Programs & Events

The Center for Urban Ecology (CUE) offers workshops, nature walks, special events and volunteer land stewardship opportunities.  The CUE also provides a collection of resources just for you.

 

Workshops

The CUE workshops are a great way to expand your knowledge of nature and learn from professionals!  A few of the seasonal programs are listed below!  Please check the Calendar of Events for dates and times. Hope to see you at the CUE!

All About iNaturalist

The workshop introduces iNaturalist, one of the most popular nature apps in the world, helping participants learn how to use the app and the website.

Birding ID Basics

Learn the basics of bird identification in the Rio Grande Valley. Participants will learn the 5 keys to bird ID, along with how to use binoculars, field guides, and various apps and online resources.

City Nature Challenge Training

Learn how to participate in the world’s largest bio blitz! This workshop includes an introduction to iNaturalist and tips on making “City Nature Challenge” observations.

Gardening for Wildlife

Learn the basics of how and why to create wildlife-friendly gardens. This workshop covers native plants in the Rio Grande Valley, why they matter, and what resources are available to help participants plan their garden.

Edible Native Plant Gardening

Learn about native plants that provide habitat for wildlife and are a tasty treat in the kitchen.

Prepare for Planting

The workshop is all about getting ready to plant your garden. It covers different methods of garden bed preparation, along with tips on how to grow your own plants from cuttings and seeds.

 

Nature Walks

 Enjoy the thornforest and lush gardens of Quinta Mazatlan during one of the CUE’s guided walks in the park.

Flashlight Nights

Join naturalists on an evening adventure through the trails of Quinta Mazatlan in search of toads, owls, insects, spiders, scorpions, and other creatures of the night. Offered seasonally.

Sunset Viewing Series

Spend the last 60 minutes of sunlight exploring Quinta Mazatlan during the evening golden hour. Offered seasonally.

Nature Mindfulness

Even spending a little time outdoors can improve memory, increase happiness, and reduce stress. Explore mindfulness and being in nature as a way to enhance your well-being on this guided walk. 

 

The CUE uses a combination of community science data and ecological knowledge to build upon state or nationally recognized days and awareness campaigns to create seasonally-relevant events.

  • • January: National Bird Day
  • • February: World Wetlands Day
  • • March: International Day of Forests
  • • April: City Nature Challenge, Lights Out RGV, Earth Day
  • • May: Lights Out RGV, World Migratory Bird Day
  • • June: Flashlight Nights
  • • July: Flashlight Nights, Mothing by Moonlight
  • • August: International Bat Nights
  • • September: Hummingbird Morning
  • • October: Texas Native Plant Month, Planta Nativa
  • • November: Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival
  • • December: Christmas Bird Count

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Show Your Support

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Support Quinta Mazatlán by becoming a member, giving your time as a volunteer or a donation. Your gift helps us care for the conservation of plants, education for children & adults, programs for the community & the mission & goals of Quinta Mazatlán.