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By Michael Smith

Two people in a forest admire a large tree trunk.
May 10 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Fort Worth forest remnant receives national recognition 

On May 5, 2023, the Fort Worth Nature Center’s Western Cross Timbers forest was inducted into the national Old-Growth Forest Network, marking the first such inclusion for a Texas forest. This recognition celebrates centuries-old oaks, emphasizing both ecological and cultural values, and encourages conservation efforts in growing urban areas.
Wooden deck with metal railing, shaded by leafy trees, under a clear blue sky.
Apr 06 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

New viewing deck overlooks bison herd in Fort Worth

A new Bison Viewing Deck at Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge offers visitors a unique perspective to view the only publicly accessible bison herd in North Texas. Bison, once nearly extinct, are now thriving with careful management. The deck is accessible, and visitors are reminded of the bison's power and unpredictability.
Large black inflatable barrier along a riverbank on a clear day.
Mar 22 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Fort Worth Nature Center expanding boardwalk

The Fort Worth Nature Center is upgrading its boardwalk, renamed the Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk. The $3 million project adds wheelchair accessibility and educational features, funded by grants and city contributions. Construction includes using AquaDam to minimize ecological impact, with improvements expected to complete by June.
Grass fire with visible flames and smoke in a field, fire truck in the distance.
Mar 10 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Urban prairie burned again in Fort Worth — here’s why

A prescribed burn was conducted by a fire team at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas to maintain a 1.5-acre urban prairie. The burn, a crucial ecological tool, prevents shrub overgrowth and enriches soil. Experts and professionals attended a workshop to learn about fire's role in sustaining healthy prairies.
Armadillo walking on dry grass and twigs.
Feb 17 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Armadillos play role in Texas music and medical research

Armadillos, the official small mammal of Texas, gained fame through country music and play crucial roles in the ecosystem and medical research. Known for their armor and keen sense of smell, nine-banded armadillos also aid leprosy research due to genetic traits and susceptibility to the disease.
Open notebook with handwritten notes and sketches on wooden table.
Jan 17 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Journaling can deepen experiences in nature

Carrying a nature journal aids detailed observation and reflection, enhancing memories and mindfulness. Writing and drawing in nature help us engage deeply, refine vocabulary, and inspire self-reflection. Overcoming hurdles such as time constraints and lack of skill can enrich our experiences, making nature journaling a rewarding endeavor.
Alligator resting on a grassy bank near water.
Jan 10 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Alligator sightings stir up neighbors near Lake Worth

Alligator sightings near Lake Worth led to a meeting among local residents, city officials, and wildlife experts. Concerns about safety were discussed, but experts reassured attendees about alligators' typically unaggressive nature. Increased sightings might be due to changing environments, while experts discourage feeding alligators to prevent aggression.
Bats flying in a clear blue sky.
Oct 27 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Bats keep Austin weird but they're not the monsters of myth

Bats are often linked to mythical monsters like Dracula, yet they offer significant ecological benefits. While vampire bats exist, they mainly reside in Central and South America. In North Texas, several beneficial bat species, such as the Mexican free-tailed bat, play crucial roles in pest control and ecosystems.
Dense forest with tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Sep 01 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Children should face their fears of the forest

Children should explore the woods often and fearlessly, learning to do so safely. Urban kids' fears, like of snakes, can be mitigated with education. Encouraging outdoor exploration can counteract “nature-deficit disorder.” Teaching safety rules helps foster confidence in nature while avoiding harm to wildlife.
Park with curved paths and lush green plants under a clear blue sky.
Jul 25 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

New Arlington garden showcases summer survivors

With Texas facing its 6th driest year, Arlington launched the Lake Arlington Native Plant and Pollinator Garden to promote water conservation through drought-tolerant plants. Featuring a 400-square-foot garden and a planned prairie, the project educates residents on sustainable gardening amid extreme drought conditions.
Green lizard on a branch with lush green leaves in the background.
Apr 19 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

The four most common lizards in North Texas

The text discusses four common lizards in North Texas: the Texas spiny lizard, green anoles, little brown skinks, and Mediterranean geckos. These lizards exhibit unique behaviors and adaptations, contribute to insect control, and thrive in backyards without harming humans. Avoiding harm, such as tail injury, is advised.
Close-up of tree rings on a cut log, with cracks and varying shades of brown.
Feb 24 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Coping tools can help heal 'environmental grief'

Coping tools like sharing feelings, celebrating natural places, advocating for nature, practicing mindfulness, honoring beloved sites, and counseling can help heal environmental grief, which arises from witnessing ecological losses due to growth and climate change, and reflects a deep human connection to nature.