Julie Thibodeaux

The 2020 Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards were held virtually due to the pandemic, with trophies later hand-delivered. Winners included Marsha Jackson, Olinka Green, Dale Crownover, and others recognized for environmental justice, innovation, activism, and reporting. Deliveries faced delays due to Covid and weather challenges.

Restoring native plants in North Texas enhances ecosystems due to their drought tolerance and support for wildlife. Several garden centers and the Native Plant Society of Texas facilitate access. Native plant sales are reopening, offering diverse selections and fostering community involvement in native flora conservation.

Dallas-based EarthxFilm's 5th edition starts April 16, offering drive-in, outdoor, and online screenings until April 25. The festival, in conjunction with EarthX's annual exposition, showcases environmental films, including "Playing with Sharks" and "Percy Vs. Goliath," highlighting filmmakers and awarding $25,000 in cash prizes.

"Green Source On the Air" launches April 22. This new monthly program by Green Source DFW will feature environmental topics, interviews, and entertainment. The Earth Day show includes speakers like Marsha Jackson and Amy Martin, support from Dallas College, and music by Montopolis.

Tree advocates warn that big trees are being destroyed for development in Fort Worth, urging stronger preservation measures. The Texas Historic Tree Coalition highlights the environmental benefits of mature trees and challenges with existing ordinances. Fort Worth's Open Space Conservation Program and Dallas' strong tree ordinance aim to protect significant trees.

Richard Powers’ novel, "The Overstory," gives trees starring roles, blending research with storytelling to emphasize their importance. Through vivid characters and poetic narratives, Powers challenges human exceptionalism and environmental issues. He hopes the book inspires a shift in consciousness about the significance of nonhuman life.

Fort Worth partnered with Downtown Fort Worth Inc to dim lights for migrating birds, as part of Lights Out Texas, helping billions of birds navigate safely. This aligns with initiatives inspired by BirdCast and other conservation efforts to tackle light pollution, crucial since many U.S. birds migrate via Texas.

Using an old phone as a security cam can help monitor spaces like a tool shed with the Alfred Camera app. By utilizing two smartphones, one as a camera and one as a viewer, users can receive alerts and view recordings. The app offers features like motion alerts, two-way talk, and night vision.

The Big Chill in Texas led to widespread damage to plants, particularly cacti and succulents. Spineless prickly pears, though hardy, may recover after some drooping or dropping paddles, while aloe vera may not survive. Agaves and sedums generally fare better. Patience and care are advised for plant recovery.

Dallas youth protested against Comstock Resources, owned by Jerry Jones, accusing them of profiting from Texas' winter storm by exploiting high gas prices. The Sunrise Movement Dallas urged action against companies benefiting from climate issues, demanding utility bill forgiveness and a shift to a green economy.

The DFW chapter of the Climate Reality Project promotes free online training from April 22 to May 2 to empower climate activists. The sessions focus on policy change, sustainable futures, and stopping fossil fuel expansion. The initiative addresses urgent climate action and adaptation for North Texas.

Green Source DFW readers shared their favorite environmental books, including classics and lesser-known works, such as "The Overstory" by Richard Powers. Notable mentions include "Goodbye to a River," "Ecology of Commerce," "Braiding Sweetgrass," "The Vertical Farm," "Walden," "Silent Spring," "Desert Solitaire," and "A Sand County Almanac".