North Texas

EPA officials visited the Barnett Shale, noting pollution risks from fracking near residential areas. Community members, including Liveable Arlington, highlighted lax regulations and health concerns. Despite past productivity, Barnett output has declined. Locals seek stronger monitoring and oversight, amidst challenges from state laws limiting city fracking bans.

Texas State Parks mark their 100th anniversary with free entry during celebrations. Events highlight historic achievements and focus on future improvements while raising funds for park enhancements. Despite challenges, like the potential loss of Fairfield Lake Park and new ventures like Palo Pinto Mountains Park, the Centennial aims to engage more visitors statewide.

EarthShare Texas is a nonprofit raising funds for over 30 environmental charities, distributing unrestricted support for operations. They engage businesses and individuals through donations, workplace giving, and awareness campaigns, like "My Earth, My Texas," promoting sustainable actions.

A prescribed burn was conducted by a fire team at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas to maintain a 1.5-acre urban prairie. The burn, a crucial ecological tool, prevents shrub overgrowth and enriches soil. Experts and professionals attended a workshop to learn about fire's role in sustaining healthy prairies.

Celebrate an eco-friendly St. Patrick's Day with ten green ideas: reuse decorations, opt for biodegradable glitters, try meatless recipes, shop locally, use reusable dinnerware, choose eco-friendly disposables, enjoy outdoor activities, use public transport, donate to environmental causes, and choose natural dyes over chemicals.

The author recounts a poignant farewell visit to Fairfield Lake State Park before its closure. Reflecting on cherished memories and ecological losses, they lament the area's development and environmental changes. The visit was marked by nostalgia and a somber awareness of nature's irreplaceable beauty.

In March 2023, Dallas launched two initiatives to boost climate resilience: Whole Home Dallas connects residents to resources for weatherization and energy efficiency; Green Job Skills offers free, self-paced training for construction workers in energy-efficient home improvements. Both programs support the city's climate action goals.

Georgeann Moss, a sustainability pioneer at Dallas College, retired after 25 years. Starting as a media relations specialist, she created the Sustainability Team and advanced to Senior Director of Sustainability. She led key initiatives like the Sustainability Summit and plans to remain active in environmental projects post-retirement.

Fairfield Lake State Park faces closure on Feb. 28 as new owners plan luxury development. Despite losing efforts to secure the land, Texas lawmakers are pursuing eminent domain to preserve the park. Concerns arise over other state parks on leased land, prompting legislative action to protect them.

Armadillos, the official small mammal of Texas, gained fame through country music and play crucial roles in the ecosystem and medical research. Known for their armor and keen sense of smell, nine-banded armadillos also aid leprosy research due to genetic traits and susceptibility to the disease.