Spring Creek Forest Preserve summer offerings

May. 13, 2024

Many of the organized activities at the Spring Creek Forest Preserve are suspended during the hot Texas summer. However, the preserve continues to offer opportunities to enjoy nature.

On May 18, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., and May 19, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., join us for a hands-on workshop called ‘Common Vines of the Metroplex’ with Dana Wilson.

Participants will learn the basics of plant ID, including the use of a dichotomous key, by focusing on identification of common vines. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a clipboard or notepad. For Master Naturalists – 1.5 hours AT. For more information and location, RSVP to danawilson59@yahoo.com.

On July 20 at 8:30 p.m., join us for ‘An Evening with Moths.’ Sam Kieschnick, Texas Parks and Wildlife Urban Wildlife Biologist for DFW, will be on hand with all his energy and expertise. This family-friendly event will celebrate International Moth Week.preserve

Most moths are nocturnal, so light sheets will be set up to attract moths and other night flying insects. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and help with identification. All children must be accompanied by an appropriate number of adults. Bring water, insect repellent and a flashlight. Wear close-toed shoes.

Even though our 4th Sunday Nature Walks are suspended May through August, you can still have a great walk on your own on the Self-Guided Interpretive Trail at 1787 Holford Road.

Follow the trail markers and read about the significance of the area on your iPhone or on the downloadable flyer. https://springcreekforest.org/spring-creek-park-preserve-interpretive-walking-trail/.  The North Texas Master Naturalist Chapter in Dallas created the trail.

Monthly work sessions on second Saturdays are also discontinued during June, July and August because of the heat. Dana Wilson will lead work sessions on various dates at various times and locations. Email her at danawilson59@yahoo.com to join the work team.

Work session safety information:

  • BRING WATER and insect repellant.
  • Close-toed shoes are mandatory. Heavy work gloves, long pants, and protective eyewear are recommended for your protection from poison ivy and thorns.
  • If you have them, bring loppers and/or small tree saws. (No power tools.)
  • All participants and the parents of minors must sign our Liability Waiver.
  • Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; no drop off/pickup of those under 18.
  • For Master Naturalists, this may count as Volunteer Hours on the Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest project.preserve

Become a Society member or donate: The society’s only means of financial support is through memberships and donations. Membership has benefits such as Member-Only Nature Walks and the annual holiday party. Your donation helps the all-volunteer Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest offer public lectures, conduct habitat management workdays and offer public nature walks. Support the preserve today. Online payment is preserveavailable for memberships or donations using credit or debit cards or PayPal. Or, download a membership form and send a check. Visit springcreekforest.org for more information.

Preserve Dog Policy: On-leash dogs are welcome in the preserve. However, note that it is illegal to have off-leash pets in Garland parks. Call 972-205-3570, option 1 to report off-leash animals. Also, deposit pet waste bags in the trash bins in each parking lot. Do not leave bagged pet waste beside the trail.preserve

Subscribe to monthly newsletter: Barbara_Baynham2005@yahoo.com.

Spring Creek Forest and Park Preserves: Located in north Garland only 14 miles from downtown Dallas,

the pristine old-growth forest and native prairie along Spring Creek is a haven of towering trees and unusual wildflowers. Scientists, conservationists, and nature buffs all agree that Spring Creek Preserve must be protected as a biological treasure to be used for study and enjoyment.preserve

Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest is an all-volunteer group dedicated to protecting and maintaining the preserve in Garland. The society was formed in 1989 by an agreement between Dallas County Open Spaces, the city of Garland and Garland Parks and Recreation Department that the Society would help maintain and preserve Spring Creek Preserve and Greenbelt. The Society is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. The society engages community volunteers in hands-on conservation projects and provides education about the importance of protecting this irreplaceable natural treasure.

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