Historic Stagecoach Park
The 2nd Annual Stagecoach Park Conservation Fair connected families with nature and the local organizations working to protect it. See highlights from this growing community event in Buda, Texas.
Adding Color to the Classroom
A Firefly Grant, a handful of dedicated volunteers, and a big idea. Three years later, the Beautiful Hays County Activity and Coloring Book has become a countywide teaching tool for curious kids.
Fritillary Fandango
Watch the remarkable transformation of a Gulf Fritillary from egg to butterfly, captured through the patient observations of HCMN member Bob Currie and Salwa Khan.
2026 Migratory Bird Day Festival
Every bird counts—and so does every observer. See how the San Marcos community came together to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and support the birds that travel through Hays County each spring.
About the Cover…
Spring migration was in full swing at this year’s San Marcos Migratory Bird Festival. Come along on a bird walk filled with colorful warblers, unexpected sightings, and one exciting new bird at the end of the trail.
Time for Celebrating!
See highlights from the HCMN Spring Reunion and Fall 2025 Graduating Class—an afternoon of fellowship, learning, gratitude, and accomplishment, including Chapter Awards and Special Recognitions.
Land Stewardship is for the Birds
Part 2 - What Makes Bird Habitat Good?
Every property owner can do (and not do) things that make life better for birds. Learn how to enhance the health and diversity of bird life on your land.
Where Birds Begin
Want to know more about improving the habitat for cavity nesting birds? See how nest box management and preservation of natural cavities can improve the numbers of native birds who find a home on your property.
2026 Project Fair
The HCMN Project Fair returned in April during the Spring Reunion and Fall Graduation, bringing members and guests together to explore exciting volunteer opportunities.
Splish, Splash
On March 24, the Spring 2026 HCMN Class visited the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment in San Marcos, Texas. See how one Master Naturalist Trainee was inspired by this visit.
About the Cover…
It was mid-April, and as I tried to get a better look, the bird lifted off and settled into a nearby tree. Read more about this Central Texas native.
City Nature Challenge 2026
Mark your calendars and join us—look closer at wildflowers, insects, and birds, and see what’s been there all along. What if the most interesting discoveries aren’t hidden at all.
Welcome to CoCoRaHS
Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network: “Volunteers working together to measure precipitation across the nations.”
Navigating Rocky Terrain
From the Maine coast to the Texas Hill Country, one Master Naturalist traces a lifelong connection to place and the landscapes that shape both story and stewardship.
Planting It Forward
Ready to grow something that belongs? Explore the benefits of native plants and find your inspiration at the Spring Native Plant Sale, April 4, at the San Marcos Discovery Center.
Naturescapes 2026
The 2026 Naturescapes Photography Contest is currently accepting entries. Wimberley artist Martha Gibson is serving as juror for the 2026 contest.
About the Cover…
When you return to the same trails week after week, even the most familiar paths still hold surprises waiting just around the next bend.
Meet the Directors
How well do you know these dedicated HCMN leaders? Read on to get to know each of them and find out how they embody the heart of our chapter membership.
Meet the Advisors
HCMN welcomes new chapter advisor Savannah Bushkuhl, who joins veteran advisors Archis Grubh and Blake Hendon. See how each of their backgrounds and experience reflect the Hill Country landscape we care for.
Meet the Author
Meet the Hays County Master Naturalist whose Hays Humm article inspired a 28-year old Texas native seed company to include it in their newly released Spring 2026 catalog.
