North Texas

Feb 04 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Critter-related phobias can keep us from enjoying nature

Critter-related phobias, such as fear of spiders, often stem from personal experiences, observations of others, or inherent sensitivity. Effective management involves exposure and cognitive behavioral therapy. Awareness and understanding can help reduce fears and enable enjoyment of nature. Michael Smith will discuss these phobias on March 15 at Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve.

Feb 03 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Arlington environmental group seeks funds for endowment

The Arlington Conservation Council has partnered with the University of Texas at Arlington to create an endowment funding scholarships and research. With $30,000 in matching funds pledged, they aim to raise $25,000 by year-end to support students and environmental research. The initiative highlights their longstanding commitment to environmental education and advocacy.

Feb 02 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

National Butterfly Center closes indefinitely, citing threats

The National Butterfly Center in Texas is closed indefinitely due to safety threats from conspiracy theorists. The center, embroiled in border wall controversies, faces defamation and escalating threats. It hosts thousands of visitors annually and advocates for environmental education. The Center awaits the green light from authorities to reopen.

Jan 28 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Dallas College expands sustainability department

Dallas College's Sustainability Department hires Faye Davis and Neil Kaufman as assistant directors. Davis focuses on outreach, while Kaufman addresses urban agriculture. The department aims for coordinated efforts across campuses, achieving the STARS sustainability assessment. The restructuring enhances team collaboration, striving for effective sustainability initiatives.

Jan 27 2022, AMY MARTIN

Austin-based land trust acquires Connemara's holdings

Jan. 27, 2022

Have you ever visited Oak Cliff Nature Preserve or been to Kachina Prairie in Ennis, or Cibolo Preserve north of San Antonio?

Perhaps you've noticed a large swath of natural land surrounded by development near I-35 and W. Beltline Road.

Jan 24 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

New Year's butterflies lead to questions about global warming

After saving a freeze-stunned queen butterfly, the author explored butterfly behavior in North Texas, noting climate change's impact on migration patterns and ecosystems. Experts emphasize butterflies' critical role in pollination and the risks they face, highlighting the need for increased awareness of climate-related challenges.

Jan 21 2022, AMY MARTIN

Former Boy Scout camp shelters nature in urban Dallas

Jan. 21, 2022

It was 1999, and the news was circulating in north Oak Cliff like wildfire.

Developers sought to buy and rezone the 160 rugged, wooded acres of the Boy Scouts’ old Camp Brooklawn. It was a stab to the heart for those Oak Cliff residents who'd spent their childhoods playing in the woods along Five Mile Creek back in the 1930s when the area was rural, except for a few abbreviated thoroughfares.

Jan 19 2022, BRANDI ADDISON

Fort Worth Botanic Garden aims to be 'beacon for conservation'

Fort Worth Botanic Garden, merged with BRIT in 2020, is creating a 20-year master plan with Studio Outside to enhance facilities and focus on conservation. Community input is sought through forums to promote environmental impact, education, and sustainability, aiming to be a conservation leader statewide.

Jan 14 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Oak Cliff Earth Day 2022 is a go

After a two-year break, the 13th annual Oak Cliff Earth Day will be held on April 3, 2022, at Lake Cliff Park, Dallas, featuring entertainment, environmental education, and a focus on "Environmental Justice for All." The event supports eco-friendly living, with vendor and sponsorship opportunities available.

Jan 12 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Can the horny toad bounce back?

The Texas horned lizard, a rare reptile, has been disappearing from its native regions due to habitat changes and reduced prey availability. Efforts by zoos and conservationists focus on captive breeding and reintroduction, with successful releases showing promise but requiring suitable habitat and significant effort for broader reintroduction.