What are Nature-based Solutions?
Nature-based solutions offer a holistic approach to land management that embraces and mimics natural processes, thus moving beyond mere conservation to provide regenerative, cost-effective human and ecosystem benefits.
SLOW THE RAIN
Texas karst country is prone to gully-washing rains. Slowing down overland water flows reduces erosive velocities and allows more water to soak into the soil to help hydrate vegetation to reduce fire risk, replenish groundwaters, and reduce downslope flooding.
COVER THE GROUND
Dense vegetation cover protects and adds organic matter to shallow karst country soil. Sparse vegetation cover exposes soil to erosion and degradation. If you can see bare caliche between plants, it’s not covered enough. Get the ground covered or keep it covered.
REVIVE THE SOIL
Slower overland water flows and covered ground will support the revival of soil biology. Healthy Texas karst country soil can be identified by its darker color and ability to hold a loose ball when squeezed.
The Holistic Planning Process
Holistic planning mimics natural ecosystem processes.
In nature, nothing happens that doesn’t affect the entire system. This problem-solving approach help landowners remain aware of processes, changes, and the impact of their actions as a whole and produces more sustainable results than conventional land management.
Many ranchers are turning to holistic management (HM).
Conservation Easements to Protect
We need to locate and set aside healthy Texas karst country into land trusts. Developers need to be encouraged to protect more upland areas with healthy vegetation and soils, not just bottomlands, since that’s where erosive runoff begins.