By Texas Standard.
Every spring, wildflowers bring Texans and visitors out of their homes for all kinds of photo opportunities. It’s not uncommon to see dozens of cars parked along the Texas freeways while families pose in patches of bluebonnets.
Texas Department of Transportation spokesman David Glessner says the springtime excitement can also make families speed up cars and drive on medians, creating potentially dangerous situations.
“We encourage people to be very careful. Security is the top priority at TxDOT, ”says Glessner. “While we appreciate that everyone enjoys enjoying the wildflowers, we ask that they drive to a safe place and be aware of their surroundings at all times.”
The flower fields along the streets are no accident. Since the mid-1930s, according to Glessner, TxDOT has been committed to maintaining and promoting the growth of native wildflowers for Texans and visitors. Today over 30,000 pounds of seeds are planted during the growing season.
Mass planting gives the state thousands of beautiful bluebonnets and wildflowers, but TxDOT has discovered that there are practical uses as well.
“Not only are they beautiful to look at, they also offer ground cover and water protection. They stabilize the soil and displace less desirable vegetation, ”says Glessner.
The wildflowers also save the agency some money – to extend the wildflowers they usually delay mowing the area.
Glessner says Texans should avoid trampling the wildflowers, including the beloved bluebonnets, while they are taking their photos.
Written by Elizabeth Ucles.
