Julie Thibodeaux

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.

Fort Worth procured 275 acres for Rock Creek Ranch Park, located by Rocky Creek Ranch and Benbrook Lake, preserving portions as natural land. Acquired for $6.75 million, it combines Open Space, park fees, and bond funds. Planned amenities and natural areas emphasize community input, with development post-2026 bond program.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency appointed Dr. Eartha Nance as the new administrator for Region 6, succeeding David Gray. Michael Fletcher was named Co-CEO of EarthX. Both bring extensive expertise to their roles, with Nance focusing on environmental justice and Fletcher on expanding EarthxTV's reach.

Fort Worth plans to purchase two solar-powered waterwheels in collaboration with Tarrant Regional Water District to clean litter from the Trinity River. These eco-friendly machines, inspired by Baltimore's successful "Mr. Trashwheel," aim to enhance water quality and aesthetics, with funding sought for construction and maintenance.

The 10th annual Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards is on Nov. 18, 2021, at 6 p.m. via Zoom, honoring North Texas environmental leaders. Keynote by Lance Tahmahkera, Comanche Chief Quanah Parker's descendant.

Winners of the 2021 Green Source DFW Awards were announced for categories including Conservation Activist, Environmental Justice, Green Project, and more, recognizing local leaders and initiatives in North Texas. The virtual event will be held on Nov. 18 on Zoom, with Lance Tahmahkera as the keynote speaker.

Green Source On the Air, airing Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. on Zoom, features tarantula experts Leah Patton and Bill Freiheit discussing the Hentzi Project. The show also includes spooky tales from Wendel Withrow and Liz Wheelan, and humorous camping stories by Jeanne Robertson.

Three North Texans, including Wendel Withrow, Renee Roberson, and Haley Samsel, will be honored at the Texas Sierra Club Environmental Awards on October 16 at Chez Zee American Bistro in Austin. The event will be held both in-person and virtually, recognizing their environmental advocacy.