North Texas

The Texas Historic Tree Coalition held six tree dedication ceremonies this year, celebrating landmark trees like the Fort Parker Pecan, West Dallas Gateway Pecan, Comanche Creek Live Oak Grove, Singing Trees, and Comanche Council Live Oak. These ceremonies resumed after delays due to the pandemic and other challenges.

After watching the documentary *Catching the Sun*, Tracy Wallace and Mark McCollum founded Green Careers Texas in 2016 to promote solar power and provide solar industry training for low-income individuals in Dallas. They overcame challenges to create a training facility, supporting career paths and fostering community resilience.

Rooted In, a nursery in Pilot Point founded by sustainability experts Daniel Cunningham and Clint Wolfe, offers heat, drought, and cold-tolerant plants. With 40 years of experience, they prioritize eco-friendly gardening and hold workshops. Their specialties include native grasses and water-wise plants, fostering community and sutainable landscaping.

State Sen. Tan Parker and environmental advocates urged Texans to support Proposition 14, a $1 billion fund for state parks, coinciding with Texas Parks and Wildlife's 100th anniversary. Constitutional amendments on the Nov. 7 ballot address taxes, infrastructure, and parks amidst historically low voter turnout.

Eight historic Dallas cemeteries will undergo a two-year rewilding program to transform them from common plots to native, wildlife-supporting spaces. The Constellation of Living Memorials, led by Friends of Warren Ferris Cemetery, aims to lower maintenance costs, create habitats, and offer community education.

The 13th annual Sustainability Summit at Dallas College on Nov. 1 features keynotes by Malawian author William Kamkwamba, known for "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind." The event, focusing on sustainability at local to international levels, includes breakout sessions on education, urban impact, Texas initiatives, and national progress.

Tent camping enriches outdoor experiences more than drive-through park visits. Despite common fears such as wildlife encounters, insects, and weather, camping offers a unique connection with nature. Modern gear, campsite safety, and learning to identify plants and animals mitigate concerns. Enjoy disconnecting from technology and immersing in Texas's natural beauty.

Environmentalists, concerned about a massive Bitcoin mining facility in Navarro County, Texas, will join public interest groups and experts in raising awareness of the industry's risks to the power grid, utility rates, and natural resources. Critics argue that the facility could destabilize the grid and increase electric rates.

The EarthX Film and Music Festival, now in its seventh year, is rebranded to include films, music, and immersive experiences. Taking place in Oak Cliff, Dallas on Oct. 20-22, the three-day event aims to inspire environmental activism and community engagement through films, performances, and educational discussions.

Bubble wrap should not go in curbside bins but can be recycled at some stores. Recycling facilities separate materials by type, using advanced technology. Many items can’t be recycled due to contamination or improper sorting. Education and correct recycling practices are crucial to improve the process.