North Texas

Over the past decade, Texas reduced environmental protection funding by 35% despite increased industrial activity. This ranks Texas second among 30 states in funding cuts, which occurred as state revenue grew. The Environmental Integrity Project highlights that cuts coincide with federal efforts to shift more environmental oversight to states.

At 68, Michael Smith, an Arlington reptile expert and licensed therapist, is publishing a herpetology guide for teens, targeted to cultivate a love for reptiles and nature. His passion for reptiles began early, leading to co-founding the Dallas-Fort Worth Herpetological Society and writing various guides, including a mindfulness-in-nature book.

Amy Martin, Green Source DFW columnist, is authoring "Wild Dallas-Fort Worth" for Timber Press, exploring North Texas' nature. The guidebook covers natural history, flora, fauna, and field trips, featuring local experts and ecological professionals. It builds on her past works, due out in early 2023.

Nature officially reclaims Fort Worth’s Broadcast Hill as prairie supporters celebrate its addition to Tandy Hills Natural Area. The 52-acre parcel, saved from commercialization, expands the greenspace to 210 acres. The success followed years of advocacy, city collaboration, and financial support, ensuring ecological preservation within the city.

Since 1776, the concept of "Real Americans" has evolved amid racial struggles and environmental challenges. Today's battle against racism requires expanding this identity to include all people. Embracing inclusivity and environmental justice exemplifies true American values, urging us to face racism, the real pandemic, with compassion and acceptance.

Acre Distilling in Fort Worth, founded by Tony Formby in 2015, will soon be entirely powered by solar energy. Inspired by environmental concerns, Formby partnered with Circle L Solar to install over 350 solar panels. The Green Acre Initiative also includes biodegradable products, a recycling program, and electric car charging stations.

Hiking McCommas Bluff Preserve is a challenging 7-mile trek through Dallas's storied wilderness. The trail, notorious for illegal activities and environmental degradation, rewards hikers with scenic views of the Trinity River and a charming prairie. Despite urban encroachment, the preserve offers an intense encounter with nature’s beauty and history.

While the nation grapples with the pandemic and racial injustice protests, the Trump administration continues to roll back environmental protections, reversing over 60 rules since 2017. Key rollbacks include changes to emissions rules, wetland protections, and wildlife protections. Various resources track these changes, such as Harvard and Columbia Law Schools.

In River Legacy Park, Jim Sipiora discovered a sophisticated trap holding an indigo bunting, used to lure females. Arlington's Warden released the bird and confiscated an iPhone leading to a local suspect. This incident has sparked a wide investigation involving multiple agencies into the illegal trapping of birds for black market sales.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram hired Haley Samsel as an environmental reporter with support from a $15,000 Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund grant and Report for America. Samsel will cover environmental issues related to Fort Worth's rapid growth, addressing challenges like flash flooding and deforestation.