First Friday Walk and Talk with Wild Basin Staff
805 North Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78746
Educational Event
This monthly offering is on the first Friday of each month.
Come walk the trails and talk with one of the Wild Basin Creative Research Center's staff members as they take you on a guided adventure.
During this 1.5 - 2hr. experience, you will walk some of the trails and learn more about the history, operations, programs, and ongoing research happening at Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve and in the Creative Research Center.
This adult-focused opportunity is designed so participants get to know Wild Basin better and have direct communication with the Center's staff. Some parts of the trails cover rugged terrain and have steps without railings. A hiking stick or trekking poles are encouraged.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a full water bottle. Space is limited so make sure to reserve your spot. Cost is $5/person and supports the Preserve. Additional donations are encouraged.
Staff, Titles, Guide Date and Focus
Paul Vickery; Environmental Education Coordinator - 2024 Date: Dec. 6th; 2025 Dates: March 7th, May 2nd and Sept. 5th: Using visual aids we will talk about the history of Wild Basin from the cretaceous period when Wild Basin was a shallow sea to present. Nature sketching may also be included as time allows.
Trevor Rice; Preserve Manager - 2025 Dates: July 11th (due to July 4th holiday), August 1st and Nov 7th: Do you ever wonder who maintains the trails at Wild Basin or monitors the preserve for invasive plants? Come meet me and share some time on the trails to learn about the land management work being done to protect this unique piece of the Texas Hill Country.
Barbara Dugelby, PhD.; Executive Director - 2025 Dates: Feb. 7th, June 6th and Oct. 3rd - Come learn about the natural, cultural, and institutional history of the preserve. You will also find out more about the Center’s programs and ongoing research and educational projects.
Gabriella Pardee, PhD; Research Director - 2025 Dates: Jan. 3rd, April 4th and Dec. 5th - Did you know that Wild Basin has multiple ongoing research projects related to pollination, stream ecology, animal movement, and restoration? Hike with me and you'll get to hear all about the exciting and impactful work we're doing related to conservation and sustainability. As a bonus, you'll get to learn about the different flowers that bloom along the trails and who visits them.