North Texas

Many people are avoiding fireworks due to concerns about loud noises disrupting pets and trauma survivors, pollution from heavy metals, and wildfire risk. Cities are opting for drone shows as an alternative. Despite drones' own wildlife disturbance and light pollution issues, they are seen as a more sustainable choice.

Arlington author Michael Smith, a naturalist and retired psychotherapist, explores mindfulness in nature in his new book *Mindfulness in Texas Nature*. His journey was gradual, rooted in time spent outdoors, leading to deeper awareness. The book combines experiential insights with nature photography.

The Trinity River Crew offers Dallas teens paid, hands-on environmental experience, focusing on restoration, data collection, and education. Launched in 2021, the program targets underserved youth, providing both economic mobility and ecological awareness through partnerships with Trinity Park Conservancy and Greenspace Dallas.

Spring Creek Forest Preserve in Garland joins the Old-Growth Forest Network as only the second Texas site recognized for healthy old-growth forests. Saved by community and environmentalist efforts, it showcases rare, century-old trees. Celebrations included educational walks and speeches, emphasizing continued preservation.

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.