Wildlife

This class is ideal for those who want to learn all about backpacking and those wanting to refresh your backpacking knowledge and skills. Topics include: outdoor clothing, boots, backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, cookware, food, wilderness ethics, preparing for a trip and even a short, late afternoon breakout session to discuss men's and women's outdoor 'issues'. Instructors are experienced Dallas Sierra Club leaders. There will be time for questions and a hands-on look at outdoor gear. You will also have the opportunity to learn about, and sign up for, several beginner backpacking trips. Lunch of backpacking food is included. (Feel free to bring anything else you prefer to eat.) Handouts will be provided. PLEASE BRING a writing utensil and your water bottle. The fee is $20 for Sierra Club members and $30 for non-members (CASH or CHECK ONLY - NO CREDIT CARDS). 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 Tar Sands Blockade is hosting a three-day training in the East Texas area for environmental activists hoping to engage in nonviolent direct action against the Gulf Coast portion of Keystone XL pipeline.

Participants will focus on learning, implementing, and imagining new tactics for nonviolent blockades and other forms of direct action. This camp will take place outdoors in the Texas summer, so people should come prepared for very hot weather. Participants will be camping on site, and while special arrangements may be available, the nature of this camp may make it difficult for those with physical conditions that limit their ability to be in hot environments for long periods of time.

“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.

Cost: $30 advance registration; $40 same-day registration

The Dallas Zoo introduces a new opportunity for you to photograph the animals during the magic hours right before sunset! Take advantage of the evening light and get memorable shots of some of the Zoo’s most photogenic animals in ZooNorth. You will receive a special map indicating where these animals are located. Pre-registration is encouraged but on-site registration is available beginning at 5 p.m. Call 469.554.7423 for more information or to make reservations.

Cost: $30 advance registration; $40 same-day registration

Blue Moon Paddle 7:30 - 10 p.m

Blue Moon Paddle: Join us by celebrating our August Blue Moon with a different type of Canoe Tour in the evening hours. This program will present new opportunities, like hearing beavers slap the water with their tails and seeing deer and raccoons. Canoes, paddles and lifejackets are provided.

Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children.

Some previous experience recommended. Registration ends preceding Tuesday or when filled. Maximum - 12 participants. Meet at Back Gate. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $15.

Program registration may be accomplished via mail, telephone, or in person. Registrations for fee programs will not be considered confirmed until payment is received. Program fees are non-refundable and non-transferable except in the following circumstances:
 Program is cancelled by the Nature Center.
 Nature Center receives notice of cancellation 72 hours prior to scheduled program.
For more information or to register by phone, call 817-392-7410.