AT THE TRAIL
Texans are always happy to see rainfall, and we were grateful to have the showers that came in April. Readings in Central Texas ranged from over 3 to over 4 inches of rain in just that month, and here at Cibolo, we’re seeing water in the Marsh for the first time in nearly a year! Unfortunately, this precipitation has not been enough to alleviate the effects of the prolonged dry spell our state has experienced. With uncertain rainfall and rising temperatures on their way, Boerneites are faced with the reality that we are in what the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality considers a Priority Groundwater Management Area.
This means we are expected to experience critical groundwater problems within the next 50 years.
As stewards of nature, we continue to make what recommendations we know to be practical and effective for the everyday person. To our neighbors, we encourage replacing well-tailored green grass lawns with native landscaping and certain plants for consumption.
An article from earlier this year by our Farm and Garden Manager, Sherry Lim, discussed the benefits of using Texas Frogfruit, a native, evergreen, drought-tolerant plant that spreads quickly and only grows to a certain height, as an efficient and visible appealing replacement for a grass lawn.
We also recently held our Spring Native Plant Sale, hosted by the Boerne Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas. This sale is important to both our organizations, as it promotes the use of native plants and shows the incredible variety that Texas natives have to offer. Texas native plants are best suited for our climate, preferred by native animals and insects, and are beneficial to our diverse ecosystems. If you have visited our Farmers Market at Herff Farm on Saturdays, you may have seen the fresh produce of The Betsy Blue Farm or Wren’s Garden. These local growers can talk all about the best herbs and vegetables to grow in our area. So, swap out some non-native ornamental bushes for some mint plants and save money on store-bought!
State and national organizations like The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority and The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirm the severity of Texas’ water situation.
The lack of rain causes concerns for agricultural production, wildlife, and recreation in Texas. Being adaptable and understanding where our water comes from and what it is used for is critical. Tools like the Boerne Water Dashboard were created with help from team members here at the Cibolo, to help with this understanding. Be water aware this year and follow the Cibolo for water updates and stories as they come.
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