What’s missing in the photo?

SMGA photo by Dick McBride

  Missing in the group photo is the stand of prickly pear cactus that used to cover the ground they are standing on.  Actually two stands were removed and placed on the concrete slab to prevent re-growth and rooting of the persistant native plant.  The photo was taken at Ringtail Ridge October 11, 2013 which is the site of restoration projects by Hays County Master Naturalists.  Wildflower seeds were planted in the bare ground.
  The native cactus grows in abundance at the former Hughson Meat Packing property.  The two-and-half miles of trails offer both ADA (wheel chair accessible) and natural single-track opportunities for mountain biking, trail running and hiking.  The 45 acre natural area has five different trails. Spring and Fall are especially good for bird watching and nature photography as many different wildflowers and native grasses burst on to the scene.
  Pictured are (l. to r.) Kevin Kutras, Lance Jones, Mimi Boettler, Jean McMeans, Leah Laszewski and Donna Browing.  Not shown Ronnie Borden.
–LJ