James Bendele, Ministry Lead for the Marianist Family Encounters Project (MFEP) at Central Catholic High School, San Antonio, TX, shares these updates. See below: pics from the hike, flora, and Art Contest on Earth Day 2023.
On Wednesday, March 23, 2023, our Dual Credit Evolution class went on a field trip to explore the Stone Oak Cave and then for a hike at Friedrich Wilderness Park. The class was able to learn more about the geology, flora, and fauna of the Texas Hill Country and perform some field exercises. We saw an endangered golden-cheeked warbler along the way and learned about many regional conservation issues.
It was our second field trip of the month – earlier in March, and we spent a day exploring Hardberger Park. Hardberger Park recently built a “land bridge” that connects two separate tracts of land. These trips gave us the unique opportunity to learn about wildlife corridors and their impact on population genetic diversity at a park rich in Texas ranching history.
Overall, both “adventures” helped our students walk away with a greater appreciation for the great outdoors and the beauty of God’s creation.
Pictured below from left to right: Prairie Verbena, Wine Cup, Mexican Buckeye, Catclaw Acacia in Bloom, Spanish Dagger Yucca, Texas Tree Lizard, Field Exercises
Pictured below are some remarkable creations from students at the Central Catholic 2023 Earth Day Art Contest.