North Texas

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.

New public artworks in DFW parks highlight ecological themes. Patrick Dougherty's "Playin' Hooky" at Fort Worth Botanic Garden uses elm saplings, while "When Air Becomes Sky" and "Art + Knowledge" celebrate nature. Other installations include "Stacked Friends" in Dallas and Shelby David Meier’s exhibit at Nasher Sculpture Center.

Fort Worth partnered with Downtown Fort Worth Inc to dim lights for migrating birds, as part of Lights Out Texas, helping billions of birds navigate safely. This aligns with initiatives inspired by BirdCast and other conservation efforts to tackle light pollution, crucial since many U.S. birds migrate via Texas.

The deep freeze in North Texas stressed many trees, but most will recover, experts say. Live oaks' dramatic leaf loss is normal, while magnolias and sensitive non-native or young trees might suffer more. Residents should delay pruning and ensure trees are well-watered and fertilized to reduce stress.

Using an old phone as a security cam can help monitor spaces like a tool shed with the Alfred Camera app. By utilizing two smartphones, one as a camera and one as a viewer, users can receive alerts and view recordings. The app offers features like motion alerts, two-way talk, and night vision.

The Boneless Butcher in Dallas, founded by Crystal Gomez, offers vegan steaks as sustainable meat alternatives. Gomez perfected her recipe and expanded her offerings to include Boneless Ribz, aiming to appeal to both vegans and meat-eaters. She plans retail and local farmers market expansions, with hopes for a storefront.

After moving to Midlothian, Laura Hunt's daughter developed a severe respiratory condition, prompting Hunt to investigate potential links to local cement plant emissions. She founded Midlothian Breathe, a group advocating for DIY air monitoring using low-cost sensors to track air quality and hold polluters accountable.