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The first Native Landscape Certification Program (NLCP)–Level 4 class ever held in New Braunfels was on Saturday, September 28th.  “Stewardship of Native Plant Communities” was hosted by the Lindheimer chapter of NPSOT. 

The morning classroom session was held at the old Solms Schoolhouse on the grounds of the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture on Church Hill Drive.  Rebecca Krug with Mission Reach in San Antonio gave an informative power point presentation. 

  • Land Stewardship was defined
  • Its importance delineated
  • Its effectiveness on properties running the gamut from small to enormous.
  • Description of threats to natural habitats and resulting impacts
  • How to create an effective plan by:
    • Research & assessment of the stewarded area
    • Set & prioritize goals
    • Prioritize & use appropriate land management practices
    • Monitor & re-assess the effectiveness of the plan.

Craig Bruska with the NPSOT Lindheimer chapter then presented ways to utilize the online tool Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool (EDIT) to fine-tune ways to improve a specific piece of property.  This will be a valuable tool for the landowner. 

The afternoon plant walk was held at the Headwaters at the Comal on Klingemann Street.  Divided into 2 groups, the class toured the grounds to see firsthand the results of transforming an asphalt parking lot into a wonderland of diverse native plants–and animals–endemic to the area. 

Participants were inspired to start the step-by-step process of returning their special piece of property to many of its original components.  Not only will the landowner feel rewarded; he will gain a treasure trove of native plants and all the accompanying wildlife that depend on living in the area as it was originally evolved.