Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT)

The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the discovery and documentation of plant biodiversity through its research and collections programs, and the dissemination of the information gathered about that biodiversity through its education and publication programs. We seek to conserve our natural global biodiversity by deepening our knowledge of the plant world and achieving public understanding of the value plants bring to life.

Beyond their beauty, plants provide for the survival of all life; for food, medicine, and the maintenance of the air we breathe. We believe that an understanding of Earth’s ecosystems – and the pivotal role that plants play in them – will enable us as Earth’s stewards to make sound decisions that will benefit future generations. Plant-centered research reveals relationships between plants, documents geographic diversity, and identifies species.

From the field to the herbarium to the library, BRIT scientists expand the knowledge of the natural world. Our geographic scope spans the globe -- in Peru, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, North America, East Texas and the Four Corners region of the United States.

We link global issues to local experience through education and outreach that emphasizes the importance of biodiversity and sustaining the environment.

BRIT Education recognizes the importance of fostering in children and adults a sense of wonder about the natural world. In this age of technology, the power of an inquiry approach to learning cultivates transformative experiences – it fosters a change in perspective, altering learners’ core assumptions about the nature of things. Place-based education provides children and adults an understanding of local ecology and sense of connection to the land and the communities upon which an ethic of care and responsibility can develop.