Lost Pines Chapter
Welcome to the Lost Pines Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist Program! You can learn more about our chapter and the Master Naturalist volunteer program here. Master Naturalist volunteers help manage our local natural resources. If you are interested in joining us, or have questions about our activities, please contact us.
The Lost Pines chapter serves primarily Bastrop and Caldwell counties of Central Texas (click here to find a statewide list of chapters). These counties are predominantly in the Post Oak Savannah and Blackland Prairie Ecoregions. In addition, our area includes the unique “island forest” of the Lost Pines, the westernmost extent of the loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), separated by about 100 miles from the pine forests of East Texas. Species in the Lost Pines are particularly adapted to the drier conditions here, and provide unique habitat for varied flora and fauna that can be seen in Bastrop and Buescher state parks and other nearby natural areas. You can learn more about what makes these parks so special and see pictures of them by visiting our “State Parks & Natural Areas” page; you can also find many links to information about the native plants, animals and ecology of the Lost Pines region on our resources page.
Backroads Nature–Lost Maples State Natural Area
Cooler days and nights, swirling red and gold leaves, pumpkins, scarecrows and corn mazes are signs that autumn is here. But you don’t have to trek to New England to enjoy a breathtaking palette of fall colors. Right here in Texas—nestled along the Sabinal River about three hours southwest of Bastrop—is the state’s largest stand of Canadian bigtooth maple trees east of the Guadalupe Mountains. It is, of course, Lost Maples State Natural Area, a beloved weekend trip for many Texans and a popular tourist destination for interstate… Read More →
Registration for 2019 Training Class is Open!
Registration for our next Basic Training course, beginning January 2019, is now open. We will accept applications until December 15. Enrollment is limited to 25 students, so please register early to ensure a spot in our class. More information and application forms are available on our Basic Training page!
Time for Member of the Year Nominations
It’s that time of year again! We have a lot of members who put their heart and soul into our chapter and the community. Who has made the biggest impact this year? Which members have gone above and beyond in their service? Please nominate a member to be recognized by filling out this simple form: LPMN Member of the Year Nomination Form The winner will be announced at our Holiday Party on December 10, 2019!
What’s In a Name?
There are historical figures whose names live on beyond their times. Burleson, Caldwell, McCulloch are but a few who left their mark on our local area. But there is another name, somewhat less known, that helped to forge our early history. There is a Texas State Historical Marker at 115 east Main in Nacogdoches which provides a brief synopsis. It reads: (1801 – 1873) Creator of the Texas Navy, builder of the first wharf at Galveston. Financial advisor of the Republic of Texas. Senior member of the firm… Read More →
The Allentown Stinker
A name conveys so much more than mere description. For example, there’s a certain cachet to the label “exotic.” Generally, this gets at the idea of exclusivity or “coolness.” The prestige quickly evaporates, however, when one follows up with “alien.” This combination leaves a decidedly sour taste. Everyone has to be from somewhere, so it’s a little unkind, but to be known as an alien is to be known as not from here, to be incongruous—to not be welcome. Everyone wants to be loved but aliens are universally… Read More →
