside Tavern will be serving locally sourced lamb and beef following the program. Join us for conversation and fellowship. Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:www.legacyplaza.org
Date: 5/8/2021
For all media inquiries: Susan Lindsey Director [email protected] 325-68-2447
BLC Nature Talk: Rain Gardens
Join us on Facebook Live with Shannon Brown, founder of Ecosystem Regeneration Artisans, to learn how to create a rain garden. Rain gardens mitigate the impact of our homes on our water by mimicking pre-development hydrology using rainwater harvesting systems including cisterns, rain gardens, and other low impact development (LID) features. The results are landscapes that are functional, beautiful, and attract large numbers of hummingbirds and butterflies who delight the homeowners. From hilltop to creekside, every home can contribute to providing healthy wildlife and healthy water.
Registration is not necessary. A Facebook account is not needed in order to watch the program. Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://www.philhardbergerpark.org/calendar-events/blc-nature-talk-rain-gardens
4 Date: 5/15/2021
For all media inquiries: Teresa Shumaker Assoc. Director [email protected] 210-492-7472
Saturday SEAM Series: Here Comes The Sun
Join us as we unlock some of the powers of the largest star in our Universe, the Sun.
Students will harness the power and heat from the sun to bake smores in a solar oven, float a solar bag 50' in the air, turn everyday objects into works of art with sun sensitive paper, and study radiometers and how they work.
This program is aimed at students in the Kindergarten-3rd Grade range. Attendance for these classes is limited due to social distancing requirements. All in person participants will be required to adhere to COVID-19 Safety guidelines which will be provided in advance of the program.
"At Home Program Kits" are available for families who prefer not to attend in person. If you sign up for this version, Headwaters staff will contact you to arrange kit pick up or delivery. Headwaters at the Comal is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://www.tickettailor.com/events/headwaters/484775
Date: 5/15/2021
For all media inquiries: Lauren Strack Assistant Manager [email protected] 830-608-8937
Bilingual Guided Hike At Resler Canyon
Learn about the different plants and animals in the Chihuahuan Desert in both English and Spanish in this perfect opportunity to discover the many common names of native species!
For more information and to register, email [email protected]. Frontera Land Alliance is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:www.facebook.com/fronteralandalliance
Date: 5/15/2021
5 Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location: 6499 Cadiz St., El Paso TX 79912
TLC's Online Texas Nature Trivia
TLC’s Online Texas Nature Trivia is back and ready to provide you with a healthy dose of competition! Over the last few months, TLC has been working on a new regional approach to their conservation efforts. They now have program directors in North Texas, East Texas, and the Hill Country. Join the TLC team for a regionally-focused trivia event where you can meet the directors, learn more about their new roles, and compete with your fellow nature-lovers to see which Texas region you know best!
This event is family-friendly, and you can play from the comfort of your own home. Texas Land Conservancy is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://texaslandconservancy.org/texas-nature-trivia-online/
Date: 5/18/2021 Cost: Free
For all media inquiries: Maren McLaughlin-Klotz Development and Communications Director [email protected] 512.301.6363
Texas Waters Webinar: Native American Cultural Connection To Water
The Alabama-Coushatta culture would not exist without water. From the ancestors to present day citizens, this natural resource has sustained our people and allowed the culture to survive despite Americanization. Mounds, villages, and trails; baskets, pottery, and tools; housing material, food, and cleansing; all attributed to water. From the heavens to under the earth, water has been a precious blessing to this life and beyond. Waterways even carry names of Alabama-Coushatta and the people. Sharing the Tribal relationship with this important resource will demonstrate better partnerships for longtime water conservancy. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/water-education/texaswatersprogram/texaswatersspecialist
6 Date: 5/19/2021
For all media inquiries: Melissa Felty Conservation Education Manager [email protected] 512-389-8060
GAME ON! At The Houston Zoo Presented By TXU Energy
Puzzle your way through a BRAND NEW adults-only, escape room-style experience, GAME ON! At the Houston Zoo presented by TXU Energy! Find the clues, solve the puzzles, and save the day as themed game prompts safely guide you through the outdoor areas of the Houston Zoo. This experience will take place after hours and food and beverage items will be available for purchase.
First timed ticket entry at 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM. Last timed ticket entry at 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM. Zoo closes at 9:30 PM. Entries will be limited in capacity and staggered in 30-minute intervals to accommodate social distancing. Houston Zoo is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://www.houstonzoo.org/events/game-on/
Date: 5/20/2021
For all media inquiries: Lauren Wappler PR Manager [email protected] 713-533-6613
Keep America Beautiful Webinar: Building Community Partnerships For A Zero-Waste Approach
Cities and towns across the United States have developed and launched comprehensive plans with clear timetables in their drive toward waste-free communities and are now taking action to achieve these ambitious goals. These actions are also proving key to making our urban centers cleaner, healthier and more resilient. Keep Texas Beautiful is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
In this webinar, you’ll be learning how these municipalities are: ● Defining zero-waste ● Creating an inclusive process for building a city-wide consensus ● Identifying key elements of a zero-waste plan ● Securing measurable gains
Speakers: ● Kanika Greenlee, Executive Director, Keep Atlanta Beautiful Commission
7 ●Rachel Hering, Director, Keep Texas Recycling ● Danielle M. Robinson, PhD, Head of Corporate Responsibility, Diageo North America ● Gena McKinley, Strategic Initiatives Division Manager, City of Austin
Link:https://ktb.org/get-involved/calendar-of-events/education/webinar-building-community-partnerships-for-a-zero- waste-approach
Date: 5/20/2021
For all media inquiries: Brianna Fuller [email protected] 512-961-5264
Endangered Species Day
Join Wyler Aerial State Park and Frontera in this virtual presentation to learn what it means to be an endangered species and how a species becomes one! To register email [email protected]. Frontera Land Alliance is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Date: 5/21/2021 Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Before The S’mores: Flying High At The Wetland – JBS Bald Eagles Join Us For A Special Evening Dedicated To Our National Symbol! Director John DeFillipo
Join us for a special evening dedicated to our national symbol! Director John DeFillipo will lead as our featured speaker with a fascinating history of the bald eagles that reside on the property. In addition, Window to the Wild will be at the center with a live bald eagle for you to see up close and personal!
Enjoy sipping on a Bald Eagle cocktail as you take a stroll on the boardwalk before joining us for s’mores and campfire songs. John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/zsaY8Ih
Date: 5/21/2021
For all media inquiries: [email protected] Linda Dunn Education Manager
8 9724749100
ASI – Aquatic Science Investigations Summer Camp Registration
Looking for a fun camp for your 10th-12th grade child that is full of discovery, fun and has an academic twist? Look no more!
ASI: Aquatic Science Investigations, taking place on June 21-25, 2021, is the answer. The Wetland Center is holding a week long camp focusing on wetland environments which includes day trips to Texas wetlands, data collecting and analysis and a whole lot of fun as your child spends the entire week at the Center.
Evenings will be spent learning about astronomy, nocturnal animals, night hikes and campfires. There is no cost to this program thanks to a grant from Oncor Electric Delivery. Space is limited to 10 students. Participants will be chosen based on an application process. Applications are due May 21, 2021. John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://wetlandcenter.com/images/PDF%20files/2021%20ASI%20completeapplication.pdf
Date: 5/21/2021 Cost: Free
For all media inquiries: [email protected] Linda Dunn Education Manager 9724749100
Virtual Nature Walk: Insects
Join us online to learn about the insects in Hardberger Park!
Nicolas Phillips, an expert student of Entomology and an award-winning insect collector, will teach us the basics of arthropods and all the ways insects and arthropods are beneficial. Registration is required to be emailed the login information.
Link:https://www.philhardbergerpark.org/calendar-events/virtual-nature-walk-insects
Date: 5/22/2021
For all media inquiries: Teresa Shumaker Assoc. Director [email protected]
9 210-492-7472
Brownies Wonders Of Water Journey
Dive into the great journey of water with us! During this workshop, girls will learn about the urban water cycle, how to clean water and how water can be a habitat. John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://wetlandcenter.com/images/PDF/2021%20Spring%20Girl%20Scout%20Programs.pdf
Date: 5/29/2021
For all media inquiries: [email protected] Linda Dunn Education Manager 9724749100
Texas Bighorn Society 2021 Annual Roundup
Come join us for a fun time with auctions, raffles, and games while we raise money for Texas desert sheep conservation. Texas Bighorn Society is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner.
Link:https://www.texasbighornsociety.org/events/32nd-annual-roundup/
Date: 6/11/2021
For all media inquiries: Crisy Stratton Administration [email protected] 321-525-6724
CONSERVATION NEWS
10 The Skywalk Is Now Open In Phil Hardberger Park
Organizations involved include Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy, San Antonio Department of Parks and Recreation.
Link:https://www.philhardbergerpark.org/parknews/skywalk0is-open
Houston Zoo Announces Penguins As Part Of Master Plan
Link:https://www.houstonzoo.org/explore/exhibits/galapagos/
Help Make Castner Range A National Monument!
Organizations involved include: The Frontera Land Alliance, El Paso Community Foundation, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition, Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project and UTEP.
Link:http://castnerrangenationalmonument.org/
Texas Water Foundation Releases Equity & Access Issue Brief
Link:https://www.texaswater.org/policy
11 Texas Water Foundation Launches Texas Water Leaders 2021 Class
Link:https://www.texaswater.org/leadership, https://youtu.be/dNORi3kCr58
EPWater Celebrates 30 Years Of Conservation
Link:https://www.epwater.org/about_us/newsroom/news_from_the_pipeline/e_p_water_celebrates_30_years_of_co nservation
New Reinforced Pipeline For West El Paso
Link:https://www.epwater.org/about_us/newsroom/news_from_the_pipeline/new_reinforced_pipeline_for_west_el_p aso
TecH2O Hosts Desert-Friendly Landscape Workshops
Organizations involved include: El Paso Water, TecH2O, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and New Mexico State University.
Link:https://www.epwater.org/about_us/newsroom/news_from_the_pipeline/tec_h2_o_hosts_desert-friendly_landsc ape_workshops
12 Using eBird On The Katy Prairie
Watch this great video with Join Mikayla House and John Berner to learn more about using eBird on the Katy Prairie.
Link:https://www.katyprairie.org/birding-resources
Katy Prairie Conservancy And Partners Awarded $7MM For Texas Coastal Prairie Initiative To Conserve The Highly Imperiled Coastal Prairie Ecosystem In Texas
Organizations involved include: Katy Prairie Conservancy and project partners.
Link:www.katyprairie.org
Scenic Byways Are An Untapped Reservoir For Texas Tourism
Link:https://www.scenictexas.org/state-scenic-byway-program
It's So Much Better In The Dark
Organizations involved include: Texan by Nature, City of Fort Worth, Downtown Fort Worth.
Link:https://bit.ly/3aJwXf9
13