The Lone Star Healthy Streams program in Wallisville on August 16 will cover a range of important topics related to water and soil health, as well as best management practices for grazing livestock and controlling feral hogs. This free workshop, held at White’s Park Community Center/Chambers County Community Center, is a valuable opportunity for individuals interested in learning more about protecting Texas waterways from bacterial contamination.
The event, organized by the Double Bayou Watershed Partnership, Houston Advanced Research Center, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, and the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, aims to increase awareness of non-point source pollution and provide education materials to Texas producers and landowners. By encouraging the implementation of best practices, the program seeks to minimize the health risks posed by bacterial contamination originating from livestock, wildlife, and invasive species.
One of the main topics of discussion at the workshop will be the Double Bayou watershed, with a focus on water and soil health. Participants will learn about proven practices for managing grazing livestock and feral hogs that can help minimize bacterial contamination. Additionally, pasture weed management will be addressed, providing attendees with valuable insights into maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Dr. Ryan Bare, a research scientist at the Houston Advanced Research Center, will also provide an update on the Double Bayou Watershed Protection Plan. This presentation will include background information on the project and current water quality monitoring data, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the efforts being made to protect the watershed.
Funding for the workshop is provided through a Clean Water Act Section 319(h) nonpoint source grant administered by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, with support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Attendees who hold a Texas Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator license can earn two integrated pest management continuing education units.
For more information on the workshop, interested individuals can contact Leanne Wiley at 979-321-5950 or [email protected], Kirsten Vernin at 281-364-6056 or [email protected], or Megan Carter at 409-374-2123 or [email protected] Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about watershed management, water and soil health, and best practices for protecting Texas waterways.