Connect with nature
Time spent in nature helps restore the link between our minds, bodies, and the world around us. When we immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of trees and nature, we build a personal bond with our surroundings that brings peace, relieves stress, and encourages healing.
Staying connected to our forests is essential to keeping them healthy, protected, and sustainable. Great care begins with great connection, and we offer opportunities for everyone, no matter your age or experience, to connect with and care for our forests.
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State forests serve as educational resources for Texans and visitors. Explore our state forests and arboretums.
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Nature Challenge is a platform that helps people across the U.S. connect with nature, engage with it in new ways, and take meaningful action to protect our natural resources.
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Geocaching is a fun way to explore new areas. Basically, it’s an outdoor treasure hunt and all you need for the hunt is your smartphone!
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Discover Texas like never before with Texas Scenic Views. Find wildflowers in your area, scenic drives, and beautiful stretches of foliage in autumn.
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We conduct geospatial analyses to help guide decisions on wildfire risk and forest resources. Using geospatial data and technology, we develop tools that allow access to analyses and information.
Resources to connect
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Nature-based wellness activities
Attend a forest therapy walk
Contact us for more information on guided forest and nature therapy walks hosted by certified guides.
Empower the next generation with Forest Literacy
Forest ecosystems are highly complex, but learning about them shouldn’t be. Educators, parents, and community leaders can use our Texas Forest Literacy Plan to teach the next generation about the importance of forests.
As a supplement to Texas’ Natural Resources Environmental Literacy Plan, this guide offers a framework for learning about trees and forests.
Teach about nature
Teaching about natural resources
Access a range of resources designed to help K-12 students explore complex environmental topics through hands-on lessons. Our materials help instructors teach practical conservation efforts, the principles of sustainability and ecosystem management, and the long-term benefits of healthy forests.
Learn about nature
Forest impacts
Forests are vital to the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the environment that supports us. Start by learning how forests directly impact your daily life and how small actions you take can support forest health.
Become a forest steward
Learn practical ways to become a steward of Texas forests. From identifying signs of forest degradation to supporting forest restoration efforts.
Care for trees
Learn about the simple steps you can take to care for trees in your area. This includes proper tree planting techniques, recognizing tree health issues, and maintaining their long-term well-being.
Choose sustainable forest products
Make informed decisions by choosing sustainable forest products. This application connects you with local industries that prioritize sustainable harvesting and production, ensuring the protection of our forests while supporting eco-friendly businesses.
Wildfire prevention
Understand the role wildfires play in forest ecosystems and learn how to prevent accidental wildfires that could damage our forests. Find essential wildfire safety tips and steps to create defensible spaces around your home and community.
Share a love of forests with others
Help spread awareness and foster a love for forests by sharing your knowledge and passion. Get involved in local forest education initiatives and inspire others to care for the environment.