North Texas

The 2020 Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards were held virtually due to the pandemic, with trophies later hand-delivered. Winners included Marsha Jackson, Olinka Green, Dale Crownover, and others recognized for environmental justice, innovation, activism, and reporting. Deliveries faced delays due to Covid and weather challenges.

A Texas thunderstorm opened a camping trip, but the next day brought clear skies and a volunteer crew of high schoolers cleaning up a local state park. Led by fearless young leader Rilyn and educators like Ashley, they exemplified the next generation of conservationists dedicated to preserving the environment.

Texas lawmakers propose a bill to ban high-level radioactive waste in response to a nuclear waste storage plan in West Texas. The bill would reduce state fees for the company's existing lower-risk waste facility, raising concerns from environmentalists about financial impacts on safety and cleanup funds.

Restoring native plants in North Texas enhances ecosystems due to their drought tolerance and support for wildlife. Several garden centers and the Native Plant Society of Texas facilitate access. Native plant sales are reopening, offering diverse selections and fostering community involvement in native flora conservation.

Tex-Mex vegan cafe Belenty’s Love, founded by Belen Hernandez, offers plant-based Mexican dishes in Fort Worth. The vibrant venue serves homemade, cruelty-free options like Chickenless Enchiladas and Beefless Quesadillas. Hernandez plans further expansion due to the success of her unique concept.

"Green Source On the Air" launches April 22. This new monthly program by Green Source DFW will feature environmental topics, interviews, and entertainment. The Earth Day show includes speakers like Marsha Jackson and Amy Martin, support from Dallas College, and music by Montopolis.

Jason reads the children's classic by Shel Silverstein.

Richard Powers’ novel, "The Overstory," gives trees starring roles, blending research with storytelling to emphasize their importance. Through vivid characters and poetic narratives, Powers challenges human exceptionalism and environmental issues. He hopes the book inspires a shift in consciousness about the significance of nonhuman life.

Frog calls enliven North Texas nights, with male Blanchard’s cricket frogs and Southern leopard frogs engaging in courtship sounds. Amidst their decline due to threats like chytrid fungus, conservation is essential. Residents can help by maintaining habitats and creating frog-friendly environments, enhancing natural insect control and enjoying amphibian songs.

Texas bill SB 1261, introduced by Sen. Brian Birdwell, threatens local climate plans in Texas by granting the state exclusive control over greenhouse gas regulations, affecting cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Residents are urged to oppose it through the Senate Committee.