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The Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT) is a statewide non-profit organization whose mission is “to promote conservation, research, and utilization of native plants and plant habitats of Texas through education, outreach, and example.”
The Arroyo Colorado Watershed Partnership has joined forces with the Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the NPSOT to enhance and care for the native landscape at the Rio Hondo Middle School (RHMS). Over the course of four days in August and September, volunteers from the RGV Chapter of the NPOST hand-removed weeds and aggressive plants, including nodding spurge, wild poinsettia, common sow-thistle, asters, and common sunflower, to make space for native plants to thrive and address aesthetic concerns.
“I’m absolutely thrilled and grateful that the RGV Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas is willing to contribute to the restoration and cleanup of our native plant area,” said RHMS principal Mr. Moreno. “It’s truly a beautiful space with so much potential, and [their] support will go a long way in helping us revitalize it and showcase its natural beauty.”
This meaningful collaboration goes beyond physical maintenance: it’s about the education of students that native plants are valuable natural assets that benefit all. They support wildlife, reduce stormwater runoff, and help improve the water quality of the Arroyo Colorado. The RGV Chapter of the NPSOT envisions a future where all valley residents appreciate and respect native landscapes, especially the unique and biologically diverse ecosystems of the valley.
“It all starts with plants,” said Mr. Gaitan, of the NPSOT RGV chapter. “We’re not only planting this for ourselves and for our enjoyment, but we’re planting this for wildlife. That change in perspective to have joy in the entire ecosystem you can create in your backyard. Planting something that you thought was beautiful until you realize it’s beneficial to not only us (humans). When others catch on to that idea, we begin to see more of our native plants being saved and growing in people’s yard or open public spaces like here.”
The ACWP is proud to work alongside the RGV Chapter of the NPSOT and looks forward to future collaborations.
