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NATURE DIRECTORY
Listed below are the members of the RGV Nature Coalition as of October 2004. Click on any member name and read what we have on them. Additions/corrections can be sent to: McAllen Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 790, and McAllen, TX 78505-0790
Alamo Inn Bed & Breakfast
Keith Hackland Owner
801 Main Street
Alamo, TX 78516
Work: (956) 782-9912
Web: alamoinnsuites.com
Fax: (956) 787-6393
e-mail: alamoinn@aol.com
Bed and Breakfast accommodation – closest to Santa Ana Wildlife
Refuge – Four suites with bathroom, bedroom, and living room in
each in historic building – Country Inn Atmosphere with dining
room – we cater to wildlife enthusiasts. The owner of Alamo Inn
strongly supports conservation of wildlife and habitat and seeks ways
to support attaching a higher economic value to wildlife habitat (such
as through Eco-tourism) in the belief that this will best support conservation
of wildlife and habitat.
Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society
Debbi Warner
PO Box 531582
Harlingen, TX 78553-1582
Home: 428-8238
The mission of the Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society of South Texas is
to promote an understanding of the unique and important natural habitats
of the Lower Rio Grande Valley, the birds and other wildlife they support,
and their benefits to humans.
Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park
Liz Mikulencak, Office Manager
P.O. Box 988
Mission, TX 78573-0988
Work: (956) 585-1107
Web: www.tpwd.state.tx.us
Fax: (956) 585-3448
E-mail: elizabeth.mikulencack@tpwd.state.tx.us
Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park is one of the few publics natural preserves
in the southern portion of Texas along the banks of the Rio Grande.
More than 580 acres of subtropical resaca woodlands support birds
and wildlife more commonly found in Mexico, making Bentsen one of
the premiere bird watching locations in the nation. Campsites, picnic
areas, fishing and wildlife observation are all available to the
public.
Better Bird Products
Dave Jackson
1297 N. Shore Drive
San Benito, TX 78586
Work: (956) 399-7978
Web:
Fax: (956) 399-4199
E-mail:
Breakaway Cruises/Land & Sea Tours
Robert Moore Manager
P.O. Box 2460
South Padre Island, TX 78597
Work: (956) 761-2212
Web: breakawaycruises.com
Fax: (956) 761-1255
E-mail: info@breakawaycruises.com
Breakaway Cruises on South Padre Island offers exciting, unique adventures. “Xcape” is
our double-deck catamaran that holds 89 passengers. We have daily dolphin
watches with a hydrophone to listen to dolphins communicate. Amphibious
watercraft tour Boca Chica beach catering specifically to birders and
nature enthusiasts. Also offer: ECO Tours to learn about marine life
up close and personal; birding excursions; cruises through the Laguna
Madre and near Laguna Atascosa NWR; and we customize pelagic trips in
the Gulf of Mexico.
Brown Pelican Bed & Breakfast
Chris & Yves de Diesbach, Innkeepers
207 W. Aries Dr.
South Padre Island, TX 78597
Work: (956) 761-2722
Web: brownpelican.com
Fax: (956) 761-1273
E-mail: innkeeper@brownpelican.com
A bayside Bed and Breakfast. Fantastic birding form the Inn’s porches
and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is just 30 minutes away.
Brown Pelican offers some of the finest accommodations in South Texas.
Situated on the quiet bay shoreline of this famed island, the Inn boasts
eight elegant and spotless guest rooms appointed with American and English
antiques, each with a private bath. Several rooms have spectacular bay
views, and the covered porch is a favorite vantage point to experience
a Texas sunset like you have never before seen.
Butterfly Paradise
Robert Brown Owner
34193 California Rd.
Los Fresnos, TX 78566
Work:
Web:
Fax:
E-mail:
Wholesale and retail plant nursery for butterfly and hummingbird gardening,
open by appointment. Live butterfly exhibit featuring several hundred
native species of tropical butterflies – open by appointment only.
Call first for reservation.
Cameron County Park System
Javier Mendez Parks Director
P.O. Box 2106
South Padre Island, TX 78597
Work: (956) 761 5494
Web: www.co.cameron.tx.us/parks/parks.html
Fax: (956) 761-5317
E-mail: JMendez@co.cameron.us.tx
The Cameron County Parks System Mission is to provide safe, quality outdoor
recreation opportunities to the citizens and visitors of Cameron
County at an affordable price and to develop and protect the County’s
coastal resources and natural habitats.
Camp Lula Sams
Pat Burchfield
280 N. Fish Hatchery Rd.
Brownsville TX 78520
Work:
Web:
Fax:
E-mail:
Casa Santa Ana
"The Wildest Bed & Breakfast in Texas"
3239 South Tower Road, just minutes from Santa Ana WLR
Alamo, TX 78516
Phone: (956) 783-5540
e-Mail: jfmcclung@msn.com
Cesar Kleberg Foundation
Dr. Fred Bryant
Campus Box 218
Kingsville, TX 78363
Work: (361) 593-3922
Web: www.tamuk.edu
Fax: (361) 593-3924
email: fred.bryant@tamuk.edu
This foundation is mostly about wildlife management, whales, white deer,
reptiles, black bears, and many more.
Chaparral Garden Press
Gladys Donohue Managing Editor
PO Box 606
La Joya, TX 78560
Work: (956) 581-6545
Web: (none)
Fax: (none) E-mail: (none)
The Chaparral Garden Press has at present books for sale. The titles
are Hawks Overheard, The Spanish Discover the Rio Grande, River of Glass,
Blowing in the Wind, And no birds sing, A naturalist harvest. Unpublished
novels include Colonel Hayden’s Lady, Titian Temptress, The Courtship
of Miss Winslow, Regina, 50 Common Wildflowers of the Lower Rio Grande
Valley, and Beaumont Plantation. For children are Diney and the Egg,
What to do at the Seashore, Alligator, ABC, and Fishing in the western
Gulf, and 4 books on the flora of the Lower Rio Grande Valley: 1. Trees;
2. Shrubs; 3. Vines; 4. Wildflowers. Additions to the list are planned
for the future. A price list is available on request. Mail orders are
accepted.
City of Brownsville Environmental Division
Joe Hinojosa Environmental Coord.
625 E. 12th St. 1st Floor
Brownsville, TX 78520
Work: (956) 542-7511
Web:
Fax: (956) 504-6168/(956) 554-6993
E-mail: johino@cob.us
The City of Brownsville Environmental Division is involved with ordinance
enforcement, illegal dumping, violations, political signs, junked
vehicles, and other.
Coastal Studies Lab
Don Hockaday Acting Director
100 Marine Lab Drive
South Padre Island, TX 78597
Work: (956) 761-2644
Web: panam.edu/dept/csl/
Fax: (956) 761-2913
E-mail: coastal@panam.edu
The UT-Pan Am Coastal Studies Laboratory supports coastal research, university
education, and public outreach in coastal south Texas. A public display
area contains living and preserved marine plants and animals and interpretation
of coastal biology. Business hours are 8:00a.m. to 5:00p.m., Mon-Fri.
Public viewing hours are 1:30p.m. to 4:30p.m., Sun-Fri. Organized groups
by appointment may visit 8:00a.m. to 1:30p.m., Mon-Fri. No admission
fee is charged, but Cameron County Parks charges for Admission to Isla
Blanca Park.
Colley’s Fins to Feathers
George & Scarlet Colley
P.O. Box 2611
Port Isabel, TX 78597
Work: (956) 761-7178
Web: www.fin2feather.com
Fax: (none)
E-mail: skimmer@fin2feather.com
Colleys Fins to Feathers Tour is located on S. Padre Island. Our beautiful
new catamaran houseboat the “Laguna Skimmer” will take up
to 6 people on a nature experience. We have been filming and documenting
the dolphin families of Laguna Madre Bay for 4 years. Come with us and
meet individual dolphins we know and love. Our birding tours take bird
lovers on a virtual floating bird blind. We do tours of the Nature Trail
Birding Boardwalk, beach walks, and marine life classes. Come join us,
Scarlet and George, your nature Host to the coast on Beautiful S. Padre
Island.
C.P. Gerardo Rodriguez Puente
Matamoros y 7a. No. 612
H. Matamoros, Tam. México
01-800-718-8008
Work: (868) 812-11-90 al 94
Web:
Fax: (868) 812-47-60
E-mail: gerardordz@msn.com
Earth Buddies – Mike Lewis
Mike Lewis Earth Buddies Leader
2404 Yellowhammer Ave.
McAllen, TX 78504-5513
Work: (956) 971-0288 Web:
Fax: E-mail:
Earth Care Organization
Penny Hartwellm, Director
14 Casa Linda
Brownsville TX 78521
Work: Web:
Fax: (956) 831-8705
E-mail: earthcare@ies.net
ECO is a grassroots community organization founded in 1970 to make every
day an Earth Day through education, civic engagement, and environmental
service to the community. ECO-ED Center promotes sustainable development
and a healthy environment through educational workshops, seminars,
kids care conferences and newsletters. EARTH CARE KIDS is sponsored
for kids of all ages, “kids at heart,” or those who just
care enough about kids to help them secure a clean, safe and just
environment for their future.
Friends of Santa Ana NWR
John McClung, President
Rt 2 Box 204
Alamo, TX 78516
Work: (956) 581-8632
Web: www.friendsofsantaana.org
Fax: (956) 581-3912
E-mail:
The Friends of the Wildlife Corridor is a non-profit organization established
to protect, support, and enhance the Santa Ana and Lower Rio Grande
Valley National Wildlife Refuges. The Friends regularly conduct canoe
trips on the Rio Grande for nature enthusiasts and for educational
purposes. All profits are directed to helping the refuges protect
fish and wildlife for the benefit of the American people.
Frontera Audubon Society
P.O. Box 8124
Weslaco, TX 78599-8124
Work : (956) 968-3275(busy)
Web: www.
Fax: (956) 9681388
E-mail:
Long standing conservation organization dedicated to preserving native
habitat along the Lower Rio Grande. Own and or manage a 20 + acre
urban natural area in downtown Weslaco; currently working to open
this area to the public by 2000. Property includes historic and natural
features; will be Frontier’s headquarters known as the Audubon
Center. Other projects include the Valley’s Rare Bird Alert
run by Fr. Tom Pincelli; 5th grade mini curriculum; “Welcome
to the Wildlife Corridor,” Alta Mira newsletter & working
with the leaders & national lobbyist to protect habitat throughout
out the 4 county LRGV.
Gerald Sneed – Nature Artist
Gerald Sneed Owner
1101 Dove Ave., Apt. #47
McAllen, TX 78504-3554
Work: (956) 682-2394
Web: www.sneednatureart.com
Fax: E-mail:
Interpreting the RGV birds and habitat in various mediums: Nature art
and merchandise.
Gladys Schumacher Donohue-Author
Gladys Donohue
Rt. 29 Box CA 70
Mission, TX 78572
P.O. Box 606
La Joya, TX 78560
Work: (956) 581-6545
Web:
Fax:
E-mail:
Gorgas Science Foundation
Larry Lof
510 E. St. Charles
Brownsville, TX 78520-4993
Work: (956) 504-6862/ 554-5050
Web: www.gorgassciencefoundation.org
Fax: (956) 504-6284
E-mail: Gorgas@ utb.edu
Gorgas Science Foundation, (GSF) is a non-for-profit organization committed
to education and conservation. It is our firm belief that the key
to effective conservation lies in the educational of the general
public, and more importantly, in the education of the young.
Harlingen Chamber of Commerce
Cheryl La Berge, Vice-President
311 East Tyler Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
Work: (956) 423-5565/1800-531-7346
Web: www.harlingen.com
Fax: (956) 425-3870
E-mail: claberge@harlingen.com
Birding hot-spot directions, a free area check-list and more. Sponsor
of the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival whose highlight include
field trips led by expert birders, seminars, workshops, and keynote
presentations given by the foremost authorities in the birding world.
Harlingen Proud
Mandy Key
Work: 427-8739
Web:www.keepharlingenbeautiful.org
Fax: 423-2113
E-mail: hgnproud@ci.harlingen.tx.us
We educate the public about recycling and litter prevention. We encourage
the public to keep Harlingen clean for a cleaner environment.
Harlingen Proud Environmental Council
Yvette Salinas, Health Administrator
1122 Morgan Blvd.
Harlingen, TX 78550
Work: (956) 427-8037
Web: www.co.cameron.tx.us
Fax: (956) 427-8107
E-mail: ysalinas@co.cameron.tx.us
To preserve, protect and promote the health and well-being of Cameron
County. Our mission is to provide quality health care through the
provision of services that are accessible, community based and focus
on disease prevention, health promotion and health education.
Hidalgo Hawk Watch Society
Gladys Donohue Chairman
Rt. 29 Box CA 70
Mission, TX 78572
Work: (956) 581-6545
Web:
Fax:
E-mail:
The purpose of this organization is to monitor and count migrating raptors,
mainly in spring. Some fall and winter counts. Records are forwarded
to the Hawk Migration Association of North America, and a file is
kept at Rancho Chiquito Palmview. The health of migrant raptor populations
can be extrapolated from the numbers. Records include notes on weather,
behavior, and other observations.
Indian Ridge Bed & Breakfast
RR6, Box 1665
Mission, TX 78574
Office: 956-519-3305
FAX 956-585-8682
E-mail: equipuppy@sbcglobal.net
The Indian Ridge B&B offers large, beautifully furnished rooms and even a separate Ranch House. They even will take pets. Located next to the Indian Ridge Equestrian Center, which offers monthly and daily bording, horse training, sales and riding lessons. The largest privately owned outdoor swimming pool in the RGV. Give us a chance to put you up in comfort and style. "Where President Jimmy Carter stayed when he visited the RGV."
Inn at Chachalaca Bend
Christie P. Hirst General Manager
20 Chachalaca Bend Drive
Los Fresnos, Texas (TX) 78566
Work: (956) 233-1180/ (888) 612-6800
Web: www.chachalaca.com
Fax: (956) 233-1932
E-mail: inn@chachalaca.com
The Inn at Chachalaca Bend is specially designed to cater to nature enthusiasts.
Over 40 acres of natural landscaping, including a 27 acre prairie
of native grasses and a 14 acre hiking trail cut through thick south
Texas brush. Our 21,000 Sq. Foot butterfly garden attracts south
Texas specialties for our guests to enjoy. The 40-foot observation
tower offers a commanding view of the Resaca de las Antonios and
the surrounding area. Our guests come to the Inn at Chachalaca Bend
to relax in privacy, luxury, and comfort, while enjoying some of
the best birding South Texas has to offer.
Inn at El Canelo
Monica Burdette Owner
P.O. Box 487
Raymondville, TX 78580
Work: (956) 689-5042
Web: www.elcaneloranch.com
Fax: 956-689-1089
E-mail: elcanelo@granderiver.net or
info@elcaneloranch.com
Easiest place on Earth to view the ferruginous Pygmy-owl! El Canelo Ranch
situated in southern Kenedy County lies ten miles north of Raymondville.
The ranch, in private family ownership for approximately 150 years,
offers deluxe lodging, as well as excellent nature-tourism opportunities.
Dinner and breakfast included in nightly rate. No extra charge for
birding by guest. Perfect for mid-sized birding tour groups to use
as ”home base.” The ranch also offers day birding tours
to individuals, small groups, and large groups on a reservation basis.
375+ bird species seen on ranch.
King Ranch
Tom Langschied -Nature Tour Coordinator
P.O. Box 1090
Kingsville, TX 78364
Work: (361) 592-8055
Web: www.king-ranch.com
Fax: (361) 595-1344
E-mail: visit@king-ranch.com or
tlangschied@king-ranch.com
King Ranch, the birthplace of the American ranching industry and a National
Historic Landmark. On guided tours, you can see the Santa Gertrudis
and King Ranch Santa Cruz breeds of beef cattle and the Quarter Horses
that have garnered fame, including Peppy San Badger.
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
John Wallace Refuge Manager
P.O. Box 450
Rio Hondo, TX 78583
Work: (956) 748-3607
Fax: (956) 748-3609
Web: www.southwest.fws.gov/refuges/texas/laguna.html
E-mail: john_wallace@fws.gov
The Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a 45,187 -acre refuge
originally established for the protection of redhead ducks. Today,
the refuge is home to 406 species of birds, American alligator, and
the endangered ocelot and Aplomado falcon. More than six miles of
walking trails are available and the 15-mile bay side-driving loop
is a must for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Hunting opportunities
for whitetail deer, feral hog and nilgai available to the general
public.
La Mota Ranch
South Texas Nature Retreat
Bill Hellen, Mgr.
P.O. Box 373
Hebbronville, TX 78361
Work: (210) 415-7290
Web: www.lamotaranch.com
Fax: E-mail: billhellen@hotmail.com
La Mota Ranch offers, on a seasonal basis, guided day tours, nature retreats, ranch gatherings and parties for guests interested in the nature, heritage and culture of this unique part of Texas.
Larry Ditto Nature Photography
Larry Ditto Photographer
2809 Hawk Court
McAllen, TX 78504
Work: (956) 682-3251
Web: www.larryditto.com
E-mail: lditto@hiline.net
Providing stock photography including various nature subjects. Specializing
in Texas wildlife and scenics. Providing photos worldwide to magazines,
calendars, web sites, post cards, brochures, etc.
Lens and the Land
Laura Martin, Director
6920 N. 1st St.
McAllen, TX 78504
Work: 994-0321
Web: www.lensandland.com
Fax: 994-0321
E-mail: lensandland@rgv.rr.com
South Texas Lens & Land has private ranches open to the public for
private photography all with specially designed photo areas with attractants
to invite abundant wildlife. This is one of your only opportunities to
be granted private access to Texas' unique and diverse wildlife habitat.
Lower Laguna Madre Foundation
Walt Kittleberger Chairman
P.O. Box 153
Port Mansfield, TX 78598
Work: (956) 944-2387
Web: (none)
Fax: (956) 944-2278
E-mail: llmf@granderiver.net
LLMF is a non-profit corporation whose purpose is to preserve & protect
the natural resources of the south TX intercostals bay system for the
present day and posterity. LLMF encourages balanced economic use and
conservation of the Lower Laguna Madre; informs and educates the public
about the life of the bay; serves as an advocate; and vigilantly monitors
its use. LLMF will sponsor activities and events contributing to the
welfare of the bay system and will promote increased public respect for
its natural wealth having great aesthetic, recreational and economic
importance.
Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Jeff Rupert Refuge Manager
Rt. 2 Box 202A
Alamo, TX 78516
Work: (956) 784-7500
Fax: (956) 787-8338
Web: southwest.fws.gov/refuges/texas/santana.html
E-mail: jeff_rupert@fws.gov
From Falcon Dam to the Gulf of Mexico, the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge (LRGV) connects patches of brush along or near the Rio Grande providing much needed protection for the unique wildlife found in south Texas. Approximately 40,000 acres of the refuge are open to the public for viewing nature, photography, hiking and education/interpretation. Maps and information about the refuge can be obtained at the Santa Ana NWR Visitor Center.
McAllen Chamber of Commerce
Nancy Millar, Vice President
P.O. Box 790
McAllen, TX 78505-0790
Work: (956) 682-2871
Web: www.mcallenchamber.com
Fax: (956) 631-8571
E-mail: nmillar@mcallencvb.com
The Chamber has information on nature viewing hot spots, nature maps
and brochures, contacts with speakers and local bird guides, self-guided
tours and offers local nature wildscape products. Sponsors of the
Texas Tropics Nature Festival, an annual festival which educates
Valley residents and visitors alike with informative seminars, guided
field trips, nature trade show and special events and guests. The
McAllen Chamber of Commerce also sponsors the Great Outdoors Nature
Series January through March, the Wilderness School and Wild Walk
for School children, both in October,
McAllen Parks and Recreation
Larry Pressler, Director
1000 S. Ware Rd.
McAllen, TX 78501
Work: (956) 688-3333
Web: www.mcallen.net
Fax: (956) 688-3338
E-mail: parks@mcallen.net
The McAllen Parks and Recreation Department is a municipal Parks and
Recreation system of parks, pools, recreation programs and other
municipal properties. The department is dedicated to the provision
of wholesome, constructive recreational programs of the citizens
of McAllen. It has dedicated itself to the stewardship of public
properties and the protection and enhancement of urban landscapes
that complement nature and the outdoor needs of the urban dweller.
Mission Chamber of Commerce
Aida Hernandez President/CEO
220 E. 9th St.
Mission, TX 78572
Work: (956) 585-2727
1800-580-2700 Web: www.missionchamber.com
Fax: (956) 585-3044
E-mail: mission@missionchamber.com
or ahernandez@missionchamber.com
The “Butterfly Capitol of America,” the City of Mission is
host to the only Butterfly Festival in Texas. Encouraging the use of
native plants, the Chamber has established three different butterfly
gardens for the benefit of the citizens and butterfly enthusiasts. Mission
is the future home of the World Birding Center Headquarters and the North
American Butterfly Association’s Butterfly Park.
Mission Nature Club
Gladys Donohue, President
RR 29 Box CA 70
Mission, TX 78572-8714
Work: (956) 581-6545
Web:
Fax: E-mail:
The Mission Nature Club meets 5 times a year at the library in Mission, Texas. Half hour business meetings precede programs about birds, flowers, insects, general nature, etc… 3-4 field trips include Christmas counts in Bentsen State Park; a breakfast and birding in February; a wildflower caravan in March; acacias in bloom in February/March; and others. The purpose of the club is to inform about environmental problems and encourage letters to the proper entities; to teach about birds and plants, and natural history. The public is encouraged to attend. Programs and field trips are free.
NABA Butterfly Park
Sue Sill, Ph.D. Executive Director
P.O. Box 878
Mission, Texas 78574-0878
Work: (956) 583-9009 Fax: (956) 583-0081
Web: www.naba.org/nabapb
E-mail: sill@naba.org
NABA Butterfly Park is dedicated to education, conservation and research
on wild butterflies. The 12 acres north of the levee will be developed
as visitor facilities with buildings such as a visitor center, garden
café, intensive gardens of native plants, administrative offices
and other garden structures. The south tract consists of 72 acres that
stretches from the canal and levee to the Rio Grande. Here, a variety
of native plant communities of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Sub-tropical
Thorn Scrub will be re-introduced. This area will become habitat for
large populations of wild butterflies and other wildlife. Trails will
be maintained for visitors to explore and discover the many kinds of
native butterflies at the Park and the native plants that both sustain
and depend upon them.
NABA – South Texas Chapter
7313 32nd Street
McAllen, TX 78503
Work: Web:
Fax: E-mail:
Butterfly enthusiasts who meet monthly and coordinate regular field trips
to view butterflies. Goals include ensuring the continuous success of
the Texas Butterfly Festival, which is held annually the third week in
October. Encourage local interest in butterfly gardening in the Valley,
the best area in the nation of butterfly diversity.
Native Plant Project Lower Rio Grande Valley
Gene Lester
P.O. Box 2742
San Juan, TX 78589
(956) 425-4005 Web: nativeplantproject.org
Fax: 956-447-6345
E-mail: g.lester48@msn.com
or atvacek@yahoo.com
The Native Plant Project's primary objective is the compilation and dissemination
of information about plants native to the lower Rio Grande Valley.
The NPP seeks to increase scientific knowledge of native plant propagation
and penology for both horticultural and natural revegetation purposes.
The NPP promotes the conservation of local native plants, habitats,
plant communities, wildlife, and environment. The NPP seeks to increase
the public's knowledge and awareness of the importance of native
plants in the lower Rio Grande Valley by encouraging their use in
public and private landscaping.
Nature Cinematographer
John Bax
306 Becan Bay Drive #1501
Port Isabel, TX 78578
Work: (956) 554-5050
Web: (did not have)
Fax: (did not have) E-mail: (did not have)
Like the name says, John Bax is a nature cinematographer. Contact him if you feel you might be able to use his services.
Rancho Lomitas
P.O. Box 442
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Work: (956) 486-2576
Web: www.rancholomitas.com
eMail: info@rancholomitas.com
Rancho Lomitas is
a little piece of paradise located on one hundred seventy-seven acres
of native Tamaulipan brushland in Starr County, Texas. When the
ranch was purchased by Benito and Toni Trevino in 1986, much of the
land and much of the brush was damaged by overgrazing. Since
that time, Benito has dedicated himself to restoring the health of
the brush and educating others regarding the importance of preserving
this often overlooked but integral part of the local heritage and
culture. As a result of landscaping with native plants near the
main house, Benito has created a haven for Audubon's orioles, green
jays, verdins, black-throated sparrows, and many other species associated
with the thorny brush.
Rancho Rincon de Anacahuitas
Jorge Martinez Owner
145 Calle Anacua
Brownsville, TX 78520
Work: (956) 541-2777/cell. 639-8233; 01152-818-253-6002 (Mexican cell)
Web:
Fax: (956) 544-7888
E-mail: rinconanacahuita@yahoo.com
We investigate the natural resources and the species that live in the different ecosystems to find out the best management for them. At the same time we are designing a model project for conservation with landowners in Mexico. We are in the middle of setting up the 1st conservation easement with a private land owner in Mexico.
Rio Grande Valley B&B Association
Monica Burdette
P.O. Box 487
Raymondville, TX 78580
Work: (956) 689-5042
Web: www.rgv-bedandbreakfast.com
Fax: (956) 689-1089
E-mail: encanel@vsta.com
Experience the best of both worlds--savor the relaxed pace of a secluded
South Texas mesquite country ranch while enjoying luxurious accommodations
and gourmet meals. Located just south of the famous King Ranch, El
Canelo Ranch offers services to satisfy a variety of interests. Abundant
wildlife provides opportunities for ardent sportsmen, while native
and migratory birds enthrall other outdoor enthusiasts, such as bird
watchers and photographers.
Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival
Marci Fuller
311 E. Tyler St.
Harlingen, TX 78550
Work: 956-428-6111
E-mail: stanthonychurch2@aol.com
Fax: 956-428-4276
The night song of the Pauraque calls you to the Rio Grande Valley of
deep South Texas — widely recognized as a unique and important
area for the birder or nature enthusiast. Experience this at one
of the world’s premier events of its kind — the Rio Grande
Valley Birding Festival. Field trips to world-renowned hotspots with
world-class leaders! Presentations of timely topics ranging from
conservation to identification! Workshops in forefront areas such
as digiscoping and birding for the blind!
RGV Nature Coalition
Nancy Millar
Phone: (956) 682-2871
Web: www.mcallenchamber.com
Fax: 631-8571
E-mail: nmillar@mcallencvb.com
The Coalition works to promote the value of Nature tourism in the Valley
through marketing effort to and special projects. It also serves
to coordinate and promote various events held throughout the Valley
throughout the year.
RGV Nature Magazine
RGV Birding & Butterflying maps
John Topp, Direct Marketing
Work: 421-5750
Web:
Fax: 421-5721
E-mail: john@toppmarketing.com
Topp Direct Marketing publishes RGV Nature Magazine twice a year. The
Magazine covers people, places and events of interest to nature enthusiast
in the RGV. Topp Direct Marketing also publishes a map of the Rio Grande
Valley and New Mexico every two years. The map highlights the best wildlife
viewing spots in the area.
Rio Grande Wilderness Society
Jim Seeden, President
P.O. Box 852
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Work: (956) 486-2700 Web:
Rio Grande Wilderness Society has programs related to wild life animals.
We put booths at festivals, and promote preservation. The Rio Grande
Wilderness Society has 4 years of existence. Our purpose is to educate
the public about the theory brush wilderness, and to do what we can to
preserve it.
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge
Jodi Stroklund , Refuge Manager
Route 2, Box 202A
Alamo, Texas 78516
Work: 956/784-7500
E-mail: jodi_stroklund@fws.gov
Fax: 956/787-8338
Web: www.southwest.fw
southwest.fws.gov/refuges/texas/santana.html
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, a 2,088 acre refuge established in
1943 for the protection of migratory birds. Considered the ‘jewel’ of
the refuge system, this essential ‘island’ of thorn forest
habitat is host or home to nearly 400 different types of birds and
a myriad of other species, including the indigo snake, malachite
butterfly and the endangered ocelot.
Shop-Progreso.Com
Wm. W. Thompson, PhD
RR1, Box 140 K 25534 Rabb Rd.
La Feria, TX 78559
Work: 956/797-1166
e-mail: drtee@shop-progreso.com
Web: www.shop-progreso.com
Shop-Progreso.com is the website for the town of Nuevo Progreso, Mexico. The site tells of the history and news of this popular border crossing city. Dr. Bill Thompson, a Marketing professor at U.T.-Pan American, is the owner of this site and he also contributes the time, talent, and energy required to operate the RGV Nature Coalition website.
South Texas Nature
Connie Ledbetter, SPI CVB
600 Padre Boulevard
South Padre Island, Texas 78597
Work: 1-800-767-2373
Web: www.southtexasnature.com
Fax:
E-mail: www.connie@sopadre.com
South Texas Nature is a confederation of valley Chambers of Commerce,
Convention and Visitor Bureaus, airports and nature related organizations.
The group markets the Valley as a birding and nature destination
domestically and internationally.
Texas Butterfly Festival
Betty Muro/ Farwa Naqvia
220 E. 9th Street
Mission, TX 78572
Work: 956-585-2727
Web: www.texasbutterfly.com
Fax: 956-5853044
E-mail: bmuro@missionchamber for
Betty
fnaqvia@missionchamber.com for
Farwa
Expertly guided field trips; learn about butterflies from internationally-renowned speakers; have a chance to stock up on field guides, optics and other butterfly/nature related merchandise at the EXPO.
Texas Forest Service
Jim Hull, Director of State Forester
Office of the Director
301 Tarrow, Suite 364
College Station, TX 77840-7896
Work: 979–458–6606
Web: www.txforestservice.tamu.edu/contacts
Fax: 979–458–6610
E-mail: jhull@tfs.tamuc.edu
Texas Forest Service provides statewide leadership to assure the state's
forest, tree, and related natural resources are wisely used, nurtured,
protected and perpetuated for the benefit of all Texans.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
Jesús G. Franco
Natural Resource Specialist
Urban Wildlife Biologist
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
3201 Toucan Avenue
McAllen, TX 78504
Tel. (956) 571-5359
E-mail: Jesus.Franco@tpwd.state.tx.us
Web: www.tpwd.state.tx.us
We manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas, provide
hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use
and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Texas Tropics Nature Festival
Ron Smith
100 W. Moore Rd #24
Pharr, TX 78577
Phone: 781-4542
E-mail: ronsmithcarver@webtv.net
Speakers, field trips, and a nature marketplace. Trips are for birder
of all skill levels. Butterflies are another area attraction. More,
species, including Mexican wanderers, can be found here than anywhere
else in the county.
The Renasselaerville Institute
Eric Ellman, Director
1305 Orange Street
McAllen, TX 78501
Work: (956) 630-4514
Web: www.rinstitute.org
Fax: (956) 683-7731
E-mail: Eellman@Rinstitute.org
The Rensselaerville Institute provides technical assistance and seed
money grants to Sparkplugs leading community-based environmental
projects. The Institute’s STEP program funds resident-led water
and wastewater infrastructure building in the colonias. Real Time
Community Change Program provides grants up to $2000 to finance innovative
programs to improving people’s physical and mental health through
increased activity in nature.
University of Texas-Pan American
Tim Brush, Biology Department
1201 West University Drive
Edinburg, TX 78539
Work: 210-381-3537
E-mail: TBRUSH@panam.edu
Fax:
Web: www.wwwaux.cerc.cr.usgs.gov/Resaca/brush
Ornithological research on birds of wetlands, swamp forests, mudflats (including waterbirds, shore birds, and breeding bird communities)
Valley Land Fund
Beth Zambrano, Programs Director
2400 North 10th Ste. A
McAllen, TX 78501
Work:
(956) 686-6429
Web: www.Valleylandfund.com
Fax: (956) 6861909
E-mail: beth@valleylandfund.com
The mission of The Valley Land Fund is to preserve, enhance and expand
the native wildlife habitat of the Rio Grande Valley through education,
land ownership and the creation of economic incentives for preservation.
The Valley Land Fund assists with conservation of native habitat through
the protection of land in the southernmost counties of deep South Texas
- the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
Valley Nature Center
Martin Hagne Dir.
301 South Border
PO Box 8125
Weslaco, TX 78599-8125
Work: (956) 969-2475
Web: www.Valleynature.org
Fax: (956) 969-9915
E-mail: Info@valleynaturecenter.org
The Valley Nature Center is the only nature center south of Corpus Christi
and east of Eagle Pass. It has been in operation as a non profit
organization dedicated to environmental education since 1985. Environmental
group members of the Valley Nature Center utilize our program room
for monthly meetings and programs. We offer a place to meet for these
organizations and invite them to conduct their business at the VNC.
Seminars, nature trails, other programs.
Valley Proud
James R. Matz
513 East Jackson Street, Suite 304
Harlingen, TX 78550
Voice: (956) 412-8004
Fax: (956) 412-8008
Web: wwwvalleyproud.org
E-mail: info@valleyproud.org
Valley Proud Environmental Council, a non-profit Corporation, preserves
the natural beauty and environment of the Lower Rio Grand Valley of Texas
and Mexico by forging partnerships between grassroots organizations and
the public and private sectors to improve the quality of life, to enhance
economic development and tourism, and to conserve public and natural
resources through education and public awareness activities.
Willacy Nature Partners
Elma Chavez, Chairman
P.O. Box 746
Raymondville, TX 78580
Work: (956) 689-3171
Web: www.wildinwillacy.com
Fax: (956) 689-1243
E-mail: chamber@granderiver.net
The annual "Wild in Willacy" Nature Festival, has ranch tours,
children’s program, and trade show.
World Birding Center
Heidi Hughes
900 N. Bryan Rd. Ste. 201
Mission, TX 78572
Office: 956-584-9156
E-mail: wbirding@swbell.net
Fax: 956-584-9126
Web: www.worldbirdingcenter.org
The World Birding Center is one of the most spectacular convergences
of birds on Earth. The Rio Grande Valley has long been recognized
as a world-class birding destination. And now with the creation of
the World Birding Center, Texas Parks & Wildlife, U.S. Fish & Wildlife
Services, and 9 valley communities, plan to expand awareness about
this ecological treasure along the state’s southern border.
The WBC is a network of nine sites dotted along 120 miles of river
road from South Padre Island west to Roma, with habitats ranging
from dry chaparral brush and verdant riverside thickets to freshwater
marshes and coastal wetlands.