Friends of the Houston Nature Center
Our mission to promote, and provide educational naturalist opportunities at the Houston Nature Center, and Natural Playground .
To assist in maintenance and care of areas of native prairie, woodland, and wetland gardens.
Wednesday, August 14, following the Lawn Chair concert at Trailhead Park. Michael Sieve presents a photo slideshow based on his October 2023 travels in five different African countries along the Zambezi River.
Concert starts at 6:30 pm featuring Brothers Burn Mountain.
Presentation expected to start at approximately 7:30 pm.
Several new shade trees have been planted near the bandshell! If you've ever attended a concert on a summer afternoon, you've probably noticed the heat. In a few years, these trees will provide some shade and make your concert experience much more pleasant. The trees were purchased by the Friends of the Nature Center and planted by Mike and Brian, pictured below.
On Nov. 5, 2023, about 15 scouts from Troop 53 and their parents/guardians worked on the wetland habitat of Trailhead Park.. Their tasks included clearing remnant growth, planting some specimens from Prairie Moon Nursery, transplanting iris-like Blue Flag, and planting seeds gathered and donated locally. Thanks to the scouts and adult volunteers!
Time for peak autumn colors on the Root River State Trail! Enjoy!
Visitor at the Nature center today!
Check out the story stroll at the Nature center, placed by Houston MN Public Library!
See what's blooming in the Plum Street Memorial Garden!
The good news is that the weather has been warm and sunny this week, making us look forward to spring. The bad news is that we no longer have good conditions for snowshoeing. There's still plenty to do at Trailhead Park this weekend, like hike around the pond, take a walk on the trail, or play at the natural playground. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your time outdoors!
****** Watch for an upcoming event! ******
As soon as weather conditions allow, the Friends of the Houston Nature Center will be hosting a snowshoeing event in Trailhead Park. We don't have anything scheduled yet, but as soon as it snows enough, we'll be heading out!
It will be a Saturday in January or February at 1pm.
Snowshoes will be available or bring your own.
Hot beverages will be served.
The purpose is to teach the basics of snowshoeing to anyone of any age. All skill and experience levels are welcome! Meet other snowshoe enthusiasts!
We'll be starting at the meeting room at the Nature Center and explore Trailhead Park.
Watch for future announcements! Hope to see you there!
Stop by the city park and see our Houston Holidazzle tree! It's decked out in nature-themed finery, like birds, butterflies, antlers, and bird houses. It looks even better now that there's some snow on the ground! Enjoy the festivities this Saturday, including the lighting of the park after the parade.
Today is Give to the Max Day! It's your opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing nature-based educational opportunities, maintaining and improving Trailhead Park, and promoting the beautiful and diverse ecology of the Houston area. Visit our website to donate electronically, or mail your donation to PO Box 731, Houston MN. Thank you for your help!
www.friendsofthenaturecenter.org
Hunter's Moon tonight!
Look for it just after sunset, glowing orange as it rises above the horizon.
Jupiter also shines bright tonight, along with possible meteors from the Draconids. So much to see in the night's sky!
MAKE TIME FOR PLAY