Amy Martin

Senior Features Reporter

Amy Martin, a journalist and writer for more than 40 years, is a senior reporter for GreenSource DFW. Her latest book, "Wild DFW: Explore the Amazing Nature in and round Dallas-Fort Worth,” (Wild-DFW.com) will be released by Timber Press in July 2023. She is currently creating a biographical website (NedFritz.com) of Ned Fritz, Texas' most famous environmentalist. Her prior book was "Itchy Business: How to Treat the Poison Ivy and Poison Oak Rash, Prevent Exposure and Eradicate the Plant.”(Itchy.biz)

She was contributing editor for the national magazine Garbage (recycling and features), and has written for TheaterJones (comedy and cirque), Senior Voice (The Aging Hippie column), Dallas Morning News (recycling), Dallas Times Herald (performing arts), and Dallas Observer (music and comedy). For a dozen years, Martin also operated a popular alternative news service called Moonlady News, earning her the nickname Moonlady. She may be reached through Moonlady.com.

By Amy Martin

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mar 23 2020, AMY MARTIN

North Texans unite to bring back quail

North Texans are collaborating to restore bobwhite quail populations. The North Texas Quail Restoration Workshop gathered representatives to share best practices for habitat improvement and quail reintroduction. Efforts involve professional breeding and habitat enhancement, focusing on creating quail-friendly landscapes with native vegetation, aiming for self-sustaining populations.

Feb 28 2020, AMY MARTIN

Native Texas Park tours kick off at Bush library in Dallas

Free tours at Dallas's Native Texas Park begin Feb. 29, showcasing spring's early wildflowers, Blackland Prairie landscapes, and innovative water management. Located at the Bush Library, tours run every fourth Saturday. Parking is $5. Explore before visiting via the park's website or Instagram.