North Texas

The Lights Out Texas campaign asks Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting March 1 to aid migrating birds. Texas is a critical route for migratory birds, and light pollution in cities like Houston and Dallas disorients them, leading to exhaustion and fatal collisions.

A new Dallas group, Friends of Piedmont, is dedicated to restoring the neglected trails of Piedmont Ridge, once a popular hiking spot. With support from the city and local volunteers, they aim to reclaim the area’s former glory, focusing on preservation, history, and environmental sustainability.

A total solar eclipse on April 8 will be viewable across Texas, particularly in 31 State Parks within the path of totality. Dallas-based Lyda Hill Philanthropies is donating gadgets like sun-spotter telescopes and eclipse safety glasses. Texas State Parks will have special programming and reservations are recommended.

In Flower Mound, conservation efforts focus on preserving native plants and ecosystems. The town's Environmental Services Department promotes eco-friendly gardening, while educational programs and videos foster community engagement. Significant sites include a historic flower mound and a pollinator garden, demonstrating a commitment to balancing development and environmental preservation.

As the Dallas-Fort Worth air quality improvement plan nears completion, officials aim to secure $105-$185M for transportation-focused pollution reduction through EPA grants. Initiatives include clean vehicle incentives, enhanced transit, road upgrades, and more. The grant targets the second-highest funding tier to avoid direct competition with the state of Texas.

The Coppell High School Eco Club will host its first public event, the Sustainability Summit, on Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. The event, supported by the Dallas Sierra Club and Meaningful Movies Project, will feature a screening of *The Story of Plastic* and a panel discussion on plastic usage and reduction.

Phil Hardberger Park in San Antonio addresses habitat fragmentation with the Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge, opened in 2020. The bridge safely connects wildlife and humans, reducing collisions and extending park habitat. It supports diverse ecosystems and incorporates conservation efforts, making the park a model for wildlife crossings nationwide.

Explore planet-friendly Valentine's Day gifts, perfect for expressing love while respecting the Earth. From S3niorman's vegan backpacks to Christy Robinson's sustainable jewelry, these options include refillable pens, premium chocolates, compostable coffee, vintage jewelry art, and Valentine-themed treats, all crafted with recycled materials or eco-awareness in mind.

The LBJ National Grasslands, located 60 miles from Fort Worth, is a complex, scenic landscape administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Spread over 20,250 acres and divided into 67 units, it offers trails and diverse ecosystems and requires careful navigation, as there are no formal entrances.

Molly Hollar, an influential environmental pioneer, passed at 95. Her legacy continues through the Wildscape at Veteran's Park, a concept she helped establish. Hollar inspired many in conservation and native plant advocacy. A memorial service and donation opportunities honor her impact and dedication.