Julie Thibodeaux

Oak Cliff Earth Day returns April 3, 2022, at Lake Cliff Park, Dallas, after a two-year pause. The event features eco-friendly vendors, speakers, and entertainment, including Marsha Jackson, a 2020 environmental award winner. Hosted by Green Source DFW and the Memnosyne Institute, it is supported by Dallas College.

Environmental groups including Beyond Nuclear and Sierra Club are suing the NRC for approving a temporary high-level radioactive waste storage facility in West Texas, arguing it poses safety risks and violates federal laws. Texas and New Mexico also oppose the facility, expected to store vast nuclear waste amounts.

Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area is reviving its trail run after eight years, offering the Woods and Wetlands 6K+ and the Earth Day Dash. Scheduled for April 23, proceeds support restoration efforts. The event features a new Stewart Creek Trail and emphasizes participation over competition, including snacks and educational activities.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine led a coalition to highlight environmental impacts, including nuclear risks and pollution. An open letter signed by over 1,000 global entities underscores the potential environmental crisis from military actions in industrial areas and stresses the connection between peace and environmental health.

Oak Cliff Earth Day announces Dallas College as the 2022 premier sponsor, emphasizing their commitment to sustainability and environmental justice. This ecofest returns April 3, 2022, featuring entertainment, educational booths, and speakers addressing environmental justice. Sponsorships and vendor spaces are available for the community-oriented event.

The Dallas Zoo has partnered with Silver Creek Materials to recycle animal manure into retail compost called Zoo Poo. This initiative supports sustainability goals, with a portion of sales funding wildlife conservation. Silver Creek, a seasoned recycler, handles the zoo's herbivore waste, sold in stores and the zoo's gift shop.

The Arlington Conservation Council has partnered with the University of Texas at Arlington to create an endowment funding scholarships and research. With $30,000 in matching funds pledged, they aim to raise $25,000 by year-end to support students and environmental research. The initiative highlights their longstanding commitment to environmental education and advocacy.

The National Butterfly Center in Texas is closed indefinitely due to safety threats from conspiracy theorists. The center, embroiled in border wall controversies, faces defamation and escalating threats. It hosts thousands of visitors annually and advocates for environmental education. The Center awaits the green light from authorities to reopen.

Dallas College's Sustainability Department hires Faye Davis and Neil Kaufman as assistant directors. Davis focuses on outreach, while Kaufman addresses urban agriculture. The department aims for coordinated efforts across campuses, achieving the STARS sustainability assessment. The restructuring enhances team collaboration, striving for effective sustainability initiatives.

After saving a freeze-stunned queen butterfly, the author explored butterfly behavior in North Texas, noting climate change's impact on migration patterns and ecosystems. Experts emphasize butterflies' critical role in pollination and the risks they face, highlighting the need for increased awareness of climate-related challenges.

After a two-year break, the 13th annual Oak Cliff Earth Day will be held on April 3, 2022, at Lake Cliff Park, Dallas, featuring entertainment, environmental education, and a focus on "Environmental Justice for All." The event supports eco-friendly living, with vendor and sponsorship opportunities available.

On Tuesday, Liveable Arlington claimed victory as the Arlington City Council, by a 5-4 vote, denied Total Energies' request to drill more gas wells near a preschool. The grassroots group's lawsuit contested Total's drill zone map for violating setback ordinances. This decision marks their second success against Total.