Trans-Pecos Chapter Texas Master Naturalist

08/25/2026

In honor of the famous raccoon Jimothy, we are sharing an excellent article about how raccoons adapted to thrive in our urban environments. Enjoy!

“Trash pandas” are infamous for living among us, but why are they so good at it?

07/19/2026

Trans Pecos chapter master naturalists Laura, Kitty and Tony (the photographer) led/conducted guided hikes during the El Paso Museum of Archaeology's Insect Night event.

07/19/2026

Last night, several of our chapter members staffed an outreach table at Insect Night at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology. We set up our Chihuahuan Desert animal pelts and Pat brought her insect critters to educate folks that dared to stop by and even hold some of them. 😄 Other members led guided hikes or served as information ambassadors for the museum. All had a fantastic evening during a gorgeous and refreshing Chihuahuan Desert evening.

07/11/2026

Now is the time for concerned citizens of El Paso to participate in the planning process of future development at Ascarate Park and the duck pond! Please plan to attend one of the many sessions being offered.
"Officials said the information sessions will provide residents with an opportunity to learn about proposed improvements to Ascarate Park, review environmental findings related to the duck pond, ask questions of County staff and project consultants, and share feedback that will help guide future planning and decision-making." (Source: KTSM.com: County invites community to Ascarate Park information sessions
by: Eliya Alvidrez, Posted: Jul 7, 2026 / 01:06 PM MDT, Updated: Jul 8, 2026 / 08:08 AM MD)

07/08/2026

Sierra Club's "Sierra Magazine" published this very informative and possibly life saving article about staying safe in the summer heat. With our temperatures reaching into the 100 degree mark, we hope that sharing this article can help you all stay safe if you venture out in the daytime heat. If possible, play it safe and stay inside in a temperature controlled place. Also, keep an eye on your loved ones or other individuals who are at high risk of succumbing to the extreme heat. Remember to watch out for your pet's safety too!
(Source: Sierra Magazine, by Osha Gray Davidson, June 21, 2023)

Climate change is leading to hotter temperatures. Here’s how to protect yourself

07/07/2026

Want to learn about rainwater harvesting? Make sure to mark your calendar for the listed GROWS workshop.

Don't let our desert monsoons go to waste! 🌧️🌵
Rainwater harvesting is a powerful tool to help you manage your landscape water needs during the hot summer months. Join the GROWS team for a FREE Community Workshop and learn how to capture precious rainfall to create a thriving yard.
What you will learn:
💧 How to integrate passive rainwater harvesting directly into your landscape designs.
🌱 Tips on using berms and swales to collect rainwater, keeping your plants healthy and happy all summer long.
🏡 How to decide whether an active or passive rainwater harvesting system is the best fit for your home.
Featured Speaker:
We are thrilled to host Mike Gaglio, a UTEP-trained biologist, Watershed Management Group Certified Water Harvesting Design Practitioner, and the founder of High Desert Native Plants. Mike brings hands-on expertise from building wetlands along the Rio Grande and installing numerous local rainwater harvesting systems.
Event Details
🗓 Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
⏰ Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
📍 Location: El Paso Water TecH2O Learning Center
🏢 Address: 10751 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79935
💵 Cost: FREE!

07/07/2026

Very useful information to utilize when considering your outdoor lighting.

Looking for an easy way to start conversations about better outdoor lighting?

The DarkSky Home Outdoor Lighting Assessment helps homeowners identify simple changes that can reduce light pollution and save energy.

Share it with your neighbors, friends, and community members—and help make every light protect the night.

Small changes. Brighter stars. https://bit.ly/4itASgt