Alvin College Foundation Grant Supports Prairie ID Program

Even in a small prairie, there can be dozens of various plant species growing amidst the weeds. The Alvin College Biology Department planted a little metal with a name tag alongside the plants to help identify what’s growing on the prairie.

“The tags will afford patrons the opportunity to view the common and scientific names of the plants as they traverse the walking path through the prairie,” said Biology instructor Heather Lewis. “Because the tags can be moved, this allows us to properly identify species as the diversity and seasons change.”

The Alvin College Foundation recently awarded a $2,000 grant to the Biology Department to fund the name tags that have been installed.

The grant was awarded through Foundation’s Innovative Grant program which is designed to encourage, facilitate, recognize and reward innovative and creative approaches to fulfill the mission of the college. The grants will be used for the 2026-27 academic year.

The grant funded 112 custom- engraved plant tags made of durable outdoor rated acrylic. They feature an integrated tag and stake to make identification easy to read.

The tags will help identify more than 50 species growing in the prairie, Lewis said.

To learn how you can support the Alvin College Foundation, visit www.alvincollege.edu/foundation.