Sessions Agenda & Descriptions

Home , Cedar Hill State Park, Climate of Texas

Sessions Agenda & Descriptions Updated July 31, 2019

Please Note: All items on the agenda are tentative and subject to change prior to event registration and the final event agenda.

Please consider the environment before printing this 60+ page agenda.

WEDNESDAY October 16th, 2019

Field Session - Pre Event 4:00 pm - 7:00pm Sunset at High Point Prairie & Wildflower Preserve Steve Bolgiano, High Point Prairie & Wildflower Preserve Steve Bolgiano always knew the land he called was special. But once prairie experts such as Matt White informed him of its rare uniqueness and pristine quality, he felt charged to preserve it. Now called High Point Prairie & Wildflower Preserve, Steve is researching ways ecologically compatible uses that can bring in income to manage the 50-acre site. Attendees will listen to a presentation by Bolgiano about his efforts to preserve the prairie and author Matt White on the preserve’s prairie virtues and its fascinating buffalo wallow ecosystem. An easy amble down an old ranch road ends in a magnificent sunset viewing from this hilltop site.

THURSDAY October 17th, 2019

Field Session - Pre Event 8:00am - 5:00pm Lake Texoma: Waterflowl Wonderland with Immense Vistas Kathy Whaley, US Fish & Wildlife Service; Margaret Avard, Bluestem Chapter; Cody Edwards, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Explore two locations on sprawling 89,000-acre Lake Texoma on the Texas/Oklahoma border. Constructed from the Red River in the 1940’s by German prisoners of war, it is one of the nation’s largest reservoirs. The 11,000-acre Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge serves as a major stopover for migratory birds on the Central Flyway. Habitats including Blackland Prairie, wetlands, bottomland hardwood forest, open water, and cropland are managed to support more than 330 species of birds, 30 species of mammals, and 60 species of fish. Jack Chiles, who has conducted weekly bird counts at the refuge for more than 30 years, will lead a hike on the beautiful Harris Creek Trail. Bring your lunch to enjoy on the patio overlooking the lake, then take a short scenic drive to the 460-acre Eisenhower State Park. Located on the rocky cliffs overlooking the Lake Texoma dam, the clifftop trail boasts stunning views of the lake. Hear a program about the ecological impact of dam construction. Take a dip at the swimming beach. A $5 entrance fee is required at Eisenhower State Park.

Field Session - Pre Event 8:00am - 5:00pm Fire Ecology of the Blackland Prairie: A tour of two fire-managed prairie remnants in North Texas - ADMIRAL  Chase Brooke, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service; Brandon Belcher, The Nature Conservancy; Erin O'Connor, Texas A&M Forest Service; Sam Kieschnick & Trevor Tanner, Texas Parks & Wildlife The Blackland Prairie is a historically fire-managed ecosystem. Frequent fires encouraged the biodiversity of grasses, forbs, and other plants characteristic of this critically endangered ecosystem. Our pre-conference field trip will cover two prairie remnant and restoration sites managed by The Nature Conservancy. We will be hiking through TNC’s Clymer Meadow, and Collin County’s Park Hill Prairie to explore how prescribed fire is being used to restore the prairie, and the fire ecology of the area. Expect to learn about fire effects, prairie biodiversity, and using prescribed fire helps restore our natural areas and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire.

Field Session - Pre Event 8:30am - 5:30pm Private Landowners Preserving Prairies BF Hicks, Daphne Prairie Preserve; Karl & Kelli Ebel, Ebels Grassland Ranch A full day of farm and field session focusing on private landowners using the tools of Aldo Leopold to manage and conserve the native prairies of this region. Participants

3 should plan for a full day, a lunch stop will be available mid day. There are limited facilities at the sites. Wear sturdy boots and long pants, bring drinking water, bite and sunburn protection. Karl and Keri Ebel met in North Africa overseas and had a dream to raise a family on a ranch in Texas. The couple and their two sons converted 1003 acres of poor cropland, degraded prairie pasture, and a riparian corridor into Ebels' Grassland Ranch, a Silveus dropseed prairie (listed as critically imperiled). They use cattle and goats to help maintain the restored native prairie ecology with three key management techniques: rotational grazing, prescribed burning, and trample planting that uses cattle to integrate native grass seed into the soil and then naturally fertilize it. By relying on native grass forage, Ebels’ cattle costs are nearly half of conventional ranchers. Attendees will be driven about the entire ranch for short walk-and-talk excursions. Sandwich lunch in Greenville between field trips (not included; additional cost). Hear B.F. Hicks’ tale of how he regained and restored over 900 acres of rare Silveus’ dropseed prairie, family land that dates to the late 1800s. Attendees will be driven about the entire ranch for short walk-and-talk excursions, ending in center 50 acres which was never grazed and mowed only on July 4th as part of family festivities. It contains spectacular examples of mima mounds and hundreds of plant species, evoking the true feeling of a primeval prairie. Learn the methods Hicks and his team use to restore and maintain the land, including his newest acquisition of harshly abused and overgrazed prairie.

Field Session - Pre Event 10:00am - 4:00pm A Tour Of Trinity River Elm Fork’s Paddling Trail Alex Dubovsky & Dale Harris, Trinity Nature Conservancy/Trinity River Paddling Trail The Elm Fork of the Trinity River traces I-35E for much of its length, making it prone to urban travails and trash. Yet its natural beauty can not be denied. Take a float trip from California Crossing Park, location of a pioneer ford of the Elm Fork, to Frasier Dam, where adjacent riparian bottomlands are being rehabilitated by Groundwork Dallas’s Green Team consisting of youth under-represented in naturalist activities. This segment is part of a 127-mile/22 trailhead Trinity River Paddling Trail project being led by Dallas Downriver Club. It is being considered for inclusion in the National Park Service system, including a possible national recreation area. Canoes & Kayaks are available for rent. $55 per canoe or $45 per kayak. Two Paddlers to a canoe, one per kayak. Participants must bring water to drink, and are encouraged to apply sunscreen and insect repellent prior to arrival.

Field Session - Pre Event 12:00pm - 4:00pm Botanical Research Institute of Texas: Herbarium Treasures Tiana Rehman, Botanical Research Institute of Texas

The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), founded in 1987 and based in Fort Worth, boasts one of the 10 largest herbariums in the U.S. with approximately 1,445,000 plant specimens from Texas, Oklahoma, and in Southeastern US, as well as Mexico, Belize, China, and the Philippines. View herbarium samples and the extensive specimen vaults, and learn about the Conservation Seed Laboratory and Seed Bank, with botanist Tiana Rehman. See the process of digitizing specimens, many rare and collected in the 19th century, into an online database. View the new Molecular and Structural Laboratory where important work on plant systematics is being done. Hear about the BRIT Library collections of botanical works in the southwestern United States, including many rare ones, from Barney Lipscomb. Tour BRIT’s 70,000-square-foot LEED building with green living prairie roof, geothermal wells, and more. Enjoy rotating nature art galleries for adults and children. Amble the BRIT grounds with native-plant landscaping, rain and research gardens, and wetlands pond. BRIT partners with the adjacent Fort Worth Botanic Garden whose attractions include the Native Texas Boardwalk outdoor classroom, Rock Springs Garden geologic showcase, and Water Conservation Garden.

Field Session - Pre Event 12:00pm - 4:00pm Trinity River: A Float Trip Through Time Francisco Pinto Canoe the Trinity River in an afternoon from the Sante Fe Trail south of downtown to the upper Great Trinity Forest, approximately 8 miles long, through Eagle Ford shale and Upper Cretaceous limestone outcrops. See snapping turtles, alligator gar, beaver, and waterfowl in the river, and coyotes and more on the shore. Learn of Trinity River Expeditions activist Charles Allen’s battles to keep the Trinity flowing free while working hard to introduce people to the beauty and natural riches of Dallas’ beleaguered river. $45 rental fee required for canoe. Route may depend on weather and water conditions. Participants must bring drinking water, bite and sunburn protection. Bring snacks or bag lunch.

FRIDAY October 18th, 2019 Field Session - Full Day 8:00am - 5:00pm Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Area: Wilderness on the Elm Fork Richard Freiheit, Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Area; Adelaide Bodnar, Elm Fork Chapter At nearly 2000 acres, Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) is one of the largest and definitely the wildest preserves in North Texas with white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and river otters. Located where the Blackland Prairie and the Eastern Cross Timbers meet, it was once a large swath of neglected Army Corps of Engineers land along the Trinity River Elm Fork. Now it is laced with trails and host to naturalist summer camps. Its extensive native plant greenhouse operations and aquatic plant center train University of North Texas students. Volunteer naturalist crews work weekly to rehabilitate woods and prairie. Hear from center director Kenneth Steigman about the Green Centerpiece Master Strategy and Richard Freiheit, LLELA Restoration Manager, will speak on LLELA’s groundbreaking advances in raising native grasses. Participate in an hour of hands-on volunteering in the greenhouse. After a lunch provided by Friends of LLELA (fee TBA), participants will be driven about the property to see the highlights and learn more about the facility’s rehabilitation efforts. The day concludes with an hour of hiking on participants’ choice of trails or visiting the 1870s Minor-Porter Log Cabin.

Field Session - Half Day 8:00am - 12:00pm Spring Creek Forest Preserve: Preserving an Uncut Riparian Forest Tom Frey & Dana Wilson; David Parrish, North Texas Chapter An old-growth bottomland hardwood forest with some of the oldest (up to 150 years), tallest (over 100 feet tall), and widest (trunks 4 feet across) trees in the county, yet is quite close to commercial and residential developments. The cooperative Spring Creek Preserve consists of the 70-acre county-owned Lee F. Jackson Spring Creek Forest Preserve, and the Garland city owned Spring Creek Park Preserve and Spring Creek Greenbelt: Fred E. Harris section, for a total of about 200 acres, with management support from Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest. Led by native plant experts Tom Frey and Dana Wilson, participants will visit a Keep Garland Beautiful pollinator garden and explore the eastern part via an ADA paved trail and dirt trails. On the quieter west side centered around a limestone prairie remnant, participants will experience an TMN-designed interpretive trail on both the diverse ecosystems and challenges of suburban nature preserves, plus a local NPSOT demonstration native plant/pollinator garden.

Field Session - Half Day 8:00am - 12:00pm Escarpment Treasures of Southwest Dallas Anna Palmer & Tom Willard, North Texas Chapter; Julie Collins, Audubon Texas A pair of field session experiences in one afternoon. First stop will be at Ceder Ridge Preserve, and then on to Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center. The most popular preserve in Dallas County, the 600+ acre Cedar Ridge Preserve draws over 400,000 visitors a year to its nine miles of trails through a wide range of habitats. Participants will take a guided hike on the Cattail Pond Trail past a Blackland Prairie restoration along an 755-feet escarpment with stunning vistas, then down to loop around the pond. Then up to yet another epic overlook and down to the wooded Trout Lily Trail and the riparian Fossil Valley Trail. Managed by Audubon Dallas on land provided by the city and county of Dallas, it depends on its extensive cadre of volunteers, including Texas Master Naturalists and youth rangers. Led by preserve manager Tom Willard. Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center (DCAC) is the one of the highlights of a wild greenspace corridor flanking FM 1382 in Cedar Hill. In the center’s striking, LEED- certified C.E. Doolin Visitor Center, hear DCAC director Julie Collins’ inspiring tale of private-public partnership that bloomed from a land gift by avian expert David Hurt into an integral partnership with the City of Cedar Hill whose sustainability plan includes setting aside 20% of the land as green space. Along this greenspace, a hike/bike trail system with native-plant landscaping is being created to link the city of Cedar Hill with nearby DCAC, Cedar Hill State Park, Dallas County’s Cedar Mountain and Cedar Ridge Preserves, and Newman International school. Followed by a short walk on the center’s Canyon Floor Trail.

Field Session - Half Day 8:00am - 12:00pm Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation: Saving the Wild Birds of North Texas Judy Aschner, Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation No one is responsible for saving more birds in North Texas than Kathy Rogers. Her nonprofit rescue facility, Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation, takes in thousands each year, including songbirds, waterfowl, and birds of prey. Kathy will share her story of how she began the facility and some of her most remarkable rehabilitation successes made possible by a squad of devoted volunteers. Meet the wild birds, unable to be released, that now serve as avian ambassadors. Rogers is the focus of North Texas Master Naturalists’ Big Chapter Project for 2019.

Field Session - Half Day 8:00am - 12:00pm EcoPark: Green Infrastructure for the 21st Century Tamaron Hunt, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service A guided tour of Benny J. Simpson Ecopark at Dallas’ Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, created to demonstrate how green infrastructure and resource-

7 efficient building practices contribute to sustainable urban and suburban development. Grounds include a 3-acre rainwater detention pond, a rain garden for stormwater detention, 4 acres of restored Blackland Prairie, more than 140 native Texas plant species, and over 50 historic trees originally planted by the famed Texas A&M horticulturist. A 30,000-gallon rainwater-harvesting and filtering cistern supplies the adjacent landscape. The tour begins in the Ecopark centerpiece, the 10,000 square-foot Water University building, with talks by Agrilife’s Daniel Cunningham and Meghan Peoples. The building and many of the trails are ADA.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Using Naturally in Nature: Forest therapy to empower resilience and engage in land stewardship - COMMODORE Tamberly Conway, USDA Forest Service; John Warner, Texas A&M Forest Service; Daniel Porter, Lone Star Family Health Center; Cynthia Scott, Heartwood Chapter Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to "forest bathing." Studies have demonstrated a wide array of health benefits, especially in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and for stabilizing and improving mood and cognition. We build on those benefits and look beyond, to what happens when people remember that we are a part of nature, not separate from it, and are related to all other beings in fundamental ways. Learning objectives include: learn how to be guided through sensory connections that enhance what we are noticing; learn how to apply the nature and forest therapy practice to your work and in your community; andlearn the art and beauty of reconnection to the land. It is a deeply relational practice, characterized by a sense of loving and tender connection. This connection leads naturally to an ethic of tenderness and reciprocity. Besides being a deeply healing practice, Forest Therapy is also an emerging community of friends and conservationists who are making a global impact. As we learn to love the forests, we become more engaged in working for their well-being. Forest Therapy Guides work with the forest as a partner, to support the wellness and healing of people and nature alike. The forest is the therapist and the guide opens the doors, helping others enter completely into a healing relationship with the forest. Come join in a Forest Therapy experience in support of self, others and the land we care for and conserve. End State: Seeing things (nature, forests, water, wildlife, health, well-being) in a different way and bring them into a more realization. Rediscovering nature's uniqueness and how your actions could make a difference. As citizen scientist reciprocity - the action items.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Girdling that Works: A Field Workshop - CAPTAIN Cliff Tyllick, Keep Walnut Creek Wild Many woody invasive plants can be killed by girdling. Even without using power equipment or herbicides, it's possible for volunteers to use this technique effectively to eradicate mature woody invasives. I have led volunteers in doing so on over 10 acres in Austin's Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park. A girdling toolkit can cost as little as $10. If you want fancier tools, you might spend $20. We will also try out a much more expensive tool, but you might decide that your projects don't need it. Come learn the technique while eradicating a stand of glossy privet from a local natural area. One advantage of girdling over other techniques is that canopy-level invasive trees take about a year to die. As they do, they slowly lose their leaves. As a result, native plants growing in their shade don't get burned by sudden exposure to full sun. Instead, they adjust to the slowly increasing levels of light and can take over the habitat on their own, without the need for replanting. Learn this technique and take it home to restore habitat in your own locale.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Texas Stream Team Core Water Quality Citizen Scientist Training - ADMIRAL Jenna Walker & Aspen Navarro, Texas Stream Team/The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment Texas Stream Team at The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment is dedicated to understanding and protecting the 191,000 miles of Texas waterways. We bring together community members, students, educators, academic researchers, environmental professionals, and both public and private sector partners to conduct scientific research and to promote environmental stewardship. Join the ranks as a Texas Stream Team citizen scientist by participating in the 4-hour core water quality training. Anyone with a desire to monitor water quality or learn more about the natural resources in Texas can be involved. Volunteers monitor a wide variety of habitats from rivers, creeks, ponds, and lakes to bays, bayous, and estuaries. Volunteers range from school age to senior citizens, from individuals to organized groups like Master Naturalists. Texas Stream Team Citizen Water Quality Citizen Scientists are certified by completing a three phase training course using a test kit that measures physical and chemical parameters of water. Participation in the program includes these commitments: - one-year commitment to monitor at least one location - monitor their site(s) monthly at approximately the same time of day each month (the physical and chemical parameters fluctuate over a 24-hour period). Monitoring takes approximately one to two hours.

In the training, you will learn how to measure the following water quality parameters: pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, air temperature, and field observations. Upon completion, you will receive certification and be eligible to begin monitoring your favorite water body and be plugged into local Stream Team efforts in your area. If no such partners exist, the state chapter will support you with supplies and guidance however possible. This valuable water quality data that you collect contributes to the statewide program's overall goal of understanding and protecting our precious waterways. Learn more at joinstreamteam.org. Note: These volunteer activities may be incorporated into the Texas Master Naturalist Water Specialist program.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Texas Waters Day - THE AMPHITHEATER Melissa Alderson, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department At Texas Waters Day, attendees will participate in water-based activities that connect us to Texas Waters. We will also recognize the continued growth and support of the Texas Waters Specialist program. People who have completed at least 8 hours of Texas Waters Advanced Training from September 1, 2018 – August 31, 2019, will be recognized for their dedication to the Texas Waters Specialist program. Texas Waters Day activities are open to all current and in-progress Specialists, as well as Master Naturalists curious about becoming a Texas Waters Specialist.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Make Your TMN Chapter Wild! - WINDJAMMER Leslie Wittenburg, Texas Wildlife Association Since 2001, the Texas Wildlife Association has been offering natural resources education programming to teachers and youth across the state. In 2018, over 650,000 youth and adults learned about land stewardship via TWA’s programs. Join TWA’s Directors of Youth Education as they share their programs, the tools used to introduce natural resources to school administrations, and how to engage both urban and rural educators and their students. Texas Master Naturalists are encouraged to attend to learn about TWA’s flagship youth conservation education programs– the L.A.N.D.S. (Learning Across New Dimensions in Science) Programs include: Distance Learning; Discovery Trunks; Wildlife by Design classroom presentations; Stewarding Texas – A Scientific Exploration; Trinity River Project; Necropsy in a Box; Field Investigation Days; and Educator Development Trainings. Workshop participants get a sneak peek at ALL of our programs. Workshop participants will leave with FREE resources to immediately implement into their chapter’s youth education programs. TWA strives to bring natural resource, conservation, and wildlife education into classrooms using innovative and quality techniques - all programs, whether digital lessons, hands-on materials, or educator-led activities, are engaging and require critical thinking. Programs include concepts of

10 characteristics, adaptations, structure and function, interdependence, habitat, conservation, and private lands stewardship. The programs presented are all science (TEKS) aligned, range from grades K through 12, and some also align with math, social studies, and language arts TEKS.

Field Session - Half Day 1:00pm - 5:00pm The Imperiled Wild Cats of Texas at In-Sync Monica Morrison, Texas Native Cats An expert-led private tour of In-Sync Exotics, home to over two-dozen mountain lions, also called cougars or pumas. Unlike in most other states, these beautiful big cats are offered no legal protection in Texas. See the elusive nocturnal bobcats who flourish in urban area. With luck participants will get a glimpse of three-legged Quisto, the facility’s shy and rare ocelot, which is endangered in Texas. Each of these wild cats, unable to be returned to the wild, comes with an incredible story of survival and rehabilitation. Led by Monica Morrison, founder of Texas Native Cats, and In-Sync lead volunteers Robert and Karin Saucedo of the Blackland Prairie chapter.

Field Session - Half Day 1:00pm - 5:00pm Treasures of the Great Trinity Forest Bill Coleman, Texas Historic Tree Coalition; Claire Howell, Trinity River Audubon Center Travel the Great Trinity Forest with two stops: one at the Trinity River Audubon Center (TRAC), and wrapping up at the Bur Oak Tree at Pemberton’s Big Spring. At the TRAC, a primary entry to the Great Trinity Forest, see Dallas’ river up close in a short hike along the riparian corridor. Take an amble through lush wetlands on boardwalks. See fall wildflowers in a restored Blackland Prairie. Hear the center’s story of creating natural beauty from an illegal waste dump through community involvement. Peruse their stunning LEED building with educational displays on the bioregion and its inhabitants. At Pemberton’s Big Spring, take a walk in the Great Trinity Forest, the nation’s largest urban hardwood forest, with the Texas Historic Tree Coalition, dedicated to highlighting the vital role of large old trees in urban environments. Stand in the shade of the historic Bur Oak, nurtured by Pemberton’s Big Spring. This official historic landmark has served as a camping ground for Native Americans, a source of water for Sam Houston, and fostered the settling of Dallas by the Beeman and Bryant families. Learn of the danger the emerald ash borer may pose to the Great Trinity Forest.

Field Session - Half Day 1:00pm - 5:00pm The Wildly Diverse Parks of Southeast Dallas Amy Martin, North Texas Chapter

Experience three diverse ecosystems in an afternoon along two major tributaries of the Trinity River. At Crawford Memorial Park, with guide Amy Martin hike a loop down to Prairie Creek and back among rippling rust-colored tallgrass seedheads at a pristine 25- acre remnant of Blackland Prairie, and then a short amble to view a Post Oak Savannah. During a very short drive to the upper White Rock Creek watershed, attendees drop by the Comanche Storytelling Place, a multi-tiered escarpment clearing, plus one of the oldest trees in Dallas, with guide Kristi Kerr Leonard. Then explore with Robert Ritchie of Foraging DFW the botanically rich Piedmont Ridge, a large Austin Chalk Escarpment draped in its finest autumn colors. One of the highest points in Dallas, its many vistas overlook the northern end of the Great Trinity Forest.

Field Session - Half Day 1:00pm - 5:00pm John Bunker Sands Wetlands: Cleaning Water, Creating Habitat John DeFillipo, John Bunker Sands Wetland Center Created from a family ranch, learn how the vision of John Bunker Sands to create a manmade wetlands to purify wastewater using biological methods was brought to fruition by the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD). A centerpiece of its 2000-acre East Fork Wetlands Project, water is piped over 43 miles to Lake Lavon, a the primary water source serving the NTMWD area. Experience hands-on water testing and macroinvertebrate collection while learning about water quality and the purification process. Another 1200 acres in the Bunker Sands Mitigation Bank protects Trinity River bottomland forest. Experience the bird, reptile and amphibian wildlife fostered by these habitats, including a pair of nesting bald eagles, through its trails and boardwalks. Participants will need to bring $10 for entrance.

Four Hour Session 1:00pm - 5:30pm Camera Trapping for Science - ADMIRAL  Tania Homayoun & Richard Heilbrun, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Camera trapping – using stationary game cameras to detect wildlife – is a great way to document observations of animals we often miss with traditional surveys and counts. This workshop will introduce the basics of camera trapping, how to set up and manage a camera trap, and how to process and share your observations on iNaturalist. As part of the workshop, we will practice setting up cameras in the field, so participants should wear sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable clothes.

Four Hour Session 1:00pm - 5:30pm Sedges have edges, rushes are round...well not always!! - BILANDER Dale Kruse, S. M. Tracy Herbarium The Cyperaceae (sedge) and Juncaceae (rush) families of vascular plants are often considered a difficult group to identify. As components of most landscapes throughout

Texas, these "grass-likes" are important members of the rich biodiversity that is Texas. In this workshop we will explore this somewhat foreign world using two approaches. An initial lecture will delve into the basics of sedge and rush systematics, morphology, ecology, and biogeography. In the lecture the student will gain a better understanding of these topics, which can then be applied in the laboratory session that follows. The laboratory session is designed as a continuation of the introductory class. In this session we will take a detailed look at the morphology of these groups with the aid of a dissecting scope and published references. Using dissecting microscopes participants will observe the macro and micro morphological characteristics that are essential for accurate identification of these groups. All equipment for the class will be provided, just bring your curiosity.

Four Hour Session 1:00pm - 5:30pm Free Rangeland Education Curriculum & Field Day Design Workshop - SCHOONER B Mandy Krause, Welder Wildlife Foundation Join us for a fun and interactive workshop and receive a free digital copy of our popular Rangelands: A Conservation Education Guide curriculum! Participants will sample hands-on activities from the curriculum, discover strategies to coordinate successful field days and education events, learn techniques to engage students in outdoor classroom settings, and discuss rangeland conservation and management. Curriculum activities emphasize experiential learning through investigations of water, soils, plants, wildlife, livestock, ecosystem services and stewardship. The Rangelands curriculum is designed for K-5th grade students, but many activities can be adapted for older students. This workshop will provide valuable knowledge to add to your tool belt as an environmental educator and naturalist! We will be outdoors to experience many of the activities so please dress comfortably.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Big City Prairies: Community Scientists, Partnerships, and Reality - COMMODORE Brett Johnson & Becky Rader, Dallas Park and Recreation Board Prairie conservation is a popular conservation objective in many cities. It can meet objective goals of pollinator conservation, stormwater management, clean air initiatives, community engagement and nature based outreach. There are significant opportunities to engage community scientists and volunteers in the management of urban prairies. The Dallas Park and Recreation Department has worked with a wide assortment of volunteers in their efforts to restore assorted prairie areas in Dallas. While striving to work on ecological restoration, cities are tasked with dealing with multiple land use objectives and answering to many internal and external stakeholders. This presentation will look at the realities of using volunteers in large scale restoration projects, using the

Dallas Park and Recreation Department prairie restoration efforts as a model. Opportunities and successes, along with challenges and failures will be highlighted. Participants will engage with a city natural resource specialist and a Park Board appointee to learn how to better engage with municipalities in conservation projects, especially in city parks.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Actions beyond Light Pollution Awareness - SCHOONER A Bridget Langdale, Kristen Rodgers Be a part of a simulated task force to resolve the issues around two issues: night GLARE (street lights) and Light Trespass (keeping lights on/off of your property). Or be a part of an interactive crime department as we look for clues and come up with a strategy on the case of the ‘disappearing dark sky’. Come prepared to engage in small break out groups and report back so that everyone is better prepared to go back into your community and resolve such issues. Turn on the Night Activity Kit and Activities will be used.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Fundamentals of Forest Ecology - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A Christopher Ebling, Blackland Prairie Chapter This presentation will cover ecology in general and forest ecology specifically. Topics will include: What is ecology, and specifically forest ecology? What is an ecosystem, and specifically a forest ecosystem? Basic components and structure of a forest ecosystem. Processes associated with living and nonliving elements within a forest ecosystem. Different forest ecosystems/types and factors that contribute to the differences.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm TMN VMS Reporting: Chapter Reporting and Decision Making - CATAMARAN  Cheryl Foster, Clyde Camp, Brad James, Dale Hughling, TMN VMS Help Team Join us for a session on creating reports using data from the TMN Volunteer Management System to provide information to your members and assist your chapter with decision making. We will go over the process of exporting data out of eCoordinator and importing it into Excel to produce useful reports. We’ll focus on both member and chapter reporting. Member reporting will include: rosters, dues, certifications, volunteer counts, hours reporting percentages, milestones, class listings and emailing volunteer milestones and certification progress. Custom grids and named searches will be created to help pull these reports together. We’ll cover creating pivot tables and charts in Excel to see where your chapter members are spending their time. Chapter partners often need information on volunteering; we will show you how to set up opportunities to capture and report this data. Need to export a large amount of information from

14 eCoordinator? We built a tool to make combining all of those files together easier. We’ll demonstrate how to use it. Lastly, time will also be given for chapters to describe how they have used the TMN VMS for other management decisions not currently addressed in the training.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Supporting Youth Research by Rewarding Excellence - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Lynn Seman, Rolling Plains Chapter; Wathina Bradshaw, Rio Brazos Chapter Each year, students across Texas in grades 6 through 12 participate in scientific research with dreams of sharing their ideas at the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair. Many of these projects involve Texas natural resources, such as water, plants, animals, and more! For the past three years, Texas Master Naturalist have presented the Texas Conservation Award for Excellence in Research involving Natural Resources of Texas at the state fair. By rewarding students who pursue projects involving conservation, we can help to shape the future leaders who will be blazing the trails to protect and preserve our great state. Come hear about the great research projects that the young people of Texas are conducting and how you can help!

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Large and Small Plot Restoration at the Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve - CAPTAIN Bob Mione, Connemara Conservation Foundation The presentation provides details of the restoration efforts at the Connemara Meadow, beginning in 2013 and continuing to the present day/time. The presentation will be updated with success's and failures from the 2019 growing season. Specific techniques are discussed focusing on invasive removal, plot preparation, irrigation and the four major procedures used to achieve the highest possible restoration results.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm History, Ecology, and Management of Remnant Blackland Prairies in Northeast Texas - CLIPPER Brandon Belcher, The Nature Conservancy The Blackland Prairie ecoregion of Texas stretches between San Antonio and the Oklahoma border. The ecology of this grassland system is incredibly diverse and productive; however, a century of conversion to agriculture and urbanization has left this altered landscape with very little of its native natural flora and fauna intact. Conservation protection of remnant native prairies is vital to maintaining viable populations of the large variety of plants native to central and northeast Texas. To

15 ensure the continued health of these systems and the rare plant communities they contain, management techniques include prescribed fire and grazing. Ecological restoration is a cornerstone of this work – by restarting native plant communities on old agricultural properties, these lands can serve as a buffer for remnant prairies while providing an expansion of critical wildlife habitat, water capture, and other ecosystem services.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Sharks Teeth to Orchids: A Natural History of the Whiterock Escarpment - THE AMPHITHEATER Paul Dolliver This prop-driven lecture will explore geologic time as it is expressed in the Whiterock Escarpment, a prominent landscape feature in North Central Texas. Exploration will begin on the floor of an ancient subtropical sea and will culminate with the emergence of rare summer orchids along the crest of a limestone ridge.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm More Nature of Naming - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Matthew McClure, Lamar State College Orange This presentation expands the basic curriculum on the nature of naming. An overview of the theory and practice of scientific names and of scientific naming will be discussed along with a brief history of taxonomy and classification from the Two-Kingdom view of Linnaeus to the 3-Domain system of today. Learn the various ways that scientific species names are written in the scientific and naturalist literature and of the rules of naming species. The process of discovering and describing new species and various ways to solve taxonomic discrepancies will be presented using zoological examples. Time permitting, we will also do a taxonomy simulation and practice species identification using a dichotomous key. The importance of scientific naming not only provides a global standard for both the scientific community and for naturalists, but avoids language barriers and avoids the ambiguity of common names and regional naming discrepancies.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Help the Pollinators – and Ourselves! - WINDJAMMER Lisa Tuck, Heartwood Chapter Half the world’s arable lands have been converted to feeding humans. This means a significant loss of habitat for other species, which dramatically reduces their chance of survival. This is a problem, as many of the species being displaced are the same ones necessary to pollinate the food. We therefore need to do what we can to help them—for them and for us. How can we do this? Plant plants that provide nectar and pollen for the

16 adults and host plants for the offspring. This presentation provides tips for how to do that, and shows many potential plants from trees to annuals.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm A Call For Action: Youth, Diversity And Inclusion, And Texas Master Naturalist: For A New Generation of Committed Conservation Minded People - TRIMARAN Christopher Keen, Alamo Area Chapter How can Texas Master Naturalist be more inclusive of youth and young adults and partnerships can Texas Master Naturalist reach to for future leaders in their communities? A place to start: The Texas State Park Ambassador Program. Texas State Park Ambassadors, an Outreach and Education program of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department mission is “To connect conservation-minded young adults (ages 18-30) with recreation and volunteer opportunities to foster a new generation of State Park stewards.” The mission and mandate of Texas Master Naturalist and Texas State Park Ambassadors are related and closely connected. Its entire purpose is to connect hearts and minds to be stewards of our state’s natural, historical, and conservation resources. Texas Parks and Wildlife State Park Ambassadors Program consists of a very diverse group of young people from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. TPWD’s top priority is Diversity and Inclusion, both internally and externally. To connect and empower a new generation of future leaders. More and more, State Parks gives people an opportunity to find a sense of place to explore and be themselves in Nature. The Ambassador program is one piece of a multi-faceted effort to ensure that it has the human capital it needs to accomplish its mission. Ambassadors provide thousands of hours of volunteer service to the parks and communities they are in. The monetary value of these hours is far beyond original expectations and goals. Texas Master Naturalist can work to further its corporation with TPWD and tap into the energy and enthusiasm of these young people. With a sustained effort, Texas Master Naturalist can recruit these young people to help accomplish the mission of the Texas Master Naturalist.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Year 3 of TMN Instruction at the TDCJ Ellis Unit Unexpected Consequences & Unexpected Outcomes - TRIMARAN  Scooter Langley, Lee College; Scott Ball, Heartwood Chapter For three years, the Heartwood Chapter has sponsored Texas Master Naturalist training at the TDCJ Ellis Unit which is a maximum security prison. This instruction has yielded a variety of unexpected outcomes and consequences. While this training has a natural synergy with the Lee College/Ellis Unit horticulture instruction, it has already proven to be challenging to duplicate outside of this specific location. Outcomes have been more

17 positive than expected yet yielded some unexpected results. Lessons learned and surprises will be covered in this presentation. Additionally, one of the horticulture student graduates of the TMN training plans to attend the conference, and will give his perspective regarding the value of the TMN instruction.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Citizen Science Opportunities in the classroom, schoolyard, and beyond! - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Jill Nugent, Southern New Hampshire University In this one hour session, citizen science's role in educational environments will be introduced, and citizen science opportunities that are a 'good fit' for Texas educational settings (both formal and informal settings) will be highlighted. You are invited to help advance and improve 21st century science education and foster biodiversity stewardship by integrating citizen science across informal and formal learning environments.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Native Bees in Your Landscape - WINDJAMMER Carol Clark, Monarch Watch/Blackland Prairie Chapter Less well known than European Honeybees, Texas’ native bees are nevertheless vital components of a healthy environment, and can provide a new dimension of enjoyment in your landscape. This program will cover basic information on the current challenges all bee species are facing, why they are important to all of us, facts about gentle solitary native bees and their lifestyles, and photo examples of the many beautiful forms and colors of native bees. It will include tips on what to plant and provide to attract them to your home landscape, and basic identification hints. We’ll discuss simple homemade native bee nest sites, with real examples and slides, and find out how to participate in nationwide citizen science tracking efforts. Resource handouts provided.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Texas Herps - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Roger Sanderson, Texas Discovery Gardens (Retired) With more species of snakes, lizards, and turtles than any other state, Texas is home to almost 300 different reptiles and amphibians. With habitats ranging from swamps to deserts, and temperate prairies to tropical scrub, we are fortunate to have an amazing array of beautiful, dangerous, colorful, and just plain odd herpetofauna to see here. Unfortunately, most are either rare, shy, or live in such remote or locally specific areas that many are hardly ever seen – at least without knowing where to look. This presentation illustrates some of the diversity of these primitive and curious creatures found within our borders.

One Hour Session

2:00pm - 3:00pm Botanical Latin: A Language Unto Itself - CAPTAIN Brooke Best, Botanical Research Institute of Texas All modern biologists still use a form of Latin, if for no other reason than to name living things, from bacteria to plants to humans. However, until just a few years ago, botanists were probably the only people for whom Latin remained a working, technical language. This presentation will cover the story of how we got from Classical Latin to modern Botanical Latin, the people (mostly botanists) behind that story, and where Botanical Latin is today. The presentation includes some lecture as well as an activity best completed in small groups.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Effects Of Mowing And Prescribed Fire On Scabiosa Atropurpurea (Dipsacaceae) In North-Central Texas - CLIPPER Brandon Belcher, The Nature Conservancy Scabiosa atropurpurea L. is a biennial herbaceous plant that has become invasive in parts of the United States, and the species is now reported from 11 counties in north- central Texas. S. atropurpurea reproduces by seed, forming dense colonies along roadsides and within old agriculture fields, and may pose a threat to native and improved grasslands in the region. This study evaluated changes in the density of the species within a mixed grassland community in north-central Texas in response to mowing and prescribed fire. Mowing treatments were found to increase overall density of S. atropurpurea while the overall density was found to decline with growing season fire, dormant season fire, and controls. These suggest that mowing is contraindicated for control of S. atropurpurea and may be the principle reason for the persistence and spread of this plant. The response on control plots suggest that in complex communities this plant may decline. However, growing season fires may help to accelerate these declines.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Hands-On Activities for Booths and Presentations - THE AMPHITHEATER Irmi Willcockson, Self-Employed Engaging people of all ages at a Master Naturalist booth requires more than a great display and outgoing volunteers. After a short presentation describing how to create an appropriate hands-on activity, try out several hands-on activities that have been a hit at Gulf Coast Chapter booths and presentations. Reflect on how you might include these in your chapter's outreach program. Take home an example of each activity along with instructions and sources.

Two Hour Session

3:30pm - 5:30pm Restoring Native Prairie Habitat on Public Land - CLIPPER David Powell, Blackland Prairie Chapter PowerPoint with pictures of progress in Wylie and Erwin Park in McKinney a look at what is growing at both sites along with discussion of how it is being done and the challenges to be dealt with.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm How a five acre reclaimed prairie engages children in nature education - TRIMARAN  Marcie Haley, Twelve Hills Nature Center/North Texas Chapter ; Jennifer Stuart, Seedschool; Olivia Osborne, North Texas Chapter Participants will learn how to facilitate nature programs for children through discussion, hands on participation, and discovery. In a culture dominated by screens, memes, and 140 character statements, it is critical that we expose children to the physical and cognitive benefits of time spent in nature. As Master Naturalists, we have the means to make this happen. Learn how five neglected acres in the middle of Dallas became Twelve Hills Nature Center, an urban Blackland Prairie restoration that serves as a site to teach children about nature and to cultivate conservation ethics through its unique programs. The four programs will be presented. The Nature Leaders Program instills self-confidence, and develops speaking and leadership skills while teaching fifth-graders to guide their fellow students on nature walks. Monthly nature walks for preschool children and their parents provide a guided experience that emphasizes exploration of different aspects of nature. WalkSTEM looks at the world through a STEAM lens to reveal the wonders of mathematics embedded in our everyday environments (a 2019 NTMN class project). Seedschool offers project based outdoor learning following nature through the seasons, in a converted school bus called Matilda.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm Intro to Interpretation, WHO CARES? - THE AMPHITHEATER Annie Hepp, TPWD - State Parks - Region 5; Ben Horstmann, TPWD - State Parks - Region 2 Someone lit the spark of passion for the outdoors in you and now it’s your responsibility to pass on that passion. This session will give a brief overview of what interpretation is, some tools to help you and how we use it to move people to stewardship in our wild places.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm NIGHT SKY Educational Trunk Unpacked for your TMN Chapters to use. - SCHOONER A Bridget Langdale & Kristen Rodgers

An educational trunk is filled with case studies, hands-on learning materials, lessons plans, instructor materials, and activities the concepts and practices of quality lighting are explored through problem-based learning, hands-on/minds-on activities, as well as assessment probes. This educational trunk is available to Master Naturalist chapters across the state, and elsewhere, in an effort to continue raising awareness about our dark skies and the loss of this natural resource. The materials found within our educational trunk will come with information for presenters to order them for their local chapters, so they can possess a full-time version of this invaluable teaching resource. The activities included in the educational trunk are aligned with the national standards of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), in an interdisciplinary and applied approach based on the idea of educating students in the four specific disciplines. Come learn more on what is inside this NIGHT SKY TRUNK and how you can use it in your community.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm Archeology, Weeds, Wildflowers? Go Beyond The Road with the Texas Dept. of Transportation - COMMODORE Dennis Markwardt, Rebekah Dobrasko, Kevin Hanselka & Laura Cruzada, Texas Department of Transportation What does 80,000 miles of roadway have to do with prehistoric cultures or pollinators? TxDOT helps care for the state’s natural and cultural resources in tandem with the vision of building a safe and efficient transportation system. TxDOT has archeologists, vegetation specialists, wildlife biologists and other environmental scientists that work to manage the resources that are important to communities – all before building roads. Learn more about some of the exciting research and programs from TxDOT, such as what modern mesquite wood might tell us about ancient rainfall, or why certain plants are used in the Right of Way to help important pollinators. In addition, you can learn ways to get involved with TxDOT’s environmental work, or how you can get involved in planning transportation projects with the environment in mind.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm A Refresher Course for Botany Skills - CAPTAIN Brooke Best & Tiana Rehman, Botanical Research Institute of Texas This class will use hands-on activities and lecture to investigate foundational concepts in botany including morphology, naming and classification, and basic identification skills. We will investigate several important plant families and have examples of these for dissection and discussion.

Two Hour Session

3:30pm - 5:30pm The Snakes of North Texas - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Chuck Swatske, Elm Fork Chapter Love them or hate them, (hopefully Master Naturalists love them), snakes are amazing animals and should be thought of as very beneficial and interesting creatures. In reality, snakes are not scary or harmful. Snakes are solitary animals that just want to be left alone to be snakes and to do their jobs. Concepts will include: Learn about snake species and sub-species indigenous to North Texas and the State of Texas. Learn about non- venomous and venomous species of Texas Snakes, many of which you are likely to run into during your field work. After learning how to identify Texas Snakes learn about range maps of snake ranges which will show which snakes you will encounter in your County and surrounding counties. Understand the venomous snakes of Texas and North Texas, how to identify these potentially dangerous species. Learn about snake venom and how hemotoxic and neurotoxic venom affect the human body. What should you do and not do in the event you are in the field and someone is bitten by a venomous snake? Important info to know if you are out in the field. Discuss and dispel many snake myths that exist out there and learn how to talk with people about what is true and what is un- true. Find out the answer to the question (which you might be asked), What good are these snakes in Texas? Shouldn’t we just kill them all? Helpful resources to help you in learning about Texas Snakes. You will have the opportunity to observe close-up a few snakes of North Texas. The goal after the presentation is for Master Naturalists to realize how awesome snakes are, and be able to talk to and educate the public on the important role our North Texas snakes play in our ecosystem.

Two Hour Session 3:30pm - 5:30pm Dendrology and Tree Identification Techniques - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A Christopher Ebling, Blackland Prairie Chapter One of the most frequent questions asked of a master naturalist is "what tree do I have in my yard?" This presentation will cover the basics of tree structure and composition as well as provide a primer on the techniques and tree characteristics used in tree identification. Characteristics include location, form, leaves, twigs, fruit, wood, and bark. Tree structure will include the components of a tree and their function as well as classes of trees. The presentation will detail the characteristics of some trees common to the north Texas region.

One Hour Session 3:30pm - 4:30pm SWAt: Working Together To Enrich Children's Love of Nature - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Carolyn Trivette, Elm Fork Chapter

For over ten years, Elm Fork Chapter of TXMN and Denton County Master Gardeners have worked together on a project to help our children learn to love nature. Science With Attitude, or SWAt, volunteers go into schools, day care centers, libraries, and community events with interactive and fun lessons on many aspects of nature and gardening. Learn all about how this is done and see some of the kits we have developed for volunteers to use. See how together we can do more.

One Hour Session 3:30pm - 4:30pm State Representatives Round Table - CATAMARAN Mary Pearl Meuth & Michelle Haggerty, Texas Master Naturalist Program The TMN Chapter’s State Representatives role was established to help be another communication link to the state office for each chapter. This position within a chapter’s organization can help to relieve some of the administrative burden from the president, along with review and provide input to statewide policy updates etc. Join this discussion to learn the ways that chapters use their State Representative roles, ways that the State Representatives can function as a whole across the state and other opportunities for this role within a chapter. All State Representatives from the TMN Chapters around the state, or other chapter leadership interested in being a part of this discussion are invited to attend.

One Hour Session 3:30pm - 4:30pm What's the Buzz: An Introduction to the Bees of North Texas - WINDJAMMER John Watts, Texas Discovery Gardens The honey bee provides about $30 billion worth of pollination services every year but did you know that they are non-native? There are over 3500 species of native bees in North America and these solitary insects are the real workhorses in the wild. Learn about the various families and genera of bees found in the north Texas area and how important it is to help conserve them.

One Hour Session 4:30pm - 5:30pm Texas Master Naturalist Endowment - Building a Strategic Plan - CATAMARAN  Mary Pearl Meuth & Michelle Haggerty, Texas Master Naturalist Program The mission of the Texas Master Naturalist Endowment is to further enhance the Texas Master Naturalist Program, its chapters and volunteers, now and into the future, for the benefit of natural resource education, conservation and stewardship. Join us as we talk about how we can grow into the next 20 years of the Texas Master Naturalist Program.

One Hour Session

4:30pm - 5:30pm Secrets of Survival - Butterfly Strategies - WINDJAMMER Melanie Schuchart, Blackland Prairie Chapter Butterflies are amazing creatures and have been around a long time. Have you ever wondered how they manage to survive all the predators in the area? How do they survive the winters and rainstorms? Butterflies have developed various forms of camouflage, mutual relationships with other insects for food, mimicry, aposematism, diematic Patterns and more. The presentation attempts to explain the 'Why' of many of our Texas native butterfly behaviors and markings through my own observation and research. For those interested in Butterflies this dives deeper into the identification and life cycle and will give you additional nuggets to share with others. Come with your own ideas as I find we can all learn from each other.

One Hour Session 4:30pm - 5:30pm How we created a Grant Request to convince our city to provide us with $50,000 to begin a Nature Park – BELLA HARBOR C Karl Baumgartner, Coastal Prairie Chapter In 2009 we decided to ask our city for $20,000 to start a nature park on a dormant city property. The grant has been renewed annually every year since, increasing to its present level of $50,000 per annum. The presentation includes the approach we used in the proposal we made to the City, the documentation and boilerplate legal agreement still in use today, and a description of our transformation of the property into a beautiful nature park utilized daily by community residents.

SATURDAY October 19th, 2019 Field Session - Full Day 8:00am - 5:00pm The Gentle Hills of Collin County: Natural History & Raptor Rehabilitation Sy Shahid, Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary; Erich Neupert, Blackland Prairie Raptor Center; Mike Roome, Blackland Prairie Chapter At the 289-acre Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, discover the many ways they instill an appreciation of nature in children through fun and education. Attractions include The Living Lab dioramas of regional ecosystems, Animals of the World displays of rescued wildlife that emphasizes animals’ importance, the Native Texas Butterfly House & Garden, and fossils such as 34-million-year-old tortoises known as Tootsie and Peanut, and a 85-million-year-old mosasaur, a large marine reptile. The interactive Magic Planet provides a 4-ft interactive Earth globe with ecological and geological information. Attendees will be given free time to choose a trail through habitats including Blackland Prairies, wetlands, upland forests, bottomland forests and white rock escarpment. The trip concludes with Blackland Prairie Raptor Center at Lake Lavon which rehabilitates injured birds-of-prey. See the rehabilitation clinic, care enclosures, and flight cages where raptors must prove they can fly and catch mice before being released. Meet the education ambassadors unable to be released back into the wild. Amble the Blackland Prairie restoration, view the lake from a raptor- shaped shelter, and peruse the carbon-sequestration demonstration gardens.

Field Session - Full Day 8:00am - 5:00pm Pristine Prairies: Clymer Meadow & Paul Mathews Prairie Brandon Belcher, The Nature Conservancy A botanical and geological tour of a pair of Texas’ finest Blackland Prairie remnants that also exemplify cooperation between nonprofits and the private sector. The 100 acres of Paul Mathews Prairie is riddled with deep gilgai impressions and is an excellent example of a rare eastern gamagrass-switchgrass-Indiangrass plant community found only on vertisol soils. Mathews attained financial success and returned to purchase his childhood prairie. Native Prairies Association of Texas (NPAT) coordinated private donors to purchase it. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) holds the conservation easement and leads the management. TNC owns Clymer Meadow, but has nearly doubled its original size through adjoining parcels purchased by conservation owners and NPAT. Snack and gas station stop between prairies. Led by Brandon Belcher, TNC North Texas manager of preserves. If weather and seed maturation permits, participants have an option to collect seed for use in rehabilitation projects at Clymer and other TNC prairies in North Texas.

Field Session - Full Day 8:00am - 5:00pm National Fossil Day at North Sulphur River

Linda Brinlee, Doug Franklin & PK Kirkpatrick, Boid d'Arc Chapter; Mick Tune, Dallas Paleontology Society Come and explore one of the nation’s richest fossil beds with experts before it’s flooded to create a lake at Ladonia Fossil Park’s National Fossil Day. You get to keep your finds! North Sulphur River Canyon fossil beds are noted for Cretaceous Period marine mega- fossils such as mosasaurs and plesiosaurs, Ice Age fossils such as mammoths and mastodons, and North American Indian artifacts. Start the day at nearby Fannindel High School with fossil identification table, local fossil displays, and special collectors’ tables (8 am-3pm). Keynote speaker (10 am) is vertebrate paleontologist Nathan Van Vranken on the wildlife that made their home along the coastlines of Cretaceous period “Texas” that takes in modern day Ladonia, North Sulphur River, and other famous fossil locations within the state. Followed by (11am-12pm) Mick Tune, member of Dallas Paleontological Society and author, on significant local 2019 finds, PK Kirkpatrick on safety issues on the river, and Doug Franklin on fossil hunting at future Lake Ralph Hall. River exploration from 12 to 2 pm. Attendance is come-and-go for either or both segments.

Field Session - Full Day 8:00am - 5:00pm Geology, Hydrology, and Ecology of the Northern Texas Coastal Plain Chris Mathewson, Department of Geology, Texas A&M University; Paul Dolliver, North Texas Chapter; Heather Mathewson, Tarleton University This full-day field trip will investigate the interaction between the geology of a site, including bedrock and soil formation; the influence of the geology on the surface, shallow soil and groundwater environment and how the landscape reflects this interaction; and finally the impact of the physical environment on the establishment of the plant, animal, and bird ecology. The trip is intended to provide an overview understanding of the regional environment of the northern Texas coastal plain for Texas Master Naturalists who are not geologists, hydrologists or ecologist, but who are interested in learning about the interaction of these sciences on your environment. The trip will start at the hotel and head west toward Dallas to investigate the rocks of the “Hill Country” that were deposited as the great inland sea was displaced as the North American continent rose from the sea and the land appeared. Erosion and sediment transported from the new continent filled in the shallow sea with marine sand, silt and clay as the coastal plain developed. The final development of the landscape is related to the colder and wetter glacial period in Texas when extreme precipitation, freeze-thaw, and accelerated erosion established the drainage patterns that reflect the impact of the underlying geology of the coastal plain. The ancient rivers were as much as 4 to 9 times larger than their modern size, this creates a series of unique landforms and ecosystems that produced the interesting and exciting environment of the area. It is hoped that participants on this field trip will be able to take their new observational skills home and apply them to teaching, entertainment and enjoyment of their environment by their neighbors at their Chapter. Participants will receive a guidebook and other educational materials as part of the trip.

Full Day (8 Hour) 8:00am - 5:00pm Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program - CAPTAIN Kyle Wolfe, Hermann Park Conservancy; Craig Hensley, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department; Jacob Eickstead, Monarch Joint Venture The Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program (IMMP) is a program to collect data on monarch butterflies and their habitats across their entire breeding range. The IMMP was developed by a group called the Monarch Conservation Science Partnership. This group consists of researchers from state and federal governments, academic researchers, and the Monarch Joint Venture partnership. The data will be used by a variety of conservation professionals and researchers to advance our understanding of monarchs and their habitats, set conservation objectives, and monitor progress.

Field Session - Half Day 7:00am - 12:00pm Paddling the Trinity River Elm Fork with Groundwork Dallas  Megan Davis & Aaryaman Singhal, Groundwork Dallas Once a swath of neglected municipal land inundated by flood-borne trash from the adjacent Elm Fork of the Trinity River, Groundwork Dallas changed that. Made of youth underserved by nature-based activities, and joined by volunteers from other groups, the Green Team has removed tons of trash. Take a float trip from California Crossing Park, location of a pioneer ford of the Elm Fork, to Frasier Dam, ending with a short hike through lush wooded riparian bottomlands. This segment is part of a 127-mile/22 trailhead Trinity River Paddling Trail being considered for inclusion in the National Park Service system, including a possible national recreation area.

Field Session - Half Day 7:30am - 11:00am Birding at Connemara Meadow Rodney Thomas Explore treasures of the northern Trinity River watershed. Enjoy some morning bird watching, including wetlands species and re-introduced bobwhite quail, at the 72-acre Connemara Meadow in Allen. Its extensive Blackland Prairie restorations and recreations have greatly increased habitat for threatened grassland birds including eastern meadowlarks.

Four Hour Session 8:00am - 12:00pm Of Mosses and Meaning: A Literary and Scientific Examination - BILANDER Dale Kruse, S. M. Tracy Herbarium

The study of bryophytes is often purely scientific. Yet, when considered from a theoretical perspective, in conjunction with the scientific, we are able to engage increasingly complex conversations. In this workshop we will explore this miniature world using two lenses. Initially, we will look at bryophytes through a literary lens. To prepare for this introduction, it is recommended that each participant read the following book: Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses by Robin Wall Kimmerer, which is available through Amazon in a hard copy format, or as a recorded version through Audible. We will consider how bryophytes represent the inherent yearning for community within us. We will draw from Kimmerer's text as well as scholarship from Henry David Thoreau and Aldo Leopold. The second lens will focus on the scientific aspects of bryophytes. Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts, hornworts) can be rather inconspicuous components of many ecosystems, especially in many of the drier regions of Texas. However, these organisms serve many vital functions in nature and are present in most habitats within the state. We will take a close-up look at the ecology, uses, and values of these organisms from both an economic (anthropogenic) and ecological perspective. We will then conclude with a basic look at bryophyte macro-morphology with the aid of a dissecting microscope. All equipment for the class will be provided, just bring your curiosity.

Two Hour Session 8:00am - 10:00am The Livers of the Rivers - SCHOONER A Ryan Blankenship, Cox|McLain Environmental Consulting, Inc. This presentation will include an introduction into the freshwater mussels (Family Unionidae) of Texas which are important elements of aquatic ecosystems and often comprise the major components of biomass. They provide food for a wide range of other organisms and serve to churn substrate materials, much like earthworms do in terrestrial areas. Prior to the introduction of invasive bivalve species, bivalve populations from other families were often less significant in strictly freshwater areas; this changed with invasions by the Asian clam and zebra mussel, which often develop very large populations. Additionally, freshwater mussels are sensitive indicators of environmental quality and are often the first organisms to decline and vanish in the face of ecological change and degradation. As a result, perhaps as much as 80 percent of Unionid species are threatened, endangered, or extinct, with populations in general decline. In Texas, all species of native freshwater mussels have declined in abundance and distribution, with the conservation status of over half the remaining species listed as a major concern. The State of Texas boasts as many as 52 species of native freshwater mussel species, with recent genetic analysis altering this final count from year-to-year. The Trinity River Basin, which stretches from north of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex to the Gulf of Mexico, is home to 36 of these unique species. Freshwater mussels can be found in neighbourhood ponds (like the giant floater, tapered pondhorn, and lilliput), in small urban streams (like the fragile papershell, pondmussel, and pondhorn), and in each fork

28 of the Trinity River (like the threeridge, Louisiana fatmucket, and yellow sandshell). With creative names (one of my favourites being the Texas heelsplitter) and fascinating exterior forms (like the three-horned wartyback) it is difficult to not take interest in these sessile creatures that inhabit the State’s waters. Freshwater mussels perform an important biological service by removing bacteria, algae, protozoans, and organic particles from the water. Similarly, freshwater mussels act as a biological sink by fixing and concentrating environmental contaminates like pesticides and heavy metals in their tissues. In this way, their nickname “Livers of the

Two Hour Session 8:00am - 10:00am Roundtable Discussion: VMS System Administration for Chapter Leaders - CATAMARAN  Cheryl Foster, Clyde Camp, Brad James, Dale Hughling, TMN VMS Help Team This roundtable will focus on resources available to help the chapter leadership manage their hour’s record keeping and reporting. Additionally, chapter VMS administrators are invited to share their experiences and offer suggestions on improving the process. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss Federal Grant auditor requirements and reporting implications of the VMS, and bring up their chapter’s questions. Other chapter leaders may want to attend to learn from the experiences of other chapters.

Two Hour Session 8:00am - 10:00am A Guide to Guiding - COMMODORE Adrienne Paquette, Texas Wildlife Association Public speaking can be daunting and can prevent people from sharing their knowledge with others. However, it is vital that we, as Master Naturalists, share our passion for nature with others in order to expand our impact, improve relationships with the general public, and get others involved in being stewards of our natural world. This presentation is designed to guide people in becoming better leaders and educators for guided hikes and other educational outreach events. Participants will be actively engaged in utilizing basic guiding practices, learning how to become a better storyteller, handling difficulties and overcoming obstacles, and they will learn how to set up a hike or outreach event. This program will help produce stronger leaders who are more confident in sharing their passion with others through education programs so we can further the Texas Master Naturalist mission of education, outreach, and service for the benefit of people interacting with the natural resources in our communities.

Two Hour Session 8:00am - 10:00am Entomology: The Study of Insects and Their Influence On Ecosystems And Agriculture- SCHOONER B Christopher Ebling, Blackland Prairie Chapter

Insects are arguably the most successful form of animals on Earth. As a class, insects have been around for roughly 400 million years and occupy virtually every known terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem. Insects have played a critical role in the evolution of most forms of plant life and have had a major impact on human civilization.This presentation will cover the basics of the study of insects. Topics will include the importance of insects to the ecosystem and to agriculture, insect lifecycle & morphology, insect orders & identification, and insect collection and preservation.

Two Hour Session 8:00am - 10:00am A Texas Flora Kaleidoscape - CLIPPER Roger Sanderson, Texas Discovery Gardens (Retired) The flora of Texas is as diverse as any place in the U.S., which creates natural landscapes that are as unique as they are beautiful. The result of a vast diversity of soil types, rainfall, temperature, and topography is an astounding “kaleidoscape” of habitats unique to our state – and these in turn have evolved a wondrous array of plants with a spectrum of flower types and colors, leaf shapes and morphology, and even strange creative forms as they adapted to these ecologically diverse landscapes and the microhabitats within them. This presentation illustrates many of the beautiful, curious, amazing, and awesome plants found within the glorious wilds of Texas!

One Hour Session 8:00am - 9:00am Strengthen Education, Outreach, and Volunteerism with TPWD's Great Texas Wildlife Trails! - TRIMARAN Liz Tomberlin, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Learn how you can best utilize TPWD’s Great Texas Wildlife Trails in outreach and education projects, fundraising, and logging volunteer hours. The Great Texas Wildlife Trails program (www.tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails) not only offers a great outreach, education, and marketing platform for your region, but will also give your chapter the opportunity to educate the public about the great birding and wildlife viewing opportunities in your region, provide a team building exercise through wildlife viewing, earn members volunteer hours, offer great partnership possibilities, help you raise money through map sales, and more! This session will show ways Master Naturalists, individually or as a chapter, can leverage this already existing statewide program to work for them on a localized, regional level.

One Hour Session 8:00am - 9:00am Fifty Shades of Green; Neat Natives for your Landscape - WINDJAMMER Ricky Linex, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

This presentation will show 50 species of native plants that are beautiful and sometimes unusual and can be used in your native landscaping. Some of these can be purchased but many are un-common and will have to be collected in the wild. A one-page listing of the 50 plants including common and scientific names will be provided to attendees. This list also includes whether the plants provide values for pollinators. The list will be useful as you begin your search for these neat natives.

One Hour Session 8:00am - 9:00am Suburban Challenges: Nature and Your Neighbors - THE AMPHITHEATER Donna Cole, Blackland Prairie Chapter The top 10 fastest growing counties in Texas are all suburban counties, experiencing growth rates in the 20-35% range since 2010. Suburban lives may be idyllic for humans but how does Nature fare? Between HOA landscape rules, fear of urban wildlife, and the quest for the perfect lawn it may seem that Nature doesn’t have a chance - but you can make a difference! In this session learn how to work with, not against, your neighbors to benefit the natural resources and natural areas in your town. Participants will learn about partnerships with city groups, using social media to successfully communicate, and fun outreach ideas for your chapter.

One Hour Session 8:00am - 9:00am What was that wild animal I saw at the lake? Results of a camera-trap study at Dallas' White Rock La - ADMIRAL Monica Morrison, Robert Saucedo & Karin Saucedo, Texas Native Cats Nearly everyone has seen bobcats and coyotes all over the state. But do they exist at a big city urban lake and, if so, how many are there? What is their physical condition? How can the data be used? And what can we learn from the study at this lake and surrounding areas that could be applied to potential camera-trap studies elsewhere? Come find out what Texas Native Cats has discovered about our local wildlife. Maybe you'll want to start your own camera-trap study in your area.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Tools to Teach the Identification of Common Trees - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A Anne Curtin & David Parrish, North Texas Chapter Presenters conduct a basic introduction to the identification of some common north Texas trees. The presentation will cover the tools and techniques they use to teach. Topics will include creating a simple dichotomous key, covering some basic terminology, resources, careful observation, use of a dichotomous key, use of group learning, bad jokes, class preparation, and follow-up surveys.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am EIS 2019: We Can't Manage If We Don't Stay Informed - ADMIRAL Jane Duke, North Texas Chapter Our mission as Texas Master Naturalists is "dedication to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities for the State of Texas" which includes management in the face of the many changes we are currently experiencing in Texas. In a conference session last year, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Database was introduced using as an example, the DART Cotton Belt Corridor Regional Rail Project EIS which was finalized on 12/18/2018 and could impact six federally listed endangered species and other natural resources. During the presentation there was discussion about 3 LPG EISs; the Rio Grande (approved 5/17/2019), Texas LNG Brownsville (3/29), and Annova (5/3) which could impact 25 federally listed threatened and endangered species including the Ocelot on our 2018 completion pin. Two other EISs have been finalized this year and 7 are in the draft stage as of 6/15/2019. This session is not for activists or anyone who is for or against an EIS. We will focus on how to use our trained knowledge to provide input when an EIS is open for public comment, and how to manage resources based on the mitigation criteria set forth in a finalized EIS. Every EIS has a plan for minimizing the impact to natural resources, but we can’t manage if we don't stay informed.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am The Social Dragonfly: Promote Your Chapter with Social Media - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Marilyn McFarland, Lindheimer Chapter Electronic communication is a fact of life. Organizations such as Texas Master Naturalist chapters - dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the natural world - exist to educate, reach out, and serve their local communities. Old methods of communication (snail mail, flyers, marketing brochures) are outdated as well as ecologically unsustainable and unjustifiable. This presentation provides the chapter communications person an organized approach to the use of social media to spread the goals of their chapter, as well as communicate, inform, educate, recruit and collaborate. At the end of the presentation, the audience will be able to 1) define social media and describe the top 10 social media platforms; 2) name the factors that will help determine the best social media platform for their chapter; 3) discuss methods for accomplishing chapter social media goals, and 4) describe how to evaluate nd report the effectiveness of their social media efforts.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Managing Stormwater within Your Landscaping System - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C

Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Innovative Water Solutions LLC The climate of Texas seems to be dictated by the feast and famine of rainfall events. Increasingly, it seems like these rain events are becoming more intense, depositing more rainwater over a shorter period of time. This intensity can lead to major drainage issues on your property. The inability for the natural or manmade drainage systems within your landscaping to function as needed is due to many factors. This presentation will detail all of the various landscape drainage systems available to help manage and mitigate drainage issues. It will start from an engineering point of view in terms of identifying watersheds and assessing the exact cause of the issues. It will showcase all of these systems and provide information about to design and install these various systems into your landscaping system. We will also examine the many different green infrastructure or low impact development techniques available to help mitigate drainage issues. From swales, to French Drains, to rain gardens, you will learn how to integrate these practices into your landscaping systems.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am What’s in It for Me? The Human Benefits of Urban Wildlife Conservation - THE AMPHITHEATER Rachel Richter, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Beyond benefiting native plants and animals, natural areas improve our quality of life. Access to nature in communities improves human health and has significant economic value. Over 85% of Texans live in a metropolitan area, meaning that every bit of nature in our cities has the potential to impact hundreds of lives. This presentation makes the case for urban wildlife conservation by providing an overview of the scientific evidence that nature benefits people in everything from improving depression to increasing property values.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Texas State Parks are here for you! - TRIMARAN Ben Horstmann, TPWD - State Parks - Region 2; Annie Hepp, TPWD - State Parks - Region 5 This session will explore how Texas State Parks can help enrich your training and volunteer experiences. Join State Park staff for a brief description of the types of training opportunities at Texas State Parks. Training topics include interpretation, outdoor recreation, resource protection and management, and a just about anything else! We will discuss current sites near you offering training as well as identify sites that you may want to contact. We will also discuss the types of chapter volunteer project opportunities at your local state park

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Results of Texas/Oklahoma Pollinator Project: Creating a Pollinator Friendly Garden - WINDJAMMER Danielle Dunn, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Dallas Center Texas A&M Agrilife Reseach and Extension Dallas Center is heading up a research project studying pollinators of Texas and Oklahoma and their preferred plants to visit and use as food sources. The goal of the Texas/Oklahoma Pollinator Project (TOPP) is to gather both observational and empirical data to provide good, local information used for regional factsheets, and for efforts to protect and preserve our important pollinator resources. There are two aspects of this project: using citizen scientists that will be gathering generalized information, and then myself and others at Texas A&M Agrilife that will be putting together specifics through collecting insects with an insect vacuum and then analyzing the results in relation to the plants they were found on. This project is planned to last from this summer until late fall of this year to obtain information on flowering plants with different bloom times.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am The black and white of invasive zebra mussels - SCHOONER A Laurie Gonzales, US Fish and Wildlife Service Zebra mussels are a shellfish native to the lakes of southern Russia and Ukraine. However, these fingernail-sized mollusks have found their way to Texas waters and are hitching rides around the state on boat and trailers. Learn more about the economic and environmental damage these invasive bivalves create, 1 1/2 inches at a time, and your role in preventing their invasive travels.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Tigers in Texas - SCHOONER B Ross Winton, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Tiger Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cicindelinae) are considered by many to be the most charismatic of the beetles. The diversity and bright coloration exhibited by the group draws many to seek them out around the globe. Texas is home to over 50 species of Tiger Beetle and many are found only in our state and have adapted themselves to some very unique habitats. You will learn about the distribution, life history and conservation status of Texas's tiger beetles and which species we need the help of Master Naturalists and Citizen Scientists to learn more about across Texas.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am TMN and Partners Coming Together - TRIMARAN

Lisa Tuck & Scott Ball, Heartwood Chapter Carolina Creek Christian Camp targets inner city children for experiencing nature at its finest. TMN Heartwood and several partners – NPSOT Sam Houston Chapter, Herb Society of America Texas Thyme Unit, Friends of Lake Livingston, and TDCJ Ellis Unit – have joined forces to do various projects there. We then partnered with SHSU and The Adickes Foundation to present these to the community and introduce folks to our groups. This presentation describes the projects, results, and challenges of getting volunteers when a group covers multiple counties.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Integration of the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) Observations into - ADMIRAL Greg Story, National Weather Service - West Gulf River Forecast Center This presentation will introduce, or re-introduce, the audience to the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow (CoCoRaHS) network. It will mention the mission of CoCoRaHS and give an update on the status of CoCoRaHS in Texas. It will also illustrate the integration of this important rainfall data source into the daily operations at the National Weather Service West Gulf River Forecast Center (WGRFC). An example will be shown on how the data were used during a specific flood event on the Trinity River in 2012, and a second example will show our extensive use of CoCoRaHS data during Hurricane Harvey. The benefits of this network will be discussed, such as providing the WGRFC with a source of rain gauge data for locations where other sources of rainfall data are sparse. In addition, CoCoRaHS provides a source of data for the improvement and verification of radar-based precipitation estimates. Volunteer observers of CoCoRaHS provide observations that are vital in assisting the WGRFC with flood forecasting operations. Information on how to join this important network will also be presented.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Conservation Laws & Ethics 3.0: A fascinating and interactive exploration without legal mumbo jumbo - THE AMPHITHEATER  Richard Heilbrun & Mike Mitchell, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Open to previous attendees and newcomers, in 2019 we’ll explore all new ethical dilemmas and legal situations that a Master Naturalist might encounter. This interactive exercise will discuss ethical and legal dilemmas that every Master Naturalist should know and understand. Some situations may be straight forward, and some may ask you to dig into your life experiences and training to apply your conservation ethic to real world situations. Brought to you in a friendly, common sense dialogue between a TPWD game warden and a wildlife biologist, the speakers will challenge each other and the audience to answer conservation’s most challenging quandaries. This activity will supplement the newly published Laws, Rules & Ethics module in the TMN curriculum.

Now in their third year teaching this topic at the annual meeting, Richard Heilbrun and Mike Mitchell put a new spin on this interesting discussion.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Native Host Plants for Texas Butterflies - WINDJAMMER Lynne Weber & Jim Weber, Capital Area Chapter While many growers focus on nectar plants to attract butterflies to their gardens, fewer know about the host plants that their caterpillars need to survive. Native host plants - wildflowers, trees, shrubs, vines - not only provide a site for the butterfly to lay its eggs, they also provide a ready food source for the emerging caterpillar. As such, the presence of native host plants is one of the key factors in determining a butterfly's range and distribution. Learn about the special relationships that exist between several native plant species and the butterflies that use them, beyond monarchs and milkweeds! Explore why native plants are essential to healthy ecosystems, the role of nectar and host plants, and how these insects find the desired host plant species upon which to lay their eggs. The presenters will also be on hand to sell and sign their book, Native Host Plants for Texas Butterflies: A Field Guide, published in 2018 by Texas A&M University Press.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Interpretive Trail Guiding and getting Adults and Children to enjoy being - COMMODORE David Powell, Blackland Prairie Chapter To explain how to be an interpretive trail guide, the tools you can use to bring nature alive. We will be outside for about half the time identifying plants and how to talk about them to children and adults.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center, From Poor Farm to the Future - CLIPPER  Elise Spain, Clay Thurmond, Jerry Betty & Sharon Betty, Elm Fork Chapter Established as a county poor farm in 1883, Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center (CCNHC) has made the transition from a frontier remedy for the most impoverished of society to now serving as a repository of reforested and restored upland prairie and bottomland hardwood forest. This session will cover the history of poor farms as an element of our heritage, the ongoing transformation of CCNHC from agricultural use to a nature preserve for the enjoyment and education of the public, and its role in a revitalized partnership with Denton Independent School District, welcoming 5000 students annually on nature trips with support from TMN-Elm Fork Chapter volunteers.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm TMN VMS Administrators Training 201 - CATAMARAN  Cheryl Foster, Clyde Camp, Brad James, Dale Hughling, TMN VMS Help Team Join us to review some of the more advanced features of the Samaritan TMN VMS system and procedures that coincide with the usage of the system. We will go over the process of transferring volunteers to and from your chapter. As well as handling volunteer opportunities in neighboring chapters when your volunteers join them. We’ll discuss maintenance of your chapter’s data. Cleaning up logbooks, opportunities and volunteer entries, and managing the Volunteer’s drop-down box in eRecruiter. Advanced topics will also include along with a thorough discussion of opportunity categories, exporting data to excel and using the email functionality for logbooks entries. Do you have a need to see data in a unique way? We will show you how to create grids for your chapter. Need to modify a large group of volunteer records? We will show you how to run an ‘Automation’ event to make those changes.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm A Beginner's Guide to the World of Wildlife Photography - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Denver Kramer, Elm Fork Chapter This presentation will cover four areas: Camera gear design and choices for wildlife photography, the Exposure Triangle, camera settings to achieve optimum exposure for great images and tips and techniques to capture wildlife images.  Camera design - we will cover camera sensors, types of cameras available and benefits of each style for use in wildlife photography. Additional camera hardware and accessories for wildlife photography.  Exposure Triangle - learn what is it, why it is important and how to get the optimum exposure results for great images. What is a histogram and how to read.  Camera Settings - Green Box, TV, AV, P, M and assorted symbols on your camera, what do they mean and when do you use them. Shooting modes, Auto- Focus settings and more...  Tips and Techniques - Know your subjects and their behavior, where to start and improving skills, where to find wildlife in your area and sharing and learning to improve your skills.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm The Native Trees of North Texas - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A Rick Travis, Blackland Prairie Chapter Review of the 50 key native trees found in the North Texas area: Keys for identification, native range, habitat preferences, natural history, and value to our ecosystems.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Fancy Meetings You Here: Running & Participating in Productive Meetings - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Matthew Kennedy, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Have you ever sat in a meeting frustrated that it’s going nowhere, or wondering why you were invited in the first place? Ever host a meeting that got way off track, or it ended with more confusion than when you started? In this course you will learn some common meeting pitfalls and some techniques and strategies to overcome them, including some tips on how to help more introverted participants share their thoughts, and how to help extroverts feel participative.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Air Pollution: Particulate Matter - ADMIRAL Cresanda Allen & Amanda Poland, Downwinders At Risk When speaking of air pollution many are familiar with ozone but not many understand particulate matter and its drastic impact on all living beings. This presentation will explore PM, its hazards, and what can be done about it on individual and local government levels, and how people can engage with citizen science.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Citizen Science for the Texas Ecological Mapping Systems - TRIMARAN Laura Chapa, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Landscape Ecology Program is developing a new citizen science/crowdsourcing tool within the Texas Ecosystem Analytical Mapper (TEAM) that will enable users to provide feedback regarding the accuracy of the statewide vegetation map, the Ecological Mapping Systems of Texas (EMS). TEAM is a Google maps based application which delivers the EMS data to Texas citizens. The crowdsourced data will be used to help manage the EMS data and apply updates accordingly. This new tool will allow users to track landscape change on both private and public lands and easily share information regarding ecosystems throughout Texas.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Golden Algae - An Invading Toxic Protist - SCHOONER A Karen Glenn, Bluestem Chapter Since its presence was first confirmed during a massive fish kill in the 1980's, golden algae has wreaked havoc across numerous stream systems across the state of Texas and beyond. The losses to recreation and the fishing industry have been in the millions. This presentation will give an overview of the organism called golden algae, along with information from the investigations into this toxic invader of Texas waters. What is it,

38 where did it come from, and how and why is it toxic? These questions and more will be examined as we look into the microscopic world of golden algae.

Field Session - Half Day 1:00pm - 5:00pm Native Plants & Prairies of Dallas: Ecosystem Sampler and Lakeside Beauty  Brett Johnson & Lois Diggs, Native Texas Park Native Texas Park The 8-acre Native Texas Park recreates in the center of Dallas the Blackland Prairie, Post Oak Savannah, Cross Timbers Forest, and wetlands of Pres. George W. Bush’s beloved Prairie Chapel Ranch. Learn more about the ecosystems and the plants they harbor in a guided tour along a one-mile paved ADA trail. Learn of the park’s elaborate hydrology and water conservation methods. Located at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. White Rock Creek Watershed On the east flank of White Rock Lake, one of Dallas’ most popular and urban parks, exists about 160 acres of original Blackland Prairie, preserved by being on soil too shallow to farm. Learn of its serendipitous discovery, naturalists’ determination to preserve it, and Dallas Parks & Recreation’s progressive management of these rare parcels and their community involvement programs. Participants will take short walks through a few parcels that boast impressive lake backdrops. A short drive up the White Rock Creek watershed to Harry S. Moss Park to witness the results of large-scale prairie rehabilitation using private contractors and naturalists volunteer labor.

Four Hour Session 1:00pm - 5:00pm There’s an App for That – Making & Sharing Observations using iNaturalist - ADMIRAL Tania Homayoun, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Citizen science is a powerful way for people of all ages and all walks of life to contribute to research, conservation, and management of our natural resources. Texas Parks and Wildlife's Texas Nature Trackers program uses iNaturalist - an online data collection tool and naturalist community - to support its projects. This training will introduce iNaturalist and provide step-by-step instruction on how to use it, including orientation to the website; making and editing observations; adding identifications to observations; and creating places and projects. Participants should dress appropriately for field time outside after the presentation. Please come to the session with an iNaturalist account set up and the iNaturalist app loaded onto your phone or tablet if possible.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Tarantula Time in Texas - SCHOONER B

Leah Patton & Myryha Patton, Shlei Original Art When you were younger, do you remember those spring and fall evenings when the roads were covered in creepy-crawly things - namely male tarantulas on the move? Ever wonder why you don't see them any more? Join the mother/daughter team of the Spider Queens in learning about the native species of Texas and surrounding states, as well as these fascinating creatures in general. They will lecture on the habitat, lifespan, reproduction, and need for conservation of these ancient creatures.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm What Is That In My Water? - BILANDER Richard G. McCarthy & Marilyn A. Whitworth, Central Texas Chapter An introduction to the macroinvertebrates that are found in fresh water streams, lakes, drainage ditches, etc. Why we study these life forms and how they indicate the health of our streams and waterways. How to identify the various life forms and the role they play in the environment. Attendees will be provided an Introduction to the use of dichotomous charts to identify various aquatic forms.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Collegiate Chapter Round Table - CATAMARAN Addison Regennitter, Texas Master Naturalist Program Join me and representatives of Texas Master Naturalist collegiate chapters as we discuss both the challenges and successes found by each chapter in their founding and development. Learn what it means to start or merge into a collegiate chapter from those with seasoned advice. This talk is for anyone interested in how these chapters work or for members wanting advice on how to form their own collegiate chapter.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm Aquatic Vegetation Ecology and ID - SCHOONER A Brittany Chesser, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service What role does aquatic vegetation play in our water systems and how do you identify the good from the bad? During this talk, the interaction between aquatic vegetation and its environment will be discussed; along with identification, management practices, and reporting of common problematic aquatic plants. Participants will become familiar with current websites and apps that will assist them when dealing with aquatic vegetation.

Two Hour Session 1:00pm - 3:00pm My Little Chickadee: The Coolest Little Bird Ya Ever Did See - COMMODORE Scott Kiester, Elm Fork Chapter

The seven chickadee species that inhabit North America are more than just another pretty visitor to the feeder. Their social and foraging behaviors and their vocalizations are among the most complex seen in songbirds. True inter-species communicators, their complex warning calls are recognized not only by other birds but by multiple small mammals as well. Come learn about he little birds that do an out-sized job in the forests.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Fireflies of Texas: Glowing, Glowing, Gone – BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Ben Pfeiffer, Firefly Conservation & Research, Lindheimer Chapter A highly educational and fun talk on the types of fireflies (Lampyridae) in Texas. Ben will be presenting his research on Texas firefly taxa with an emphasis on Central & South Texas fireflies that occur in nearby river basins and riparian areas. Ben will discuss why fireflies flash and how they use light to communicate to potential mates. He will show attendees how to identify Texas firefly species and discuss specific threats to why fireflies are disappearing in many areas of Texas. He will also talk on how to create a good habitat for fireflies, plants that they love, and gardening tips for encouraging them to your land.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Bird City Texas: Encouraging Native Bird Conservation in Our Communities - TRIMARAN Rachel Richter & Olivia Schmidt, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department; Yvette Stewart, Audubon Texas Audubon Texas and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department teamed together to create this new community certification program. Bird City Texas recognizes and encourages effective and impactful native bird conservation where people live, work, and recreate. From large urban centers to small rural towns, every community can provide important habitat for birds. Communities will receive recognition and community benefits upon meeting certification requirements. This presentation will discuss the importance of native bird conservation in Texas communities and how a community can earn recognition as a Bird City.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Trinity River Paddling - THE AMPHITHEATER  Alex Dubovsky, Dale Harris & Steve Smith, Trinity Nature Conservancy/ Trinity River Paddling Trail The Trinity Nature Conservancy (TNC) led by Steve Smith is dedicated to improving the Trinity River in the DFW area for the enjoyment of the families in this area. The goal is to obtain designation for the Trinity River from the National Park Service as a National Recreation Area/Trail.

The Idea for the Trinity River Paddling Trail (TRPT) was originally conceived by Dale Harris a member of the Dallas Down River Club (DDRC) over 5 years ago. The TRPT finally received momentum when Steve Smith from TNC became an active member of the project in 2018. In addition, the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) recognized the importance of the TRPT and stepped in to provide support. To make this happen we needed support from all cities and associated river management organization involved with the Trinity. The outcomes from our effort was overwhelming support for a paddling trail. To date we have received 27 letters of support from the cities along the Trinity River and its branches. Included in these are TPWD, Trinity River Authority (TRA), one of the Dallas County Commissioners and several of the employees of the Dallas County Commissioners office At present there are 21 Kayak/Canoe launches on the Trinity, with plans for 6-7 future ramps. We are working to have a 6-8 miles distance between launches, so anyone could have a short fun day of paddling. There will be a total of 127 miles of paddling trails. This will include the West Fork, Clear Fork, Elm Fork and Main Trinity thru Dallas and Dallas County. On Oct 30th 2018 we submitted a formal request to the National Park Service for the 127 miles of the Trinity River in the DFW area to become a National Recreation Area. That request has been reviewed by the NPS. They have requested some additional long- term commitments from the individual cites along the river and to make sure each launch site is properly marked with an information Kiosk. In addition, the TRPT has been selected as a Conservation Wrangler which is a part of Texan By Nature (TxN) organization. There are over 10,000 Kayak/Canoe members of clubs in the DFW area. Most of these are kayak fisherman. A big part of this becoming a NRA will include clean-up events as well as influence a higher regard for the Trinity. The more people use it, the more influence we will have on the municipalities along the river to improve the Trinity for recreation.

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm Monarchs, Milieu and Milkweed - WINDJAMMER Rosemary Plank, South Texas Chapter The monarch’s living environment, affects its health, wellbeing and survival. Climate, neighborhood, location, surroundings, diseases and elements of where they exist may lead to positive or negative consequences. Currently one of the foremost diseases being discussed and researched is caused by the neogregarine obligate protozoan, Ophryocystis elektroscirrha, (O.E.) first discovered in Florida in 1966. This protozoan is carried by the adult butterfly, deposited on eggs laid on milkweed or rubbed off on nectaring plants. The larvae eat the egg ingesting the protozoan. The spore lyses in the caterpillar gut and rapidly vegetatively reproduces. Upon eclosion the spore once again is deposited on adult abdominal scales. Testing for the protozoan spores is easy but requires magnification. Butterfly deformities may exist upon eclosion or the Monarch may look ‘perfectly normal’. Looking at the Monarch does

42 not identify whether the butterfly is O.E. positive or negative. It is known that O.E. does cause issues in the adult butterfly. Other diseases, bacteria, fungi, viruses, and the like also affect Monarchs, and if one raises these butterflies, or is interested in the butterfly, looking for and evaluating butterfly health is paramount. Milkweed cardenolides (a toxic steroid), along with a warning coloration, protect Monarchs from some predators. Different types of milkweed have differing cardenolide concentrations thus differing levels of protection. The Monarch female will lay eggs on the milkweed plant in their location that best protects their larvae. Cardenolide is also thought to mitigate, to some extent, O.E. These and other Monarch issues will be actively discussed with the audience. If possible, both positive and negative monarchs will be brought to the presentation along with a microscope for attendees to visualize O.E..

One Hour Session 1:00pm - 2:00pm The Naturalist and the Cows: Agriculture Basics You Should Know - CLIPPER Emily Grant & Maureen Frank, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Do you know the difference between a bull and a steer? Can livestock really be a tool for managing wildlife habitat? With 96% of Texas' lands privately owned, and many of those acres used for raising livestock, understanding these working lands is important for those who work to conserve natural resources. In the first part of this presentation, we will cover basic terms and concepts related to livestock, helping you better communicate with producers. In the second part of this talk, we will "wear both hats" and look at several scenarios through the eyes of a rancher and a conservationist. We will discuss areas of potential conflict between producers and conservationists, but also highlight areas where the two groups already agree. The goal of this presentation is to increase understanding to improve communication and, ultimately, conservation.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Ridges, swales, and tales of Bottomland Hardwood Forest Ecology - CLIPPER Laurie Gonzales, US Fish and Wildlife Service Bottomland hardwood forests are a mysterious habitat. Filled with shadows, cane thickets, symphonies of cypress knees along quiet sloughs, and layers of leaf litter, you never know what is watching you while you are watching that alligator. These forests are unlike other forests. Their ridge and swale topographies create incredible structurally- diverse forests which rare Texas native fauna call home. Explore this forest from the soil to the crowns of the trees to see what makes these places worth protecting.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Operation Game Thief: Collaboration to Protect our Natural Resources - TRIMARAN Danny Shaw, Operation Game Thief; Mike Mitchell, Texas Parks & Widlife Department If Texas Game Wardens work to protect our state’s resources, and Texas Master Naturalists work to serve beneficial management of our state’s resources, then it’s time to focus more on this collaborative relationship. Operation Game Thief is a nonprofit created in 1981 to help facilitate conservation-related crimestoppers tips. But it’s actually much more, and forms the third leg in an important triad. This presentation, by a Texas Game Warden, gives a detailed description of Operation Game Thief, how it works, and how the three organizations could better collaborative to improve our quality of life. The new executive director of Operation Game Thief will also join in, helping explain the history, funding, flow, and success of the Operation Game Thief program. This is a first-time program focused upon collaboration to help work towards conservation achievement.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Pollinators and Native Plants -Who are the Real Managers of Wildlife Habitats? - WINDJAMMER Ricky Linex, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Landowners and land managers often believe that by reducing stocking rates of livestock or controlling numbers of deer on their property they are managing the habitat. Participants will learn of the true importance of the many species of pollinators in keeping healthy forbs, flowering shrubs and trees. Without pollinators our food supply would be significantly reduced and habitat for wildlife and livestock would crash. Come and learn about the importance of pollinators.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Bringing the National Park Service to D-FW - THE AMPHITHEATER Steve Smith, Trinity Nature Conservancy/ Trinity River Paddling Trail The presentation will feature all the natural assets associated with the Trinity River basin in North Texas that are suitable for assemblage into a National Park Service- branded nature park. There are 9 cities that claim the Trinity River and each has built numerous nature- oriented parks for their citizens. The goal of the Trinity Nature Conservancy is to encourage all of these cities to place their river-parks into an integrated nature park in order to bring the National Park brand to their city. At 35,000 acres this would be the largest urban nature park in America, and would provide numerous conservation and recreation activities associated with this huge nature expanse.

The presentation would feature numerous maps highlighting the natural areas and would cover the various steps required to be successful in creating this National Park. Some of these steps have already been accomplished. The goal of the presentation is to encourage a movement to make this nature park happen, and to invite individuals and organizations to join this movement.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Why Dark Skies Matter…the ECOLOGY of the Night Sky - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Bridget Langdale & Kristen Rodgers Light Pollution…what is it? What is it harming? All plants and animals, including humans, evolved in a world cycled by the natural rhythms of daylight and dark, star- filled, night skies. In less than 150 years, the electric light has meddled with that rhythm; disrupting billions of years of natural darkness. Come learn “Why Dark Skies Matter”. Become aware of the impact of artificial light on living things and to use friendly” lighting in residential and commercial settings.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm The Wild Cats of Texas - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Monica Morrison, Texas Native Cats Bobcats abound. Ocelots are endangered. Mountain lions are moving east. And jaguarundis and jaguars may never again be seen in the Lone Star State. Why are we so fascinated with these felines? What do they do for us, and what do we do to them? What is the role of advocacy in the effort to improve the lives of our cats? Come find out and learn what you can do to help these Texas icons.

One Hour Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm Specialty and Rare Birds of the Lower Rio Grande Valley - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A  Mary Renk & Ronald Renk, South Texas Border Chapter Specialty and Rare Birds of the Rio Grande Valley ABA (American Birding Association) Codes for classification of bird species: Code-1: Regularly occurring North American avifauna Code-1 species are more widespread and are usually more numerous. Six species photographed and most sought by birders visiting the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Code-2 species have a restricted North American range, are more widespread, but occur in lower densities, or are quite secretive making their detection often difficult. Some Code-2 species are harder to find than some species that have higher codes. Thirty-three species photographed and unobserved Code-3: Rare

Species that occur in very low numbers, but annually, in the ABA Checklist Area. This includes visitors and rare breeding residents. Nine species photographed and unobserved Code-4: Casual Species not recorded annually in the ABA Checklist Area, but with six total records— including three or more in the past 30 years—reflecting some pattern of occurrence. Code-5: Accidental. Species that are recorded five or fewer times in the ABA Checklist Area, or fewer than records in the past 30 years. Eight species photographed and unobserved All of the birds in the presentation are in taxonomic family group order.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Who Scat That? - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM B Gwen Eishen, Independent Wildlife Educator Participants will explore a variety of scat, tracks, and evidence left behind by local wildlife. Understanding this evidence will aid in interpreting the activity and behaviors of species present in any green space.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Rangeland Ecology & Management - How to Manage Your Texas Rangeland - CLIPPER Ricky Linex, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service What is Rangeland: Land on which the indigenous vegetation is predominantly grasses, grass-like plants, forbs or shrubs and is managed as a natural ecosystem. This rangeland ecology and management presentation is about rangelands of Texas, historical documentation on the rangelands, how plants grow, and management of the plants, annual food and growth cycles of grasses, mechanical brush management tools, range seeding and how to calculate a range seeding mixture and examples of rangeland photo points from September 2011-2018. Attendance will help you better understand the management needs of our native rangelands and how to apply it to your land.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Improving the Initial Training Experience - COMMODORE Jeanette Geiman, Alamo Area Chapter Jeanette and members of the Alamo Area Chapter training team will lead an interactive discussion about processes to improve the initial training experience. All members involved with chapter initial training are invited and encouraged to participate. Topics will include class marketing, Certified Public Educator approval, applications, admissions, orientation, mentors and coaches, class structure, field trips, VMS and more.

If you joined us last year and benefitted from our fast one hour discussion, join us again this year when we will have two hours to spend together. If you missed it last year, please add us to your agenda if you’re anyway involved in training. We will continue the dialogue after the presentation by sharing through a private Facebook page.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm The Cedars (but really they're Junipers) of Texas - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM A Chase Brooke, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Juniper trees, commonly called cedars across most of Texas, are by and large one of the most common 'pest' tree species across the state. However, most of these species are native to the Lone Star State, and are actually a critical part of our ecosystems. In this presentation, we will explore the 5 most common species of juniper that are found in Texas, and explore the history, biology, and ecology of these rather ubiquitous tree species. Whether it's the Eastern Redcedar of east Texas, or Pinchot's Juniper in the west, the interactions of land use, botanical characteristics, management practices, and climate have all combined to exhibit the juniper-dominated ecotypes we see across much of the state. Overall, these trees are here to stay and understanding how they sprout, grow, and respond to disturbance is a key component to managing their expansion into our pastures, prairies, fields, and parks.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Plants: There is more than meets the eye-chemically speaking - BILANDER Chad Huckabee & Rosemary Plank, South Texas Chapter During this presentation Rosemary and Chad address simple biochemistry components in order to introduce the audience not only to a small portion of the vast array of molecules that plants utilize for protection from their invaders, but also how plants provide protection for humans and other animals. This is an interactive presentation where audience and presenters work together to create a learning experience about interactions between plants and animals especially animals. Man's well-being is dependent upon the symbiotic relationship we have with plants in our environment. Our welfare as a biological species is dependent upon the welfare of plant species with which we coexist. Survival depends upon adaptions: interactions between herbivores, or animals that eat plants including man, and other animals lead to adaptations in both plants and animals. These adaptations include changes in plants and animals that facilitate survival for each species and between species. Plants have been producing molecules for a half billion years. These adaptive chemical responses were produced to cope with herbivory and environmental change. Plants evolved molecules for protection, not only from macro-predators, but also micro- predators.

We do not appreciate the biochemical protections plants provide for themselves and for others, such as humans. To the plant, these molecules persist through reproductive and propagation means. Molecules evolved may be identifies as antiviral, antibacterial , fungicidal, insecticidal and herbicidal agents as well as molecules associated with plant growth and function. Like all living things, plant and animal molecules consist of a finite number of elemental components which are similar and can be arranged into an infinite array of possible molecules.

Two Hour Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Telling the Story of Wild Orchids of Texas Using Eyes, Ears and Hands - BELLA HARBOR BALLROOM C Charlie Hess, Southwest Regional Orchid Growers Association; Bruce Ballengee, Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center; Stephanie Varnum, North Texas Chapter Fifty-four species of wild orchids grow in Texas, from small, non-photosythesizing Texas Purple Spike (Hexalectris warnockii) that is found in dry leaf litter in white rock to larger Chapman's Orchid that grows in wetland pine savannahs. Each species is special and requires a specialized habitat to survive. Human activities and developments are negatively impacting them. Learn more about our wild orchids, how you can help in their conservation, and make your own orchid flower with an “Orchid-gami”, a foldable craft created by the North American Orchid Conservation Center.

One Hour Session 3:00pm - 4:00pm Invasion of the Applesnails - SCHOONER A Monica McGarrity, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Invasive island applesnails (Pomacea maculata) have been actively threatening freshwater ecosystems as well as rice production in Texas for over 20 years and are currently found in at least 22 counties in East Texas. They spread during flooding events as well as by aquarium dumping. This classroom presentation will cover applesnail ecology and impacts and introduce a new volunteer project. This is a unique opportunity to participate in applesnail monitoring, prevention, and management efforts led by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Attendees will leave this session empowered to be local leaders for the project armed with the training, tools, and materials to get involved.

One Hour Session 3:00pm - 4:00pm Monarch Waystations for Texas - WINDJAMMER Carol Clark, Monarch Watch/Blackland Prairie Chapter Covers the amazing story of the Monarch Butterfly’s life-cycle and migration, clarifies some common misconceptions about Monarchs, explains historic and current threats to Monarch populations, and why Texas is a pivotal location for Monarchs’ future success.

The program also covers real steps Texas residents can take to help bolster the Monarch population. Handouts included.

One Hour Session 3:00pm - 4:00pm Update on Recovering America's Wildlife Act - TRIMARAN Rachel Rommel, Texas Wildlife Alliance; Richard Heilbrun, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act is winding its way through Congress in 2019 and could be the best opportunity we have for transformative conservation funding since 1937. Passage of this bill would provide permanent, dedicated funding to restore imperiled fish and wildlife, create and enhance educational programs, and improve nature-based outdoor recreation. The bill, lauded by both conservation and business groups, ensures that America’s “Green Infrastructure” is financially and ecologically sound. Join us for a lively discussion that includes an overview of the proposed program, the organizations and networks that support and don’t support the bill, and how TXMN Chapters and individuals can support this national and state-wide initiative. Even in “today’s politically charged” environment, this effort is getting surprising bipartisan support in Congress. What would you do with $56 million? What if it came every year? Would you restore the oyster reefs in the gulf coast? Remove invasive species? Get rid of hogs? Reintroduce Texas Horned Lizards? Build nature centers? Fund field trips for students? Restore Texas watersheds? Whatever your interests, be a part of the solution! You won’t want to miss this!

One Hour Session 3:00pm - 4:00pm The Unfortunate Reality of Plastics in our Local Ecology - THE AMPHITHEATER Riya Mohan, Grapevine High School The Unfortunate Reality of Plastics in our Local Ecology takes a deeper look at the extent to which plastic waste permeates through Texas’s waterways. I have analyzed a variety of fish species from Lake Ray Hubbard and found microplastics in their gastrointestinal tracts. My project and results could bring to light the unknown, yet far- reaching effects that the everyday use of plastics is having on local fishes populations, and the application of my work could help the world understand how plastics are impacting species globally. The only thing attendees need to bring is their enthusiasm to be able to learn just how dire the world’s plastic plague is.

One Hour Session 3:00pm - 4:00pm Spiders; venom and silk - SCHOONER B David Parsons, Bluestem Chapter Spiders represent one of the most successful terrestrial predators in existence. They are found in practically every environmental zone on the planet and range in size from near

49 microscopic to the size of a dinner plate. Earth’s spider population eats an estimated 400 – 800 million tons of insects per year . . . and they’ve been eating for a long time. This lecture will cover the evolutionary history and general biology of spiders along with an overview of the the three classes of these amazing and, largely, misunderstood and feared animals. Hopefully, after attending this talk you might stop squishing every spider you encounter.

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm Monarch Butterflies--Beyond the Basics - WINDJAMMER Carol Clark, Monarch Watch/Blackland Prairie Chapter Drawn from the findings of researchers and observers across the country, this presentation goes beyond the basics covered in an introductory talk and examines Monarchs' amazing sensory and navigational equipment, their lifecycle quirks, winter survival factors, and some surprising news about fire ants, technology challenges, plant preferences, grazing management, and more.

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm Quiz Bowl VI - TRIMARAN Richard Heilbrun, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department How are you with nature trivia? Join us for a fun-filled, low-stakes, but high energy battle! Participants will compete for prizes and bragging rights by answering science questions, wildlife facts, and Master Naturalist trivia. Test your knowledge or come to learn! Bring the beverage of your choice or just bring yourself and a sense of humor and represent your chapter in a contest of knowledge or battle of wits. Bribes are welcome, but not guaranteed to work in your favor! Assemble your team beforehand, during the session, or participate individually.

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm STRAWS – A Documentary Film for a Sea of Change - THE AMPHITHEATER Christine Figgener, Texas A&M University Plastics, especially single-use plastics, constitute a major problem for Earth’s ecosystems, as well as our own health. It is estimated that there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans by 2050 and there is already the first evidence of micro-plastics making their way into our diet. There is much we can do to help with this issue, and though recycling is crucial, it will not solve the global problem. Reducing our plastic consumption in our everyday life is of utmost importance. Single-use plastics are usually the least likely to be recyclable, but are also the plastics that are usually just convenience products that we do not really need. Showing will include a screening of STRAWS, a powerful documentary about plastic straws and other forms of plastic pollution that inundate our waterways and oceans. The

50 film illustrates how individuals, groups, and businesses around the globe are reducing plastic straw use through education, collaboration, policy development and utilization of non-plastic alternatives. With colorful opening animation narrated by Oscar winner Tim Robbins, STRAWS is entertaining as well as educational. STRAWS inspires action and empowers individuals to be part of the solution. As Texas Master Naturalists we care about the environment and I would like to have an interactive Q&A session after the screening to discuss ways how the different chapters, but as well as everyone at home, can make a difference in their respective communities by quitting unnecessary single-use plastics such as straws.

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm From trash to treasure: The saga of an uncommon morning-glory - CATAMARAN Sheryl Smith-Rodgers, Highland Lakes Chapter This program will tell how a dig for grape hyacinth bulbs on a vacant lot set to be paved led to the discovery of an uncommon morning-glory species. I'll weave in how I use iNaturalist to maintain a species list for our yard (so far 760+ species!) and how the app helped me ultimately identify the morning-glory. THEN the vine turned out to be rare, which motivated a plant conservationist to join us in collecting plants and seeds. More adventures follow, of course. Takeaway: We as Master Naturalists play an important role in preserving and protecting our natural heritage.

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm Wanted: Citizen Scientists for Invasives Survey of Aquarium Stores - SCHOONER A Hans Landel, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Some aquatic invasive species in Texas originated from the pet trade. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texasinvasives.org are collaborating on a study to determine whether any aquatic invasive species are being sold in aquarium stores. We are looking for volunteers to help us by visiting stores to determine whether they are selling these species. In this presentation, we describe the study and the training and responsibilities of the volunteers. Please help by participating!

One Hour Session 4:00pm - 5:00pm What naturalists need to know about the emerald ash borer - SCHOONER B Michael Merchant, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service The emerald ash borer (EAB) may be the most destructive forest insect to ever enter the United States. It threatens to wipe out multiple species of ash (Fraxinus spp.) wherever it becomes established. First discovered in Michigan in 2002, it has since made its way across much of the Midwest. Last year the beetle was discovered in Tarrant County (Fort Worth), and three counties adjacent to Louisiana and Arkansas. This presentation will

51 discuss the possible ecological impacts of EAB, hopes for control, and how to recognize the early signs of attack.

SUNDAY October 20th, 2019 One Hour Session 6:30am - 8:00am Chapter Presidents and Chapter Advisors Breakfast - THE PERGOLA Mary Pearl Meuth & Michelle Haggerty, Texas Master Naturalist This session is for Chapter Presidents, Chapter Advisors or the Chapter President Designee to attend, hear about statewide initiatives, program updates and accomplishments. There is also usually time for an open format forum.

Three Hour Session 9:00am - 12:00pm Grasses, grasses, grasses, everywhere, but which one is it!! - BILANDER Dale Kruse, S. M. Tracy Herbarium The Poaceae (grass) family is one of the largest families of vascular plants in the world, especially in a largely prairie state like Texas. Grasses are also a vital ecological, as well as economic, force across the globe. As components of every landscape in the state, grasses are a dominant component of the rich biodiversity that is Texas. In this workshop we will take a close look at the identification of grasses using two approaches. An initial lecture will delve into the basics of grass morphology, ecology, and biogeography. In the lecture the student will gain a better understanding of these topics, which can then be applied in the laboratory session that follows. The laboratory session is designed as a continuation of the introductory class. In this session we will take a detailed look at the morphology this group of plants with the aid of a dissecting scope and published references. Using dissecting microscopes participants will observe the macro and micro morphological characteristics that are essential for accurate identification of these groups. All equipment for the class will be provided, just bring your curiosity.

Three Hour Session 9:00am - 12:00pm Plant Identification by Family Association and use of Written and Online Botanical Keys - COMMODORE Ricky Linex, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Participants will gain an understanding of how Texas plants have been collected and identified through the past 200 years. Plants will first be identified by use of Family Associations and then followed by written and online botanical keys. Participants will learn how to quickly key out plants arriving at the proper identification. Session will be indoors, copies of the keys needed will be provided for all. Magnifier, tweezers, and knife would be useful but not required. Handouts of Family Associations and list of useful plant ID books will be provided. Never again will you fear the challenge of keying out a plant.

Three Hour Session 9:00am - 12:00pm Geology of Texas: Rock, Soil and Water - ADMIRAL Chris Mathewson, Department of Geology, Texas A&M University This 3-hour course is designed for students who are not geologists, but are interested in the physical environment that controls and impacts our naturalist world. The course will discuss the geologic evolution of the State of Texas, showing where and why the various rock units were formed and how the bedrock impacts both the soils that develop on the surface and the groundwater that flows below. We will discuss the rock cycle and see how all the geologic processes are related as “Mother Nature” naturally recycles her Earth materials. Understanding how rocks were formed and the conditions that existed when they were formed provides you with a fundamental understanding of the foundation of the environment. Critical to that understanding are the soils that develop on top of the “bedrock” because they reflect the parent material, climate, topography, organisms and time of formation that are associated with your site of interest. The county soil survey for your area is a very valuable and detailed source of information about the area. Finally, it rains and where does this water go? The hydrologic cycle and hydrology associated with your site of interest is critical in influencing the soil development and vegetative cover in the area. Surface water causes erosion, sediment transport and deposition of the soil and weathered materials thus producing a new environment. Rainwater that infiltrates into the ground and moves between the soil particles or along bedding plains or in fractures and faults creates the groundwater system. Surface and groundwater impacts the natural world that we live in. Registered students will receive a copy of the course notes and a Texas Highway Geologic Map as a reference.

Two Hour Session 9:00am - 11:00am Understanding the Bumble Bees of Texas - SCHOONER B Ross Winton, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department In recent years there has been an increased interest in the status of several North American Bumble Bee species. Due to the documented declines of the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) it was listed as Endangered in 2017 by the USFWS. Several other species are known to have populations in decline and are petitioned for listing. Learn more about the life history, distribution and conservation status of our Texas Bumble Bees and how you can get involved in increasing our knowledge of their populations in our state.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Changing Places, Changing Lives: Using Green Space Restoration to Grow Social Equity - CLIPPER

 Megan Davis & Aaryaman Singhal, Groundwork Dallas Groundwork Dallas is the foremost champion of Dallas’ urban wilderness. Our mission is to regenerate, sustain, and improve the Dallas Elm Fork Green Belt and Great Trinity Forest by developing community-based partnerships that educate and empower people, businesses, and organizations to promote environmental stewardship. Everyone deserves a green, healthy, and resilient environment. To accomplish our mission, we remove litter and debris, provide urban wilderness access, and create community recreation areas and green spaces in Dallas’ Elm Fork Green Belt and Great Trinity Forest. We build community awareness of these places and encourage appreciation and better stewardship of these sites while working to preserve and restore them. A thriving urban forest is essential to maintaining healthy air and water quality in our communities and our region. We work with area residents and city officials to promote a safer, cleaner, and healthier environment while also engaging in community building through volunteerism, green space development, and education of underserved, urban youth. Our Green Team youth program is one of our primary focus areas. Our group brings together young people from diverse backgrounds including youth of color, refugees and immigrants, and young women in an effort to tip the scales in environmental fields where these groups are often underrepresented. Through the program, we educate and equip young conservation leaders between the ages of 14 and 25, engage them in community volunteer projects, outdoor recreation, conservation work, and STEM learning. We get them certified as water quality monitors through our partnership with Texas Stream Team and engage them in citizen science as they work with us to conduct water quality testing at five sites. We take them on week-long camping trips to Big Bend Ranch State Park and work with park rangers to complete conservation service projects. We help them develop leadership and public speaking skills through participation in outreach opportunities. We are growing them into the next generation of environmental stewards. Join us as we explore our efforts to engage Dallas' urban youth in environmental restoration and recreational opportunities. We'll also offer ways to local Master Naturalists to get involved in the work through projects and volunteer opportunities.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Chapter Statistics: Benchmarks and Goal-Setting - TRIMARAN Carolyn Langlinais, Heartwood Chapter Delving into the statistics that shape each chapter, we will explore what benchmarks make sense, develop a list of experts to facilitate best practices, and consider goal setting in light of comparative analysis.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Long Term Water Monitoring - Volunteers vs. Professionals: A Texas Case Study - WINDJAMMER

Kelly Albus, University of North Texas Water quality monitoring data collected by citizen science volunteers, especially long- term datasets with a lot of variation, can be very valuable for environmental management. Unfortunately, many of these datasets are also underutilized due to concerns about data quality from volunteers. This “professional bias” is common in citizen science, and a growing number of studies are presenting comparisons between professionals and volunteers to address these concerns. However, very few of these comparison studies have looked at long-term datasets that span decades. This study is the first to assesses the accuracy of the data collected by a long-running volunteer program, the Texas Stream Team, by comparing it to professional data collected across the state from 1992-2017. This was a multi-scale analysis which looked at statewide results, as well as a local case study from the City of Denton, and results indicate that a volunteer and professional data over a large and geographically diverse area can still demonstrate an agreement of 80% for all parameters analyzed (DO, pH, and conductivity), with the local case study demonstrating even higher agreement between volunteers and professionals. The purpose of this talk is to present the results of this study and encourage discussion about the future of citizen science in water management.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Animals That Don't Go Bump In The Night: The Amazing World Of Bats - THE AMPHITHEATER Bryon Clark, Southeastern Oklahoma State University The overarching goal of this presentation is to promote bat advocacy by providing program participants with a greater understanding of bats and their benefits, current challenges facing bat populations, and specific actions that individuals can take to help conserve bats for future generations. Bats are found throughout the world, but because of their nocturnal habits, people often times have misconceptions regarding this unique group of mammals. This talk will detail how the presenter became interested in bats, results of past research projects, and anecdotal stories from over 40 years of studying bats. An overview of bat characteristics and what separates them from other groups of mammals will be detailed. Specific topics discussed will include the distribution, habitats, diet, movements, and diversity of bats. Even though the presentation will focus on the species found in Texas and Oklahoma, the talk also will include facts about bats across the United States and throughout the world. The presentation will also describe the methods used to study bats in the field such as mist nets, harp traps, bat detectors, radio telemetry, banding, and light tagging.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Collecting Scientific Botanical Specimens - CAPTAIN Tiana Rehman, Ashley Bordelon, Botanical Research Institute of Texas

Preserved plants specimens provide us with important information about plant diversity and distribution, and represent an observable, relatively permanent, and verifiable form of evidence of a plant’s existence in time and space. If these specimens are properly preserved and maintained, they can last for several hundred years. Join us in exploring the best practices for collecting scientific specimens, specifically for deposit in herbaria. We will discuss methods for vascular plants specifically, but will briefly address fungi, bryophytes, and lichens.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Friends Don't Let Friends Spread Invasive Species - SCHOONER A Matthew McClure, Lamar State College Orange Invasive species are non-native organisms introduced by human activity into a new area, become established, and cause environmental and/or economic harm. More than 800 aquatic and terrestrial invasive species are currently known in Texas. This presentation will focus on Texas examples, modes of introduction and spreading, various harmful effects, and what you as citizen scientists can do to help.

One Hour Session 9:00am - 10:00am Painted Bunting Research & The Mystery of the Green Birds - CATAMARAN Christine Gurley, University of North Texas (Denton) Painted Buntings (Passerina ciris) are common summer residents in appropriate habitat throughout Texas, but despite their popularity, there are still many things we do not know about their breeding ecology. A team of researchers from the University of North Texas is studying the Painted Buntings living in Lewisville. Christine Gurley, a graduate student, will discuss the team's current work, including the mystery of Painted Bunting "green males.” Attendants will learn how researchers and volunteers study songbirds in the wild, why behavioral research is important for animal conservation, and cool facts about Painted Buntings. Bring your curiosity! No special tools or clothes are needed.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Armchair Botanist: Citizen Scientists Transcribing Collections - CAPTAIN  Tiana Rehman & Jason Best, Botanical Research Institute of Texas While more than 3 million botanical specimens exist in Texas herbaria, only a small fraction of these are digitally accessible for observation or inclusion in scientific studies. Producing images of these specimens is the first step in liberating these data; the second step is engaging our citizen science community to help us extract the label information from these images. Bring your computer to join us as we transcribe the labels from historical Texas herbarium specimens and do some virtual botanizing! Skills learned

57 will enable participants to continue transcribing specimens throughout the year, from the comfort (and cool temperatures) of their homes.

Two Hour Session 10:00am - 12:00pm Chapter Communications - Websites, Online Forms, Signup Genius, Google Groups, Newsletters, and Social Media - TRIMARAN Mary Ann Melton, Good Water The Communications Director wears many hats. Getting out information to current members as well as prospective members is a challenge. Using the website for online registration makes life much easier for both the prospective trainee and the chapter. There are a number of methods for internal communication as well as getting members signed up for specific volunteer opportunities. Learn about how Google Groups, Google Drive, and Signup Genius can work for your chapter. Social media is important these days. Learn more about Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am The Natural History of Mexican Free-tailed Bats - THE AMPHITHEATER Fran Hutchins, Bat Conservation International Bats make up over 20% of all the mammals on Earth; with over 1330 species of bats occupying habitats of all descriptions, bats are the most understudied of all mammals. Expropriated by Hollywood, myths about bats abound. Bat Conservation International is a non-profit group dedicated to protecting bats and educating people about bats and their benefits. Fran Hutchins, Director of Bracken Cave Preserve, will speak to us about the biology of bats (especially the Mexican Freetail bats at Bracken Cave). He will cover the latest research on the bats of Bracken as well as busting myths about bats and dangers to their survival. The benefits of insectivorous bats to agriculture, as well as the benefits of nectar- and fruit-eating bats, make bats one of humankind’s unsung heroes.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Take the City Nature Challenge: Exploring Texas Urban Nature through Citizen Science - WINDJAMMER Sam Kieschnick & Tania Homayoun, Texas Parks & Wildlife While Texas’s diverse landscape is host to 11 major ecoregions and over 1,300 Species of Greatest Conservation need, more than 85% of our population lives in a major metropolitan area—landscapes where rapid urbanization and habitat fragmentation threaten the sustainability of natural areas and resources. This presentation will introduce the Texas Nature Trackers program and how we leverage citizen science engagement via the iNaturalist platform to support Texas Parks & Wildlife’s conservation work on Species of Greatest Conservation Need across the state, both through collection of valuable data and through engagement opportunities for Texas

58 naturalists across the spectrum of interest and ability. We will focus on the City Nature Challenge, a global, city-scale BioBlitz event hosted on iNaturalist that frames an urban biodiversity survey as a friendly competition between cities. This event provides an excellent opportunity for engaging residents and visitors in and around Texas metropolitan areas to showcase and explore their biodiversity while contributing to nature stewardship through citizen science. We will identify key outcomes from past years, ways the event can encourage local outreach and engagement, opportunities for participation, and provide a perspective on the value of the data generated to biodiversity conservation and resource management. The session is open to everyone, but those who are interested in actively assisting/leading efforts for the 2020 event are especially encouraged to attend.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Girdling that Works: A Way Volunteers Can Eradicate Woody Invasives - SCHOONER A Cliff Tyllick, Keep Walnut Creek Wild; Alison Northup, University of Texas at Austin In February 2019, we led a group of 24 volunteers in girdling 50 glossy privets five different ways. Since then, we have been periodically observing these trees to find out which techniques are effective enough to use. We will be presenting the results of this research along with other observations from our work in using girdling as a technique to eradicate invasive woody plants. This project grew out of our frustration with the poor rate of success—nearly zero—of the technique we were first taught and with our failure to find any clear explanation of a reliable technique. As we present the results of our research, you will see why some techniques almost always fail, why others succeed, and how to know which result your volunteers have achieved—before you leave the project site. Fair warning: It is likely that every tree in this study will still be alive at the time of this presentation, but we can guarantee that those treated with the effective variants of the technique will be dead by the 2020 conference.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Fossils, Buried Treasure, and Exploding Turtles - CLIPPER Patrick Kline, Heard Museum of Natural Science The Heard Museum of Natural Science operates a fossil preparation lab on the grounds of its nature preserve. This laboratory is staffed and operated solely by volunteers the majority of which are Master Naturalists. The unique skill set demonstrated by these Naturalists are also the same talents needed for fossil preparation. This is illustrated during the preparation and display of a 34 million year old turtle. Along this journey there was innovation and creativity contributed by all, including the pioneering effort to utilize ultraviolet light during fossil preparation. A lot goes into the effort to take a specimen from the earth to the museum floor, not unlike a treasure hunt.

One Hour Session 10:00am - 11:00am Chirp Chirp. Who's there? Making sense of the sounds birds make - CATAMARAN Jean Suplick, Blackland Prairie Chapter It’s a beautiful Spring morning, the air is fresh, the flora is blooming and fragrant, insects are buzzing, hopping and crawling, and birds are making all kinds of noise. But how do you make sense of that birdie jumble of croaks, whistles, chips, warbles and trills? In this session we’ll explore the vocalizations made by different groups of birds, and when and why they make them. We’ll also learn a framework for understanding and describing what we hear. With these tools and a little backyard practice, you’ll be able to identify by ear some of the common residents in your neighborhood, no matter what part of Texas you live in.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm The Air Potato Patrol – Teaching IPM through Citizen Science - SCHOONER A William Lester, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Hernando County The Air Potato Patrol is a successful multi state Citizen Science program begun in 2017. Participants will learn what Citizen Science is and how it can be used to help researchers monitor invasive organisms and find new control methods. Air Potato is a widespread invasive plant that grows throughout Florida and in parts of all Gulf Coast States. The program's website, located at https://airpotatobeetle.com/ includes ten educational tutorials on topics such as how to properly identify the air potato vine, some common look-alike plants, and the biology and identification of the air potato leaf beetle. Participants can sign up to become citizen scientists and submit data about the vines growing on their property. A hands on session will teach participants how to identify this plant and how to tell it apart from other vining plants. The biocontrol air potato beetle will be described and shown, and information will be shared on how to request this introduced biological control for release.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm How iNaturalist Guides Policy - WINDJAMMER Sam Kieschnick, Texas Parks & Wildlife What good are a bunch of dots on a map? How does an observation of a cardinal make any difference? In this presentation, you'll learn how each and every iNaturalist observation made on public land influences land management and guides public policy. City councils and park boards recognize a constituency of people that care about nature enough to document it! Hear some success stories from the Dallas/Fort Worth region and learn ways that you too can make an impact with citizen science.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Let Us Consider the Crayfish: Biology, Ecology, and Management for an Underappreciated yet Powerful - SCHOONER B William Budnick, University of Texas at Arlington Astacology is the science that concerns itself with the crayfishes, which are a group of freshwater decapods found in many streams, lakes, and ponds. Although most people have personal experience with these animals while flipping river stones in their youth, or feasting upon several pounds of boiled specimens during adulthood, basic research into this mighty group is ongoing and accelerating. Originally seen as a staple food item of nearly every food web, terrestrial and aquatic, crayfish also perform important aquatic ecosystem functions through physical manipulation of the environment (such as burrowing) and nutrient cycling. Thus, the crayfish group has earned its place as a major organismal group of interest for aquatic conservation because their presence and abundance can strongly affect the health of local ecosystems, particularly those of conservation concern. In this presentation, we will explore the global, national, and statewide diversity of the crayfishes, including how to find and identify these animals. We will then explore their biology and ecological relationships and gain an appreciation for what they do and how they do it. Finally, we will talk about their conservation implications and how crayfish can enhance, or diminish, the efficacy of aquatic conservation projects. The goal of this presentation is to walk away with greater respect and enthusiasm for a small animal that wields great influence in setting the trajectories of aquatic ecosystems.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm North Sulphur River Fossils - CLIPPER Mick Tune, Dallas Paleontology Society The basics and big picture of fossil hunting at the North Sulphur River. This session will include what amateurs should know, the basic geology of the NSR, and what common fossils have been found. We’ll also cover a late Cretaceous snapshot of the Western Interior Seaway covering most of North Texas, discuss fossil hunting in the NSR and ther fauna and interest at the NSR. Lastly, and yet most importantly, we’ll discuss safety issues at the NSR (how to take care of yourself out there)!

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Quail Thermal Ecology: How Hot Is Too Hot? - CATAMARAN Amanda Gobeli, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Quail in Texas find themselves in an environment characterized by extremes: intense heat, freezing cold, and lack of water, to name a few. How do our native quail species deal with these survival challenges? We’ll take a look at the role that temperature plays throughout a quail’s life history, from an immobile egg to an adult bird whose life is defined by thermal brinkmanship. We’ll also explore the physiological and behavioral

61 adaptations which help quail survive, as well as the connection between thermal stress and habitat.

One Hour Session 11:00am - 12:00pm Enhancing Night-time Hikes with technology - THE AMPHITHEATER Jerrel Geisler, Gulf Coast Chapter This presentation will discuss ways of enhancing night-time hikes with visitors by using technology. Namely utilizing ultraviolet light and electronic bat monitors. Regarding ultraviolet light, we will discuss what animals utilize UV light or the UV light spectrum to locate food, avoid predation and assist in pollination. We will also discuss and highlight some organisms that fluoresce when exposed to UV light. This can be used for wildlife detection. We will also discuss how electronic monitoring can be utilized to locate bats that exist in the area being surveyed. We will discuss conducting bat talks/chats.

Field Session - Post Event 1:00pm - 5:00pm Twelve Hills Nature Center: Where Children Learn About Nature Marcie Haley, Twelve Hills Nature Center Born from the ashes of crime-ridden apartments, the 5 acres of Twelve Hills Nature Center now provides outdoor classroom activities and vital green space for fast- developing north Oak Cliff. Hear about the center’s partnership with Rosemont Primary from director Marcie Haley. Meet Matilda, a converted school bus that houses outdoor learning for preschoolers. Then enjoy an amble around a recreated Blackland Prairie and experience first hand what Twelve Hills learned from restoration efforts.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm Finding Fossils at Ash Grove Quarry  Francisco Pinto, Ash Grove Cement Company; Elaine Ruby, Indian Trails Master Naturalist Fossil hunting in quarry cast-offs from cement production. Austin Chalk-Eagle Ford Shale contains marine vertebrate (Cretodus, Ptychodus, Squalicorax), shark teeth, and ooccasional mosasaur, turtle and fish material.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm Mockingbird Park: A Hidden Gem Pam Mundo, Charlie Grindstaff, and Eileen Berger, Indian Trail Chapter A 62-acre nature park brought to life by Indian Trails Master Naturalists. Stretch your legs on the way home and enjoy a saunter in Midlothian’s Mockingbird Park. Gentle trails explore the park, going past Girl Scout-installed bluebird houses to circle a large

62 pond. Sit a spell in a Boy Scout-built bird blind or on a Master Naturalist-built bench. Take a boardwalk into a small wooded riparian area. Enjoy demonstration gardens for native grasses and flowers, plus a butterfly garden.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm Pastures to Prairies: Healing the Land John Wilt, North Texas Chapter John Wilt “retired” after 30 years as a pilot for American Airlines and soon became an indefatigable volunteer for North Texas Master Naturalists. Whenever he actually retires, he’ll have a place to retire to: his rehabilitated 108-acre preserve south of Dallas. With skills learned from his naturalist volunteering, Wilt has introduced little bluestem and indiangrass along with plentiful milkweed in a pasture-to-prairie process, while also improving the health of a riparian corridor. A 2019 grant from Texas Parks & Wildlife is taking the rehabilitation to an even higher level. Forbs include unusual species such as spring coralroot orchid and fall spiranthes orchids. Surveys indicate birds are thriving as never before with a confirmed 44 species including pileated woodpecker and grasshopper sparrow. Learn of the passion it takes to heal the land, as well as build a barn-abode with solar panels from scratch.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm Kachina Prairie: A Cooperative Venture that Birthed a Wildflower Festival  Jim Patak, Indian Trail Chapter People were always impressed with the wildflowers in a 30-acre patch on the shore of Lake Clark in Ennis. Then it was discovered to be a rare Blackland Prairie remnant. The original attraction of the Bluebonnet Trails self-driving spring tours, now Ellis County boasts a major county bluebonnet festival. Amble the quarter-mile mowed path through the prairie and enjoy birdwatching. The prairie is under the stewardship of Texas Land Conservancy, in partnership with Indian Trails chapter and Ennis Garden Club.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm History & Beauty: The Little Church on the Frankford Prairie  Gary Barton, North Texas Chapter; Kathy Wells Power, Frankford Prairie Preservation Foundation Kathy Wells Power loved the circa 1897 Old Frankford Church where some of her relatives were interred in its cemetery. When the land ended up in her hands and she sought to improve the grounds, landscape architect Rosa Finsley noticed the presence of a few native plants. Once mowing was halted in one area, they rebounded with vigor. Now thanks to the efforts of native plant experts, the Frankford Prairie Preservation Foundation, and Texas Master Naturalists new monthly workdays, 2.5 acres of Blackland Prairie now flourish around the picturesque church. Though small the prairie boasts exceptional biodiversity. The historic Indian Springs at Hall’s Branch, a feeder of

White Rock Creek, still percolates near the ford where pioneer wagons once crossed. Experience the beauty and history of North Texas as it once was.

Field Session - Post Event 2:00pm - 4:00pm Biodiversity Education Center at Coppell Nature Park  Judy Parsons, North Texas Chapter The children of Coppell wanted a nature center to deepen their experiences at the 66- acre Coppell Nature Park. City funds were not sufficient. So they lobbied the city, got approval, and raised money to build the Biodiversity Education Center adjacent to the park. Explore the outstanding facility boasting 96 solar panels and a 9,400-gallon rainwater cistern. Learn about the family festivals, eco-education and gardening classes, guided nature walks, and more that keep people flowing through their doors. A popular choice for field trips for schools from multiple counties and summer camps for kids, it now offers Junior Master Naturalist program to 4th through 6th graders. Afterward, enjoy a short hike at Coppell Nature Park and explore three ecosystems: Eastern Cross Timbers, Blackland prairie, and the riparian wonders of Cottonwood Creek that forms the park’s core.