North Texas

Farmers Branch is set to meet its municipal electric demand via a solar farm on a former landfill. B.Q. Energy will construct the 20-acre site generating 13.6 million kWh annually, enough to power city facilities and 1,100 homes, utilizing advanced polycrystalline panels.

Dallas volunteers planted 300 trees in six parks as part of the Branching Out program to enhance the city's tree canopy, addressing damage from past storms. The initiative supports Dallas's goal to increase urban forest coverage from 32% to 37% under its climate action and urban forest plans.

The text discusses four common lizards in North Texas: the Texas spiny lizard, green anoles, little brown skinks, and Mediterranean geckos. These lizards exhibit unique behaviors and adaptations, contribute to insect control, and thrive in backyards without harming humans. Avoiding harm, such as tail injury, is advised.

Abigail Austin, owner of Wholesome Diaper Co., launches a cloth diaper service in Dallas-Fort Worth, offering customizable weekly subscriptions with laundry services. Benefits include reduced diaper rash and environmental impact, despite some challenges like daycare acceptance and less absorbency. Prices range from $25-$50 weekly.

McDonald's launches its plant-based McPlant burger at 600 locations in Texas and California, collaborating with Beyond Meat for a patty made from peas, rice, and potatoes. The initiative aligns with McDonald's sustainability goals. Vegan options are trending, with competitors like Burger King also offering plant-based items.

For its third year, the 'Lights Out' campaign urges Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during peak bird migration (April 22-May 12) to prevent distractions and collisions. The initiative is growing, with increased city participation and surveys to reduce bird casualties.

Great turnout for Oak Cliff Earth Day 2022! Photos by J.G. Domke and others showcase the event. Thanks to sponsors like Dallas College, Dallas Parks and Rec, and more. Marsha Jackson engaged attendees at Dallas College's booth.

Wildlife agencies urge Texans to assist conservation efforts for the declining Texas kangaroo rat, whose numbers have decreased due to habitat loss. Initiatives include habitat restoration, prescribed grazing, and voluntary collaboration with landowners to avert stricter regulations and ensure the species' survival.

Russian hackers are probing Texas' energy infrastructure for weak points to steal information or disrupt operations, raising cybersecurity concerns since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Texas power grid and energy sector face elevated threats, with potential consequences including power outages, halted oil and gas shipments, and refinery disruptions.