John Kent

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.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden introduces its first admission fee to address a $1.2 million budget shortfall. Revenue will support maintenance, program restoration, and new initiatives. Reduced and free entry options exist for families, students, and military. Planned improvements include greenhouse upgrades and a tram service.

Fort Worth is introducing four zero-emissions battery-electric buses, starting Sept. 22, connecting downtown, the Cultural District, and entertainment areas. This public/private initiative aims to reduce noise and emissions, with funding assistance from community partners and a charging station to support the 150-mile range vehicles.

One million species face extinction due to human activity, with orangutans critically endangered due to palm oil production. Dr. Birute Galdikas urges immediate action, such as avoiding palm oil products and supporting conservation initiatives, to prevent further habitat destruction and save orangutans from extinction.