On Tuesday, March 30th, the Fredericksburg chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas will host Steve Nelle who is the Regional Wildlife Biologist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in San Angelo. He will be speaking about “Riparian Plants – the Key to Healthy Creeks and Rivers”.

Mr. Nelle’s primary responsibility is helping landowners understand their important role as stewards of natural resources and how to integrate sustainable management into their ranching and wildlife operations. His presentation will describe the role of vegetation in maintaining or restoring a functional riparian area. When riparian areas function properly, banks are protected from excess erosion, the energy of floodwater is reduced, sediment is trapped in the floodplain, groundwater is recharged, and water is stored in the banks to help sustain base flow. A system of healthy riparian areas can help solve Texas water problems by improving water quality and providing more stable flows. Participant will learn to identify the most important riparian plants of central Texas.

Meetings will start at 7pm and are located at the Gillespie County Historical Society Social Hall at 312 W. San Antonio St. in Fredericksburg. Meetings are open to the public, and visitors are welcome.