PCNA Featured in the TPL October Newsletter

Purgatory Creek Natural Area (PCNA) was the subject of an article in The Trust for Public Land's October newsletter. Check out this article to learn how the TPL is helping to expand the PCNA.

What's missing in the photo?

SMGA photo by Dick McBride

  Missing in the group photo is the stand of prickly pear cactus that used to cover the ground they are standing on.  Actually two stands were removed and placed on the concrete slab to prevent re-growth and rooting of the persistant native plant.  The photo was taken at Ringtail Ridge October 11, 2013 which is the site of restoration projects by Hays County Master Naturalists.  Wildflower seeds were planted in the bare ground.
  The native cactus grows in abundance at the former Hughson Meat Packing property.  The two-and-half miles of trails offer both ADA (wheel chair accessible) and natural single-track opportunities for mountain biking, trail running and hiking.  The 45 acre natural area has five different trails. Spring and Fall are especially good for bird watching and nature photography as many different wildflowers and native grasses burst on to the scene.
  Pictured are (l. to r.) Kevin Kutras, Lance Jones, Mimi Boettler, Jean McMeans, Leah Laszewski and Donna Browing.  Not shown Ronnie Borden.
--LJ

Birding walk October 5, 2013

Guest leader -- Jonny Scalise

Spring Lake dock April 2013

October's bird walk is here and for the first time I am having a guest leader fill my shoes.  Jonny Scalise is a good friend of mine and is a very knowledgeable biologist.  He will be guiding you down the San Marcos River starting at City Park at 7:45 a.m. in hopes of catching a range of migrating birds.  Do not forget to look high in the sky this weekend because you do not want to miss migrating hawks, pelicans, cormorants, and more. Please be courteous to Jonny and I wish you all good luck and happy birding.
Thanks,
Stephen Ramirez