Julie Thibodeaux

On Saturday, Oak Cliff Earth Day preparations were delayed by rain. However, on sunny Sunday, a lively crowd arrived to explore green vendors, nonprofit causes, food trucks, and diverse entertainment. Photographer Jim Domke captured the event.

The 15th Oak Cliff Earth Day, hosted by Green Source DFW, occurs April 21 from noon to 5 p.m. at Lake Cliff Park, Dallas. Attendees can experience eco-friendly vendors, music, and food. Sponsored by local organizations, it features over 100 booths, including author Amy Martin, and festival T-shirts for sale.

While many North Texans may opt to stick close to home for the big eclipse on Monday, avoiding traffic jams and possible inclement weather, others will brave the forecast and crowded roads to share the experience with a few hundred others. Here are a few watch parties taking place at local parks, universities and green spaces that could be worth venturing out for.

The South Central Climate Resilience Forum will be held April 2-4, 2024, in Dallas, uniting stakeholders from a five-state region to address climate change. The event includes sessions on resilience, a keynote by Katharine Hayhoe, and networking opportunities to inspire community action and share success stories.

Residents of Grayson County oppose a proposed 660-acre cement plant by Black Mountain Cement in Dorchester, citing health and environmental concerns. The plant, linked to pollution, water threats, and economic disruption, faces public opposition, including from local mayors, before an upcoming TCEQ meeting.

Early registration is now open for the 15th annual Oak Cliff Earth Day, hosted by the Memnosyne Institute and backed by new sponsor, the Dallas Zoo. The event on April 21, 2024, will feature green vendors, entertainment, and education. Vendor registration costs $35-$60 before April 14.

Dallas resident and nature photographer Daniel Koglin discovered a leaking gas pipe at Richland Creek WMA, a wildlife habitat managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife. The leak was reported, and Southwest Operating remediated it. Koglin expressed relief but noted evidence of leakages at other sites.

The Lights Out Texas campaign asks Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting March 1 to aid migrating birds. Texas is a critical route for migratory birds, and light pollution in cities like Houston and Dallas disorients them, leading to exhaustion and fatal collisions.

A total solar eclipse on April 8 will be viewable across Texas, particularly in 31 State Parks within the path of totality. Dallas-based Lyda Hill Philanthropies is donating gadgets like sun-spotter telescopes and eclipse safety glasses. Texas State Parks will have special programming and reservations are recommended.

Molly Hollar, an influential environmental pioneer, passed at 95. Her legacy continues through the Wildscape at Veteran's Park, a concept she helped establish. Hollar inspired many in conservation and native plant advocacy. A memorial service and donation opportunities honor her impact and dedication.

The Moore Park Big Tree Grove in Dallas, a haven for the Black community during segregation, received historic protection from the city and the Texas Historic Tree Coalition. This landmark includes 16 historic trees and was part of the first trees officially protected for historic value by the city council.

The Texas Historic Tree Coalition held six tree dedication ceremonies this year, celebrating landmark trees like the Fort Parker Pecan, West Dallas Gateway Pecan, Comanche Creek Live Oak Grove, Singing Trees, and Comanche Council Live Oak. These ceremonies resumed after delays due to the pandemic and other challenges.