February 8 – 21, 2016 | Service Learning Project | McKinney Falls State Park

February 8 – 21, 2016  |  Service Learning Project  |  McKinney Falls State Park
On February 8, three River Watchers from Akins High School, completed a pre-assessment through site visitation. They reviewed tenets and benefits of a healthy riparian zone, identified grasses to harvest from, and toured Onion Creek near Upper McKinney Falls
On February 9, three River Watchers from Akins High School, reviewed the benefits and tenets of a healthy riparian zone, including high quality habitat for aquatic and riparian species, and they established a baseline for monitoring riparian area recovery. River Watchers began harvesting and planting Eastern Gamagrass plugs along the scoured areas of Onion Creek.
On February 10, eight River Watchers from Akins High School enjoyed meeting Jenn Menge, a Texas Parks and Wildlife Volunteer Coordinator. Jenn talked to the River Watchers about her career pathway. River Watchers and staff continued to harvest and plant Eastern Gamagrass along Onion Creek.
On February 11, five River Watchers from Akins High School continued to harvest and plant Eastern Gamagrass along Onion Creek. Gamagrass provides numerous benefits, including a more stabilized bank, and is highly adaptable to a wide range of climates and soils. River Watchers then completed a post-assessment review of the riparian area and their work.
On February 21, eleven River Watchers from Akins High School and community volunteers, continued the work of improving the banks along Onion Creek by planting deep-rooted native grass plugs in scoured areas.