Nature and Wildlife

The Lights Out Texas campaign asks Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting March 1 to aid migrating birds. Texas is a critical route for migratory birds, and light pollution in cities like Houston and Dallas disorients them, leading to exhaustion and fatal collisions.

A new Dallas group, Friends of Piedmont, is dedicated to restoring the neglected trails of Piedmont Ridge, once a popular hiking spot. With support from the city and local volunteers, they aim to reclaim the area’s former glory, focusing on preservation, history, and environmental sustainability.

A total solar eclipse on April 8 will be viewable across Texas, particularly in 31 State Parks within the path of totality. Dallas-based Lyda Hill Philanthropies is donating gadgets like sun-spotter telescopes and eclipse safety glasses. Texas State Parks will have special programming and reservations are recommended.

In Flower Mound, conservation efforts focus on preserving native plants and ecosystems. The town's Environmental Services Department promotes eco-friendly gardening, while educational programs and videos foster community engagement. Significant sites include a historic flower mound and a pollinator garden, demonstrating a commitment to balancing development and environmental preservation.

Phil Hardberger Park in San Antonio addresses habitat fragmentation with the Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge, opened in 2020. The bridge safely connects wildlife and humans, reducing collisions and extending park habitat. It supports diverse ecosystems and incorporates conservation efforts, making the park a model for wildlife crossings nationwide.

The LBJ National Grasslands, located 60 miles from Fort Worth, is a complex, scenic landscape administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Spread over 20,250 acres and divided into 67 units, it offers trails and diverse ecosystems and requires careful navigation, as there are no formal entrances.

Molly Hollar, an influential environmental pioneer, passed at 95. Her legacy continues through the Wildscape at Veteran's Park, a concept she helped establish. Hollar inspired many in conservation and native plant advocacy. A memorial service and donation opportunities honor her impact and dedication.

The city of Dallas will develop 15 new parks on vacant city properties as part of the Green Initiative to improve park equity. Led by Dallas Parks and Recreation and The Trust for Public Land, the project engages communities in designing parks with desired amenities, supported by $2.5 million in funding.

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center in Denton faces threats from nearby development plans, raising concerns among residents and environmentalists about the impact on the unique ecosystem. Rapid population growth challenges preservation efforts, while the Northeast Denton Area Plan seeks to balance development and environmental protection.

North Texas prairies, integral to the region, benefit from controlled fires to rejuvenate ecosystems and prevent wildfires. A workshop on Jan. 10-11 in Fort Worth aims to educate land managers on prescribed fire techniques, featuring expert speakers.