March 31, 2025 — The Texas Master Naturalist Program received an $80,000 donation to support community projects benefiting the state’s diverse native pollinator populations for a second year.
The donation, awarded by Texas-based grocer H-E-B, continues the partnership of the Pollinators for Texas initiative for a second year. Individual Texas Master Naturalist Chapters are eligible to receive up to $4,000 to support large-scale, community-based projects that enhance biodiversity while supporting native pollinators and their habitats.
“With H-E-B’s support, this funding will continue to drive meaningful engagement in pollinator conservation, benefiting both volunteers and the communities they serve,” said Mary Pearl Meuth, Texas Master Naturalist assistant state coordinator with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Impact on local communities
The Pollinators for Texas initiative aims to benefit Texas communities through the restoration and creation of pollinator-friendly habitats. Last year, the initiative awarded 16 chapters with funding to complete various pollinator initiatives across the state—from native plant gardens, also known as wildscapes, in public parks to engaging public participation in conservation efforts.
“H-E-B is proud to continue our partnership with the Texas Master Naturalist Program, ensuring that native pollinators and their habitats across Texas remain protected,” said Anahi Villarruel, H-E-B environmental affairs project manager.
Villarruel said protecting pollinators is essential to safeguarding Texas biodiversity, food security and the health of ecosystems upon which humans and wildlife rely.
How chapters can apply for funding to support pollinators
Texas Master Naturalist Chapters can apply for project funding Apr. 1-Jun. 1. Eligibility requirements, application instructions, the previously awarded projects and more information can be found on the Pollinators for Texas website.
“I’m excited to see the continued impact of the Pollinators for Texas initiative. Last year’s application process was a great success, and we look forward to seeing the awarded chapters bring their projects to life,” said Michelle Haggerty, Texas Master Naturalist state coordinator with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “This initiative allows Texas Master Naturalist chapters to expand their efforts in creating pollinator-friendly habitats and engaging communities in conservation on a larger scale.”
About the Texas Master Naturalist Program
Established in 1998 as a partnership between AgriLife Extension and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas Master Naturalist Program works to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers.
These volunteers provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of Texas’ natural resources and natural areas within their local communities.