John Kent

Both the Dallas and Fort Worth zoos, though closed to the public due to Covid-19, continue animal care routines and bolster online engagements. Staffing and financial challenges persist; Dallas Zoo even launched an Emergency Operations Fund. Measures are in place for social distancing, and animals enjoy more freedom during the closure.

City of Fort Worth secures a 50-acre undeveloped area next to Tandy Hills Natural Area, enhancing the preserve to over 210 acres. With the city's $620,000 purchase, supported by Friends of Tandy Hills, future residential development is prevented, ensuring the land remains a natural sanctuary.

The Climate Book Club, launched by Citizens Climate Lobby DFW, meets monthly in Dallas to enhance environmental literacy. Organized by Dr. Melissa Rose Heer-Ahmed, the club tackles complex climate change issues through books like "Storms of My Grandchildren" and encourages public engagement in climate solutions.

TEDxSMU, now including offsite excursions for the first time, features activities like kayaking and urban farm tours on March 6. These trips aim to enhance the conference experience and expose participants to unique Dallas areas.

A local conservation group urges Fort Worth to buy a 51-acre prairie, Broadcast Hill, to prevent housing development. This parcel, adjacent to Tandy Hills Natural Area, is ecologically rich. Friends of Tandy Hills have raised $45,000 towards its purchase, encouraging city negotiations with Total’s selling agent.

Charley Amos, a Texas Master Naturalist, attracts 97 bird species to his Arlington yard by offering water, native seeds, and shelter without using chemicals. He warns of habitat loss and encourages using native plants. Amos’ favorite bird-watching spot is Big Bend National Park. His global bird count approaches 1,200.

North Texans are increasing efforts to aid migrating monarch butterflies by creating waystations like those in Fort Worth and Flower Mound. Local groups and cities participate in conservation, addressing population decline due to habitat loss and herbicides. These initiatives support monarchs' survival by providing essential milkweed and nectar sources.

Nicole Gorretta transformed TCU's sustainability efforts since 2016. She initiated recycling programs, banned Styrofoam, and organized the campus's first Earth Day Fair, leaving a lasting impact on environmental stewardship. Her leadership inspired lasting institutional change, ensuring the university's commitment to sustainability endures beyond her graduation.

The "Botanical Art Worldwide: America’s Flora" exhibit in Fort Worth showcases 46 artworks depicting native U.S. plants in various media. Developed by the American Society of Botanical Artists and the U.S. Botanic Garden, it aims to raise awareness of plant diversity and runs free through Nov. 27.

The DFW Solar Tour celebrates a decade of promoting renewable energy, offering a free, self-guided event with 30 locations across Texas. It highlights solar and wind energy solutions, sustainable technologies, and features demos and workshops at nine Learning Centers on October 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Allen ISD's new STEAM Center, designed by VLK Architects, integrates arts into STEM education with indoor-outdoor learning spaces, sustainable design, and innovative facilities, promoting environmental education. It addresses a national STEM skills gap and offers diverse classes and real-world experiences, including ecological zones and a living laboratory pond.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s 10,000-square-foot Rainforest Conservatory has quietly reopened after being closed since 2016 due to maintenance and safety issues. Repairs included glass replacements and mechanical overhauls. A grand opening is planned for early 2020, supported by varied funding sources amid ongoing renovation needs.