In the midst of the refinery towers and shipping lanes of Deer Park nestles an exceptional example of a coastal prairie, one of the most endangered ecosystems in North America. The 51-acre Lawther–Deer Park Prairie, a never-plowed, native prairie remnant, teems with more than 400 species of native plants and animals.

April 28: Della Barbato, director of education for the Lawther Prairie, will share the story of the prairie’s narrow escape from development in 2014, the rewards and challenges of land conservation in a dense urban area, and the site’s ecological significance. She will introduce us to the birds, insects, and plants that we might see on our Friday visit to the park. Resident birds include Eastern meadowlarks, sedge wrens, red-winged blackbirds, and black-bellied whistling ducks.

April 30: Kirsti Harms, executive director of the Native Prairie Association of Texas, will join us as our expert ornithologist. Participants will survey the terrain from the viewing platform, stroll the perimeter of the prairie, and explore other paths while looking out for the wildlife that fills the preserve.

In light of social distancing recommendations, subscribers will drive their own vehicles to the site. Driving instructions will be emailed to subscribers. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them.