Most of the volunteer service that is performed by our members is in partnership with other organizations. There are several partners that AAMN has a special relationship with where AAMN has full ownership of a particular undertaking; these are “our own” chapter projects that are funded and solely supported by our chapter volunteers to promote the mission of the Texas Master Naturalist. They are:
- The Native Plant Wildscape Demonstration Garden at Phil Hardberger Park West
- The Bird Water Feature at Phil Hardberger Park East
- The Butterfly Learning Center at Phil Hardberger Park East
- The Chaparral Demonstration Garden at Medina River Natural Area
- The City Nature Challenge
We welcome you to visit, bring a friend and enjoy what nature has to offer. If you are interested in volunteering at any of these locations then check our calendar for times, contacts, and more information.
WILDSCAPE DEMONSTRATION GARDEN
The Alamo Area Master Naturalist Wildscape Demonstration Garden sits on the west side of Phil Hardberger Park off Military Drive just south of Wurzbach Parkway. It is approximately ¼ acre that was developed primarily with Texas native plants for the purpose of inspiring, educating and demonstrating the rich and colorful options of plants that are available to homeowners when creating, xeriscaping, or updating their landscape space. The plants selected for this garden provide pollination plants and other food sources as well as protection and nesting areas for wildlife and birds. You can learn more about this project here.
Download the Demonstration Garden Map and Plant Identification resources below:
- Demonstration Garden Map with perennial plant identifications
- Common birds and insects found at Phil Hardberger Park
- Annual plants found in the Demonstration Garden
PHIL HARDBERGER PARK WATER FEATURE
The Bird Water Feature in Phil Hardberger Park provides a dependable year-round source of water for birds and other animals in the park. You can visit the Bird Water Feature at Phil Hardberger Park East, Blanco Road entrance or learn more about this project here.
THE BUTTERFLY LEARNING CENTER
Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist and is operated by AAMN volunteers. The garden was designed to preserve native habitat, conserve native pollinators, and provide a hands-on learning experience for all. Learn more about the project here.
CHAPARRAL DEMONSTRATION GARDEN
Medina River Natural Area (MRNA) is a 511-acre dynamic environment with native plants and animals where people can experience nature. It’s located along the Medina River in South San Antonio. It offers transitional plant communities, including riparian, ecotone and chaparral. The biodiversity of MRNA exceeds that of other natural areas in the City of San Antonio. It’s the only city natural area in San Antonio’s south side and the only permanently flowing river system in the San Antonio Natural. Learn More.
CITY NATURE CHALLENGE
City Nature Challenge is an annual, global event using iNaturalist that encourages people in cities around the world to observe and document the biodiversity present in their urban environments. The CNC takes place every fourth weekend of April, starting from Friday through Monday. Cities compete with each other in a friendly competition to see which location can document the most species in their local area. The City Nature Challenge promotes citizen science, environmental education, and awareness of urban biodiversity, fostering a greater connection to the natural world. City Nature Challenge is among the several approved Citizen Science Projects. Learn more.