Websites for the Nature Enthusiast

Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center

The Edwards Aquifer Research & Data Center (EARDC) Laboratory was established in 1979 with special funding for Texas State University to provide a public service in the study, understanding and use of the very fragile natural resource, the Edwards Aquifer. EARDC takes an active role in water education issues, works with public schools as well as institutions of higher education. The EARDC Laboratory has been providing water analysis services for a variety of chemical and biological constituents found in wells, springs, rivers, municipalities, and wastewater treatment facilities. https://www.eardc.txstate.edu/

Hays County Master Gardeners

Texas Master Gardeners is a volunteer program designed to grow horticultural information throughout the state, town by town. To become a Texas Master Gardener, a participant attends 50 hours of instruction, conducted by the local Extension county agent, then shares this knowledge by donating 50 hours of volunteer service back to the community. https://txmg.org/hays/

iNaturalist

iNaturalist is a citizen science project and online social network of naturalists, citizen scientists, and biologists built on the concept of mapping and sharing observations of biodiversity across the globe. iNaturalist may be accessed via its website or from its mobile applications. https://www.inaturalist.org/

Native Plant Society of Texas – Hill Country Chapter

The Native Plant Society of Texas is a non-profit organization run by volunteers who work to promote native plant appreciation, research, and conservation through local chapters around the state of Texas. https://npsot.org/wp/hillcountry/

Nature Rocks Texas – Texas Children in Nature

Nature Rocks Texas is a suite of websites designed in partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife to help families find places to play, explore and connect with nature in their community. https://www.texaschildreninnature.org/nature-rocks-texas

San Marcos Parks & Recreation Department

Texas Master Naturalist – Hays County Chapter

The Hays County chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist™ program is dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within our communities through the formation of a corps of trained volunteers. https://haysmn.org/

Texas Nature Challenge

The Texas Nature Challenge is a friendly competition designed to get families and groups outside and exploring their local green spaces. https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/websites/NatureChallenge/default.aspx

Tour San Marcos Nature and Outdoors Attractions

San Marcos is a natural beauty and the most intriguing feature is her river. The San Marcos River bubbles to life from hundreds of springs right in the center of town. Always a refreshing 72 degrees, the river is enjoyed year round. Grab a tube and go for a float. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddle and navigate its length. Bring your snorkel and discover its depth. Or just bring a picnic and soak up some sun. http://www.toursanmarcos.com/attractions/index.html

Upper San Marcos River Watershed Protection Plan