San Antonio Native Plant Events

Our event’s purposes include understanding the science behind climate change, the global effects of climate change, and the long-term impacts of this phenomenon on specific Texas ecosystems. The audience will be encouraged to ask questions and provide their observations relevant to the topic.

Our presenter, Gary Poole, is a former middle school math and science teacher, engineer, and electronics technician. He is as well a former Texas caver, beekeeper, and is currently a Master Naturalist with Alamo Area Master Naturalists, in which organization he has served in several different capacities including as President.

Please arrive at the UEC Gathering Hall by 8:45 am SHARP to register so we can start right at 9:00 am.

Minors only when accompanied by an adult parent/guardian. Dogs not appropriate because of the indoor presentation. DIFFICULTY: Easy, definitely suitable for families. Suggested $3 individual or $5 family donations to the PHP Conservancy to support enhancements to the park.

This event's general sponsors are the Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy, the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department's Natural Area Office, the Alamo Area Master Naturalists, The Native Plant Society of Texas- SA chapter, and the Alamo Group of the Sierra Club.

Contact Stan Drezek (stanwendre@gmail.com) for additional information or questions.

SPECIAL NOTE: Our presenter has so much to share we are "allowing" 2.5 hours for the full walk, but participants are free to leave earlier.

The event's purpose is to learn about the many special understory and canopy trees in our area. This walk will be led by Michael Nentwich, president and founder of Bexar Branches Alliance. Michael has nearly 20 years of experience in community forestry management and program development. He was San Antonio’s first City Forester and later served as City Forester and Bureau Manager of Parks and Urban Forestry with the City of Norfolk.

He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science and a Master's Degree in Forestry from Stephen F. Austin University. He has extensive knowledge and a deep and abiding interest in trees as well as being a great communicator. You will be introduced to the common tree species found in the park, and probably will get to see and learn about Eve's Necklace, Texas Kidneywood, and Little-leaf Mulbery among many other fascinating species.

Please arrive about 7:45 am SHARP so we can register everyone and be ready for an 8:00 am start. You will walk an about 1.5 mile route starting and ending at the Urban Ecology Center. There will be brief explanations at the start and along the way with ample time for participant questions.

Minors only when accompanied by an adult parent/guardian. Dogs allowed if leashed and socialized. DIFFICULTY: Easy, definitely suitable for families. Flat terrain, slow-paced.

The trail is a natural surface so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and, dependent on the weather, bring water, sun protection, and dress appropriately for the day and season. Suggested $3 individual or $5 family donations to the PHP Conservancy to support enhancements to the park.

This event's general sponsors are the Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy, the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department's Natural Areas Office, the Alamo Area Master Naturalists, and the Alamo Group of the Sierra Club. The SA Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas is a special sponsor.

Contact Stan Drezek (stanwendre@gmail.com) for additional information.or questions.