Skip to main content

Nature

Dec 19 2018, MINNIE PAYNE

City of Dallas giving away trees to combat heat islands

The Dallas Branch Out program kicked off in November. Photos courtesy of the city of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability.

Dec. 19, 2018

Dallasites, there’s still time to get a tree. Not for the holidays but to provide shade and other health benefits for decades to come.

Nov 15 2018, Julie Ryan

Trees plagued by mistletoe need extra love

Mistletoe is easiest to spot in winter. Photo courtesy of Preservation Tree Services.

You may have noticed it as the trees start to lose their leaves, when it’s more visible. Hidden during summer, the growths look like small, lime green shrubs with waxy white berries. It’s mistletoe, a reminder of Christmas, festive decorations and the quaint tradition of kissing unsuspecting bystanders.

Nov 12 2018, AMY MARTIN

Celebration founder remembered as protector of Brazos

Ed Lowe, 1949-2018, died last week doing what he loved, exploring Big Bend. Photo by Nick Dornak.

Nov. 12, 2018

Ed Lowe’s paddle went all over the Brazos as he fought for the river he loved with an overwhelming passion, following the aquatic trails of Texas author John Graves whose words charged him with a cause: Speak up for rivers. Lowe’s paddle joined Graves’ nearly thirty years ago in a tandem canoe as together they paddled the challenging Lower Pecos River’s whitewaters.

Oct 17 2018, Anna Clark

Dallas attorney updates popular Texas camping guide

Dallas author and camping guru Wendel Withrow reveals how to prepare for adventure, avoid alligators and escape civilization. Photos courtesy of the author.

Oct. 17, 2018

Dallas-based author Wendel Withrow wrote the definitive guide for tent-camping in the Lone Star State a decade ago. Now the attorney-turned-outdoor enthusiast offers more wisdom and experience in his second edition, released this year by Menasha Ridge Press. 

Green plant with bright red flowers on a stone path.
Sep 04 2018, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Native plant sales fill fall calendar

Native plant sales in North Texas enrich fall gardening calendars, promoting native plants that thrive in the Texas heat and support local wildlife. The Native Plant Society of Texas, established in 1981, leads these efforts, with various Texas chapters hosting sales events throughout September and October.
Aug 29 2018, RITA COOK

North Texas tours showcase waterwise gardens

Dallas and Plano are hosting their annual waterwise garden tours in October. Photos courtesy of city of Plano.

Can you have an attractive yard in DFW without running up your water bill? Two garden tours give North Texans a chance to check out the yards of folks who have mastered the art of sustainable gardening.

The city of Dallas pioneered the event, launching its annual Waterwise Tour 24 years ago. Plano began its own tour six years ago and both cities have transitioned from a spring event to a fall tour in October.

PLANO TOUR

Reflecting pool with a frog sculpture on the edge, surrounded by grass.
Jun 27 2018, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Park advocates split over proposed Botanic Garden fee

Park advocates are divided over a proposed Fort Worth Botanic Garden admission fee aimed at addressing $15 million in unmet repairs and operational needs. Although some support it, others argue it could exclude disadvantaged residents. Alternatives, including free passes and membership options, are under consideration to ensure accessibility.
Bees in a wooden box next to a vehicle with a bee relocation service sign.
Jun 11 2018, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Don't get stung by false claims of bee removal companies

Kristi Comuzzi faced a bee infestation in her yard and, due to severe allergies, sought eco-friendly removal services. She discovered many companies falsely claim to relocate bees but use pesticides instead, which can damage property. She consulted the Texas Honeybee Guild, finding trustworthy services like Honey Bee Relocation.