Fort Worth Report

A chlorine spike caused the death of over 4,000 fish in Bedford’s Boys Ranch Lake. The source remains under investigation, halting restocking. Officials are removing the dead fish, and public access to the park is restricted. Past similar incidents involved water main breaks and chlorinated water leakage.

The Village Creek Drying Beds in Fort Worth closed to the public due to oil cleanup efforts, affecting local bird-watchers. While officials reported no public threat from the spill, residents worry about wildlife impacts.

Fort Worth collected 9.5 million pounds of litter since October 2024, aiming to reach 20 million pounds by 2025's end, with efforts involving city staff, contractors, and volunteers. Initiatives like street sweepers, UpSpire crews, and events like the Cowtown Cleanup support this goal. Increased collections are expected.

Departing council member Gyna Bivens helped Fort Worth enhance tree protections after seven years of advocacy. The new ordinance nearly doubles protected tree species, mandates preserving significant post oak and blackjack oak canopies, and raises penalties for illegal removal. It balances developer needs and aims to expand the urban canopy.

Coyotes are frequently seen in Tarrant County during mating season from January to March. Urban Wildlife Biologist Sam Kieschnick explains this is normal as coyotes adapt to urban areas. Residents are advised to secure trash, monitor pets, and use noise to scare off coyotes.

A new natural gas drilling site is approved in Arlington after 12 years, despite opposition due to its proximity to The Mother’s Heart Learning Center. The City Council cited state law limitations, yet faces criticism for not increasing setback distances. TotalEnergies plans 10 new wells, amid ongoing public resistance.

Allison Docker, Fort Worth's new green space champion, aims to preserve open spaces and enhance the city's environment through sustainable initiatives. She brings experience in landscape architecture, contributing to projects like urban parks and streetscapes, aligning with the city’s Good Natured initiative to preserve 10,000 acres by 2028.

SeaQuest Fort Worth closed following PETA's allegations of animal abuse, including shark deaths and unsanitary conditions. Despite Fort Worth authorities finding no issues, the USDA cited the facility for violations. Former CEO Vince Covino resigned, and other SeaQuest locations closed amidst criticism.

North Texas faces prairie loss due to rapid development as the population is expected to double by 2050. The Native Prairies Association of Texas launched the North Texas Prairie Initiative to conserve 2,000 acres within four years, emphasizing prairie benefits like flood protection and clean water.

Northeast Texas residents oppose the proposed $7 billion Marvin Nichols Reservoir, fearing it will flood 66,000 acres and harm local industries. Debate centers on its necessity for Dallas-Fort Worth's growth. Alternatives and conservation are advocated, while public feedback on the state's feasibility study is open until October 25, 2024.

Nearly two years after the initial proposal, the Colleyville City Council unanimously approved the Bluffs at Colleyville housing development amid resident opposition. The nine-home project, down from an initial 19, will include city-dedicated land for tree preservation, while some residents remain concerned about losing native forest areas.

As the Dallas-Fort Worth air quality improvement plan nears completion, officials aim to secure $105-$185M for transportation-focused pollution reduction through EPA grants. Initiatives include clean vehicle incentives, enhanced transit, road upgrades, and more. The grant targets the second-highest funding tier to avoid direct competition with the state of Texas.