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North Texas

Apr 23 2019, Julie Ryan

'Bad' bills threaten Texas resources, environmentalists say

Three bills that threaten environmental health and safety are gaining traction. Courtesy of State of Texas.

April 22, 2019

In this Texas Legislature, while school funding and property tax relief have dominated the news, environmental watchdogs warn that several bills that could affect Texans’ air, water, soil and property rights are nearing final votes. 

ON THE FRACKWATER FRONT (HB 2771)

Rotting apples and eggshells on compost heap.
Apr 22 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Fort Worth launches pilot composting program

Fort Worth launched a pilot residential composting program, a North Texas first. For an annual $20 fee, residents receive composting supplies and access to collection sites. The initiative aims to reduce landfill waste and methane emissions while creating valuable gardening products. Over 200 participants joined in the first week.
Group of diverse people smiling, holding certificates in a room with colorful art on the walls.
Apr 16 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

North Texans lauded by state Sierra Club chapter

The state Sierra Club chapter honored North Texans for environmental contributions during the 2019 Lone Star Sierra Club Awards in Austin, including Mark Stein for leadership in fundraising, and Temeckia Derrough for activism. Green Source DFW received an Environmental Reporting Award.
Two smiling men standing under a porch, holding prizes.
Apr 15 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Skies clear for fifth annual Run for Environment

The fifth annual Green Source DFW Run for the Environment took place on April 15, 2019, with Alberto Trevino winning first place and Karen Benitez as the fastest female. The event, benefiting Green Source DFW, was part of Oak Cliff Earth Day and featured sunny weather at Lake Cliff Park.
Man dumping oyster shells from blue bins onto a large pile under a clear blue sky.
Apr 10 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Conservation stars recognized for Texas projects

Texan by Nature, a conservation nonprofit founded by Laura Bush, announced its 2019 Conservation Wranglers, recognizing innovative Texas projects. Honorees include initiatives for paddling trails, wetlands restoration, water conservation, oyster recycling, reef restoration, and grassland recovery. Each will receive tailored support to enhance their conservation efforts.
Man in suit and sunglasses stands beside anti-radioactive waste sign.
Apr 09 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Bills seek to expand nuclear waste dump in West Texas

Nuclear waste opponents, including Adrian Shelley, are protesting Texas bills SB 1021 and HB 2269, backed by Waste Control Specialists, fearing potential expansion of nuclear waste dumps in Texas. Shelley and allies seek a ban on high-level waste, citing safety risks to Texans and urging legislative action.
Three people sitting in front of a large sign on a rural road.
Apr 08 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Texas bill threatens peaceful protest, environmentalists say

A Texas bill, SB 1993, threatens environmental protests by making civil disobedience at critical infrastructure sites a second-degree felony. Opposed by various local groups, the bill also holds organizations liable for member actions and could affect various protests and property rights, infringing on First Amendment rights.
A dirt lot with shipping containers and a large pile of dark rocks.
Apr 04 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Shingle Mountain is moving, thanks to mighty pushback

A state district judge ordered Blue Star Recycling to remove a five-story pile of asphalt shingles near Marsha Jackson's home within 90 days. Despite zoning law claims, Blue Star agreed to close under pressure. Jackson suffered from the pollution, and local activists celebrated the decision.
Cleared field with tree stumps and bare trees under a cloudy sky.
Apr 03 2019, MARSHALL HINSLEY

New Dallas tree zoning law to be voted on Wednesday

The Neighborhood Forest Overlay ordinance, unanimously approved by Dallas City Council, allows homeowners to create zones for tree preservation, aiming to protect urban forests beyond the 2018 ordinance. It empowers residents to manage greenery preservation, affecting future property sales, and complements existing tree laws.