Rio Grande Valley Chapter of Native Plant Society of Texas Hosts 2024 Fall Symposium.
Roberto Gaitan serves as the President of the Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT), which recently took over the operations and management of the RGV Native Plant Center on South Padre Island. Texas boasts over 5,000 species of native plants, making it one of the most biologically diverse states in the country. This rich diversity was celebrated at the 2024 Fall Symposium, where 300 native plant enthusiasts gathered to share their passion.
Founded in 1980, the NPSOT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with over 30 chapters across Texas. The organization focuses on promoting research, conservation, and the use of native plants and their habitats. NPSOT is committed to environmental conservation and aims to celebrate the diverse communities and unique ecoregions of Texas. By emphasizing equity, diversity, and inclusion, the Society hopes to grow its membership and further its mission through education and outreach.
The 34th Annual Fall Symposium took place in New Braunfels from October 10 to 12, offering three days filled with camaraderie and learning. The agenda featured twenty engaging presentations, guided local field trips, the Annual State Meeting of NPSOT Members, evening events, and an awards banquet to honor significant contributions to native plant advocacy.
During the symposium, participants explored the ecological changes in Texas since European settlers arrived three centuries ago. Plenary speakers addressed the challenges posed by rapid population growth, climate change, and drought conditions. They also provided valuable insights on how individuals and communities can conserve natural areas, enhance the resilience of plant communities, improve wildlife habitats, restore soil health, and work together to tackle environmental issues.
Notable plenary speakers included Andrea DeLong-Amaya, Director of Horticulture at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; Annalisa Peace, Executive Director of the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance; Barney Lipscomb, Director of BRIT Press and Library; John Hart Asher, Principal/Senior Environmental Designer in Austin; Steve Nelle, Natural Resource Consultant in San Angelo; and Suzanne Scott, Texas State Director of The Nature Conservancy.
This year’s conference marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the Rio Grande Valley was represented by four members from the local NPSOT chapter. Established in February 2024, the chapter aims to bring NPSOT programs and initiatives to the valley, including Native Plants in Schools, Bring Back the Monarch to Texas, NICE Native Plant Nurseries, and the Native Landscape Certification Program.
In addition to the Fall Symposium, the Society hosts an annual single-day Spring Symposium in collaboration with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. The 2025 Fall Symposium is scheduled to take place in Salado, though details are still pending. The last time the event was held in the Rio Grande Valley was in 1999, and local chapter leaders are eager to bring the conference back to their home region in 2026. Stay tuned for updates!
Related topics: