Future Ancestors: Water & Land Workshop
A free, hands-on community workshop to build, learn, and grow together.
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (come and go)
Location: Balch Springs Public Library & Learning Center – 12450 Elam Rd, Balch Springs, TX 75180
Cost: Free
Who: All ages welcome
Join us for the first official Future Ancestors community workshop at the Future Ancestors Library Garden. Together, we’ll build rainwater catchment systems, explore how water shapes our local landscape, and take part in hands-on activities for all ages. This is the beginning of a new outdoor learning space rooted in restoration, sustainability, and community care.
What to Expect
What to Expect Visitors will be able to explore a variety of hands-on and educational activities throughout the workshop, including:…
- A live rain barrel system build & demonstration (join in or observe)
- Hands-on activities for all ages, like rock painting & coloring activities
- Community rain barrel painting inspired by native plants and pollinators
- Native plant and pollinator exploration
- A community idea board where visitors can help imagine the future of the garden
- Come-and-go participation… stay as long as you’d like!
Hands – On Build
Hands – On Build Want to get involved? Volunteers will have the opportunity to help build and install rain barrels during the workshop. This is a great chance to learn how rainwater catchment systems work while contributing directly to the garden.
No experience needed… just come ready to learn and participate
Sign up to volunteer HERE!
Why This Matters
Why This Matters The Future Ancestors Library Garden is a “living library”… an extension of the library into the landscape. This space is being created to restore native ecosystems, support pollinators, and provide accessible, hands-on learning opportunities for the Balch Springs community.
Take – Home Experience
Take – Home Experience Participants may also leave with small, garden-inspired items to continue the experience at home.
