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Arlington author Michael Smith, a naturalist and retired psychotherapist, explores mindfulness in nature in his new book *Mindfulness in Texas Nature*. His journey was gradual, rooted in time spent outdoors, leading to deeper awareness. The book combines experiential insights with nature photography.

The Trinity River Crew offers Dallas teens paid, hands-on environmental experience, focusing on restoration, data collection, and education. Launched in 2021, the program targets underserved youth, providing both economic mobility and ecological awareness through partnerships with Trinity Park Conservancy and Greenspace Dallas.

A new book, *Wild Houston*, part of Timber Press's Wild Series, reveals Houston as a biodiversity hotspot. It explores the area's Gulf Coastal Plain ecosystem with a 352-page guide on plants, wildlife, and 25 field trips, debunking misconceptions about Houston's natural beauty. Co-authors Suzanne Simpson and John Williams detail Houston’s unique flora and fauna.

Trolls in Austin's Pease Park defy typical negative connotations; Danish artist Thomas Dambo created an 18-foot eco-friendly sculpture, "Malin's Fountain," from recycled materials. This whimsical troll highlights water conservation, reflecting Dambo’s mission to encourage eco-awareness and revalue discarded items.

Spring Creek Forest Preserve in Garland joins the Old-Growth Forest Network as only the second Texas site recognized for healthy old-growth forests. Saved by community and environmentalist efforts, it showcases rare, century-old trees. Celebrations included educational walks and speeches, emphasizing continued preservation.

Chiggers and ticks, summer's tiny pests, await hosts like mammals and birds. Chiggers are mite larvae, and ticks can carry diseases. To prevent bites, wear long, light clothing, apply permethrin and repellents, and use DEET or lemon eucalyptus repellents. Post-exposure, shower promptly, treat bites, and monitor for symptoms.

In February, FIFA announced that North Texas will host nine World Cup matches in 2026, the most of any city. Local leaders focus on sustainability, with plans addressing environmental impacts and transportation challenges. A bus bridge and electric buses aim to enhance transit. Environmental efforts align with FIFA’s carbon reduction strategy.

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.