Conservation

Mike Renner and his family live in a grid-connected home, yet they use no power from the utility company. Sixteen months ago, they made the decision to turn off their main circuit breaker and live exclusively with solar energy. Why did they make this choice? What steps did they take to go "off-grid"? How do they feel about living in an exclusively "solar" home .. especially when they know they've got utility power right there at the meter, available at the flip of a switch? 

In this update presentation, Mike will discuss the rewards and challenges of total off-the-grid living.

Free.

Fort Worth entrepreneur Joan Meeks, president of Commodity Recycling Solutions, will be speaking about the importance of recycling for the health of the environment.

Jason Hardin, an upland game bird specialist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, will be the March speaker. He is heavily involved with the National Bobwhite Conservation Initiative, an organization that is committed to restoring wild populations of the bobwhite quail. 

Learn about the management influences, decline hypothesis and the potential for habitat restoration benefiting bobwhites. Info: BringBackBobwhites.org

Meeting @ 7pm, social @ 6:30pm. This month's program is on the golden cheeked warbler. Also election of officers and vote on revised bylaws.

Meeting @ 7pm, social @ 6:30pm. This month's program is on Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

Volunteers needed the third Saturday of each month (except June, July, August & December) to help plant, mulch and weed nursery trees. Wear closed toe shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Water, safety glasses tools provided. 

Info: Tyler Wright, tyler@texastreesfoundation.org

Documentary employs macrophotography in order to show moviegoers a world they've likely never experienced. Meryl Streep narrates as the secret lives of bats, butterflies, hummingbirds and bumblebees come to life before your eyes. See how the determination and interdependence of these diminutive creatures somehow keep our chaotic world in balance.

View trailer.

To register online click here.

The city of Irving hosts its annual green film fest, featuring environmental films, including Bat City USA, a documentary about the Austin bats.

Friday, April 11
West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road

• The Carbon Rush - 10:30 a.m. - duration: 84 min.
• Bat City USA - noon - duration: 36 min. 
• Cafeteria Man - 1 p.m. - duration: 65 min.   
• Garbage! The Revolution Starts at Home - 2:15 p.m. - duration: 76 min.

Saturday, April 12
West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road

Second annual event features eco-friendly exhibits, speakers, vendors, entertainment, games and activities.

Guest speaker is Chad Pregracke, CNN Hero of the Year. Reserve your seat. 

Info: Mary Jo Tellin at 817-410-3490 or mjtellin@grapevinetexas.gov. 

Annual eco-festival featuring green vendors, children's activities, food and entertainment. Free.