Musings about why the ETNHC mission is so important.
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes Tiger Beetle - Cicindela albissima lives on a small patch of pink sand dunes in Utah. This habitat is the only place on Planet Earth where this insect is known to exist. In fact, it only lives on an area about 3,500 acres in size. And on that small patch of sand, and only on that small patch of sand they pass their lives, eating, mating and surviving.
Now studies are showing their numbers in decline - mostly due to habitat loss and the damage done by ATV and off-road vehicles. This started me thinking about how Drs. Godwin and Goodwin are so excited about the areas we have access to in North East Texas.
As Dr. Godwin is so fond of pointing out - there are areas every bit as unique right here in N.E. Texas. These areas that could just as easily contain populations of unknown species that deserve to be discovered, studied and if need be protected. The problem is very simple - momentum. We need to push against the flywheel of publicity to get the word out about this area and the habitats it contains.
How can you help?
Please help us get the word out about the ETNHC and its mission. there are 2 ways to help.
The easiest way to help is to interact with our Social Media presence. You can Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, follow and like our Blog, repin our images on Pinterest. All of this activity is extremely helpful.
The more significant way you can support our efforts is to become involved. We have many ways for you to become a part of this team:
- Write articles for our Blog.
- Come up on Work Weekends and volunteer your time.
- If you have a scientific collection consider a long term loan to the ETNHC.
- Mention us in your Blog, Facebook, Twitter, or other Social Media channels - help your followers to also follow us.
- Contribute your photos of East Texas to our efforts and let us republish them on the website
- Fund a research study or even help fund our infrastructure and growth - funding is very helpful to our mission.
Bob Nuelle, Jr.
Research Associate
Entomology and Lepidopterology
East Texas Natural History Collection
I am writing to applaud the work of the East Texas Natural History Collection (ETNHC). I first heard of ETNHC from Bob Nuelle. In speaking with Bob, I learned that the ecosystem of this region of East Text contains unique natural features, including the salt flats as well as rare plants, insects and animals. These extraordinary natural treasures deserve to be studied and protected. We often hear that all politics are local, but this principle applies equally well to conservation. That ETNHC has been created to pursue the cause of studying and conserving these regional and natural treasures is a gift to Texas and to the nation. I so admire the tireless and committed efforts of all the volunteers involved in this worthy undertaking. Bravo to you all!
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