When we talk about conservation, we often focus on land, water, wildlife, and the policies that protect them. But there’s another kind of infrastructure that determines whether environmental work thrives — the social infrastructure that connects the people doing the work.
Last night, under the South Texas sky at Uncle Chops in Weslaco, I saw that infrastructure come alive.
Our Summer Nature Social brought together around 40 community members from across the region: nature centers, libraries, museums, state parks, wildlife refuges, volunteer groups, college students, and more. Sponsored by Friends of the Wildlife Corridor, Texas Children in Nature Network, RGV Nature Center Alliance, and the Native Plant Society of Texas–Rio Grande Valley, the event was intentionally simple — good food, open air, and space for conversation. The impact, however, was profound.
People didn’t just show up — they showed up for each other
From the start, the energy was unmistakable. People weren’t simply exchanging names; they were sharing stories, challenges, hopes, and ideas. After dinner, we invited everyone to introduce themselves — not just their role, but what they were passionate about and where they hoped to make connections. The space lit up.
Marisol Vidales, Library Director at the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Library, spoke with excitement about their Nature Smart Library work and the launch of a new outdoor children’s play space, warmly inviting nature organizations to join the celebration. College students shared their conservation work and their eagerness to learn from those who came before them. Liz Walker, a refuge volunteer, described the joy of connecting visitors to wildlife during her bird walks — and enthusiastically invited everyone to the next one.
There was joy at every turn, even as people acknowledged the challenges facing our region. Several attendees expressed how meaningful it felt simply to be together — to be reminded that they’re part of a larger movement.
Closing out the introductions were two leaders from our State Parks: Roy Rodriguez, Lead Interpreter at Bentsen-RGV State Park, and his superintendent, Tom Forwood. Both spoke about their long history in the field and their deep personal ties to the Rio Grande Valley. Their reflections inspired the group to keep going, keep connecting, and keep contributing to the protection and celebration of this unique place we call home.
Social infrastructure makes collaboration possible
We often assume collaboration happens in meeting rooms or through formal partnerships. But it actually begins in spaces like this — informal, human-centered gatherings where trust is built and ideas surface naturally.
When people feel connected, they share more. When they share more, they collaborate more. And when collaboration grows, conservation accelerates.
That’s social infrastructure.
Conservation needs connection
Environmental work can be heavy. Many of us operate with limited resources, big responsibilities, and the constant pressure of protecting something irreplaceable. But when we gather — when we share space, stories, and purpose — the work feels lighter. More possible. More hopeful.
Last night reminded me that the future of conservation isn’t just about restoring landscapes. It’s about restoring connection.
And that’s work worth investing in.
We’re already planning our next Nature Social for September, likely in Cameron County — another chance to strengthen the network of people who care deeply about the natural world in South Texas. To join us for our next nature social in the RGV, or to discuss ideas on how to put together one in your own community, contact president@friendsofthewildlifecorridor.org or Marisa at moliva@texaschildreninnature.org.
3325 Green Jay Rd., Alamo, TX 78516 (956) 784-7502
Visit us at: www.FriendsoftheWildlifeCorridor.org
