Learning from Nature
Making intelligent, evidence-based decisions for the conservation and restoration of the Arboretum’s landscape requires understanding both past and current environmental conditions and the efficacy of our landscape management practices. The Conservation staff conducts research to evaluate projects and guide future actions. Much of this research focuses on applied ecology, adaptive management, and ecosystem services in the Arboretum’s unique urban-wildland interface.
Current & Past Research
Invasive Species Monitoring
As part of ecological monitoring efforts, this study was conducted to assess the spatial distribution and ecological impact of Deep-rooted Sedge (Cyperus entrerianus) and to provide data-driven insights for guiding ongoing restoration and vegetation management in the Houston Arboretum’s savanna ecosystem.
This study surveyed plots within the woodland habitats of the Arboretum for individual Chinese Tallow (Triadica sebifera) trees and recorded their physical attributes and surrounding light availability to understand habitat preferences and provide location data for future management.
Long-term vegetation surveys
As part of the Master Plan, in 2015 the Conservation team implemented recurring vegetation surveys to evaluate the effects of restoration efforts and guide ongoing vegetation management.
2022 Vegetation Survey Analysis
Long-term pollinator and insect monitoring
Conservation team members, interns, and local high school and undergraduate students monitor pollinators and other insects throughout the year in five different habitats. This monitoring provides an indicator of habitat quality and productivity.
Prescribed Goat Browsing
These studies monitor the effects of goat browsing on both native and undesirable vegetation in different habitats to improve vegetation management at the Arboretum.
The Impact of Prescribed Goat Browsing on Understory Vegetation in an Open Woodland Habitat, 2022
Prescribed fire response
Following prescribed fires, the Conservation team monitors vegetation to track recovery and identify methods to improve species diversity.
Bat monitoring program
The Arboretum established a bat monitoring program using high-frequency audio recording and echolocation analysis software. The program determines bat species presence and habitat selection within the Arboretum and compares data between seasons and across years.
Wildlife and game camera monitoring program
This ongoing study uses game cameras to document the presence of wildlife species, estimate wildlife population density, and understand wildlife use by habitat type.
Rice University SSPEED Center hydrology study
A hydrologic modelling and in situ soil infiltration study conducted by Rice University to determine the flood retention benefits of natural landscapes found in the Houston Arboretum.
Houston Arboretum Infiltration Study, 2022
Mosquito monitoring
Harris County Precinct 4 Biological Controls Initiative tracked mosquito species and introduced native biological controls like predatory nematode worms and dragonfly nymphs into the Arboretum’s ponds. Harris County Public Health used mosquito data from the Arboretum to detect potential pathogens and disease-carrying animals before they cause outbreaks in the greater Houston region.
Landscape Performance Series by the Landscape Architecture Foundation
Thanks to a Landscape Architecture Foundation grant, Houston Arboretum & Nature Center partnered with researchers from Texas A&M University and the design firms Design Workshop and Reed Hilderbrand to measure the far-reaching impacts of its Master Plan. The results tell a powerful story: more people are visiting, connecting with nature, and building stronger community ties, while enjoying restorative experiences that boost mental health. The restored landscapes are working harder for the environment – capturing stormwater, filtering pollutants, cooling the city, providing vital wildlife habitat, and supporting a richer diversity of species. These improvements are also paying off economically, cutting maintenance costs through prairie and savanna restoration, creating new revenue through innovative goat grazing and prescribed fire, increasing nearby property values, and drawing more visitor interaction to help sustain the Arboretum’s mission. Together, these benefits demonstrate how thoughtful design can deliver lasting value for people, nature, and the economy.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, Phase 1, 2022
Conduct Research at the Arboretum
Interested in conducting research at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center? Our 155 acres cover multiple habitats found in the greater Texas Gulf Coast Region and offer a range of possibilities for field research in ecology, biology, hydrology, and more. Contact Dr. Stephen Benigno to learn more.