Conservation

Rodney Fox, survivor of one of the worst, non-fatal shark attacks, will make an exclusive visit to the Museum of Nature & Science in Fair Park next week. From surviving one of the worst, non-fatal shark attacks by a Great White to becoming one of the foremost advocates in the research and conservation of the very creature that could have taken his life—Rodney is an inspiration to us all!

On Saturday, July 28, ticket holders to the Planet Shark: Predator or Prey exhibition at the Museum of Nature & Science, will hear about Rodney’s unparalleled diving career of funny, unusual and thrilling experiences, including his famous shark attack story and being a part of the filming for the popular 1975 film, “Jaws.” Visitors can see a signed copy of Peter Benchley’s book, “Jaws,” in the Planet Shark exhibition at the Museum.

Public Q & A Sessions:10 a.m.-10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m.-1 p.m., 2 p.m.-2:30 p.m., 4 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

This event is hosted by the North Texas Environmental Meetup Group. In addition to talking about water, the group will also be talking about the latest environmental news and then move on to member suggested topics.

This event is scheduled around dinnertime, so feel free to come a little bit early and get a bite to eat or pick up a pint while we're there. Since we'll be taking up some space, it's only fair to give back a bit to the restaurant.

Hosted by EcoTuesday, an important message to building/property owners and managers will be given by Lori De La Cruz, ABC, and the Vice President of Sustainability Education at U.S. Green Chamber of Commerce (Lone Star Chapter). This is also a networking opportunity to meet other people in the property/building industry and trades. Refreshments will be served. Please sign up ASAP to attend at: http://www.meetup.com... before registration fills up.

Learn the fundamentals of finding your way in the wilderness in this two-evening class. Among the subjects covered are: purchasing maps, how to read maps, how not to get lost, what to do if you do get lost, GPS, different kinds of compasses and how to use your compass. If you have a compass, bring it to the class. If you don't have one, we will show you what to look for when you purchase one. The fee for the class is $15 for Sierra Club members and $20 for non-members (CASH or CHECK ONLY - NO CREDIT CARDS). Handout included. Bring water bottle and writing utensil if you want to take notes. No reservations are necessary; just show up.

Gailon Hardin, Master Gardener and past president of the Native Plant Society of North Texas, will speak on native plants for your home landscape. She will offer advise on what plants to use in shade or sun suited to our north Texas climate. As water restrictions increase across our cities, plants selection for our landscape is critical. The speaker is followed by refreshments and announcements. Socialize with members after the meeting at Gingerman.

Todd Ethridge, Water Programs Coordinator at the Fort Worth Nature Center will speak on Trinity River: A Legacy Of Life. This program is an overview of the natural and cultural history of the Trinity River. Todd is an American Canoe Association certified kayak instructor and has been canoeing and kayaking for over 35 years. He has intimate knowledge of the Trinity River. The speaker is followed by refreshments and announcements. Socialize with members after the meeting at Gingerman. All are welcome.

The primary goal of sustainable architecture is to consume fewer resources. How can this be reconciled with a culture and economy that measures its vitality in terms of how quickly consumption can be grown?

Panelists: Benje Feehan, Assoc. AIA, bcWorkshop; Larry Good, FAIA, Good Fulton & Farrell; and Monica Heid, AICP, Community Projects Manager, Richardson.
Cost: $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
Appetizers and drinks served.

“Trashing Our Treasure” Photography Exhibit at Dallas City Hall, Main Lobby July 16-August 10, 2012

 Dallas, TX, July 15, 2012 – Shared FUEL, a Dallas-based sustainable nonprofit, today announced that “Trashing Our Treasure,” a photography exhibit of litter at White Rock Lake, will be displayed in the main lobby of Dallas City Hall from July 16 through August 10.  The event is free and open to the public.

Designed to educate, inform and motivate individuals to be aware of the environmental consequences of litter on our green public places, “Trashing Our Treasure” debuted during last year’s centennial celebration of White Rock Lake.  The exhibit focuses on unnatural predators, such as styrofoam, plastics, aluminum cans and glass, that accumulate along the shoreline, particularly during storm events, and encroach upon the area’s wildlife habitats.

Saving from a Rainy Day - Making a Rain Barrel
Tuesday, August 14, 2012     6:30 - 8:30 PM

Sponsor:  Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Urban Solutions Center

Dr. Dotty Woodson, Extension Program Specialist - Water Resources will be teaching this class and will provide participants the opportunity to construct a 55 gallon rain barrel as well as discuss installing an efficient irrigation system.  The rain barrel* is yours to take home!

Cost:  $50.00 each barrel (covers cost of rain barrel and materials)

*Rain barrels measure 24 inches in diameter and 36 inches tall.  Please bring a vehicle large enough to haul your rain barrel(s) home.

Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center
Whitehurst Atrium
17360 Coit Road
Dallas, Texas 75252

Information and to register on-line at http://dallas.tamu.edu/ 

Mountain View College Performance Hall (Building “E”)
4849 W. Illinois Avenue, Dallas, TX 75211
Saturday, September 22
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Click here for a location map and a list of area restaurants.

Landscape designer and author Bonnie Reese of Beautiful Landscapes will be the speaker at both sessions. The first 100 attendees at each session will receive a copy of Ms. Reese’s book, “Common Sense Landscaping” (hard copy or electronic version). Attendees can also enter a drawing for free bags of Green Sense organic fertilizer from Rohde’s Nursery and Nature Store.