Pollinator Garden Open House

 

On Thursday, June 20th, members of the Williamson County Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT), the Good Water Chapter Master Naturalists and Waste Management hosted an open house for the new pollinator garden at the Williamson County Landfill. Marilyn Perz from the Native Plant Society of Texas was pleased with the turnout because there was a nice mix of members from both the Master Naturalists and NPSOT as well as public visitors interested in both the demonstration garden and receiving advice on planting drought tolerant plants. In addition, it was a good opportunity to meet Fred Hall, the new Williamson County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent. Precinct 4 County Commissioner, Ron Morrison was also there to view the garden. Both Fred Hall and Commissioner Morrison agree that water conservation is a key issue.

“Waste Management appreciates its partnership with the Native Plant Society of Texas and the Master Naturalists. Together, we have designed and built this pollinator garden at the Williamson County Landfill entrance to support the native habitat,” says James Smith, Waste Management landfill manager. “The pollinator garden is a great example of environmental stewardship and we look forward to sharing it with the community.”

The Pollinator Garden has grown well since the planting began in November. The lantana on the mound was in full bloom. The young coral honeysuckle plants are beginning to climb the metal trellis. A few wildflowers were still blooming and younger plants are preparing for fall color. Several species of butterflies have found the garden. Sulfur, Buckeye, and white butterflies as well as spotted swallowtails were seen. The young trees at the top of the mound have already begun hosting bird nests for Scissor-tailed Flycatchers and Northern mockingbirds. As these native plants mature and new plants are added, this area will become more beautiful each year.

There is much hope that this collaboration between Waste Management, Master Naturalists, the Native Plant Society of Texas, and Williamson County will continue to produce continuing improvement in our ecology and the demonstration of good gardening practices in caring for our unique Texas environment.