North Texas

Turtles may need assistance crossing roads, especially during breeding season in spring. Most know their destination, so carry them in their travel direction. Turtles often cross due to development or as released pets. Ensure road safety and avoid relocating far from their home range to prevent their return and harm.

On Saturday, Oak Cliff Earth Day preparations were delayed by rain. However, on sunny Sunday, a lively crowd arrived to explore green vendors, nonprofit causes, food trucks, and diverse entertainment. Photographer Jim Domke captured the event.

Here slept a streamside glade

Spring-lush with daisies, grasses;

Deer drifted down to drink

And doves sang in the sun.

This year's EarthX, held at the Anatole Hotel, maintains its dedication to diverse speakers and topics, despite a new location. Celebrations began on Earth Day as 'North Texas Day' with free events. Highlights included Native American perspectives on the environment and discussions on urban planning, volunteering, and conservation efforts.

EarthX 2024, from April 22-25 at Dallas' Hilton Anatole Hotel, shifts from an expo to focused forums on sustainability and conservation. Highlighted events include Monday’s free North Texas Day and Thursday’s NGO Public Forum, promoting dialogue and industry involvement to foster environmental change.

"Eclipsemania" exceeded expectations, sparking both rational and spiritual contemplation similar to ancient sky studies. My lifelong fascination with celestial events continues through photography. Enjoy these photos from the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Nonprofits may use them with credit; for-profits must send a check and credit.

Cedar Hill's new 'Library in a Park' features a 42,000-square-foot facility within a 7-acre Signature Park, including nature trails and a concert venue. Opening on April 27, the library integrates outdoor elements, offers a rooftop deck, a podcast studio, and houses the Cedar Hill Museum, embracing community input and green design.

While many North Texans may opt to stick close to home for the big eclipse on Monday, avoiding traffic jams and possible inclement weather, others will brave the forecast and crowded roads to share the experience with a few hundred others. Here are a few watch parties taking place at local parks, universities and green spaces that could be worth venturing out for.

The South Central Climate Resilience Forum will be held April 2-4, 2024, in Dallas, uniting stakeholders from a five-state region to address climate change. The event includes sessions on resilience, a keynote by Katharine Hayhoe, and networking opportunities to inspire community action and share success stories.

Residents of Grayson County oppose a proposed 660-acre cement plant by Black Mountain Cement in Dorchester, citing health and environmental concerns. The plant, linked to pollution, water threats, and economic disruption, faces public opposition, including from local mayors, before an upcoming TCEQ meeting.