Marshall Hinsley

Austin filmmaker Bruce Melton uses a musical documentary to engage climate change skeptics by showcasing real-world impacts of global warming across America. Drawing from his backgrounds in science and music, Melton's film integrates visual evidence with Austin Rock music to emotionally connect with viewers beyond mere facts.

Ninth-grade students at Trinity Valley School in Fort Worth are researching organic gardening's impact on soil fertility compared to conventional methods reliant on synthetic chemicals. The study, led by Billy Schlee, involves using compost-derived fertilizers and microorganism enrichment, aiming to demonstrate sustainable practices and inspire industry shifts.

Good Local Markets opened a new market at Paul Quinn College in southeast Dallas, addressing a food desert issue by offering local produce, baked goods, and more, sourced from nearby farms including the college's own. Supported by a USDA grant, it promotes community, local economy, and nutritional access.

Two North Texas parks, Kiest Park in Dallas and Tandy Hills Natural Area in Fort Worth, have been designated as Lone Star Legacy Parks by the Texas Recreation and Park Society for their historic significance, unique natural features, and community relevance.

Retired physicist Bill Freiheit launched the Hentzi Project to sustain the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) through tarantula restoration. With Leah Patton's help, they aimed to raise awareness of ecological issues while attempting to restore the Texas brown tarantula population.

The 9th Annual Lavender Festival at Lavender Ridge Farms, Gainesville, takes place May 27-29. Visitors can explore lavender fields, cut bouquets, and enjoy lavender-themed cuisine. The family-owned farm, with 160 years of history, offers arts and crafts, food vendors, and wine tastings amidst its scenic fields.

Tierra Verde Golf Club in Arlington, an Audubon-certified sanctuary, harmonizes golf with nature. With sustainable practices protecting wildlife and habitats, it offers green space amidst urban sprawl. Renowned for bird species and eco-friendly design, the course balances ecological preservation and recreational pursuits.

A Texas Trees Foundation study reveals Dallas' urban heat island exacerbates city temperatures by nearly 20 degrees, impacting health, economy, and infrastructure. The March 23 symposium aims to address these issues with research and solutions presented by experts, highlighting tree planting and green spaces as key strategies.

Spiral Diner, a beloved vegan restaurant, is opening its third location in Denton at 608 East Hickory Street in April 2017. Co-owner Amy McNutt highlights the consistent menu and unique design adapted to the 1960s-built space. Recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and social consciousness, Spiral provides a cruelty-free dining haven.

Comanche marker trees, threatened by disease and development, are chronicled in Steve Houser's book, "Comanche Marker Trees of Texas," which verifies their existence. The book, resulting from over 20 years of research, provides a taxonomy of marker trees and seeks to document them before they disappear.

Some students at Texas Christian University, whose mascot is the endangered horned frog, have leaped into the efforts to stop poachers in South Africa from killing off the world’s rhino population.

Melissa Mays and Nayyirah Shariff, who exposed Flint’s water crisis, will speak at the Root and Branch Revue in Dallas, urging mistrust of officials and promoting activism. This multi-day event empowers local activists with workshops on environmental justice and community organizing, emphasizing citizen science and political accountability.