Julie Thibodeaux

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".

A climate-focused Dallas youth coalition, including the Sunrise Movement, rallied outside Rep. Marc Veasey’s office, urging support for the Green New Deal and opposing his stance on Biden’s halted oil and gas leases. They criticize Veasey's fossil fuel ties and demand action on economic, racial, and environmental issues.

EarthxTV's partnership with NowThis Earth aims to engage Millennial and Gen-Z audiences with daily environmental news and solutions. Launched by EarthX, the platform seeks to inspire and provide balanced discussions. The collaboration extends NowThis Earth's reach, addressing urgent environmental issues and empowering young people to act.

Shingle Mountain's removal from Dallas is underway after years of health concerns due to toxic shingle piles from Blue Star Recycling. Over 109,000 tons have been cleared since December 2020, with final clean-up expected by April 2021. Local activists continue advocating for comprehensive environmental restoration.

The North Texas Renewable Energy Group, renowned for the DFW Solar Tour, seeks manageable community service projects leveraging their solar and renewable energy expertise. Interested parties should submit proposals by Feb. 6, detailing the project’s purpose, cost, required volunteers, and timeline.

The Native Prairies Association of Texas, a statewide conservation group, met its fundraising goal to hire a North Texas Outreach and Stewardship Director. This role will oversee local prairie stewardship and partnerships. Less than 1% of Texas's tallgrass prairies remain, and efforts aim to conserve remaining examples threatened by urban expansion.

Molly Rooke, a Dallas Sierra Club activist, encountered hazardous abandoned oil wells on her family ranch. A Texas judge halted the Texas Railroad Commission's COVID-19 waivers for oil and gas companies, which bypassed environmental rules. Public Citizen's lawsuit emphasizes landowner rights and cleanup responsibilities amid industry bankruptcies.

After canceling his initial plans due to the pandemic, UTA graduate Graham Feil completed the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail using a "Flip Flop" strategy. Despite challenges like social distancing and wildlife encounters, Feil enjoyed the solitary journey and plans more hikes, emphasizing the value of nature and urban green spaces.