John Kent

PS1200, a mixed-use development in Fort Worth, features Quonset-hut apartments, retail shops, offices, and a vegan bistro by Spiral Diner founders, all within an eco-friendly, public park setting. Developed by Prince Concepts and designed by Marlon Blackwell Architects, it emphasizes sustainability and innovative design.

The eco-friendly North Animal Campus in Fort Worth, designed for animal welfare and environmental sustainability, offers nearly 50,000 square feet of space on 7.5 acres. It includes native landscaping, LEED standards, and multiple animal-friendly facilities, enhancing convenience for local residents and promoting pet adoption and fostering.

Conservationists in Fort Worth are striving to protect the city’s last native prairie amid rapid development. The Fort Worth Prairie Park effort continues despite setbacks, aiming to unite private and public lands into a contiguous reserve. Stakeholders, including the Great Plains Restoration Council, collaborate to preserve this endangered ecosystem.

The deep freeze in North Texas stressed many trees, but most will recover, experts say. Live oaks' dramatic leaf loss is normal, while magnolias and sensitive non-native or young trees might suffer more. Residents should delay pruning and ensure trees are well-watered and fertilized to reduce stress.

Emerald ash borers pose a severe threat to ash trees in North Texas, risking ecosystem collapse. These beetles have already killed millions of trees across the U.S. Experts urge swift action to slow their spread, employing methods like SLAM or introducing parasitoid wasps to manage infestations effectively.

Christmas Light Source, a Fort Worth-based business, offers free recycling of old or broken holiday lights and donates proceeds to Toys for Tots. The program processes thousands of pounds of lights annually, involving efficient recycling and selling old lights.

Hurry to car showrooms as Texas' electric vehicle rebate ends January 7. Buyers can get up to $2,500 for battery-electric or plug-in hybrids, but Tesla is excluded. EV popularity is rising, with models offering 250+ miles on a charge and a growing number of charging stations nationwide.

The Arlington vote advances a fully funded Fort Worth-Dallas Regional Trail plan, bridging a gap between the two cities with a 30-mile trail. A projected 2023 completion promises expanded connectivity and health benefits, as supported by Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price.

Goodwill Industries International diverts approximately 76 million pounds of material annually from North Texas landfills, contributing to a worldwide upcycling effort of 4.6 billion pounds. This initiative not only reduces landfill waste but also creates employment opportunities, recycles various materials, and promotes sustainability and community stewardship.

Earlier this month, Richard "Buzz" Smith, an EV advocate from Fort Worth, embarked on a 1,200-mile Texas road trip in a Chevrolet Bolt EV to bust the myth that EVs aren't suitable for long trips. Despite some challenges, including range anxiety and destination closures, the trip proved successful, showcasing the viability of electric vehicles for road-tripping.

In North Texas, recycling campaign signs can be challenging as cities like Dallas and Fort Worth don’t allow them in residential recycling. Some private recyclers accept parts of the signs, while political parties often reuse stakes and recycle dated signs. Garland permits corrugated-plastic sign recycling curbside.

Adults with disabilities at Goodwill’s GreenWorks thrive through horticulture therapy, bolstering communication and life skills. The program promotes independence, offering real-life experience. Future plans include expanding the greenhouse for broader job training. Participants currently grow produce for local initiatives, supported by the Master Gardeners and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.