Green Living

The Great American Cleanup Campaign, sponsored by Keep America Beautiful, involves communities nationwide in litter cleanup efforts. Despite criticism of shifting blame from corporations to citizens, volunteers continue impactful cleanup initiatives. Upcoming events are planned in Grapevine, Dallas, and Fort Worth.

Turf-grass yards face criticism for their environmental impact, contributing to water waste and pollution. Tim Yatko advocates for native plant landscaping in North Texas, challenging city codes favoring traditional lawns.

With the election over, properly disposing of campaign signs is crucial to avoid environmental harm. Dallas offers recycling for signs at transfer stations, while other Texas areas have specific guidelines. Signs not accepted for recycling should be reused or discarded properly, avoiding wish-cycling practices.

Wild Ones DFW, a new native plant group in North Texas, held a meet and greet at the Flower Mound Library. Led by Kristina Dunn, this group focuses on advocating for native plants and is the only Wild Ones chapter in Texas. They aim to collaborate, not compete, with the Native Plant Society of Texas. Dunn hopes to expand to other Texas regions due to ecological diversity.

A revitalization effort for neglected Dallas cemeteries, led by the Friends of Warren Ferris Cemetery, has successfully transformed Warren Ferris Cemetery into a refuge and is now expanding to five additional cemeteries. The initiative, Constellation of Living Memorials, aims to restore cultural significance and green space, requiring larger organizational support.

Sisterhood Hikes and Such, founded by Tamara Pickering in 2021, offers safe outdoor activities for women in the DFW metroplex. Focusing on hiking and community, the group emphasizes authentic connections and nature appreciation. Activities cater to various fitness levels, enforcing Leave No Trace principles. Join via Facebook for upcoming events.

Many people are avoiding fireworks due to concerns about loud noises disrupting pets and trauma survivors, pollution from heavy metals, and wildfire risk. Cities are opting for drone shows as an alternative. Despite drones' own wildlife disturbance and light pollution issues, they are seen as a more sustainable choice.

Arlington author Michael Smith, a naturalist and retired psychotherapist, explores mindfulness in nature in his new book *Mindfulness in Texas Nature*. His journey was gradual, rooted in time spent outdoors, leading to deeper awareness. The book combines experiential insights with nature photography.

The restored Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk at Fort Worth Nature Center was officially reopened on Earth Day. It features upgrades including a new Lotus Marsh Pavilion and accessible design. The project, funded by grants and fees, highlights the marsh's ecological value and accommodates all visitors, including those with disabilities.

On Saturday, Oak Cliff Earth Day preparations were delayed by rain. However, on sunny Sunday, a lively crowd arrived to explore green vendors, nonprofit causes, food trucks, and diverse entertainment. Photographer Jim Domke captured the event.