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North Texas

May 26 2023, MARK FADDEN

Will ‘smart’ gondolas be the next new way to get around DFW?

May 25, 2023

Traffic congestion is a decades-old problem in Dallas-Fort Worth, and it took a Mountain View, California-based company to bring an innovative solution to North Texas — with a brief stop in New Zealand first. 

With plans for high speed rail in the Metroplex stalled, a transportation option that most associate with amusement parks and ski resorts is under discussion.

Four DFW cities — Arlington, Dallas, DeSoto and Plano — have expressed interested in pursuing gondola-style mobility networks to address their growing traffic congestion issues. 

Man wearing a cap examining a tree in a lush forest.
May 19 2023, JIM DOMKE

Amateur botanist earns accolades while chasing plants in North Texas

Jeff Quayle, a self-taught botanist from Fort Worth, has documented nearly 2,000 plant specimens, discovered a new species named after him, and received awards for his work. His lifelong passion began in childhood, and he continues to share his knowledge through plant walks and iNaturalist.
Bare trees with pink markings in a grassy woodland, under a clear blue sky.
May 18 2023, MARK FADDEN

Colleyville residents gear up for round 2 to save native forest

Colleyville residents are fighting a renewed proposal to develop a historic Cross Timbers forest containing nearly 1,000 trees, some up to 200 years old. Despite initial success in halting development plans, rezoning was approved, prompting concerns over tree preservation and environmental impact. The city council will consider the proposal further in June. =
People sitting on chairs in a field, looking at the sky on a sunny day.
May 11 2023, AMY MARTIN

Two solar eclipses to be viewable in Texas

Texans can view two solar eclipses soon: an annular eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023, visible in West and South Texas, and a total eclipse on April 8, 2024, visible across North Texas. Eclipses occur at the New Moon phase when Earth's, Moon's, and Sun's orbits align perfectly.
Two people in a forest admire a large tree trunk.
May 10 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Fort Worth forest remnant receives national recognition 

On May 5, 2023, the Fort Worth Nature Center’s Western Cross Timbers forest was inducted into the national Old-Growth Forest Network, marking the first such inclusion for a Texas forest. This recognition celebrates centuries-old oaks, emphasizing both ecological and cultural values, and encourages conservation efforts in growing urban areas.
Kayak gliding on calm river, surrounded by autumn trees under a clear blue sky.
May 06 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Remember Mother Earth this Mother's Day

Celebrate Mother's Day on May 14 by honoring Mother Earth with eco-friendly gifts. Consider options like kayaking on the Trinity River, healthy Indian cooking, nature walks at Fort Worth Nature Center, supporting Rogers Wildlife Center, eco-friendly products, and sustainable treats like Uli’s Gelato and Bala hydration.
People viewing art in a spacious gallery with high ceilings.
May 05 2023, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Climate art show reveals concerns, hopes of Texans

The 6th annual Climate Crisis Art Exhibit in Waco, hosted by Waco Friends of the Climate, showcased over 100 artworks from Texas artists, judged on climate relevance, artistic excellence, and originality. Winners are displayed online; Judi Simon received first place with a $1,000 prize.
Three women smiling beside an Environmental Commission sign at an outdoor event.
May 04 2023, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Environmental Commission looking for Dallas residents to fill positions

The Dallas Environmental Commission seeks residents to join its advisory group. Applicants need two years of environmental or advocacy experience. The deadline is May 12. Twelve public participants are needed for subcommittees. Meetings are held monthly. The aim is to enhance community involvement in environmental issues.
Overcast sky over lush green trees and distant city buildings.
Apr 28 2023, AMY MARTIN

Rookery thrives within Dallas medical district

A thriving rookery of herons and egrets resides in UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Birds exhibit "nest fidelity," returning annually to nest in wooded ravines amid urban bustle. This avian sanctuary, a recognized bird preserve since the 1960s, faces challenges but remains a vital ecological haven.