Gardening

The 77 Ranch has grown over the past 37 years as it acquired neighboring lands. Restoring native grasses has been central to the ranch's conservation efforts; it currently hosts over 200 species of forbs and grasses in its pastures. In addition to the reintroduction of native species, Ranch 77 recently began a system of rotational grazing to prevent over-exploitation of the grasses. Heavy equipment and herbicides are used sparingly to ensure sustainable and healthy forage.

Come out Saturday, Sunday or both days

- We need to complete 8 plant transect surveys required for maintenance planning.

- Training will be provided!  

- This plant survey technique is the same one used for NPAT's Prairie Mapping.

- Help us count and ID species - plants, bees, butterflies and all forms of  rairie life

- Of course, our usual volunteer prairie maintenance will be underway, if you prefer to help with that!

Landscape designer and author Bonnie Reese of Beautiful Landscapes will be the speaker at both sessions. First-time seminar attendees at each session will receive a copy of Ms. Reese’s book, “Common- Sense Landscaping” (limit one per household). Attendees can also enter a drawing for free bags of GreenSense organic fertilizer from Rohde’s Nursery and Nature Store. There will be 3 drawings per session. 

Learn the basics and benefits of rainwater harvesting and the effects stormwater has on the environment. Participants will learn how to collect and utilize rainwater at home and have the opportunity to construct their own 55-gallon rain barrel.

Cost: $50 per barrel

Please complete the form to RSVP for this course: http://dallas.tamu.edu/courses/2016/october-18-2016-saving-from-a-rainy-day-making-a-rain-barrel/

Fall is an ideal time to garden in our region - not only is the weather great, but we can grow nice veggies through the season and into winter and most plants benefit from being planted now. In this class we will discuss why fall planting is healthy for perennials, shrubs, trees and most herbs. We will also talk about our planting techniques and soil preparation that we use to give plants the best start.

This month we will be removing woody plants from Rosser's Meadow, working on our butterfly and wildflower beds, and our host plant bed.

Please bring your pruning or gardening tools, work gloves, or litter picker upper. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather and for working in a natural area  (long pants, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, hat).

Water and snacks will be provided. O.S. Gray Natural Area has no restroom facilities, but Kroger is near by.

Ann Knudsen - Organic Native Plant Designer. Info: Bob Ressl at rressel@sbcglobal.net

New generations of monarch butterflies are embarking on a remarkable adventure to the mountain tops of Mexico during the month of October. Join us as we speak about their incredible migration as they head for their overwintering sites in the Oyamel forest of Michoacán. We’ll discuss various ways we can facilitate these amazing Lepidopteron travelers in the spring in our own backyard. Free with paid admission.

 The recognized Queen of Composting in Dallas Melanie O'Neill will lead a lively discussion of how simple it is to start composting. She will discuss the major elements, benefits of composting and talk about various types of compost bins including her favorite the C.E. Shepherd Bin, which we will have in stock on class day. RSVP: info@trinityhaymarket.com or 214-202-2163. 

Beneficiary for the 2nd year in a row will be F.A.R.M. (Farmers Assisting Returning Military). Passport maps can be purchased for of $10 on day of tour at Trinity Haymarket.

Info: info@trinityhaymarket.com or 214-202-2163