Bye Bye 2009, Welcome 2010

SMGA has had quite a year. We’ve watched ponds dry up and trees die from the heat and drought, and now some of our trails are washing away. But we plant trees, repair trails and plan new ones, and continue our dedication to San Marcos natural areas.

SMGA is also working on many new projects. We’re rolling out a new volunteer program to better involve the community in our ongoing outreach, conservation, and stewardship activities. Our stewardship committee is working on a cooperative land management guide to help protect and maintain local natural areas. Contact us if you’d like to know more about the land management guide. We’re still keeping our eye on the San Marcos Parks Master Plan and continue to represent SMGA on a variety of local committees, boards, and organizations. SMGA’s board members and outreach committee hosted the first SMGA silent auction, expanded  the Naturescapes photography contest, created Naturescapes greeting cards, and moved our newsletter to a blog format to keep you in The Loop. And our conservation committee kept tabs on potential land deals that are keeping everyone concerned with land conservation and water quality in San Marcos very busy. These are just a few of the activities that we’ve been up to and plan to continue in 2010.

Want to help? Forward this email to a friend. Invite a neighbor, friend, or co-worker on a guided hike. Become a member of SMGA. Attend a city council, planning and zoning, or parks and recreation board meeting to keep an ear and eye on your elected officials. (Dates and times are in our calendar.) Join an SMGA committee – conservation, stewardship, or outreach. It’s a great way to learn how SMGA works and get involved at a commitment level you are comfortable with. Join us for trail work (when the weather cooperates). And be sure to check The Loop often for up-to-date news and notices of local meetings and activities. Simply email [email protected] for more information on any of these opportunities.

Also mark your calendar and plan to attend our annual meeting on Sunday March 21 at the Price Center. It’s the best way to hear about SMGA activities past, present, and future, and to share your stories, concerns, and feedback. Hope to see you there.

Happy New Year! – Maggie Hutchins