North Texas

Black-tailed prairie dogs are back at the Fort Worth Nature Center after a decade. Rescued from imminent destruction, they were relocated by Nature Center staff and collaborators. Prairie dogs play vital roles in ecosystems, but have faced challenges due to past eradication efforts. The relocation uses improved techniques, maintaining their family groups to increase survival rates.

A local performance group, Watering Hole Collective, is presenting "I Am an Island," a surrealist dark comedy addressing global warming. The play follows May's journey to raise awareness of her sinking island through political demonstration. Nonprofit partners host post-show discussions, with play proceeds supporting these organizations.

The Air Sensor Summit on Sept. 19 in Dallas, hosted by city partners, will discuss low-cost air sensors. It features speakers from EPA and academia. The city has installed 24 sensors through D-CAMP to supplement existing monitors, addressing local air quality concerns. The free event includes lunch.

Nearly two years after the initial proposal, the Colleyville City Council unanimously approved the Bluffs at Colleyville housing development amid resident opposition. The nine-home project, down from an initial 19, will include city-dedicated land for tree preservation, while some residents remain concerned about losing native forest areas.

A revitalization effort for neglected Dallas cemeteries, led by the Friends of Warren Ferris Cemetery, has successfully transformed Warren Ferris Cemetery into a refuge and is now expanding to five additional cemeteries. The initiative, Constellation of Living Memorials, aims to restore cultural significance and green space, requiring larger organizational support.

Every spring, hummingbirds migrate to Texas and stay during summer. Ornithologist Cliff Shackelford explains Texas hosts around 20 species, with the ruby-throated hummingbird being most common. Attract hummingbirds by planting native flowers and avoiding chemicals. Supplement with sugar water feeders sans red dye. Overall, most hummingbirds are stable despite general bird declines.

The Arlington Conservation Council, a long-time environmental advocate, partnered with UTA in 2022 to launch an endowment supporting environmental scholarship and research. The fund, managed by UTA, supports student projects like sustainable urban planning and Vehicle to Grid technology.

Insects are crucial to Earth's ecosystems, yet they face significant declines due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Experts stress the importance of insects for pollination, decomposition, and as food sources. We must act by planting native species, reducing pesticide use, and advocating for nature-friendly practices to stem this decline.

Eco-anxiety, a logical reaction to climate change, often resists traditional therapies like CBT. Climate psychologists like Leslie Davenport emphasize validation and self-care tools. Group support may alleviate feelings of isolation. As distress grows, therapists advocate for becoming comfortable with discomfort and finding constructive outlets to address climate concerns.

The Texas Trees Foundation offers a green career training program for young adults, providing on-the-job experience in urban forestry. Founded in 1982, the Foundation’s program, supported by a Department of Labor grant, includes hybrid training focused on environmental stewardship, resulting in paid work opportunities and potential full-time employment.