People & Prairies

Cross Timbers Habitat Improvement
A Tarleton State University Research Partnership

Central Texas landowners have partnered with Tarleton State University to improve and preserve the integrity of native wildlife and habitat on their property. This historic property is being restored to create educational opportunities for other landowners who play a crucial role in the effort to improve and protect Texas prairies and their wildlife. The ongoing activities implemented by Tarleton State University allow us to continuously assess, monitor, and enhance biodiversity, restore ecosystem function, evaluate new management practices, and provide outreach, demonstration, education, and interpretation. We are conducting surveys, implementing a rotational burn plan, eradicating invasive plant species, seeding with native species, installing bird boxes, and providing information to others to highlight and explain these practices.

Fences Ranch is home to many native Texas mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, arthropods, and plant species. The property also provides habitat for various species of concern. Ongoing surveys continue to add species to the list of those that have already been detected on the property.

This project provides a unique opportunity for private landowners to learn ways to benefit and support native wildlife and habitat on their properties. Tarleton State University developed goals and activities into a 5-year management plan for this property. Five years offers a realistic time to implement changes and evaluate results.