Conservation

Now is the time to sow wildflower seeds in Texas, as the season runs from September to mid-November. Wildflowers need winter weather to germinate for spring blooms. I advocate for native plants and prairie restoration, and sow seeds to support wildlife, with resources available from Native American Seed and Wildseed Farms.

Rattlesnakes, viewed with both fear and fascination, have cultural significance but face misunderstanding and persecution. Their rattles serve as warnings, yet myths persist about their abilities and behaviors. Despite misconceptions, rattlesnakes are mostly non-aggressive and vital to ecosystems, necessitating cautious coexistence and conservation.

The Native Plant Society of Texas annually honors entities advancing its mission. This year’s awardees include Amy Martin, Cecil Carter, Kim Conrow, Betsy Farris, Kyle Cowart, Barney Lipscomb, and Lingleville ISD PTO. These individuals are recognized for contributions to conservation, research, and education in Texas native plants.

Visit the Westbrook House in Fairview during the National Solar Tour on Oct. 5, to explore its pioneering energy efficiency and eco-friendly features, built by Paul Westbrook. The house uses passive solar design, geothermal systems, and rainwater collection, showcasing sustainable living and hosting public tours to inspire similar initiatives.

Every spring, hummingbirds migrate to Texas and stay during summer. Ornithologist Cliff Shackelford explains Texas hosts around 20 species, with the ruby-throated hummingbird being most common. Attract hummingbirds by planting native flowers and avoiding chemicals. Supplement with sugar water feeders sans red dye. Overall, most hummingbirds are stable despite general bird declines.

The proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir in Northeast Texas, sought to address DFW's water demand, threatens to displace residents, farms, and ecosystems, sparking opposition and highlighting alternative water solutions. Critics cite economic, environmental, and historical impacts, urging conservation efforts and education on water usage and supply.

Fireflies are disappearing in Texas, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and urban sprawl. Biologist Ben Pfeiffer founded Firefly Conservation and Research to preserve fireflies. He advocates for habitat restoration, reducing light pollution, and educating the public through watch parties and habitat certifications to help their conservation.

The Little L Ranch, a 624-acre property along the Brazos River, is preserved through a conservation easement. This legal agreement maintains the land's ecological integrity by limiting development while providing tax advantages to the owners. The easement allows the Walkers to protect native habitats and share the land for research and conservation purposes.

North Texas prairies, integral to the region, benefit from controlled fires to rejuvenate ecosystems and prevent wildfires. A workshop on Jan. 10-11 in Fort Worth aims to educate land managers on prescribed fire techniques, featuring expert speakers.