Climate

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.

Texas regulators advanced a haze reduction plan for national parks without new pollution limits, dismissing federal and environmentalist concerns. The plan doesn't mandate coal plants to adopt pollution-reducing technologies. Environmental groups expect federal intervention due to the plan’s inadequacies. Texas argues the measures are unnecessary and cost-prohibitive.

Dallas' new Urban Forest Master Plan aims to increase tree canopy coverage from 32% to 37% within a decade, improving the city's resilience to climate change. The plan consolidates tree policies, involves a comprehensive tree inventory, and supports the city's climate goals with nature-based solutions, necessitating public-private partnerships.

Texas bill SB 1261, introduced by Sen. Brian Birdwell, threatens local climate plans in Texas by granting the state exclusive control over greenhouse gas regulations, affecting cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Residents are urged to oppose it through the Senate Committee.

The deep freeze in North Texas stressed many trees, but most will recover, experts say. Live oaks' dramatic leaf loss is normal, while magnolias and sensitive non-native or young trees might suffer more. Residents should delay pruning and ensure trees are well-watered and fertilized to reduce stress.

Seventeen Texas House Democrats, led by Rep. Erin Zwiener, formed a climate caucus to advocate for climate change discussions at the Capitol. They aim for legislative recognition of scientific consensus, addressing the disproportionate impact on minority communities, and fostering clean energy collaboration despite partisan challenges.

Texas native plants signal climate change's reality, says Prof. George Diggs. As Texas warms, plants struggle, affecting ecosystems, including species like the American beech tree. Changes in plant hardiness zones reflect these shifts, risking the loss of endemic species vital to the state's biodiversity.

Texans face increasing droughts due to climate change, threatening water supply and agriculture. Researchers warn of the state's driest conditions in 1,000 years. Rising population exacerbates water demand, challenging ranchers like Arthur Uhl and Bill Hyman. Conservation measures are crucial, urging legislators and consumers to adopt sustainable practices.

During quarantine, Fort Worth activists launched a 350.org chapter to educate on climate change after suspending weekly protests. Led by Chay Creswell and John MacFarlane, the group’s first virtual meeting is on July 16. They aim to collaborate locally on urgent climate action and policy development.

A Texas A&M study predicts warmer weather, more wildfires, urban flooding, and intensified hurricanes in Texas by 2036 due to climate change. Despite some positive aspects, such as stable river flooding, the study emphasizes the need for climate resilience initiatives, which face political challenges in the state.