By Danielle LoPresti, Big Chapter Project Chair

Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow, nor EF3 tornado will keep Master Naturalists from volunteering their services!

In the wake of a devasting tornado that hit our fair city, leaving massive destruction, 32 Master Naturalists still found the time to come out to the Benny J. Simpson EcoPark at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to spend a few hours working hard on maintaining this precious resource. We removed invasive species, planted natives, mulched trails, created a drainage area, and even re-located a couple of toads!

The day started with a brief introduction by Daniel Cunningham about the EcoPark and the work Benny J. Simpson had previously done over the years, followed by us breaking out into three teams. After some hard work (and a bit of fun), we then headed back indoors for a full presentation by Daniel on the research the Extension Center is currently doing, programs being offered at the new Water University, and waterwise conservation. Lots of questions were had, and I’m sure we all left with a few ideas on how to better use our water resources.

Many thanks to all who came out and braved the chilly morning, and a special thanks to the AgriLife team – Daniel Cunningham, Clint Wolfe and our very own Meghan Peoples, who so thoughtfully planned out our day!

Please go here for more pictures of the Big Chapter Project.