Under his direction, the Center has expanded its public presence through new education projects and enhanced its national reputation as a research center by adding more scientists to the Center's board and staff. New trails and land restoration. A little over two years ago, the center purchased an additional 136 acres around the site and has recently opened new nature trails that allow visitors to see the progress being made in restoring the land to its original state. According to Priscilla Pipho, Public Relations Manager for the Wildflower Center, land restoration is one of two focuses for the Center under Breunig's direction. Landscape restoration encompasses far more than simply replanting native vegetation that may have been destroyed by over-grazing or commercial development.
Land restoration attempts to re-create original ecosystems that once existed.
For instance, plants that once thrived in an area had natural cycles, with decomposing leaves and other organic material adding nutrients to the soil. It is about bringing these systems to life again and restoring their natural processes. The Wildflower Center currently serves as a consultant for both individuals and organizations who need assistance with land restoration, among them City of Austin Land Management Planning Group for Water Quality. The Center helps the city manage both the quality and quantity of water in the Edward's Aquifer. Saving native seeds.