Congratulations Ilse

 We  are a group of individuals interested in preserving the natural flora  and fauna of the beautiful state of Texas.  Our membership is a very  diverse group comprised of professional botanists, a physicist, business  people, retired couples, families with children and young singles.  We  encourage the use of native plants at every opportunity and hold classes  and seminars to further our endeavors. 

The  threat to our native wildlife due to habitat loss and chemical abuse is  a danger that cannot be ignored.  Our fresh water resources are at risk  from agriculture, manufacturing and oil & gas.  Our goal is to  rescue endangered and native plants whenever possible, encourage the  reintroduction of native plants into the ecosystem & to educate the  populace as to the value of a natural environment.   

 Most  Central Texas native plants are naturally drought-tolerant, resistant  to pests and diseases, require less fertilizing and pesticides, and are  an important sources of food for wildlife including bees, butterflies,  & birds out natural pollinator's.

For a complete list of native plants please go to http://www.austintexas.gov/department/grow-green Guide to Central Texas plants. "Grow Green is a gardening education program that promotes sustainable  landscaping practices. It addresses water quality and conservation,  recycling, and an Integrated Pest Management philosophy, which  encourages the least-toxic way to address pest issues" or www.wildflower.org the website of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center / The University of Texas at Austin.

 Hummingbirds,  bats, bees, beetles, butterflies, and flies are hard-working animals  helping to pollinate over 75% of our flowering plants, and nearly 75% of  our crops. They carry pollen from one plant to another as they collect  nectar. Without them, wildlife would have fewer nutritious berries and  seeds, and we would miss many fruits, vegetables, and nuts, such as  blueberries, squash, and almonds to name a few.
 

They  play a crucial role in flowering plant reproduction and in the  production of most fruits and vegetables. Without the assistance of  pollinator's, most plants cannot produce fruits and seeds. The fruits  and seeds of flowering plants are an important food source for people  and wildlife. Some of the seeds that are not eaten will eventually  produce new plants, helping to maintain the plant population.