Houston Arboretum receives $90K grant to help restore woodland habitats

The project

According to the news release, the fall conservation project aims to remove those invasive plant species growing within the Arboretum to create a more resilient woodland environment, aiding long-term improvement in ecological diversity and a healthier, more sustainable landscape.

The grant will also help the nature center hire students from the SCA, a nonprofit organization in Houston that provides hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults, to assist in the removal.

“The Arboretum’s ecosystems do more than protect wildlife; they protect Houstonians," said Debbie Markey, executive director of the Houston Arboretum. “This generous grant from the Richard King Mellon Foundation allows us to strengthen the Arboretum’s ability to act as a climate buffer, while also mentoring the next generation of conservation professionals."

One more thing

The 155-acre nature sanctuary is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and consists of five miles of trails and walkways, field stations, gardens, a discovery room, nature shop and nature playscape. The center also provides guided hikes, nature camps and monthly activities for children and adults. Entry is free, with a cost for parking.