In Brenham, Lucille and Bill Welch saw the potential behind flooding, eroding land once grazed by exotic animals. After restoring the historic house and casita, they converted a former mini-barn into a romantic “barndominium” getaway. Dry creek beds and check dams control rainwater runoff, as do the deep-rooted native grasses they planted in a wildflower meadow. In more formal garden beds, Bill planted heirloom bulbs and roses, along with other low-care, water-conserving plants—many of which he’s brought into cultivation as a Texas A&M Professor and Extension Horticulturist.
