North Texas

Waco Friends of the Climate's Climate Crisis Art Exhibit returns in person to promote climate change awareness through art. Held at Art Center Waco from April 4-29, the exhibit invites Texas artists to inspire emotional engagement and action on climate change, offering cash prizes. Submissions close April 1.

Wicked Bold, a vegan chocolate company in Flower Mound, Texas, was founded by Deric and Brooklynn Cahill to offer sustainably sourced, additive-free chocolates. Their products, including spicy Cayenne Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt varieties, are available at Dallas-Fort Worth Whole Foods and online.

Fort Worth will remove up to 50 acres of invasive privet from Tandy Hills Natural Area to protect its 1,800 native species, using heavy equipment initially and targeted herbicide later. This project, supported by a $150,000 grant, aims for significant ecological recovery despite being an ongoing challenge.

Colleyville residents, led by Tim Waterworth, are opposing a Southlake developer's plan to clear 14 acres of native Cross Timbers forest for luxury homes. This historic forest, crucial for its environmental benefits and heritage, faces development despite community efforts, including opposition letters and council hearings.

Valentine's Day presents an opportunity to celebrate love sustainably. Suggestions include eco-friendly activities like biking, vegan dining at TLC Vegan Café, virtual cow hugs from The Gentle Barn, cooking classes at Indulge, local gift boxes, Texas-made goods from Go Texan, Flying Wish Paper, and organic socks from Maggies Organics.

Fairfield Lake State Park, a 1,800-acre site in Freestone County, is at risk of closure due to the land’s sale to developers. Efforts by Texas legislators and environmental groups aim to preserve the park, emphasizing its ecological significance and highlighting its history of public recreational use.

The Southwestern Medical District in Dallas is undergoing a green transformation. The Texas Trees Foundation plans to use evidence-based design to turn the industrialized area into a healthier urban environment. This includes a 10-acre park and innovative climate data utilization to improve air quality and mitigate heat effects.

The "Bring Back the Monarchs to Texas" grant program offers funding for monarch demonstration gardens and waystations using native plants on public sites. Overseen by the Native Plant Society of Texas, applications are due Feb. 1. Grants, up to $600, promote monarch conservation and education, focusing on native milkweeds and nectar plants.

Oak Cliff Earth Day, hosted by GreenSourceDFW and Memnosyne Institute since 2018, opens early booth registration. Featuring entertainment and environmental education, vendor spaces cost $60 by April 1. Sponsorships start at $100. Contact Lenora for vendor details and Wendel for sponsorships. Event: April 16, 2023, Lake Cliff Park, Dallas.

Troy Gardner's TLC Vegan Cafe in Richardson, featuring a plant wall, offers savory plant-based dishes including mock meats, flatbreads, and creative vegetable dishes. Despite cooking challenges, the cafe is known for its comforting vegan fare, with highlights like pizzas, Impossible Cheesy Lasagna, and unique desserts.