Spring 2026
WHAT'S NEW ON THE TRAIL
There's progress around every corner. Discover the latest additions and ongoing projects bringing new life to Willow Waterhole's trails and greenspace.
What’s Happening at Willow Waterhole
We’ve got a great lineup of free and low-cost events coming up!
Mother’s Day Sunrise Breakfast5/10 | 6:30 AM
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a peaceful morning at Willow Waterhole! Enjoy a relaxing sunrise, light breakfast, and quality time in nature—perfect for families and a meaningful way to start the day.
Register Here
Bird Walk
5/16 | 7:00 AM
Join retired NDC Senior Naturalist Mary Ann Beauchemin, experienced birders, and volunteers for this free citizen science experience. Help track species and support habitat restoration efforts.
No Registration Required! Meet at the Gathering Place parking lot.
Sunset Hike for All6/6 | 6:00 PM
Join us for an easy, guided sunset hike designed for all experience levels. Enjoy cooler evening temps, scenic views, and a chance to connect with nature and community.
Register Here
Bird Walk
6/20 | 7:00 AM
Join Houston Audubon for a guided bird walk. This free experience is a great way to spot local birds and enjoy a quiet morning outdoors. All skill levels are welcome. Bring binoculars if you have them.
No Registration Required! Meet at the Gathering Place parking lot.
We hope to see you out at the Waterhole!
Imagine More:
Seven Months In
On April 15, I reached seven months as Executive Director of Willow Waterhole. It has been, in the best way, like drinking from a fire hose.
There is a lot happening here. From habitat restoration to public programs, from daily maintenance to long-term planning, the pace is real. What has stood out most to me is not just the activity, but the potential. Willow Waterhole is already a special place, but it is also on the edge of becoming something even more meaningful for Houston. That is what our Imagine More vision is all about: taking the next step to improve access, strengthen ecosystems, and create a space that serves this community at a higher level.
Progress like that does not happen on its own. It depends on people who believe in this place and choose to invest in its future.
Recently, I learned something that shifted how I think about that kind of support. For a long time, most people who take the standard deduction did not receive any tax benefit for charitable giving. Now, that has changed. Individuals can deduct up to $1,000 in charitable donations, and couples up to $2,000, even if they do not itemize.
I am not a tax expert, but in simple terms, a deduction reduces the income you are taxed on. That means a larger gift may cost less than you might expect once tax savings are taken into account. For many households, that changes the equation and makes giving at a higher level feel more within reach.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor for advice specific to your situation.
Seven months in, what I see clearly is this: the future of Willow Waterhole will be shaped by the people who decide it is worth investing in. Not someday, but now. For those who are able, this may be a moment to step forward in a bigger way and help build on the momentum that is already underway.
If you have already been part of this work, thank you. If you have been watching and waiting, this may be the right time to step in and consider how you can support what comes next.
Imagine more, and help make it happen.