North Texas

Chiggers and ticks, summer's tiny pests, await hosts like mammals and birds. Chiggers are mite larvae, and ticks can carry diseases. To prevent bites, wear long, light clothing, apply permethrin and repellents, and use DEET or lemon eucalyptus repellents. Post-exposure, shower promptly, treat bites, and monitor for symptoms.

In February, FIFA announced that North Texas will host nine World Cup matches in 2026, the most of any city. Local leaders focus on sustainability, with plans addressing environmental impacts and transportation challenges. A bus bridge and electric buses aim to enhance transit. Environmental efforts align with FIFA’s carbon reduction strategy.

Holidays often generate large amounts of waste, prompting the idea of celebrating with eco-friendly gifts and practices, such as using reusable items. Suggestions include Fire Grounds Coffee, Texas-themed tumblers, biodegradable snacks, sustainable shoes, and more. These gifts aim to honor both fathers and Mother Earth.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission banned canned hunting and limited trap holding times for mountain lions, aligning Texas with other states regulating mountain lion management. This decision followed a significant public response supporting protective measures. Future management may include mandatory harvest reporting to gather data on mountain lion populations.

A report from a six-month investigation by Earthworks, Liveable Arlington, and others highlights that gas wells in Arlington, Texas, are leaking dangerous emissions, particularly impacting communities of color. A study focused on Total Energies’ wells revealed emissions from 25 sites, raising public health concerns for 400,000 nearby residents.

Artificial light enables 24/7 human activity but disrupts wildlife reliant on dark skies, harming birds, bats, and more. Michael Rymer and Cindy Luongo Cassidy discuss mitigating light pollution's impact through smarter lighting like shields and timers, emphasizing reduced environmental and energy costs for Texas wildlife conservation.

The restored Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk at Fort Worth Nature Center was officially reopened on Earth Day. It features upgrades including a new Lotus Marsh Pavilion and accessible design. The project, funded by grants and fees, highlights the marsh's ecological value and accommodates all visitors, including those with disabilities.

The Credo Community Choir will perform "Protecting Our Planet" at the Moody Performance Hall in Dallas on May 18, with concerts at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The choir's eco-themed program addresses climate change and promotes awareness and action, with tickets priced $25-$100.

Fireflies are disappearing in Texas, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and urban sprawl. Biologist Ben Pfeiffer founded Firefly Conservation and Research to preserve fireflies. He advocates for habitat restoration, reducing light pollution, and educating the public through watch parties and habitat certifications to help their conservation.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with eco-friendly experiences like Goat Yoga in Las Colinas, shopping at Dallas Farmers Market, and unique gifts from Global Mamas. Enjoy Fort Worth's Japanese Gardens or Water Gardens for a peaceful outing. Consider a Davis St. Mercantile candle workshop or a Mill composter for a sustainable gift.