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By Amy Martin

Aerial view of a park with gardens, pathways, and distant city skyline.
May 25 2021, AMY MARTIN

Urban storm water poses threat to creeks, rivers

Urban stormwater in North Texas causes creeks and rivers to be overwhelmed with water and pollutants, contributing to erosion and increased flooding. Solutions include using permeable surfaces, rain gardens, and green infrastructure to retain water and reduce pollutant runoff, as well as community efforts to improve water management and reduce pollution.
Sunlit river with autumn trees and mist, under a warm orange sky.
Jan 12 2021, AMY MARTIN

The watershed we call home

The Trinity River, a sinewy stream in a prairie swale - until the rains come. Floodwater courses between the banks and rails against levees that dare to tell the river how to run. With each storm the river swells, reservoirs fill, embankments groan.
Kayaker paddles beside a cow and horse on a grassy riverbank.
Dec 03 2020, AMY MARTIN

Guide to Trinity River Paddling Trail

The Trinity River Paddling Trail in North Texas, now a National Recreation Trail, offers diverse paddling experiences. Before exploring, check river conditions and learn basic techniques. Popular routes include the Clear, West, and Elm Forks, and the Dallas urban Main Stem. Safety tips and resources for equipment and group trips are available.
Canoe on a calm river surrounded by trees.
Dec 02 2020, AMY MARTIN

North Texas paddling trail receives national designation

The Trinity River Paddling Trail, with 21 launch sites over 130 miles, has been designated as a National Recreation Trail, marking a transformation from its polluted past. This enhances North Texas's nature tourism appeal, fostering regional ecological appreciation and economic growth while offering unique wildlife and recreational experiences.
Cacti and lush green hills under a clear blue sky.
Sep 16 2020, AMY MARTIN

Palo Pinto Mountains State Park construction to start this year

The new Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, spanning nearly 5,000 acres of diverse terrain, will provide over 20 miles of trails, camping, and recreation, with plans for a 2023 opening. Funding efforts are ongoing, and the park promises to offer unique natural beauty in North Texas.
Man standing next to a stone Texas sign in a grassy area.
Aug 05 2020, AMY MARTIN

Dallas lawman talks 'walking'

Bill Holston, a Dallas human rights lawyer, directs the Human Rights Initiative of North Texas and advocates for the oppressed. Passionate about nature, he's a Master Naturalist, writes for D Magazine, and shares hikes on social media. Holston finds peace and reflection in nature, seeing it as essential amidst life's stresses.
River with rocky banks and green trees under a clear blue sky.
Jun 24 2020, AMY MARTIN

Hiking McCommas Bluff Preserve is wild, wet adventure

Hiking McCommas Bluff Preserve is a challenging 7-mile trek through Dallas's storied wilderness. The trail, notorious for illegal activities and environmental degradation, rewards hikers with scenic views of the Trinity River and a charming prairie. Despite urban encroachment, the preserve offers an intense encounter with nature’s beauty and history.
Trail through lush green forest with dappled sunlight and a solitary hiker.
May 27 2020, AMY MARTIN

Peaceful landscape found on final leg of Trinity Forest Trail

The Trinity Forest & AT&T Trail's final stretch, a mix of paved and dirt paths, connects the Trinity River Audubon Center, Texas Horse Park, Trinity Forest Golf Club, and Joppa Preserve. The hike features serene forest trails, wildflowers, and swampy areas, despite development threats, offering a glimpse into an idyllic landscape shaped by nature.
Dirt path through a lush green forest under a clear blue sky.
May 19 2020, AMY MARTIN

Trinity Forest Trail turns into shady retreat on second foray

The Trinity Forest and AT&T Trail offers over eight miles of paved paths connecting the Trinity River Audubon Center, Texas Horse Park, Trinity Forest Golf Club, and Joppa Preserve. The trail, though controversial among naturalists, is a lush, shaded route through bottomland forests, featuring diverse trees and wildlife.
Sunlit forest with green trees and lush undergrowth.
May 13 2020, AMY MARTIN

Paved Trinity Forest Trail connects natural landmarks

The Trinity Forest and AT&T Trail is a paved path connecting natural landmarks. While criticized for its environmental impact, it provides accessible exploration of the Great Trinity Forest. A three-part series documents this trail, highlighting its recreational opportunities and environmental challenges amidst industrial and natural landscapes.
Woman sitting on rocky hill, looking out over landscape.
Apr 21 2020, AMY MARTIN

Anniversary brings up a lifetime of Earth Days

Growing up in a dysfunctional family, nature was my refuge, shaping my worldview. Earth Day 1970 revealed the environmental crisis, igniting my activism. I engaged in protests and journalism against nuclear power. Over the decades, my focus evolved, intertwining nature, spirituality, and eco-activism, culminating in community outreach and writing.
Man kayaking on a river in a green kayak, wearing a hat and sunglasses.
Apr 15 2020, AMY MARTIN

North Texan put passion, pizzazz into local green causes

Lee Kelton, a passionate advocate for green initiatives in North Texas, passed away from leukemia at 80. Known for his vibrant presence, Kelton contributed significantly to various local environmental, cultural, and educational causes, leaving a lasting impact on communities like Oak Cliff, the North Texas Irish Festival, and Twelve Hills Nature Center.