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Opinion

Grassy field with purple wildflowers and scattered trees.
Feb 02 2024, MICHAEL SMITH

North Texans should visit National Grasslands in region's 'backyard'

The LBJ National Grasslands, located 60 miles from Fort Worth, is a complex, scenic landscape administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Spread over 20,250 acres and divided into 67 units, it offers trails and diverse ecosystems and requires careful navigation, as there are no formal entrances.
Spooky forest with glowing pumpkins and a gnarled tree under the moonlight.
Oct 24 2023, WENDEL WITHROW

Fright Night: Why tent camping spooks some urbanites

Tent camping enriches outdoor experiences more than drive-through park visits. Despite common fears such as wildlife encounters, insects, and weather, camping offers a unique connection with nature. Modern gear, campsite safety, and learning to identify plants and animals mitigate concerns. Enjoy disconnecting from technology and immersing in Texas's natural beauty.
Swamp with tall trees and greenery reflecting in the water.
Jul 27 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Last remaining quiet places need protection

Two days in Southeast Texas’ Big Thicket provided a rare escape from urban noise, highlighting the pervasive effects of human-generated noise pollution. Research indicates such noise harms health and wildlife, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural quiet. Places like Lennox Woods offer peaceful retreats, underscoring the need for advocacy.
New green sprouts emerging through dry leaves.
Mar 08 2023, MISTI LITTLE

Saying goodbye to Fairfield Lake State Park

The author recounts a poignant farewell visit to Fairfield Lake State Park before its closure. Reflecting on cherished memories and ecological losses, they lament the area's development and environmental changes. The visit was marked by nostalgia and a somber awareness of nature's irreplaceable beauty.
Open notebook with handwritten notes and sketches on wooden table.
Jan 17 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Journaling can deepen experiences in nature

Carrying a nature journal aids detailed observation and reflection, enhancing memories and mindfulness. Writing and drawing in nature help us engage deeply, refine vocabulary, and inspire self-reflection. Overcoming hurdles such as time constraints and lack of skill can enrich our experiences, making nature journaling a rewarding endeavor.
Bronze award with figures holding a globe, "Memnosyne Institute" text.
Nov 04 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Green Source announces 2022 award recipients

The 2022 Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards will honor outstanding environmental leaders on Dec. 4 at Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Award recipients include Kathryn Bazan, Suzanne Tuttle and Kim Aman, among others. Tickets are $25-$35 and include garden entry. Additional "Lightscape" tickets are available.
Worker in blue overalls using a leaf blower outdoors.
Sep 02 2022, JOHN KENT

Ban the blower? Gas-powered lawn tools blast suburban bliss

At dawn, loud and polluting gas leaf blowers invade neighborhoods, disrupting peace. These devices emit significant pollution and noise akin to jets. Electric alternatives are viable, quieter, and cleaner. Cities are shifting to electric blowers, promoting bans and buyback programs to ease transitions while considering lawn care businesses.
Dense forest with tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Sep 01 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Children should face their fears of the forest

Children should explore the woods often and fearlessly, learning to do so safely. Urban kids' fears, like of snakes, can be mitigated with education. Encouraging outdoor exploration can counteract “nature-deficit disorder.” Teaching safety rules helps foster confidence in nature while avoiding harm to wildlife.
Jul 28 2022, AMY MARTIN

Stories, tributes, images sought for Ned Fritz biography

July 28, 2022

Did you know or were you influenced by Ned Fritz?

Texas' greatest environmentalist-lawyer from Dallas died in 2008 at age 92. But there's no comprehensive chronicle of his life's work. 

A team of Dallasites wants to change that by creating an online biography of the man who did more to save nature in Texas than anyone else.

The public's help is needed. 

Perhaps you were active in one of his groups or endeavors: 

Star-filled galaxy with bright blue and orange swirling nebulae.
Jul 15 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Webb telescope takes us 'Across the Universe'

Amid dramatic headlines, the first James Webb Space Telescope images were revealed, offering the "deepest-ever view" of the cosmos, showing galaxies 13.5 billion years back in time, and changing our perspective of Earth and the universe.