April Conservation Round-Up Highlighting conservation efforts & events from across the Lone Star State
CONSERVATION EVENTS Elm Fork Trinity River Cleanup DALLAS - We are starting at California Crossing Park at 9am and take out and Frazier Dam Recreation Area. We’ll work in groups of 4-6 paddlers and each group will have a small section of the river to clean up. For all those participating we will have a cookout for lunch and wrap up by 1pm.
Clean-up Route: California Crossing Park to Frazier Dam Recreation Area
This is a new area being opened up. The total distance is a little over 5 miles and we’ll have help with shuttle arrangements. This section of the river is an easy paddle and should be a fun experience for the family.
If you are in town, please consider helping with this cleanup it has the visibility of some of our supporters of the Trinity River Paddling Trail. And it will show the that local paddlers definitely have an interest in the Trinity River. We will need paddlers picking up trash, volunteers to help with the cookout, and we’ll need 3 or 4 paddlers going solo in a large canoes offloading trash bags from kayakers. I have access to 3 - 4 large canoes.
Trash bags will be provided, please bring your own canoe or kayak, PFDs, grabbers if you have them and heavy duty rubber gloves.
Link: https://www.meetup.com/Dallas-Down-River-Club-DDRC/events/259934844/
Location: California Crossing Park, 1633 California Crossing Rd, Dallas, TX 75220 Date: 4/6/19 Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Steve Smith [email protected]
Talking With The Eagles DALLAS - Meet at the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center and participate in our Eagle Walk! Get your eagle questions answered on a hike to the Eagle Tower with Wetland Stewards, Kathy and Bill Nance.
At the tower we will watch Bald Eagle activity and share information about the eagles. Come and go as you like, but be prepared to be on your feet for up to 2 hours! Bring a light weight chair if you plan to stay for awhile. Call 972-474-9100 or email [email protected] with any questions.
Location: John Bunker Sands Wetland Center, 655 Martin Ln, Seagoville, TX 75159 Date: 4/6/19 Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Costs: Event is free with $5 admission.
Link: w ww.wetlandcenter.com
For all media inquiries: Linda Dunn Education Manager [email protected] (972)-474-9100
Victoria Soil Health Short Course VICTORIA - T he Victoria Soil Health Short Course is a collaboration between the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas Wildlife Association, and the Victoria and Goliad Soil and Water Conservation Districts. The event will be held in Victoria, Texas.
Location: Victoria, TX Date: 4/23/19 - 4/24/19
Link: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/tx/soils/health/?cid=nrcseprd1433436
For all media inquiries: Molly Christensen Public Affairs Specialist [email protected] 254-228-7881
Mudbug Festival & 5K/10K/Kids Fun Run Sponsored by REI of Dallas MUDBUG FESTIVAL On Saturday, May 11th, the Mudbug Festival returns to the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center. This FREE family fun day includes: live animal presentations, education & partnership booths, kid activities, face painting, local music, food trucks, ice cream, crawfish, and much more.
Wetlands are vital for wildlife habitat, natural filtration, and water supply. Since 2010 the Wetland Center has provided hands on education to champion the importance of water, wetland, and wildlife conservation in North Texas region.
MUDBUG 5K/10K/KIDS FUN RUN Come run with us! Put your trail legs on and test at the 2nd REI Trail Run at the Mudbug Festival. Whether you're looking to run your first trail race or hit a personal best, this fun, light-hearted race will help you set your pace!
The run starts and ends at John Bunker Sands Wetland Center and takes runners on the levees through the wetlands. Entry fee is $20 REI Member / $25 non-member - all who sign up will receive awesome REI branded swag, maps of the course and post-race refreshments.
Plus, there are some great prizes for the top men's and women's finishers. And check out the Kids FREE Fun run. So lace up your shoes, grab your buddy and get out on the trail with REI! We will be offering a 5K and 10K distance at the race.
At Packet Pick Up you will have the option to choose your distance. Packet Pick Up will take place at the REI Dallas store on Thursday, May 9th 4:00pm -8:00pm and then morning of the event at 8:00am at John Bunker Sands Wetland Center. 10K starts at 9:00am and 5K will start at 9:15am and Kids Fun Run at 9:25(no registration).
Link: http://www.wetlandcenter.com/MUDBUG2019.html
Location: J ohn Bunker Sands Wetland Center, 655 Martin Ln, Seagoville, TX 75159 Date: 5/11/19 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Linda Dunn Education Manager [email protected] (972)-474-9100
Neches River Refuge Grand Opening NECHES - Join the fun and experience the wonderful outdoor experiences available at the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge! Located in East Texas on US Hwy 79 between Palestine and Jacksonville, the Neches River Refuge has 7,000 acres of beautiful wildlife habitat‚ forests, wetlands, and trails along the iconic Neches River.
April 13 will mark the grand opening of the refuge, with guided nature walks, van tours of the refuge, kids activities, exhibits, and a nationally-known speaker. YOU are invited to enjoy the day!
Texas Conservation Alliance and the Friends of the Refuge are helping the US Fish and Wildlife Service organize activities to make the day a special one for you and your friends and family. We hope to see you there! LINK: https://www.tcatexas.org/newsletter/refuge-event
Location: Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, Located in East Texas on US Hwy 79 between Palestine and Jacksonville Date: 4/13/19 Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Costs: Free; donations requested to cover lunch
For all media inquiries: Janice Bezanson Exec. Director [email protected] 512-327-4119
North American Prairie Conference 2019
HOUSTON - Join us at the 25th North American Prairie Conference to explore HEALTHY PRAIRIES, HEALTHY WATERSHEDS. Prairie enthusiasts from across the nation will be joining us to share the latest research on grassland ecosystems, restoration techniques, sharing educational resources, and examining the connectivity of prairies to water quality and human health. This three-day conference includes a fantastic lineup of invited speakers, workshops, field trips and evening activities.
Registration online begins February 1, 2019 Early bird registration ends on April 22, 2019
Sponsorship Opportunities are available for individuals and organizations who would like to be involved and support the success of this national conference which Houston has the honor of hosting this year. Visit www.northamericanprairie.org under the Sponsorship tab for more information.
Exhibitor Opportunities are available for non-profits and commercial organizations. Visit the official website under the Sponsorship tab for more information.
Link: www.northamericanprairie.org
Location: University of Houston - Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058 Date: 6/2/19 - 6/5/19 Costs: Registration Fees
For all media inquiries: Della Barbato Director of Education Native Prairies Association of Texas [email protected] 832-283-0383
Texas Aquatic Science Workshop - Bonham State Park BONHAM - Texas Aquatic Science is a comprehensiveTexas Aquatic Science Teacher Guide aquatic science curriculum, from molecules to ecosystems, and headwaters to ocean, for middle school and high school students. Texas Aquatic Science workshop goals: - Introduce educators to the materials and philosophy of TAS - Provide a sampling of field activities - Make a connection to local water and wildlife issues that will help people become aware of their place in the environment and their actions to protect it - Demonstrate field interpretive techniques used in TAS field activities and TAS trunk equipment inventory
What to bring: - Lunch and snacks; reusable water bottle - Footwear to possibly get wet (Optional: Water shoes and/or knee-high rainboots) - Bug spray, sunscreen, and/or hat - Change of clothes and towel (just in case); dress for weather - Texas Aquatic Science Teacher Guide (Optional)
Link: h ttps://tpwd.texas.gov/education/resources/aquatic-science
Location: Bonham State Park, 1363 State Park 24, Bonham, TX 75418 Date: 4/17/19 Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Costs: Free
For all media inquiries: Melissa Alderson Conservation Education Manager [email protected] (512) 389-8060
Texas Aquatic Science Workshop - Meridian State Park MERIDIAN - T exas Aquatic Science is a comprehensiveTexas Aquatic Science Teacher Guide aquatic science curriculum, from molecules to ecosystems, and headwaters to ocean, for middle school and high school students.
Texas Aquatic Science workshop goals: - Introduce educators to the materials and philosophy of TAS - Provide a sampling of field activities - Make a connection to local water and wildlife issues that will help people become aware of their place in the environment and their actions to protect it - Demonstrate field interpretive techniques used in TAS field activities and TAS trunk equipment inventory
What to bring: - Lunch and snacks; reusable water bottle - Footwear to possibly get wet (Optional: Water shoes and/or knee-high rainboots) - Bug spray, sunscreen, and/or hat - Change of clothes and towel (just in case); dress for weather - Texas Aquatic Science Teacher Guide (Optional)
Location: M eridian State Park, 173 Park Road #7, Meridian, TX 76665 Date: 4/25/19 Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Costs: Free
For all media inquiries: Melissa Alderson Conservation Education Manager [email protected] (512) 389-8060
Earth Day Celebration 2019 NEW BRAUNFELS - Come enjoy a day of fun, engaging, family-friendly, nature-filled activities during our 2nd annual Earth Day Celebration.
This FREE event is made possible by our sponsors: CEMEX, HEB and Moody Bank.
Exhibitors include: AmaTerra Environmental, Bat Conservation International, City of New Braunfels Parks & Recreation Department, City of New Braunfels Recycling Division, Comal County Conservation Alliance, Comal Master Gardeners, Edwards Aquifer Authority, Friends for the Preservation of Historic Landa Park, Guadalupe Blanco River Authority, H.E.B., McKenna Children's Museum, Native Plant Society of Texas-New Braunfels Chapter, New Braunfels Utilities Environmental Affairs Department, Texas Master Naturalists- Lindheimer Chapter and Texas Stream Team
Link: h ttps://www.headwatersatthecomal.com/event/earthday2019/
Location: H eadwaters at the Comal, 333 E. Klingemann St., New Braunfels, TX, 78130 Date: 4/20/19 Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Costs: Free
For all media inquiries: Lauren Strack Assistant Manager [email protected] 830-608-8937
Creating a Hummingbird Hotspot! NEW BRAUNFELS - April is Spring Hummingbird Migration! We’re lucky to live in a region where multiple species of hummingbirds can be seen. Come learn about the birds-why they come here, when to see them, and how to attract them to your yard-in a Hummingbird Hotspot program on April 3rd by Comal Master Gardener Kathleen Scott.
Link: h ttps://www.headwatersatthecomal.com/event/04-03hummingbird/
Location: H eadwaters at the Comal, 333 E. Klingemann St., New Braunfels, TX, 78130 Date: 4/3/19 Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Costs: $3 - $10
For all media inquiries: Lauren Strack Assistant Manager [email protected] 830-608-8937
Native Plant Sale DALLAS - A wide variety of drought-tolerant native plants will be available. Native plants bring birds and pollinators to your yard and require less water. Shop beginning at 10:00 am for the best selection. Pre-orders will be available online.
Link: h ttps://www.facebook.com/events/308969646487400/
Location: D ogwood Canyon Audubon Center, 1206 W FM 1382, Cedar Hill, Texas 75104 Date: 4/20/19 Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Katie Christman Education Specialist [email protected] 469-526-1988
DFW City Nature Challenge DALLAS - In partnership with Audubon Dallas, Cedar Ridge Preserve and Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, join in on the DFW City Nature Challenge fun! Build your iNaturalist skills as we search for as many organisms that we can find. Explore Cedar Ridge Preserve with Master Naturalists and experts in a variety of disciplines, learning how to use iNaturalist.
Start with an adult only bird walk from 7:30 am - 8:30 am. Activities, crafts and looking for organisms starts at 9:00 am and will end at noon.
Link: h ttps://www.facebook.com/events/214940892538647/
Location: C edar Ridge Preserve - Audubon Dallas, 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Cedar Hill, Texas 75249 Date: 4/27/19 Time: 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM Cost: Donations are appreciated for this event
For all media inquiries: Katie Christman Education Specialist [email protected] 469-526-1988
Corporate Day of Service offers Dallas corporations opportunity to give back and beautify Trinity River DALLAS - On Friday, April 5th, 2019, Trinity Park Conservancy hosts the 5th annual Corporate Day of Service presented by Southwest Airlines. Volunteers from Dallas corporations will beautify Dallas’ largest public green space, specifically working in the Lower Chain of Wetlands. This year introduces a competition among the corporations to design the best nesting box. The boxes are used to provide valuable homes for many species of birds.
Link: https://trinityparkconservancy.org/event-posts/corporate-day-of-service/
Location: L ower Chain of Wetlands, 4747 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75216 Date: 4/5/19
For all media inquiries: Elizabeth Jones Marketing & Communications Associate [email protected] 214.740.1616
Designing Harold Simmons Park: A Park In The Heart Of Dallas DALLAS - Designing Harold Simmons Park is an exhibit giving the public a detailed glimpse into the complexities of designing the 200 acre park project in the heart of Dallas. The exhibit will put on display the most recent design thinking behind building the Park and will provide Dallas residents an opportunity to influence its form. Link: h ttps://trinityparkconservancy.org/event-posts/design-reveal/
Location: G illey’s Dallas, 1135 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75215 Date: 4/25/19 Time: 5:30 PM
For all media inquiries: Elizabeth Jones Marketing & Communications Associate [email protected] 214.740.1616
Climate Change Walk, presented by the Dallas Sierra Club and Trinity Park Conservancy DALLAS - This is an easy 2-mile narrated tour about changes that have already taken place in Dallas and local changes that we can expect. We will begin promptly at 6pm and return to our starting point at 8pm. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Most of the tour is on pavement. The group is limited to twelve (12) people. Register in advance to secure your spot on the walk.
This Climate Change Walk is in partnership with the Dallas Sierra Club, and is part of Trinity Park Conservancy's Seasons At Simmons series. With great spots for birdwatching, nature hikes, and miles of trails to enjoy, the Trinity River is open year round. We invite you to join us for a Seasons at Simmons event this year to discover all there is to enjoy.
Link: https://trinityparkconservancy.org/event-posts/climate-change-walk/
Location: D allas Farmers Market, 920 S Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201 Date: 4/18/19 Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Elizabeth Jones Marketing & Communications Associate [email protected] 214.740.1616
Riparian & Stream Ecosystem Training - Baffin Bay Watershed KINGSVILLE - T his workshop is being co-hosted by the Nueces River Authority, The Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, The AgriLife Extension Office in Kleberg and Kenedy County, and the Texas Water Resources Institute. The training will focus on the nature and function of stream and riparian zones and the benefits and direct impacts from healthy riparian zones. The riparian education programs will cover an introduction to riparian principles, watershed processes, basic hydrology, erosion/deposition principles, and riparian vegetation, as well as potential causes of degradation and possible resulting impairment(s), and available local resources including technical assistance and tools that can be employed to prevent and/or resolve degradation.
These one-day trainings in watersheds across the state include both indoor classroom presentations and outdoor stream walks. Instructors are experts from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Texas A&M Forest Service, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
The goal is for participants to better understand and relate to riparian and watershed processes, the benefits that healthy riparian areas provide, and the tools that can be employed to prevent and/or resolve degradation and improve water quality. At the conclusion of the training, participants will receive a certificate of completion.
Link: http://bit.ly/2FnLfTx
Location: Recreation Hall at Dick Kleberg Park, 501 E. Escondido Rd, Kingsville, TX 78364 Date: 4/16/19 Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Kathy Wythe Communications Manager [email protected] 979-845-1862
Tres Palacios Creek Watershed Protection Plan Meeting PALACIOS - The Texas Water Resources Institute is hosting a meeting April 10 in Palacios to discuss the implementation of the Tres Palacios Watershed Protection Plan.
The Tres Palacios Watershed Plan was recently accepted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the institute is now working with local stakeholders to assist in implementing management measures identified in the plan to reduce bacteria and nutrient loads reaching the creek.
For more information, contact Michael Schramm, 979-458-9191, m [email protected]
Link: https://today.agrilife.org/2019/03/19/tres-palacios-creek-watershed-protection-plan-meeting-set-april-10- in-palacios/
Location: Matagorda County Navigation District,1602 Main St, Palacios, TX 77465 Date: 4/10/19 Time: 1:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Kathy Wythe Communications Manager [email protected] 979-845-1862
Rainwater Harvesting & Turf Management Training LOCKHART - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Healthy Lawns and Healthy Waters Program is hosting a residential rainwater harvesting and turf management training April 18 in Lockhart.
The training is offered in collaboration with the Plum Creek Watershed Partnership.
Seating is limited. Attendees are requested to RSVP online or contact John Smith, AgriLife Extension program specialist, College Station, at [email protected] or 979-845-2761.
Link: https://hlhw.tamu.edu/workshops/2019/apr-18-lockhart/
Location: Lockhart State Park, 2012 State Park Road, Lockhart, TX 78644 Date: 4/18/19 Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Kathy Wythe Communications Manager [email protected] 979-845-1862
Water Saving Seminar: Texan Plants DALLAS/FORT WORTH - There’s a growing trend to incorporate native plants in landscapes not only for their ability to save water, but also for the incredible beauty and the countless ecosystem services they provide! Learn how to grow our favorite native wildflowers, trees, shrubs as well as perennials with lush vibrant colors and textures to make your garden the envy of the neighborhood.
We’ll also talk proper soil preparation, proper installation, and provide tips for long term maintenance to keep your native landscape looking its best. You’ll be provided a plant list as big as the Lone Star State!
Link: h ttps://wateruniversity.tamu.edu/events/
Location: B otanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), 1700 University Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 Date: 4/11/19 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Daniel Cunningham, Horticulturist, D [email protected], 972.952.9223
Horti-Couture: What's HOT for 2019 (Addison) DALLAS - Learn about the newest and hottest design trends from AgriLife experts as we dig into the best NEW plant varieties on the market in North Texas. Whether you’re just getting into gardening or already have a green thumb, this class is sure to get to the root of all your plant questions! Come check out the many cool new trees, shrubs, and flowers to pick from and the best ways to keep them thriving!
Link: https://wateruniversity.tamu.edu/events/2019/april-15-2019-horti-couture-whats-hot-for-2019-addison/
Location: S urveyor Water Tower, 4000 Arapaho Road, Addison, TX 75001 Date: 4/15/19 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Daniel Cunningham Horticulturist [email protected] 972.952.9223
Bokashi Composting EULESS - Is your trash can full at the end of the week? Do you live in a small space? Tired of, or unable to turn that big compost pile? You can still compost, reducing the waste carried to landfills by using this indoor composting method. Mimicking a practice once common with Korean farmers, Bokashi is an easy way to compost (or more correctly, ferment) and doesn't require much work at all! This program teaches the general composting process, what you can compost and ways to use the finished product to enhance your gardening skills.
Link: https://wateruniversity.tamu.edu/events/2019/april-24-2019-bokashi-composting-euless/
Location: E uless City Hall, 201 N. Ector Dr., Euless, TX 76039 Date: 4/24/19 Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
For all media inquiries: Daniel Cunningham Horticulturist [email protected] 972.952.9223
Waking Up with Wildflowers GOLDTHWAITE - The Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center is partnering with Pecans.com & the Live Oak Garden Center for their annual event. Enjoy a delightful cup of pecan flavored coffee as you learn to identify some of our favorite native plants. Live Oak will have plants available to purchase, and Master Gardener, Hazel McCoy will be on hand to give planting advise.
Link: w ww.legacyplaza.org
Location: G oldthwaite Welcome Center, 1150 Fisher St, Goldthwaite, TX 76844 Date: 4/12/19 Time: 10:00 AM Cost: $10.00 per person
For all media inquiries: Savannah Early Gardens Manager [email protected] 325-648-2750
Spring Lake Earth Day Festival " SAN MARCOS - The Meadows Center is excited to announce the return of the Spring Lake Earth Day Festival. This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity to join together as a community to recognize and protect our beautiful planet.
Celebrate Mother Earth through a variety of activities, including: - Educational activities for all ages - Live entertainment - Recreation opportunities for all ages - Food and vendor booths - Discounted glass-bottom boat tours with a donation of a food item
The Spring Lake Earth Day Festival is a collaborative event between The Meadows Center, the Texas State Environmental Conservation Organization, the Department of Human and Health Performance and Apogee Presents. Vendor Information: We invite you to apply to set up a booth at the Spring Lake Earth Day Festival to promote your group, organization or business. Vendor booth registration is $20; non-profit educational booths are free to participate. Vendor applications are due by April 5, 2019.
Link: https://www.meadowscenter.txstate.edu/Education/earth-day-festival.html
Location: 2 01 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666 Date: 4/20/19 Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Meagan Lobban, Education Manager, [email protected]
Weekend at Ivy's DALLAS - Ivy Payne Wildlife Refuge will be open for camping, guided hikes, and other activities as part of the Annual Dogwood Trails Celebration hosted by the city of Palestine. Twenty minutes south of Palestine, this preserve is a great place to visit while you’re in the area enjoying the festival and other outdoor recreation opportunities.
We will have three FREE guided hikes over the weekend that are open to everyone!
CAMPSITE RESERVATION INFORMATION TLC is also offering campsite reservations. The property is the perfect place to set up for a weekend in nature. Included in the campsite reservation will be breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, as well as a campfire with s’mores on Saturday night!
Link: https://texaslandconservancy.org/weekend-at-ivys/
Location: A nderson County Road 134 Elkhart, TX 75839 Dates/Times: Saturday, April 6th at 10:00am Saturday, April 6th at 2:00pm Sunday, April 7th at 10:00am Costs: F REE; $15 campsites for TLC members; $30 campsites for non-members
For all media inquiries: Amber Arseneaux Development Director [email protected] 512.301.6363
Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance Earth Day Gala ELMENDORF - Join the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance at the beautiful Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard for a festive South Texas menu and dance to the music by the seven piece Dirty River Dixie
Band! There will be olive oil tastings, orchard tours, a fabulous silent auction featuring offerings from throughout the Texas Hill Country, and of course libations! Bring your friends and enjoy an enchanting evening amidst spring wildflowers and olive trees.
Link: https://aquiferalliance.org/event/2019-annual-gala/
Location: S andy Oaks Olive Orchard, 25195 Mathis Road, Elmendorf, Texas 78112 Date: 4/13/19 Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Cost: $ 125 – $200
For all media inquiries: Annalisa Peace, 210-320-6294, [email protected]
CONSERVATION NEWS
TCEQ's Texas Environmental Excellence Award Winner, Linda Dunn DALLAS - Congratulations to Linda Dunn--Winner of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Texas Environmental Excellence Awards. Environmental Educator of the Year
Congratulations to our own Linda Dunn for being named Environmental Educator of the Year from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality as part of its prestigious Texas Environmental Excellence Awards program.
Link: https://files.constantcontact.com/5fc0fb61701/7e952901-2744-476f-a2be-9e2626407164.pdf
For all media inquiries: Linda Dunn Education Manager [email protected] (972)-474-9100
Media Day Tour of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge The Neches River Refuge encompasses 7,000 acres of bottomland forests, wetlands, and uplands, for a unique combination of wildlife habitats. The iconic Neches River snakes twenty miles through the Refuge, which was established by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to protect migrating waterfowl and native wildlife, but also offers an outstanding outdoor recreation destination for East Texans and visiting tourists.
A special all-day grand opening event is planned for April 13th at the refuge, open to everyone, with guided nature walks, van tours, and other activities. Full details: www.tcatexas.org/newsletter/refuge-event.
After the event, the refuge will be open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset, with hiking trails, wildlife observation and photography, birding and wildlife interpretation. Hunting, fishing, and mountain biking programs are being designed and primitive camping is available by permit. Plans are underway to expand the State Paddling Trail system through the Refuge.
Media Opportunity: Media representatives are invited to a Preview Tour of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge. Please join us to familiarize your audience with the opportunities for an outdoor experience right here in East Texas.
Location: N eches River National Wildlife Refuge, Located in East Texas on US Hwy 79 between Palestine and Jacksonville Date: 4/4/19 Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
For all media inquiries: Michael BanksTexas Conservation Alliance [email protected] 903-372-1987
Virtual Field Trip: Coastal Fisheries Trawling - A Day in the Life
Join Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Coastal Fisheries crew as they sample the bay using a shrimp trawl and process the finfish, shrimp, and crabs back in the lab. These programs are designed for teachers to use in the classroom. All programs are TEKS aligned and free.
To register for this program, visit www.connect2texas.net and search for "Texas Parks and Wildlife Department". Registration closes one week before the program date.
Link: https://www.connect2texas.net/
Date: 4/17/19 Time: 9:00AM - 9:45AM; 10:15AM - 11:00AM; 11:30AM - 12:15PM; 1:30PM - 2:15PM Costs: Free
For all media inquiries: Holly Grand Coastal Outreach and Education Coordinator [email protected] 361-825-3993
Virtual Field Trip: What Lives in My Water In this real-world example, follow Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Water Quality Program as they use scientific methods to collect fish and bugs from Onion Creek and use the data to assess the water quality of the waterbody. These programs are designed for teachers to use in the classroom. All programs are TEKS aligned and free.
To register for this program, visit www.connect2texas.net and search for "Texas Parks and Wildlife Department." Registration closes one week before the program date.
Link: https://www.connect2texas.net/
Date: 4/22/19 Time: 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM; 9:00AM - 9:45AM; 10:00AM - 10:45AM; 11:00AM - 11:45PM; 1:00PM - 1:45PM; 2:00PM - 2:45PM; 3:00PM - 3:45PM; 4:00PM - 4:45PM Costs: Free
For all media inquiries: Holly Grand Coastal Outreach and Education Coordinator [email protected] 361-825-3993
NRI's Dale Rollins launches new podcast on quail The Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch (RPQRF) and NRI's Dale Rollins released the inaugural episode with NRI's great friend Gary Joiner with Texas Farm Bureau.
In the first episode, Dr. Rollins and Gary discuss the history of RPQRF, why it was founded, our mission, our research efforts to date, etc. Future episodes will cover Dr. Rollins’ lifetime of loving quail, the state of quail in the state of Texas, methodologies to restore quail populations, predation management, supplemental watering and food for quail, quail myths, and many other quail-centric topics.
Link: https://nri.tamu.edu/news/2019/march/nris-dale-rollins-launches-new-podcast-on-quail/
For all media inquiries: Brittany Wegner Communications Specialist II [email protected] 832-389-7414
The value of conservation easements: An interview with Roel Lopez NRI's Dr. Roel Lopez and Blair Fitzsimons, CEO of Texas Agricultural Land Trust, provide clarity on the importance of conservation easements in Texas from ensuring the public benefits remain available to helping future generations through the actions we can take now in an interview with AgriLife Today.
Link: https://nri.tamu.edu/blog/2019/march/the-value-of-conservation-easements-an-interview-with-roel-lopez /
For all media inquiries: Brittany Wegner Communications Specialist II [email protected] 832-389-7414
NRI published Development of Multispecies, Long-Term Monitoring Programs for Resource Management There is growing interest among resource managers in implementing long-term wildlife monitoring. The process to develop such a program may seem daunting, however, because it requires determining the species, metrics, sampling methods, experimental design, and level of effort necessary to achieve the desired power for detecting meaningful changes. Failure to give these decisions proper attention often leads to suboptimal information for decisions and planning objectives.
Our primary objectives were to develop alternative scenarios for a monitoring program to give landowners the choice between most-intensive and least-intensive methods leaving the decision up to the landowner!"
Link: https://nri.tamu.edu/publications/peer-reviewed-publications/2019/development-of-multispecies-long-ter m-monitoring-programs-for-resource-management/
For all media inquiries: Brittany Wegner, Communications Specialist II, b [email protected], 832-389-7414