North Texas

Holidays often generate large amounts of waste, prompting the idea of celebrating with eco-friendly gifts and practices, such as using reusable items. Suggestions include Fire Grounds Coffee, Texas-themed tumblers, biodegradable snacks, sustainable shoes, and more. These gifts aim to honor both fathers and Mother Earth.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission banned canned hunting and limited trap holding times for mountain lions, aligning Texas with other states regulating mountain lion management. This decision followed a significant public response supporting protective measures. Future management may include mandatory harvest reporting to gather data on mountain lion populations.

A report from a six-month investigation by Earthworks, Liveable Arlington, and others highlights that gas wells in Arlington, Texas, are leaking dangerous emissions, particularly impacting communities of color. A study focused on Total Energies’ wells revealed emissions from 25 sites, raising public health concerns for 400,000 nearby residents.

Artificial light enables 24/7 human activity but disrupts wildlife reliant on dark skies, harming birds, bats, and more. Michael Rymer and Cindy Luongo Cassidy discuss mitigating light pollution's impact through smarter lighting like shields and timers, emphasizing reduced environmental and energy costs for Texas wildlife conservation.

The restored Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk at Fort Worth Nature Center was officially reopened on Earth Day. It features upgrades including a new Lotus Marsh Pavilion and accessible design. The project, funded by grants and fees, highlights the marsh's ecological value and accommodates all visitors, including those with disabilities.

The Credo Community Choir will perform "Protecting Our Planet" at the Moody Performance Hall in Dallas on May 18, with concerts at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The choir's eco-themed program addresses climate change and promotes awareness and action, with tickets priced $25-$100.

Fireflies are disappearing in Texas, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and urban sprawl. Biologist Ben Pfeiffer founded Firefly Conservation and Research to preserve fireflies. He advocates for habitat restoration, reducing light pollution, and educating the public through watch parties and habitat certifications to help their conservation.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with eco-friendly experiences like Goat Yoga in Las Colinas, shopping at Dallas Farmers Market, and unique gifts from Global Mamas. Enjoy Fort Worth's Japanese Gardens or Water Gardens for a peaceful outing. Consider a Davis St. Mercantile candle workshop or a Mill composter for a sustainable gift.

Turtles may need assistance crossing roads, especially during breeding season in spring. Most know their destination, so carry them in their travel direction. Turtles often cross due to development or as released pets. Ensure road safety and avoid relocating far from their home range to prevent their return and harm.

On Saturday, Oak Cliff Earth Day preparations were delayed by rain. However, on sunny Sunday, a lively crowd arrived to explore green vendors, nonprofit causes, food trucks, and diverse entertainment. Photographer Jim Domke captured the event.