oin us on October 14th at 7 PM. Prairies are becoming a rarity in our state. Only 1% remains of the vast blanket of tallgrass prairie that once swept across North and Central Texas. These remnant grasslands provide essential services and benefits to us–the local human residents–and native wildlife.
General
BPTMN Grant Program Update September 2025
The Blackland Prairie Texas Master Naturalists (BPTMN) are dedicated to various conservation efforts. Their “Eco Explorers” program educates Girl Scouts, while their “Texas Bat Acoustics” project monitors bat populations. They assist the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center with equipment and invasive species removal. Habitat restoration projects at Collin College and Prosper United Methodist Church show successful native plant growth. The Green Gardens of McKinney project is creating a learning garden, and community outreach efforts are bolstered by grant funds.
Finding Happiness Through Sharing Nature
John W. Garbutt – Class of 2019- Over time, I learned to find happiness alone through nature. A majority of the learning has been from behind the camera’s viewfinder, the eye piece on my binoculars; and through contributing to the chapter’s monthly newsletter, Shaking the Trees.
In Every Tree, a Trillion Tiny Lives article shared by Fran Woodfin
Thought you might be interested in this, in case you haven’t seen it. Fran Link to New York Times article – In Every Tree, a Trillion Tiny Lives By… Read More →
Blackland Prairie Chapter Book Club Details – Fall of 2025
Blackland Prairie Chapter Book Club Details – Fall meetings are scheduled for Wednesday, October 15 and Wednesday, December 17, from 6-7 p.m. Attendees should arrive a few minutes early and bring their own drinks, as no food or virtual attendance option will be provided.
August Deep Dive – Plant Lists now available!
Thanks to everyone who joined our recent program on native plants in home landscapes. Your enthusiasm for sustainable gardening and commitment to supporting local ecosystems is inspiring! We explored how native plants not only thrive in Texas conditions but also attract pollinators, conserve water, and reduce maintenance.
Apply to the 2026 Training Program
Nancy Casillas, New Class Director The application window for the 2026 Training Program will open on October 1, 2025. Until then, here are steps you can take: Remember that while… Read More →
BPTMN Newsletter – August 13, 2025
Hello Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists Welcome to your monthly update from the Blackland Prairie Master Naturalists! Did you miss last night’s chapter business slides or Rick’s TREE-mendous… Read More →
2025 September Chapter Meeting with Lauren Plunk | Lavon Watershed Plan
Join us on September 9th at 7 PM, the next chapter meeting will focus on the watershed approach and its importance for the Lavon Lake watershed. The meeting will highlight how watersheds are defined by natural landscapes rather than political boundaries, making coordinated management across jurisdictions essential. The Lavon Lake watershed is a prime example, covering over 768 square miles across four counties (Collin, Grayson, Fannin, and Hunt) and fed by five major creeks, including the East Fork of the Trinity River. This session will provide key insights into protecting this vital regional water source.
Our Tribe’s Fortune 250 Hours – Sue Kacines, Class of 2021
The learning field trips were the best part – I especially enjoyed experiencing and learning about a couple of the rare remnant prairies that we have in the area – Parkhill Prairie and Clymer Meadow were two of my favorites.