🦋 🐝Spring is Stirring – Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists,🌷 🌱
The Blackland Prairie is waking up, and March is bringing a renewed sense of wonder to our members. As the days stretch longer, we’re trading winter freezes for the busy hum of early pollinators. Whether you’re witnessing a golden sunrise over the tallgrass or helping a weary bumblebee find its footing, there is magic in every corner of our local ecosystem when we take a moment to look.
Our community continues to grow and protect the landscapes we love. From the regenerative power of prescribed burns in Frisco to the collaborative hands-on restoration at Monarch View Park, the Class of 2025 and our seasoned veterans alike are proving that conservation is a team sport!
Ready to dive into this month’s stories? Grab a cup of tea and explore the latest from your fellow naturalists:
March Highlights & Stories
The Texas Bluebonnet: We’re revisiting this fan-favorite guide just in time for bloom season. Learn the “tough love” these seeds need and the strange connection between cantaloupe and pest control by Gary Howerton.
The Humble Bee of Harriet, Texas: Follow Arica Shields (Class of ’22) on her journey as part of the “royal guard” for a lethargic Sonora Bumblebee. It’s a heartwarming tale of sugar water, greenhouse stays, and connection.
Fire is Sometimes the Best Medicine: Discover why the Frisco Fire Department recently set the prairie ablaze. Dan Kinkade (Class of 2015) explains how controlled burns are the secret weapon for thriving wildflowers.
Monarch View Park Update: Laura Kuwayama (Class of 2020) shares the incredible transformation powered by HEB grants and the City of Frisco. Mark your calendars for Phase 4 on April 18th!
A Naturalist’s Reflection: Enjoy two beautiful pieces by John W. Garbutt (Class of 2019)—a cozy “Letter to a Friend” featuring an American Kestrel and a tribute to the quiet glory of “The Sunrise.”
You can access our latest newsletter from our Chapter’s Home Page at bptmn.org, click on the “Blackland Prairie Newsletter” image, OR by direct link – https://txmn.org/bptmn/newsletters/
Do you have newsletter feedback or want to help? Send us an email – [email protected]
This newsletter will provide:
- Next Month’s Chapter Meeting
- Shaking the Trees Member Submissions – Shaking the Trees Newsletter
- Past Meetings Recordings
- Past Deep Dives Recordings
- Upcoming Advanced Training & Volunteer Hours Opportunities – Member VHAT Calendar.
- TMN State Program Updates
- Chapter Advisor
- Chapter Partners
If chapter members need to share information in the monthly newsletter that drops the week of the chapter meeting, or want to provide feedback. Please send your emails to [email protected].
Michelle Connally
Communications Director
Blackland Prairie Chapter