Gathering

To Inspire and Honor our People

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”—Margaret Mead and shared by Michelle Haggerty during her presentation

Betsy Cross and Hays County Master Naturalists

Over 600 Texas Master Naturalists and nature experts gathered at the Embassy Suites Hotel in San Marcos, Hays County, Texas, to share their expertise, expand their knowledge, and celebrate achievements during the four-day Annual Meeting of Texas Master Naturalist.

HCMNs gathered at lunch and dinner to share stories and enjoy one another’s company. Photo courtesy Betsy Cross

What’s Up with the Boots?

“There were 70 centerpieces in total; the actual (used) boots were donated from Hays County Master Naturalists or Cabelas, others were rescued from thrift stores. So literally, they were boots on the ground at one point of their journey. Every "Boot" has found a new home post conference—many traveling to new TMN Chapters for use at another project or event. Hays County Master Naturalists Carolyn Langlinais and Sarah Carlisle lent their talent and time to the project.” —Mary O’Hara

Celebrating Accomplishments

The Hays County Master Naturalist Chapter had the most attendees at the meeting with 55 registrants.

During Saturday night’s dinner, each of the 49 chapters of Texas Master Naturalist was recognized by Michelle Haggerty, and milestone accomplishments were announced for individual chapter members who were in attendance at the meeting.

For the 44 chapters represented at the meeting, all attendees’ milestone awards are listed here for the following: First Year Certifications in 2024, 250 Service Hours, 500 Service Hours, 1,000 Service Hours, 2,500 Service Hours, 4,000 Service Hours, 5,000 Service Hours, 10,000 Service Hours, and 20,000 Service Hours.

2024 Contest Award Winners

Hays County Master Naturalists proudly brought home two awards:

And the 1st Place Award in the Video Contest goes to…

Click “90 Videos in 30 Days” to view the Hays County Video Team’s award winning video submission.

Katie Peltier received the $500 cash award on behalf of the Hays County Video Team! Photo courtesy Betsy Cross

And the 1st Place Award in Photography: Scenic Category goes to…

See all the winners here: 2024 Annual Meeting Award Wrap-up

Silent Auction

Hays County Master Naturalists and master naturalists across the state donated tables of artistic items, framed photographs, books, bottles of wine, and other things to the Annual Silent Auction. Money raised by the auction is used for TMN project grants, scholarships to the annual meeting for each chapter, and to bring in speakers and trainers for future annual meetings. At last count, the auction had raised over $16,000.

**Georgean Kyle**, pictured here, donated her beautifully detailed, handcrafted collage of a nature scene. Photo courtesy Tina Adkins

Finding Our People

Just in case you missed someone you were expecting to see, here are a few more shots of Hays County Master Naturalists at work and at play.

Dick McBride and Christine Middleton Photo courtesy Tina Adkins

Sharon Moore and Carolyn Langlinais Photo courtesy Jane Dunham

Mel Seib and Laura Steffy Photo courtesy Jane Dunham

Slideshow photos courtesy of our roaming “cub reporters” Becky Kittleman, Christine Middleton, Dick McBride, Jane Dunham, Lance Jones, Tina Adkins, and Tom Hausler.