Nature and Wildlife

The Amon Carter Museum exhibit "Trespassers: James Prosek & the Texas Prairie" highlights endangered Texas prairies through immersive, exquisitely detailed art. Watercolors, sculptures, and multimedia works illustrate prairie fragmentation and wildlife displacement, stirring awareness of this vital ecosystem's plight.

The 2023 Green Gift Guide for Kids highlights eco-friendly gift ideas, including a Made in Texas onesie, bird workshops, gardening kits, and STEM toys. The guide features unique offerings like Lump of Coal products, dragon playsets, and recycled material toys, promoting sustainability and creativity for young eco-conscious gift recipients.

The Caddo Lake Institute, founded in 1993 by Eagles frontman Don Henley, protects the Texas lake's environmental integrity from development and invasive species. The organization collaborates with agencies to restore natural water patterns, tackle pollution, and safeguard threatened species like the American paddlefish.

The Moore Park Big Tree Grove in Dallas, a haven for the Black community during segregation, received historic protection from the city and the Texas Historic Tree Coalition. This landmark includes 16 historic trees and was part of the first trees officially protected for historic value by the city council.

The Texas Historic Tree Coalition held six tree dedication ceremonies this year, celebrating landmark trees like the Fort Parker Pecan, West Dallas Gateway Pecan, Comanche Creek Live Oak Grove, Singing Trees, and Comanche Council Live Oak. These ceremonies resumed after delays due to the pandemic and other challenges.

Rooted In, a nursery in Pilot Point founded by sustainability experts Daniel Cunningham and Clint Wolfe, offers heat, drought, and cold-tolerant plants. With 40 years of experience, they prioritize eco-friendly gardening and hold workshops. Their specialties include native grasses and water-wise plants, fostering community and sutainable landscaping.

State Sen. Tan Parker and environmental advocates urged Texans to support Proposition 14, a $1 billion fund for state parks, coinciding with Texas Parks and Wildlife's 100th anniversary. Constitutional amendments on the Nov. 7 ballot address taxes, infrastructure, and parks amidst historically low voter turnout.

Eight historic Dallas cemeteries will undergo a two-year rewilding program to transform them from common plots to native, wildlife-supporting spaces. The Constellation of Living Memorials, led by Friends of Warren Ferris Cemetery, aims to lower maintenance costs, create habitats, and offer community education.

Tent camping enriches outdoor experiences more than drive-through park visits. Despite common fears such as wildlife encounters, insects, and weather, camping offers a unique connection with nature. Modern gear, campsite safety, and learning to identify plants and animals mitigate concerns. Enjoy disconnecting from technology and immersing in Texas's natural beauty.

On Saturday, Oct. 14, a partial solar eclipse will occur in DFW with 80-85% sun coverage. Although it’s an annular eclipse, creating a "Ring of Fire," eclipse glasses are required for safe viewing. Without proper eyewear, use indirect viewing methods like a pinhole projector.