Nature

Since the 1970s, North American bird populations have decreased by 3 billion due to habitat loss and industrial agriculture, according to a study led by Ken Rosenberg. The decline affects various species, except waterfowl, but conservation efforts could reverse this trend, emphasizing individual and large-scale actions.

Audubon Texas is launching a Clean Energy Future Campaign to address climate change impacts on birds by transitioning to clean energy in DFW. Events in Dallas (Sept. 18) and Fort Worth (Sept. 24) aim to recruit volunteers from all demographics to support clean energy initiatives and habitat preservation efforts.

At the 8th annual Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards on Nov. 14 at the Dallas Arboretum, Austin-based Montopolis will headline, performing "The Legend of Big Bend." The event celebrates North Texas green heroes, featuring awards, music, and a video tribute to Big Bend National Park.

The documentary "Into the Canyon," screened by EarthxFilm, follows two journalists on a 750-mile Grand Canyon hike to highlight conservation issues like uranium mining. The free event on July 22 at the Angelika Film Center includes raffle prizes and a panel with Wendel Withrow and Robert Kent.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden introduces its first admission fee to address a $1.2 million budget shortfall. Revenue will support maintenance, program restoration, and new initiatives. Reduced and free entry options exist for families, students, and military. Planned improvements include greenhouse upgrades and a tram service.

The Texas Buckeye Trail in Dallas has been renamed the Ned and Genie Fritz Trail to honor the couple's environmental contributions. They were key figures in the conservation movement, preserving numerous natural areas and preventing the Trinity River's channelization, thus safeguarding important Texas ecosystems.

Dallas horticulturist Leslie Halleck's second book, "Plant Parenting," is a visually rich guide on plant propagation for novices and experts. It covers techniques for multiplying houseplants, vegetables, and flowers sustainably and cost-effectively, fostering beginning gardeners while enriching experienced ones.

Severe storms in North Texas toppled hundreds of trees, causing power outages and a crane collapse that killed a Dallas resident. The Texas Trees Foundation emphasizes proper tree planting and care to prevent storm damage, advising certified arborists for maintenance. Trees enhance community health and offer numerous benefits.

The North Texas Master Naturalists rescheduled their open house at Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center to June 1 after a rainout. Visitors can explore the facility guided by volunteers, see various bird species, and enjoy educational tours. The event is free, but donations are welcome.

DFW is competing globally in the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge April 26-29, observing wildlife. Led by biologist Sam Kieschnick, participants photograph species in North Texas, with top observations contributing to the DFW count. iNaturalist data helps track species and ecosystem health, engaging amateur naturalists worldwide.