Texas A&M offers updated wildscapes program

Texas A&M University offers an updated Texas Wildscapes habitat restoration and conservation plan for rural and urban areas that enables Texans to develop wildlife habitats where they live, work and play.

For the thousands of people already familiar with the previous edition of the Texas Wildscapes book, the Texas A&M Nature Guides Edition and accompanying, easily navigable DVD will be a welcome supplement, providing a wealth of plant and animal lists, tables, photos, video, and other detailed information in a fully searchable format.

"Texas Wildscapes: Gardening for Wildlife, the Texas A&M Nature Guides Edition" provides the essential ingredients for a variety of wildlife: food, water and shelter. It then coaches you in designing and planting your yard or garden to best provide these requirements for the many birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates you will attract.

This book can also help you earn official recognition for your conservation efforts from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Successful applicants will receive a personalized certificate and have the opportunity to receive a weatherproof sign for their landscaping accomplishments.

The 152-page book includes 154 color photos, plus maps, landscaping diagrams and other resources. The book costs $24.95, and can be purchased online through the Texas A&M Press Web site.