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Nature and Wildlife

Mountain lion stands among rocks and trees in a rugged, dry landscape.
Sep 20 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Mountain lion stakeholder group to be formed

Despite a recent setback, big cat advocates say mountain lions in Texas may be closer than ever to finally being granted minimal protections. Most land in Texas is privately owned, so anywhere that mountain lions live is likely on private property.
Wildflower meadow with yellow, red, and purple flowers against lush green grass.
Sep 16 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

'Wild DFW' to be released in the spring

Timber Press will release "Wild DFW" in April, a North Texas nature guide by Dallas writer Amy Martin. With cover art by Mariell Guzman, the book highlights local natural spaces, ecology, and weather, plus insights from experts. Martin, a seasoned environmental reporter, aims to inspire nature preservation and tourism.
Two women smiling, one holding a certificate, colorful background.
Sep 09 2022, AMY MARTIN

Ned Fritz Scholarship winner inspired by Arlington nature center

Heather van Waasbergen, inspired by River Legacy Nature Center, plans to become a wildlife veterinarian. She received the Ned Fritz Scholarship, celebrating her environmental commitment and Unitarian values. Van Waasbergen aims to address global warming impacts on wildlife, studying at the University of California, Davis.
Dense forest with tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Sep 01 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Children should face their fears of the forest

Children should explore the woods often and fearlessly, learning to do so safely. Urban kids' fears, like of snakes, can be mitigated with education. Encouraging outdoor exploration can counteract “nature-deficit disorder.” Teaching safety rules helps foster confidence in nature while avoiding harm to wildlife.
Two men in wooded area; one holding wood, the other a chainsaw, both smiling.
Aug 24 2022, JIM DOMKE

Two Arlington businesses have roots in owners' love of trees

Ryan Elliott left his corporate job to pursue a passion for arboriculture, launching Treehugger Tree Service. Caleb Geer, influenced by his father's tree business, started Urban Tree Merchants, creating products from local tree waste. They promote sustainable tree care, recycling urban wood into custom items.
Blurry golden bokeh lights against a dark background.
Aug 19 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Laura Bush's nonprofit nudging Texas companies into protecting environment

Texan by Nature, founded by Laura Bush in 2011, mediates between companies and environmental groups for conservation projects. The nonprofit collaborates with over 100 organizations on initiatives like the Lights Out Texas campaign and Dark Skies initiative, enhancing conservation efforts across Texas and influencing broader environmental impact.
Aug 18 2022, AMY MARTIN

Hiker's guide to dirt trails in DFW

Aug. 18, 2022

Local cities invest millions in paved paths, yet largely ignore the public’s passion for soft-surface trails. 

While the quality excels, for a 10,000-plus square-mile metroplex of nearly seven million people, there should be at least twice as much. 

But let’s explore dirt-trail options for DFW urban nature retreats while we wait for city leaders to catch up. 

Aug 18 2022, AMY MARTIN

Dirt trails lead to close encounters with nature

Aug. 18, 2022

A few years ago, I shattered my C2 vertebra, an injury only two percent survive. The surgeon’s solution was to fuse my top three vertebrae, but the end result was to make my head unable to turn, diminishing my sense of balance by 20 percent. 

As I learned to walk again with a walker and then a cane, sidewalks and streets were essential, but I yearned to hike on dirt again. Six months after the neck wreck, I stopped by Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area near Denton. 

Water fountain with black stones, surrounded by large rocks in a natural setting.
Aug 04 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

'Put water out for wildlife,' urge North Texas rehabbers

During the dangerously dry summer of 2022, with persistent 100°F days and a drought in DFW, wildlife suffers immensely. Experts urge setting out shallow water dishes to help heat-weary armadillos, birds, and more. Despite risks, providing water minimizes wildlife dehydration and mitigates disease, as residents rally to support wildlife survival.
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