The Hartford Earth Team

I spent 4 days this past weekend visiting Bird sanctuaries on Galveston Island, Bolivar Peninsula and High Island, Texas. Learned about conservation efforts for migrating birds.

I grow pollinator friendly flowers like marigolds and black eyes susans. I hope to grow milkweed this year if I can get seeds to germinate.

I spent time learning about Keystone species in my area. Key keystone species in Texasinclude oak trees, beavers, black-tailed prairie dogs, and freshwater mussels. These species create habitats, support immense biodiversity, and manage water resources, acting as critical components for ecosystem health across Texas’s diverse landscapes.

At our prior home, we had 2 blueberry bushes, a raspberry bush, a blackberry bush, and a pear tree. On our current property, we have berry bushes on the perimeter, and we started what we hope will be a mini orchard. We planted 2 apple and 2 pear trees last year that we hope will bear fruit this year. I would like to plant 4 more trees this year...

I had a leftover 1/2 of a sandwich and I shared it with my son when he came home wanting an afternoon snack.

I redid my flower boxes for my deck this evening, I now have 4 boxes that hang on the railing and freshly planted marigold seeds, bees love my marigolds in the summer.

I actively practice 'lights out' especially during bird migration during the Spring and Fall. I've also visited dark sky areas in the Texas Hill Country and Big Bend -- Amazing!

At the beginning of the month, I began revamping my garden. I have researched native plants for my area and removed some invasive species that were taking over the flower bed.

Next week I will be visiting staying on the Upper Texas coast and visiting several bird sanctuaries in that area. Peak spring bird migration for 2026 is currently underway, with peak movements occurring from late April through mid-May. The Texas coast is a vital biodiversity hotspot, featuring critical habitats such as the North American...

Last month, I went to see the Whooping Cranes that winter along the coast of Texas; this month I read up on them and what is being done to and read they are an endangered species with on 800 in the wild; and a large group winters along the Texas Coast - they are estimate to be approx 543 in this group with others in LA and Winsconsin. The...