Opinion

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.

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.

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.

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:

Jul 16 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.

May 06 2022, AMY MARTIN

Bill is game changer for Texas wildlife, say advocates

May 6, 2022

The nation's wildlife has been in crisis for a decade or more, with one-third of species — more than 1,600! — facing an elevated risk of extinction.

Mar 18 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Global environmentalists speak out on Ukraine crisis

The Russian invasion of Ukraine led a coalition to highlight environmental impacts, including nuclear risks and pollution. An open letter signed by over 1,000 global entities underscores the potential environmental crisis from military actions in industrial areas and stresses the connection between peace and environmental health.

Feb 24 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Coping tools can help heal 'environmental grief'

Coping tools like sharing feelings, celebrating natural places, advocating for nature, practicing mindfulness, honoring beloved sites, and counseling can help heal environmental grief, which arises from witnessing ecological losses due to growth and climate change, and reflects a deep human connection to nature.

Feb 04 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Critter-related phobias can keep us from enjoying nature

Critter-related phobias, such as fear of spiders, often stem from personal experiences, observations of others, or inherent sensitivity. Effective management involves exposure and cognitive behavioral therapy. Awareness and understanding can help reduce fears and enable enjoyment of nature. Michael Smith will discuss these phobias on March 15 at Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve.