Minnie Payne

Reporter

Minnie Payne, based in Bryan, Texas, is a frequent contributor to GreenSourceTexas.org. She’s written for Pegasus News, The Senior Voice, Living Magazine, Intown Magazine, PinPointe Magazine, and Texasliving Magazine. She also served as a copyeditor for DERMASCOPE Magazine and Palos Verdes Magazine. Currently, she freelances for Texas Lifestyle Magazine and Frisco STYLE Magazine.

By Minnie Payne

Nov 21 2025, MINNIE PAYNE

Central Texas farm grows fresh produce while helping the disabled

GrowOn at AGFarm in Bryan, Texas, started by Sharon Wells in 2013, grows fresh produce using aquaponics while empowering individuals with disabilities through volunteer work. The farm, operating sustainably without synthetic chemicals, sells produce directly and trains volunteers in various skills to foster mental and physical growth.

Dec 06 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Sustainble U series continues Dec. 12 at Richland College

The Sustainable U series continues at Richland College on Dec. 12 with a discussion on energy efficiency in buildings. Speakers include experts like Paul Westbrook and Ryan Sheard. The free event, organized by DCCCD and EarthX, features panels and aims to raise sustainability awareness.

Oct 22 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Eastfield College to host free sustainability summit

Eastfield College will host the free annual DCCCD sustainability summit on November 8, featuring Ian Garrett, who will discuss creativity in sustainability. Attendees can explore five learning tracks, including Social Equity and Resource Efficiency, to address various sustainability challenges. Lunch is provided, pre-registration requested.

Oct 07 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Green careers to be showcased at Irving event

The City of Irving is hosting a free Environmental Career Symposium on Oct. 19, offering insights into environmental job opportunities. It features panel sessions and booths with experts covering careers like consulting and compliance. The event targets high school and college students, and career changers. Registration is required.

Sep 17 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Audubon Texas says climate change impacting birds

Audubon Texas is launching a Clean Energy Future Campaign to address climate change impacts on birds by transitioning to clean energy in DFW. Events in Dallas (Sept. 18) and Fort Worth (Sept. 24) aim to recruit volunteers from all demographics to support clean energy initiatives and habitat preservation efforts.

Sep 05 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Green donations go farther on North Texas Giving Day

On Sept. 19, North Texas Giving Day amplifies donations to over 3,000 nonprofits, including environmental and animal welfare groups. Donors can preschedule gifts from Sept. 9, with all contributions eligible for bonus funds. Communities Foundation of Texas governs the event, featuring Dirk and Jessica Nowitzki as honorary chairs.

Aug 06 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

North Texas kids are learning to be master naturalists

North Texas kids are trained as Junior Master Naturalists at the City of Coppell’s Biodiversity Education Center and The Perot Museum. Targeting fourth to sixth-graders, these programs offer interactive learning and field trips, encouraging young people to appreciate and understand Texas ecosystems.

Jul 31 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

UT Dallas capturing majority of food waste on campus

UT Dallas was recognized for its comprehensive food waste diversion program, winning the 2019 Sustainability Innovation Award from APPA. The program captures 100% of dining hall food waste, minimizes overall waste, and diverts 75,000 pounds annually. Students and staff play key roles in this model initiative.

Jul 29 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

North Texas businesses pick up slack on food composting

North Texans are embracing food composting, aided by local businesses and Fort Worth's pilot program. This effort diverts food waste from landfills, with services like Cowboy Compost and others offering pickup, drop-off, and educational programs. These initiatives aim to extend landfill life and promote environmental sustainability.

Jun 10 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

New park designed to cool Dallas campus

A new park opened at Dan D. Rogers Elementary as part of a Dallas ISD greening initiative. The Texas Trees Foundation's Cool Schools program, tackling urban heat and pollution, installed 90 trees and recreational facilities. More schools will join the initiative, backed by anonymous donations.

May 21 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

Pond tour dips into North Texas backyards

The 28th annual Tour of Ponds, hosted by the North Texas Water Garden Society, will be held on June 8-9, showcasing diverse backyard ponds across North Texas. The event offers a self-guided tour of 40 ponds, welcoming gardening and pond enthusiasts for a unique, educational experience. Participants can purchase a tour guide book for access.

Jan 09 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

UTA names first Chief Sustainability Officer

Meghna Tare was promoted to Chief Sustainability Officer at UTA, where she'll advance initiatives in recycling, water conservation, and community partnerships. Previously UTA's sustainability director, Tare's extensive experience includes roles in Dallas and academia. She aims to establish a regional center and advisory council to boost collaboration.