Armand Bayou Nature Center: Prairie & Wetland Restoration
Armand Bayou is a non-profit 501(c)(3)
organization managing approximately 2,500 acres as a nature center and wildlife
refuge. Through enriching experiences and educational programs, ABNC teaches a
deeper understanding of natural science and hence a greater appreciation of its
complexity and fragility. Through knowledge comes understanding and
appreciation, the first steps towards
conservation. ABNC’s 2,500-acre center
is located along Clear Creek and Taylor Bayou, in the heart of continual urban
development.
The purpose of this agreement is to provide funding to support the restoration and management of 418 acres of coastal prairie and prairie wetlands at the Armand Bayou Nature Center, Houston, Harris County, Texas. ABNC has developed a Prairie Conservation Plan which includes mechanical manipulation, herbicide applications, and prescribed burns. Each unit is broken down into small tracts which can be safely managed for optimal wildlife habitat. Removal of exotic species such as Chinese tallow is an ongoing process at ABNC. Dozers, roller-choppers, herbicides, mowing, and burning have all been used on several of the tracts to meet management objectives. This agreement will allow ABNC to continue the implementation and management of the Prairie Conservation Plan, by providing funding in the support of prescribed burns (169-acres) and mowing (249-acres).
Partners: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Reliant Energy Inc., and the Texas Coastal Program