December 4, 2019 401 PM
FAR WEST TEXAS — The Big Bend Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas will give a presentation on invasive species this Saturday, December 7, at the Warnock Visitor Center just east of Lajitas on Texas Highway 170, also known as River Road.
The event should run until around 1:30 p.m., the society stated in a news release. Anyone wanting a ride should arrive at the Alpine train depot, at Highland and 5th, at 8:30 a.m.
For those closer to Lajitas who plan on driving themselves, the event should start around 10 a.m., after the carpool arrives, chapter president Dallas Baxter said.
Raymond Skiles, who served as a wildlife biologist in Big Bend National Park for 30 years, will present on invasive species along the Rio Grande — as well as efforts to remove them. There will also be a river hike, in which visitors can learn about invasive plants and their impacts on the food supplies and habitat of natives.
Organizers suggest that attendees dress for the weather — including closed-toe shoes — and bring lunch and water. After the program, there will be a brown bag lunch at the Warnock Center, where anyone who came from Alpine can catch a ride back.
The Native Plant Society promotes the research and conservation of native plants and habitats through education and outreach. Attendees to the event are asked to make a $5 donation. There will also be membership information at the meeting.
Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Fonda Ghiardi at fondag@sbcglobal.net.
