What’s happening in and around Dallas / Fort Worth? If it’s green or it involves the outdoors, it’s listed here!
If your nonprofit group or organization would like to list your events in GreenSourceDFW, please submit it via email to events@greensourcedfw.org. Events will be screened.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday of each week, March 22-Oct. 20, 2012, 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. around the gazebo. Our family has been in the Farmer’s Market Business for several generations. As a result, produce is not just a career-choice, its a passion. We guarantee you the best selection around: if we wouldn’t feed it to our kids, you won’t find it in our market.
The Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market is a community-oriented market focusing on Texas provided foods, arts, crafts, services and wares. We are located at 215 Front Street Arlington, Texas 76011 and we open every Friday and Saturday from 8AM to 1PM.
The goal of the market is to provide a venue for local vendors to offer Arlington, Texas residents an opportunity to buy the freshest meat, produce, breads and other great foods, crafts and products available.
Please take the time to share and enjoy the health benefits of eating fresh foods and feel good about supporting your community Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market. We look forward to seeing you there!
Grand Prairie Farmers Market will feature a "Make it and Take it Rain Barrel Class" on Saturday, Sept. 1, in addition to its weekly supply of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more.
The Rain Barrel Class, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m., costs $35 for Grand Prairie residents and $50 for non-residents, and pre-registration is required. Send a check or money order payable to the city of Grand Prairie to: Selena Jackson, P.O. Box 534045, Grand Prairie, TX 75053. For more information about the class, call 972-237-8377 or email sjackson@gptx.org.
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open March 31, 2012 through December on Saturdays 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Market Square, 120 W. Main St., in downtown Grand Prairie. Check out the 2012 Farmers Market Calendar on our website for a listing of special events including cooking demonstrations and festivals.
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open in downtown Grand Prairie, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more. Check out the Farmers Market Calendar on the GPFM website for a listing of special events including cooking demonstrations, festivals and holiday market.
Bird Walk with Gailon Brehm & Rodney Thomas - Connemara Meadow Preserve
Saturday, September 1, 2012 8:00 - 10:00 AM
This is a monthly bird walk. It meets on first Saturdays in odd-numbered months. And meets on first Sundays in even-numbered months.
Bring your binoculars and field guides if you have them, and learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. Expect to dickcissels, buntings and other prairie birds, hawks, etc. All ages are welcome. Bring binoculars and bird guides, water, sun and insect protection.
Location: Connemara Meadow is located in north Plano on Alma Dr, south of Bethany Dr. (Note: entrance is in Allen.)
Everything sold here is either grown, raised or produced within 150 miles of Fort Worth.
The North Central Texas Farmers Market Corp. operates two markets weekly at this time of year.
Westside: 3821 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth. 8 a.m. to noon, Saturdays (year-round).
Downtown Fort Worth: 1000 Throckmorton St., Federal Plaza Park in front of Lanham Plaza (federal building). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays (through December).
The Coppell Farmers Market is a one-stop shopping trip for fresh, seasonal produce, pastured meats, eggs, breads and locally made foods. All products sold at the Coppell Farmers Market are grown, raised and/or produced directly by the vendor within the North Central Texas region, with the exception of full disclosure and approval of selling another’s product.
Weekly and seasonal offerings:
Grass fed beef, natural pork & chicken, eggs from free range hens, Gulf coast seafood, wild-caught Alaska salmon, tomatoes, lettuces and varieties of greens, herbs, beets, turnips, radishes, spring and large onions, mushrooms, new potatoes and sweet potatoes continue to be offered in addition to honey, cheese, pasta, artisan breads, pies, cookies, cake balls, soup & dessert mixes, herb-infused sorbet, chips and salsa, granola, spice blends, pecans, spiced nuts, Texas olive oil, coffee and tea.
Find bedding plants for spring/summer color, herbs or vegetables. Look for doggie treats, custom soaps and soy candles, worm castings, worm wine or pre-order vermi-composti
The Keller Farmers Market is a casual, open air, seasonal market that offers fresh Texas produce, meats, eggs, wine, tamales, baked goods, artisan bread, chips, salsa, pasta, pickles, jellies and jams, honey, grains, desserts, prepared foods, coffee, pet products and crafts, all from the state of Texas or within 150 miles.
The Dallas Farmers Market, one of the largest public markets of its type in the country, is open seven days a week, 362 days a year. Farmers from 150 miles around come to the Dallas Farmers Market, giving shoppers the chance to "buy locally." These certified local producers offer a wide array of seasonal produce, from tomatoes to sweet potatoes, peaches to watermelons. Other produce vendors complement these local offerings, with everything from Mexican avocados to Washington apples.
At the Dallas Farmers Market, visitors can also find specialty and prepared foods, flowers, shrubs, and trees, and the opportunity to buy produce in bulk.
A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the "buy fresh, buy local" idea. Seasonal fruits create a spectacular palette! The freshest vegetables in North Dallas will excite your culinary talents! Also available are pasture fed beef, pork, lamb, and the freshest eggs you'll find. Buy pasta, seafood, cheesecake, muffins, gourmet items, and honey - all fresh!
This day-long photo safari with an afternoon workshop lead by staff photographer Cathy Burkey and Kathy Adams Clark will concentrate on processing your photos in RAW.
Call 469-554-7423 for more information or to make reservations.
Cost: $125 (DZS members), $150 (non-members).
Backyard composting doesn’t have to be just a mixture of leaves and grass. These browns and greens are the perfect source for carbon and nitrogen to make a “hot” pile, but there are other alternative sources for nitrogen, which will still create a hot pile. Most experienced composters have used and/or use a variety of manures to produce a rich, compost perfect for gardening. This class will examine the types of manures that should and should not be used in composting, as well as discuss the benefits of using worms in the composting process to produce vermi-compost.
2012 Home Horticulture Seminars - Texas AgriLife Extension Service
“Native & Adapted Plants” will be presented from 10 a.m. until noon, September 1, in Lonestar Room A & B at the Tarrant County Plaza Building, 200 Taylor St., Ft. Worth. Registration is $15. Advance reservations are preferred, but not required.
To register or for more information, contact Billie Hammack at 817-884-1296 or blhammack@ag.tamu.edu.
Science Saturdays are held the first weekend of every month and feature numerous events hosted by BRIT’s botanists. Botanists are on hand to answer questions and to identify those mysterious plants that grow in the backyards of Tarrant and Dallas counties that prompt homeowners to ask, “What the heck is this?”
Every Saturday, Elizabeth Anna’s hosts a local and organic market featuring in-season produce, fresh eggs and ground wheat bread along with other baked goods. Pre-order meat & dairy. Check the website for specials of the week and sneak peaks at our recipe kits.
Bring your binoculars and curiosity to the Prairie Dog Town to watch these diurnal underdogs of the prairie. Observe their social behavior and listen to their bark-like vocalizations. There is more than meets the eye to these robust rodents. $5 (with paid admission)/MEMBERS FREE
Beneath the waters of the West Fork of the Trinity River lies many critters that we may think insignificant. However, they are important to the aquatic ecosystem and can tell us a lot about the health of our water. Come and join us as we dip into the water for aquatic invertebrates. This is a come and go event. FREE (with paid admission).
For ages 4 and 5 with adult partner. Tuesday Trekkers is designed to encourage adult-child interaction, outdoor experiences and pre-school readiness. Register: http://activenet11.active.com/southlake/
The North Texas Environmental Meetup is about meeting other like-minded environmentally-conscious people to discuss environmental issues both on a global and local level.
Eight sessions of gardening for fun for second, third and fourth-graders. Held Wednesdays Sept. 5 through Oct. 24. Cost: $30 residents, $40 non-residents. Online registration required: livegreeninplano.obsres.com
Hosted by EARTH NT (Energy and Research Technology Hub of North Texas), supporting the mission of SXSW Eco (South by Southwest Eco).
Featuring:
*DFW’s top clean tech & sustainable business innovations.
*A nationally recognized panel addressing public/private/non-profit Innovation hubs fueling urban revitalization.
*Great local food, drink, and friends.
*Live music... art gallery... and more.
Cost: $20 (Includes all events, food, 2 drinks & fun.) $10 for Community/Univ. Partners (same benefits).
Community Partners Include: EARTH NT, SCSW Eco attendees, Net Impact DFW, Texas Green Chamber of Commerce, Dallas Institute, Green Source DFW, TEDxSMU, USGBC North Texas, B Corp, Social Venture Network, TECH Ft. Worth
University Partners: UT Arlington, TCU, UNT, Texas A&M, SMU, DCCCD, TCCCD, UT Dallas, UT Southwestern
Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday of each week, March 22-Oct. 20. On top of all the great local produce they always have, this year they're offering local organics. Check out their website to see list of vendors.
The Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market is a community-oriented market focusing on Texas provided foods, arts, crafts, services and wares. It is open every Friday and Saturday.
The goal of the market is to provide a venue for local vendors to offer Arlington, Texas residents an opportunity to buy the freshest meat, produce, breads and other great foods, crafts and products available. Visit their website to learn more about vendors.
Join a naturalist as we try to wake up with the birds. We will take a leisurely hike around the Nature Center to see if we can find birds beginning their day. This is the best time of the day to see our fine feathered friends. Bring your binoculars and cameras to enhance your experience. Pre-registration required. $10 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $5.
White Rock Local Market is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit farmers market where local farmers, ranchers, and artisans sell directly to this East Dallas neighborhood. Vendors bring fresh, local and healthy foods, and quality arts and crafts. WRLM is held twice a month – the second and fourth Saturday. Second Saturdays are Everything Markets and feature farmers, food artisans and arts and crafts. Fourth Saturdays are Just Farmers - farmers, producers, and food artisans.
With its outreach programs -- a Lone Star food stamp program at the market, workshops, school field trips, and an after school entrepreneurial program -- White Rock Local Market hopes to make a lasting difference in the community.
A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the "buy fresh, buy local" idea. Seasonal fruits create a spectacular palette. The freshest vegetables in North Dallas will excite your culinary talents. Also available are pasture fed beef, pork, lamb and the freshest eggs you'll find. Buy pasta, seafood, cheesecake, muffins, gourmet items and honey - all fresh!
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open in downtown Grand Prairie, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more. Check out the Farmers Market Calendar on the GPFM website for a listing of special events, including cooking demonstrations, festivals and holiday market.
Everything sold here is either grown, raised or produced within 150 miles of Fort Worth.
The North Central Texas Farmers Market Corp. operates two markets weekly at this time of year.
Westside: 3821 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth. 8 a.m. to noon, Saturdays (year-round).
Downtown Fort Worth: 1000 Throckmorton St., Federal Plaza Park in front of Lanham Plaza (federal building). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays (through December).
The Coppell Farmers Market is a one-stop shopping trip for fresh, seasonal produce, pastured meats, eggs, breads and locally made foods. All products sold at the Coppell Farmers Market are grown, raised and/or produced directly by the vendor within the North Central Texas region, with the exception of full disclosure and approval of selling another’s product.
Weekly and seasonal offerings:
Grass fed beef, natural pork & chicken, eggs from free range hens, Gulf coast seafood, wild-caught Alaska salmon, tomatoes, lettuces and varieties of greens, herbs, beets, turnips, radishes, spring and large onions, mushrooms, new potatoes and sweet potatoes continue to be offered in addition to honey, cheese, pasta, artisan breads, pies, cookies, cake balls, soup & dessert mixes, herb-infused sorbet, chips and salsa, granola, spice blends, pecans, spiced nuts, Texas olive oil, coffee and tea.
Find bedding plants for spring/summer color, herbs or vegetables. Look for doggie treats, custom soaps and soy candles, worm castings, worm wine or pre-order vermi-composting kits.
The Keller Farmers Market is a casual, open air, seasonal market that offers fresh Texas produce, meats, eggs, wine, tamales, baked goods, artisan bread, chips, salsa, pasta, pickles, jellies and jams, honey, grains, desserts, prepared foods, coffee, pet products and crafts, all from the state of Texas or within 150 miles.
Yard Smart is a free seminar, featuring experts from the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, designed to provide effective, beneficial ways to use water wisely in the landscape. Topics vary by season and have included butterfly gardening, landscape watering, container gardens, perennials, trees and much more. This semi-annual seminar is offered each spring and fall. See website for fall seminar topics. No pre-registration is required.
Educators: fill your lesson plans while filling your supply shelves. Spend a day earning SBEC authorized CPE credits while learning techniques to implement the natural world into all areas of your elementary curriculum. Working lunch included. 5 hours awarded. $30; $24 for TDG Members. Register in advance.
Every Saturday, Elizabeth Anna’s hosts a local and organic market featuring in-season produce, fresh eggs and ground wheat bread along with other baked goods. Pre-order meat & dairy. Check the website for specials of the week and sneak peaks at our recipe kits.
Event is sponsored by the Dallas Alternative Energy Group. Learn to be self-sufficient, resourceful, whether you live in an apartment or farm. Come meet our exhibitors who can teach you about canning, organic gardens, water purification solar electricity, rainwater collection, native plants in the landscape, chicken coop design. In addition, North Haven Gardens will have a speaker at 10:30 a.m. Free admission.
There is not much one must do to prepare feeders in the fall and winter, but there are a few extra things you can do in order to attract winter birds. Steve Woodward from the Wild Bird Center will talk about these enhancements and also discuss some birds you may encounter at your feeders in the cooler months. FREE (with paid admission).
A look at the history and evolution of art and botanical science from the first century AD through the life of Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759–1840), one of the greatest botanical illustrators and flower painters of all time. Filled with incredible visuals and delivered in an exciting lecture style format, this program will be of interest to history, art and science lovers. Free.
Join TCU prof Dr. Helge Alsleben for a lively conversation and dialogue as we compare volcanic activity in Texas to volcanism along the "Ring of Fire,” the topic of the IMAX film. Explore general causes of volcanism and earthquakes, the modern setting of the Gulf Coast in the plate tectonic framework and the geologic history that explains modern earthquakes in Texas. Limited Seating ~ Free with Exhibition or IMAX admission.
Learn a variety of nature-inspired arts and crafts in this class each month. Open to all ages and abilities. Call (469) 526-1988 for more information or to register.
August 14: Watercolors
September 8: Textures in Nature
October 6: Patterns in Nature (note: class will be held on First Saturday this month)
Hosted by the city of Plano's Sustainability and Environmental Services Dept. this event is for teachers, PTA chairs, scout leaders and home school educators. A showcase of free educational programs and resources available to enrich your curriculum, programs and activities.
The Dallas Sierra Club meeting will include the following programs. Solar Energy - Jim Duncan, solar PV design and installation specialist, will talk about the fast growing
renewable energy field of solar photovoltaics. Learn about solar power for your home. Find out if purchasing a solar PV system is right for you, and learn the pros and cons of leasing solar panels. More information at www.ntrei.com.
Fall Elections - David Griggs will give a brief overview of the fall Sierra Club electoral plan for North Texas, including a handout of the list of the Sierra Club endorsements.
Contact Kirk Miller at KirkMiller@DallasSierraClub.org for more information.
This event is part of the Fort Worth Museum of Science & History's PUBlic Knowledge series. Learn about current science topics, local and national history, and other brainy subjects, all while enjoying a cool libation at favorite local bar or restaurant. Each first Tuesday of the month, guests from a variety of fields with diverse and relevant experience are featured.
Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday of each week, March 22-Oct. 20. On top of all the great local produce they always have, this year they're offering local organics. Check out their website to see list of vendors.
Join Dallas Vegan Drinks Thursday at one of the most vegan-friendly locations in Dallas, Pizza Lounge, near Fair Park.
There's a lot going on in the Dallas vegan scene that you can get involved with - especially with Mercy For Animals marching in the Pride Parade coming up on Sunday and the Texas State Veggie Fair just a month and a half away. Find out how you can get involved and meet veg-friendly folks for a great evening of drinks, food, fun and discussion of vegan goings-on in the Metroplex.
If you have a volunteer opportunity or shout-out you want to share with the group, email jamey@dallasvegan.com.
Shine the light on converting sun power to cool your next summer. The "Learn Green 2 Live Green 2012-2013 Series" is a partnership between the Plano Libraries and the Environmental Education and Community Outreach Division. This event is free of charge and open to the public, with a focus on residents of Plano.
Free class hosted by the city of Plano. Drip irrigation is 90 percent efficient, promotes healthier plants and is usually inexpensive and easy to install. Learn about types of drip irrigation and the basics of how to install it at this free class. Registration of 8 people is required in order to hold the class.
Fracking: How Will It Impact DFW’s Air, Land, and Water? The educational panel presentation regarding natural gas fracking will be moderated by BJ Austin, reporter for KERA 90.1 radio.
The panel discussion will include a member from the city of Dallas Drilling Taskforce along with air, water, and natural gas experts to discuss the problems the region has faced with fracking-related issues.
The Dallas City Council is considering several major changes to our local gas drilling ordinance as to where and how drilling may take place in relation to homes, businesses, schools and parks. Come learn about the fracking process and its possible effects on the region’s air and water, the economy, impacts on human health and the environment.
The panel discussion is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters (Dallas, Irving, Plano, Richardson), the Memnosyne Foundation and the Dallas Sierra Club.
The Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market is a community-oriented market focusing on Texas provided foods, arts, crafts, services and wares. It is open every Friday and Saturday. The goal of the market is to provide a venue for local vendors to offer Arlington, Texas residents an opportunity to buy the freshest meat, produce, breads and other great foods, crafts and products available. Visit their website to learn more about vendors.
Citizen Forester classes cover basic tree physiology, tree ID, proper planting and pruning techniques, insects and diseases, plus proper care and maintenance. For more information, email citizenforester@tx.rr.com or call 213-670-1509.
The Dallas Arboretum hosts the 7th annual Tour des Fleurs 10K/20K on Sept. 15. Races begin at 7:30 a.m. Shuttle buses begin running at 6 a.m. Course winds around White Rock Lake and through Lakewood neighborhood. Post-race party features live music, food, drink. Proceeds benefit the Arboretum.
The Chef’s Table Program cooking demonstration for the 2012 Keller Farmers Market season is being hosted Saturday, September 15th by Chef Melody Fitzgerald of Southern Breeze Market Cafe, and Sugar & Frosting. http://southernbreezemarketcafe.com/about.html#/
Keller Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8A – noon from May – Oct, around the Keller Town Hall Fountain. For more information about the market, vendors and sponsors, and for directions, visit www.kellerfarmersmarket.com.
A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the "buy fresh, buy local" idea. Seasonal fruits create a spectacular palette. The freshest vegetables in North Dallas will excite your culinary talents. Also available are pasture fed beef, pork, lamb and the freshest eggs you'll find. Buy pasta, seafood, cheesecake, muffins, gourmet items and honey - all fresh!
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open in downtown Grand Prairie, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more. Check out the Farmers Market Calendar on the GPFM website for a listing of special events, including cooking demonstrations, festivals and holiday market.
Everything sold here is either grown, raised or produced within 150 miles of Fort Worth.
The North Central Texas Farmers Market Corp. operates two markets weekly at this time of year.
Westside: 3821 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth. 8 a.m. to noon, Saturdays (year-round).
Downtown Fort Worth: 1000 Throckmorton St., Federal Plaza Park in front of Lanham Plaza (federal building). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays (through December).
The Coppell Farmers Market is a one-stop shopping trip for fresh, seasonal produce, pastured meats, eggs, breads and locally made foods. All products sold at the Coppell Farmers Market are grown, raised and/or produced directly by the vendor within the North Central Texas region, with the exception of full disclosure and approval of selling another’s product.
Weekly and seasonal offerings:
Grass fed beef, natural pork & chicken, eggs from free range hens, Gulf coast seafood, wild-caught Alaska salmon, tomatoes, lettuces and varieties of greens, herbs, beets, turnips, radishes, spring and large onions, mushrooms, new potatoes and sweet potatoes continue to be offered in addition to honey, cheese, pasta, artisan breads, pies, cookies, cake balls, soup & dessert mixes, herb-infused sorbet, chips and salsa, granola, spice blends, pecans, spiced nuts, Texas olive oil, coffee and tea.
Find bedding plants for spring/summer color, herbs or vegetables. Look for doggie treats, custom soaps and soy candles, worm castings, worm wine or pre-order vermi-composting kits.
We are a non-profit organization whose aim is to promote health and fitness through Volkssporting, a fun way to see new sights and meet new people. Volkssports include walking, biking and swimming events. Most of our events are Volksmarches. Volksmarch is a German word for "Walk of the People." A Volksmarch is on measured routes (usually 10K). We mark our walk routes with streamers or we provide written instructions or a map. See website for membership application and club fact sheet.
Two-day class Sept.15 and Sept. 22. Complete the course - learn the skills, gain the knowledge and be encouraged. Community Service - volunteer 8 hours within the program (generally at the garden where your class was hosted). COST: $30 per person (Must register and pay in advance by going to
http://northtexasvegetablegardeners.com/index.php/citizen-gardener/classes,
click on the 'buy now' utton, and complete the process to reserve
your spot in the class. Payment must be received by by Sept. 13.
Transform your property into a sustainable, food producing, eco-friendly habitat. Our workshops feature some of the best and brightest eco-minded enthusiasts in the DFW area. The USE workshops are designed for beginning and advanced gardeners and/or eco-friendly homeowners who are seeking solutions to move their homestead to the next level of sustainability.
Cost: $100 each or $80 per workshop when you register for both USE workshops. To register, go to the Texas Worm Ranch website and click on the "U.S.E." tab where you can pay via PayPal or by check (with a deadline of 14 days prior to each workshop.)
Second workshop held on Sept. 29.
See website for itinerary. Email builduse@gmail.com.
Learn how to preserve abundant harvests with a hands on class taught by long-time gardener and canner Tina Arons, who was featured in the Star Telegram recently. Attendees will learn basic pickling and no fuss canning. Have fun learning plus you get a glass jar of the locally grown produce that we can.
Please register online or come in to the shop to pre-pay. Paying ahead of time secures your spot. If we get more attendees than will fit in our kitchen, those who haven't secured their spot will be kindly asked to come to another canning class offered later to accommodate the interest.
NOTE: If you are coming to only the canning class, then please feel free to register and pay online. If you are an active member AND/OR also coming to the Fall Gardening and City Farming Workshop, then your class fee is reduced to $10 and you will need to come in to the shop to get your discount. Members who have done their volunteer hours can come to the canning class for $5 if they don't take a jar.
Learn about green living from local experts and then tour the Environmental Education Center, Plano's only LEED Platinum certified building. At this third Saturday event, attendees will learn how to grow and preserve fall vegetables. Event is free.
By composting we can reduce the amount of waste we send to the landfill. In fact, at least 30% of the material sent to the landfill is organic and could be composted at home. Composting at home is easy: Join us for a free class to learn how you can compost in your own backyard. Spaces are limited so please call us now at 214-670-4475 to reserve your seat.
Class presented by the Tarrant County Master Gardener Association. Fee is $5. To register or for more information, contact Billie Hammack at 817-884-1296 or blhammack@ag.tamu.edu.
The North Texas Electric Auto Association’s goal is to support local EV enthusiasts and to promote and educate the public regarding the benefits of electric vehicles.
All monthly meetings are free to attend and open to the public.
There will be updates on members projects and a Q & A session.
Interested in nature and would like to share it with others? Attend this informative meeting to learn more about becoming a Docent (Nature Teacher) at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. For more information or to register, please call Laura Veloz at (817) 392-7413. FREE.
Educators: fill your lesson plans while filling your supply shelves. Spend a day earning SBEC authorized CPE credits while learning techniques to implement the natural world into all areas of your elementary curriculum. Working lunch included. 5 hours awarded. $30; $24 for TDG Members. Register in advance.
Fall Gardening and City Farming Workshop - $30.
* Grow all year long, extend your fall crops for a winter and early spring harvest.
* Learn how and what to plant for the winter.
* City chicks and urban quackers care and reasons to bring on a site.
* What's a chicken tractor?
* Instructions on winterization of crops like carrots to take you into an early spring harvest.
* Pro and cons of winter gardening
* Cover crops
* Get tips on making a great compost pile for your spring garden.
* Early Pot luck dinner @ 4pm
* Fall Community Agriculture - Location TBA/optional farming of garlic and other root crops. Shares available and dependent on yield.
* Meet back at Elizabeth Anna City farm to ride bikes to Zeo Carlos for brew, tunes and relaxation.
Members who have fulfilled volunteers hours pay only $15 for the workshop or join an hour for free.
Also, add a canning class to the beginning of the workshop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. for an additional $10. All are welcome to join the farming on location and pot luck for free.
Every Saturday, Elizabeth Anna’s hosts a local and organic market featuring in-season produce, fresh eggs and ground wheat bread along with other baked goods. Pre-order meat & dairy. Check the website for specials of the week and sneak peaks at our recipe kits.
The acronym stands for Water Awareness Through Education and Recreation. Celebrate the wonderful resource of water with a variety of family-friendly activities, crafts and demonstrations at the water science fair at River Legacy Living Science Center.
BRIT partners with Texas AgriLife to discover the world of herbs. Learn the rich history of herbs along with their medicinal uses, how to grow/cultivate and how to personalize favorites for daily use. During the hands-on portion of the class, participants will create their own customized infused oil blends and decant into a decorative amphora bottle to take home. Cost: $50.00 per person; $45.00 per member (refreshments included). Pre-registration required.
Redenta's will host a free fall vegetable class in both stores. Learn all you need to know to have a beautiful and plentiful fall garden. Receive 10% off anything in the store that day if you attend the class.
A look at some of the botanical illustrations from the BRIT library collection. The presentation will examine the history of printing, the development of botanical illustration and how they combined to produce the works of art that we have available to enjoy. Program will be presented by librarian Gary Jennings.
Join us for shark-inspired drink specials, shark trivia, a sustainable/local menu and a discussion with award-winning shark conservationist, marine biologist and documentary filmmaker David McGuire on hammerhead and great white shark conservation (talk begins @ 6 PM). If you haven't heard about the issues facing sharks, apex predators essential for sustaining sea life, see the article that ran in the Christian Science Monitor: http://www.csmonitor.com/Commentary/Opinion/2012/0813/This-Shark-Week-let-s-love-an-animal-that-scares-us. McGuire is also speaking at the Museum of Nature and Science on Sept. 16. See GSDFW calendar listing.
In the midst of our move to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, a priceless Museum artifact has gone missing! Can it be found before the light of day reveals the empty space to our visitors? Gather clues as you sleuth through optical illusions, fingerprinting, and use the science of chromatography. You'll even take a peek at items from the MNS collections closet, rarely seen by our everyday guests.
Mystery in the Museum also includes a pizza snack, continental breakfast, an IMAX® screening of Whales and a hair-raising popular live show Electric Theater.
The 21st Annual Trinity River Trash Bash is hosted by the Tarrant Regional Water District. Sign up to join the cleanup on the TRWD website and order a free T-shirt. An After-Bash Party will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with free food, soft drinks, snow cones, exhibitors and Radio Disney.
Join Master Naturalist Clyde Camp for a night walk and Astronomy on the Meadow. The walk is generally held on the Saturday or Sunday closest to the New Moon but check the website calendar for specific dates and status of that month's walk.
Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot (just west from the normal Connemara entrance on Alma - see map ) at 9 p.m. sharp and then walk to the Meadow the back way.
Sign up on the Connemara website and see the Event Notice for more information on what to bring and what to wear. The walk is about 1.5 miles. This event is not appropriate for young children.
Continue to encourage your child's love of the outdoors all year long with Trinity River Audubon Center's Nature Club. The program will be held the 3rd Sunday of every month, beginning Sept 16. Nature Club is designed to encourage children, ages 5-12, to be active stewards of our lands, while at the same time showing children all the wonders of the nature around them.
Cost is $195/child for members ($220/child for non-members) for 9 sessions. Contact Zeshan Segal at 214-309-5812 or zsegal@audubon.org to register.
Award-winning shark conservationist, marine biologist and documentary filmmaker will speak on shark conservation. Meet David McGuire at Party for the Sharks at The People's Last Stand in Mockingbird Station on Sept. 15 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
Produce market featuring local growers. $10 buys a craft beer of your choice with chef's fresh plate pairing, prepared with produce from the garden.
Music by Kelly Brown and Local Honey with the Rueffer Brothers and nuevo-flaminco guitarist Russ Hewitt. Benefits the Promise of Peace Garden.
Fairview Farms Marketplace is open seasonally May through October for all your farm fresh produce, flowers and plants. Open Tuesday through Sunday in September.
Event is hosted by the South-Central Partnership for Energy Efficiency as a Resource. Morning Program (9:00am – 12:00pm): Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation and Coated Foam Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings. Afternoon Program (1:00pm – 4:00pm): Energy Efficiency Changes and Opportunities in Above Code Programs. For more information and to register, see website.
Learn the fundamentals of finding your way in the wilderness in this two-evening class. Among the subjects covered are: purchasing maps, how to read maps, how not to get lost, what to do if you do get lost, GPS, different kinds of compasses and how to use your compass. If you have a compass, bring it to the class. If you don't have one, we will show you what to look for when you purchase one. The fee for the class is $15 for Sierra Club members and $20 for non-members (CASH or CHECK ONLY - NO CREDIT CARDS). Handout included. Bring water bottle and writing utensil if you want to take notes. No reservations are necessary; just show up.
Gailon Hardin, Master Gardener and past president of the Native Plant Society of North Texas, will speak on native plants for your home landscape. She will offer advise on what plants to use in shade or sun suited to our north Texas climate. As water restrictions increase across our cities, plants selection for our landscape is critical. The speaker is followed by refreshments and announcements. Socialize with members after the meeting at Gingerman.
Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday of each week, March 22-Oct. 20. On top of all the great local produce they always have, this year they're offering local organics. Check out their website to see list of vendors.
Eileen Birnbaum worked in the legal field for 27 years before begining the World Wear Project, LLC 2 years ago. Through her efforts, this business has been a force not only for landfill diversion, but distribution of clothing resources and fund raising for schools, religious institutions, community organizations and a variety of other nonprofits. Hear her story, get educated about opportunities to further reduce our landfill contributions and grab some lunch from the Texas Harvest Pie Company.
A celebration of the founding of Social Venture Network in 1987 by entrepreneurs and investors, many who comprise today's certified B Corps. Join Nathan Joblin of Social Venture Network, Andy Fyfe of B Lab and Dallas business leaders interested in the sustainability movement for light hor d'oeuvres, networking and good conversation. Learn how the generous support of SVN's community of values-aligned leaders can be transformative as you scale your social enterprise and how B Corps are redefining success in business and how your business can become a B Corp.
Prospective SVN members, certified B Corps and their guests are encouraged to attend. Note: registration is inclusive of refreshments and parking. Cash bar will also be available. Admission: $20-$25.
Please join the Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club for an Almost Friday hike on the Trinity Trail. Meet at 6 PM at the parking lot just south of the Hoffbrau Steakhouse before the Trinity River Bridge on University for an evening hike of 3-4 miles. This trail is located just off University Drive on the west side, south of I-30 and University Dr. exit. If you get to the zoo, turn around. Bring water and snacks and comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for warm weather. Please no dogs. Hike cancelled if raining. Leader: Claudia Blalock, 817-924-6242 or claudia.blalock@att.net
Held on six consecutive Thursdays.
• Get the scoop on green living topics such as water conservation, responsible yard care,
managing household waste, green building and renovation, energy efficiency and air quality.
• Understand how daily decisions impact the environment - for better and for worse.
• Discover simple ways to inspire people in making greener choices.
• Contribute 24 hours of volunteer service, matching your passion for the environment with
new skills and fun opportunities.
The Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market is a community-oriented market focusing on Texas provided foods, arts, crafts, services and wares. It is open every Friday and Saturday. The goal of the market is to provide a venue for local vendors to offer Arlington, Texas residents an opportunity to buy the freshest meat, produce, breads and other great foods, crafts and products available. Visit their website to learn more about vendors.
Stroll through the park visiting with vendors, artists and artisans who are building a greener city. Learn how to garden, attract honeybees, raise chickens, save energy, conserve water, protect our Trinity River and much more. Bring the kids for hands-on activities and teaching opportunities.
Create a little peace where you can, and this sure promises to be the place to do just that!
The Center for Healing Arts honors the International Day of Peace (Sept 21) with the Carnaval de La Paz to benefit the Safe City Commission and The Peace Alliance. And it's all in the tune of fun!
Activities include a party with Peace Brew, Chadra Mezza pizza, palm-reading, photo booth, live music by the Marshall Young Band, cotton candy, hula-hooping, a cake walk and a very special art auction, featuring peace-themed art by local school kids. Plus, you can learn the Peace Dance!
Cost: Tickets are $25 at the door; or, $10 for ages 6-21
These chef demos are FREE and will be every month on the third Saturday at 10am. Next up A GO TEXAN restaurant right down the street in Old Town Coppell will demonstrate their catering favorite; vegetable kabobs! For more info, email info@coppellfarmersmarket.org
The Coppell Farmers Market, established in 2003, has become one of the best community markets in the DFW area, a one-stop shopping trip for fresh, seasonal produce, pastured meats, eggs, breads and locally made foods. Both the customers and the farmers/producers have shaped the market to what it is today, guided by a community-based organization, the Coppell Farmers Market Committee. The guidelines for the Coppell Farmers Market state that all products sold at the Coppell Farmers Market shall be grown, raised, and/or produced directly by the vendor within the North Central Texas region, with the exception of full disclosure and approval of selling another’s product.
Weekly and seasonal offerings:
Grass fed beef, natural pork & chicken, eggs from free range hens, Gulf coast seafood, wild-caught Alaska salmon, tomatoes, lettuces and varieties of greens, herbs, beets, turnips, radishes, spring and large onions, mushrooms, new potatoes and sweet potatoes continue to be offered in addition to honey, cheese, pasta, artisan breads, pies, cookies, cake balls, soup & dessert mixes, herb-infused sorbet, chips and salsa, granola, spice blends, pecans, spiced nuts, Texas olive oil, coffee and tea.
Find bedding plants for spring/summer color, herbs or vegetables. Look for doggie treats, custom soaps and soy candles, worm castings, worm wine or pre-order vermi-composting kits.
Be sure to check with the artisan vendors as they often add new, interesting flavors to their line-ups.
Everything sold here is either grown, raised or produced within 150 miles of Fort Worth.
The North Central Texas Farmers Market Corp. operates two markets weekly at this time of year.
Westside: 3821 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth. 8 a.m. to noon, Saturdays (year-round).
Downtown Fort Worth: 1000 Throckmorton St., Federal Plaza Park in front of Lanham Plaza (federal building). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays (through December).
The Keller Farmers Market is a casual, open air, seasonal market that offers fresh Texas produce, meats, eggs, wine, tamales, baked goods, artisan bread, chips, salsa, pasta, pickles, jellies and jams, honey, grains, desserts, prepared foods, coffee, pet products and crafts, all from the state of Texas or within 150 miles.
White Rock Local Market is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit farmers market where local farmers, ranchers and artisans sell directly to this East Dallas neighborhood. Vendors bring fresh, local and healthy foods, and quality arts and crafts. WRLM is held twice a month – the second and fourth Saturday. Second Saturdays are Everything Markets and feature farmers, food artisans and arts and crafts. Fourth Saturdays are Just Farmers - farmers, producers and food artisans.
With its outreach programs -- a Lone Star food stamp program at the market, workshops, school field trips and an after school entrepreneurial program -- White Rock Local Market hopes to make a lasting difference in the community.
A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the "buy fresh, buy local" idea. Seasonal fruits create a spectacular palette. The freshest vegetables in North Dallas will excite your culinary talents. Also available are pasture fed beef, pork, lamb and the freshest eggs you'll find. Buy pasta, seafood, cheesecake, muffins, gourmet items and honey - all fresh!
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open in downtown Grand Prairie, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more. Check out the Farmers Market Calendar on the GPFM website for a listing of special events, including cooking demonstrations, festivals and holiday market.
You don’t have to travel around the world to photograph wildlife in natural settings. Take a guided tour with staff photographer Cathy Burkey as she leads participants to animal habitats that offer the best opportunities for photographers. Zookeepers will be on hand to help encourage the animals to be in the best possible locations for photography. Photo Safaris are limited to 15 participants and pre-registration is required. A continental breakfast is included. Call 469-554-7423 for more information or to make reservations.
Cost: $45 (DZS members)/$55 (non-members).
Local homesteading and sustainability exhibitors/demonstrations/speakers/farmers bring their knowledge to share and wares to sell. From renewable energy to green building to permaculture to intentional communities to farm produce to canning to oat rolling and more, learn what you need to live more sustainably. Admission is free.
Landscape designer and author Bonnie Reese of Beautiful Landscapes will be the speaker at both sessions. The first 100 attendees at each session will receive a copy of Ms. Reese’s book, “Common Sense Landscaping” (hard copy or electronic version). Attendees can also enter a drawing for free bags of Green Sense organic fertilizer from Rohde’s Nursery and Nature Store.
Water-Wise Landscape Design 101 Saturday, September 22 • 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Whether you have a new landscape or plan to update an existing area, it is critical to begin with a good design. This program teaches the principles of landscape design with an emphasis on how to create a beautiful landscape that will save resources – natural and financial!
Fantastic Plants for North Texas Saturday, September 22 • 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Using colorful photographs, Bonnie demonstrates the natural beauty of native and adapted plants that thrive in the North Texas region. Learn when, where and how to plant each of the recommended plants, their size and height at maturity, seasonal color, texture and more. This program provides information on trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, groundcovers and turf grasses.
Making a Reservation Space is limited, please register online by filling out the registration form here. Let us know which seminar(s) you would like to attend, and how many will be attending in your group. Also, you may register by calling (214) 670-3155.
Iris and daylilies are easy to grow and delightful to look at. Talk with the experts to get tips on the best ways to maximize growth and blooming of these colorful flowers at the sale.
Kids Club is a joint program of the Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, Perot Museum of Nature & Science, Dallas Arboretum, Trinity River Audubon Center and Crow Collection of Asian Art. Each institution hosts an exclusive event once a year for all Kids Club members.
Dallas Zoo members at the Passport or above levels are eligible to participate in Kids Club activities. Upgrade today to join in the fun.
PLEASE BRING:
Chemical products for home use, paint and home repair products, automotive fluids & oil filters, lawn and garden chemicals, craft and hobby supplies, fluorescent light tubes, cleaners and polishes batteries of all kinds, aerosol sprays, pool chemicals.
DO NOT BRING:
Containers larger than 5 gallons, business or commercial waste, common trash or recyclables, explosives or ammunition, shock sensitive materials, radioactive materials, construction debris, smoke detectors, medical waste, medications
For residents of Dallas, Addison, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Garland, Highland Park, Irving, Mesquite, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale, University Park and unincorporated areas of Dallas County. Residents of all other cities pay $95 fee.
Bring driver's license and utility bill as proof of residence.
Courtney Blevins from Texas Forest Service will teach participants about the Texas Tree Trails program and how they can participate. Benefits of participating in the program include recognizing and promoting historic trees, encouraging tree diversity, accessing trees and tree trails using the Texas Trees Trails Web site, and viewing trees that are on private property virtually through the Web site. This adult workshop is best suited for ages 10 and up.
Join us for our annual celebration of insects! Enjoy displays of live and pinned insects, family friendly activities, butterfly house tours, crafts and more. Note the later date to accomodate for cooler weather! Included with admission.
Every Saturday, Elizabeth Anna’s hosts a local and organic market featuring in-season produce, fresh eggs and ground wheat bread along with other baked goods. Pre-order meat & dairy. Check the website for specials of the week and sneak peaks at our recipe kits.
Pay tribute to elephants!
Learn about elephant conservation at the research booth, watch them participate in a melon stomp, and more. Support elephant research and conservation or bid on one of our pachyderms’ paintings.
Elephant barn tours will be offered for a $5 donation per person.
Class presented by the Tarrant County Master Gardener Association. Fee is $15. To register or for more information, contact Billie Hammack at 817-884-1296 or blhammack@ag.tamu.edu.
By Teresa McUsic
The fourth annual Ecofest Arlington, a free event to promote environmental awareness, will be held Saturday, Sept. 22 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Founders Plaza, 100 W. Abram St. in downtown Arlington. The event is expected to draw more than 10,000, according to a city official.
The festival will feature more than 40 vendors, who will spotlight their green products and services. Ecofest also will include free demonstrations, classes and kid-centered activities. Live entertainment will feature local bands performing at the outdoor Levitt Pavilion. Tap water will be available for free all day, while food and drinks from local restaurants will be on hand as well.
“This isn’t a city event, this is a regional event,” said Heather Dowell, parks and recreation urban forest land manager for Arlington. “We want everyone in North Texas to come.”
Arlington will give away 1,500 trees in 12 varieties on a first come first serve basis at the festival. Last year, 1,000 trees were gone within the first four hours, Dowell said.
Arlington residents also will be able to sign up for a $10 class in the city chambers for making their own rain barrel. Other classes will be open to the public and held throughout the day on irrigation conservation, creating a Smart yard with eco-friendly plants, backyard composting and other ecological topics.
Vendors include DFW Reclaimers Inc., who will pick up old electronics at the event, including computers, printers, cell phones and game consoles.
“This is our third year at the event, but the first time we will be picking up electronics,” said Kevin McCanlies, owner of DFW Reclaimers in Watauga. “Typically we get 3-4 tons in a one-day festival.”
McCanlies said the company completely breaks down the old electronics before selling the chemicals inside. The company does not ship pieces overseas, he said.
Other vendors include Green Ox Energy Solutions, Texas Organic Lawn Care, Abibow Recycling, Daylight Ranger and Half Price Books, among others.
Dowell said by adding free music and kid’s activities more people come that may not typically seek out an environmental event.
“Then they see the products that might help them be more environment and save money,” she said. “You can’t come to this event and not learn something.”
In keeping with the message of Ecofest Arlington, event planners are aiming for a zero-waste event. There will be recycling stations set up and vendors are required to use only materials that fit the recycling and composting guidelines.
Along with title sponsor, Republic Services, Ecofest Arlington has joined with other partners, including the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, University of Texas at Arlington, Friends of the Levitt Pavilion, Texas Power, Rental Stop, Fast Signs, Arlington Parks and Recreation and numerous city departments.
“We are very excited for another opportunity to show our citizens how important it is to live a sustainable lifestyle,” said Dowell. “Every year this event gets bigger and better and we know it is making a difference in our community.”
For more information about Ecofest Arlington including a complete list of classes, entertainment and vendors visit EcofestArlington.com or call 817-459-5474.
Teresa McUsic is an Arlington-based writer focused on consumer, environmental and health issues for a number of local and national publications. Her column, The Savvy Consumer, appears in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She can be reached at TMcUsic@aol.com
Are you watering wisely or irrigating irrationally? When you hear "soak cycle," do you think of your washing machine? Are you trying to figure out how to keep that sprinkler head from spraying your fence? Then this is the class for you. Learn how and when to water your plants, how to make simple sprinkler repairs and where to go for help. Cost: free.
Geocaching is a scavenger/treasure hunt using GPS units and coordinates to find the treasure. It is the fastest growing outdoor activity in the world. Learn more at this workshop. No equipment or experience needed. This program is limited to 10 families/small groups as the number of GPS units is limited. Call Michelle at 972-291-5940 to check availability. The program is available to the general public and will be held in an outdoor amphitheater that is wheelchair and stroller accessible. All programs are subject to weather conditions.
The Nature Center is full of life in the form of wildlife, wildflowers, trees and more. However it does not take much time on the Refuge to find a tree that is not lush with green leaves. We will discuss these trees called snags and the role they play in nature and at the Nature Center. Program geared for Pre-K to elementary aged children. FREE (with paid admission).
Saturday September 22nd, 2012 at the Connemara Meadow
Dinner to celebrate local food, local farms and natural space
Join us for the third annual Into the Meadow to raise support for the Connemara Conservancy. Buy your tickets now for a truly unique evening including dinner, drinks, live music, auction and dancing all surrounded by the beautiful Connemara Nature Preserve.
Hosted by the Fort Worth Vegetarian Society. Come share your favorite healthy (and perhaps not so healthy) vegan dishes. Be with others who eliminate animal products from their diets.
Join the Noble Planetarium staff and members of the Fort Worth Astronomical Society for free monthly Star Parties. You’ll find plenty of telescopes for viewing and even more astronomy buffs to help you navigate your way through the skies. Star Parties are held once a month held in front of the Museum, on Gendy Street. The party begins at dusk, weather permitting, and lasts until approximately 10:30 p.m. Best of all, it’s FREE! Note, parking is available in the lot south of Harley Street.
Dates for 2012 star parties:
September 22
October 6 "Stars over Euless"
November 17
*To be held in the Museum Lot, directly south of the Museum (corner of Harley and Montgomery)
Please note, parking surrounding the Museum is paid parking managed by the City of Fort Worth. More information and a fee structure can be found on the City of Fort Worth's Parking Guide.
Even if you have never before come to a Vegetarian Network of Dallas Lunch, you are invited! You don't have to be vegetarian to enjoy good company, friendly conversation, & an all-you-can-eat, tasty oriental buffet.
Animals are the masters of camouflage. There are many way animals conceal their identity in order to find food or avoid becoming food. Hike with us as we seek hidden wildlife. A short presentation precedes the hike. Bring water and dress for the weather. Insect repellent highly recommended. $5 (with paid admission)/MEMBERS FREE.
Dallas Interfaith Power & Light will be hosting a screening and round-table discussion of the Nova documentary Power Surge. This film looks at the state of "green energy" in the United States and the potential impact of technology on softening the blow of global climate change. In addition, participants of this new faith-based initiative will be presented with an opportunity to comment on the draft mission and principles.
Fairview Farms Marketplace is open seasonally May through October for all your farm fresh produce, flowers and plants. Open Tuesday through Sunday in September.
Don't let the worms crawl in and the worms crawl out -- put them to work! We'll teach you to use specialized red worms to compost your food waste. Then use their waste as a fertile soil amendment to benefit your plants. Learn to set up and maintain a worm bin, and to harvest and use the worm castings. Cost: $5 residents, $9 non-residents
Creation Care advocate Anna Clark, author of Green, American Style: Becoming Earth-Friendly and Reaping the Benefits, will present on how to minimize the impact our lives have on our planet, especially as consumers. Door prizes include a composting bin and a copy of her book, and there will be copies of her book available for purchase. For more information on the speaker, see http://www.annamclark.com/.
Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday of each week, March 22-Oct. 20. On top of all the great local produce they always have, this year they're offering local organics. Check out their website to see list of vendors.
Event is hosted by the Tarrant County Urban Homesteading Community. Brew master Eric Stevenson, who has been making mead for over 10 years, will cover the brewing basics, the science behind it and the process.
Come and enjoy an evening stroll on the Nature Center’s trails as we explore nature before nightfall. Evening provides a unique opportunity to view animals that make the Nature Center their home. Bring water and wear weather appropriate clothing. Pre-registration required. $10 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $5. Reservations required.
The Downtown Arlington Farmer’s Market is a community-oriented market focusing on Texas provided foods, arts, crafts, services and wares. It is open every Friday and Saturday. The goal of the market is to provide a venue for local vendors to offer Arlington, Texas residents an opportunity to buy the freshest meat, produce, breads and other great foods, crafts and products available. Visit their website to learn more about vendors.
Come and join us for a different type of Canoe Tour in the evening hours. This program will present new opportunities, like hearing beavers slap the water with their tails and seeing deer and raccoons. Canoes, paddles and lifejackets are provided. Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children. Some previous experience recommended. Registration ends Tuesday preceding or when filled. Maximum - 12 participants. Meet at Back Gate. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee)/MEMBERS $15. Reservations required.
The fall night hike will include a bonus 5:30 p.m. showing of "Green Fire." The movie details the life and career of Aldo Leopold, the father of the modern conservation movement. All ages are welcome to watch, but will be best enjoyed by those at least 13 years and older. Cost: $14 non-members/$12 members (Age 3 years through adult). Pre-registration required.
All night hikes depart from the main building. Closed toed shoes, long pants, and bug spray are recommended. Bring a flashlight with a red lens on it to protect your night vision while looking for nocturnal animals! Participants will be outdoors for at least an hour.
Combo tickets also available - Attend this night hike and the Anniversary Celebration on Sept. 30 and receive a special discount.
Everything sold here is either grown, raised or produced within 150 miles of Fort Worth.
The North Central Texas Farmers Market Corp. operates two markets weekly at this time of year.
Westside: 3821 Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth. 8 a.m. to noon, Saturdays (year-round).
Downtown Fort Worth: 1000 Throckmorton St., Federal Plaza Park in front of Lanham Plaza (federal building). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays (through December).
The Coppell Farmers Market is a one-stop shopping trip for fresh, seasonal produce, pastured meats, eggs, breads and locally made foods. All products sold at the Coppell Farmers Market are grown, raised and/or produced directly by the vendor within the North Central Texas region, with the exception of full disclosure and approval of selling another’s product.
Weekly and seasonal offerings:
Grass fed beef, natural pork & chicken, eggs from free range hens, Gulf coast seafood, wild-caught Alaska salmon, tomatoes, lettuces and varieties of greens, herbs, beets, turnips, radishes, spring and large onions, mushrooms, new potatoes and sweet potatoes continue to be offered in addition to honey, cheese, pasta, artisan breads, pies, cookies, cake balls, soup & dessert mixes, herb-infused sorbet, chips and salsa, granola, spice blends, pecans, spiced nuts, Texas olive oil, coffee and tea.
Find bedding plants for spring/summer color, herbs or vegetables. Look for doggie treats, custom soaps and soy candles, worm castings, worm wine or pre-order vermi-composting kits.
The Keller Farmers Market is a casual, open air, seasonal market that offers fresh Texas produce, meats, eggs, wine, tamales, baked goods, artisan bread, chips, salsa, pasta, pickles, jellies and jams, honey, grains, desserts, prepared foods, coffee, pet products and crafts, all from the state of Texas or within 150 miles.
A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the "buy fresh, buy local" idea. Seasonal fruits create a spectacular palette. The freshest vegetables in North Dallas will excite your culinary talents. Also available are pasture fed beef, pork, lamb and the freshest eggs you'll find. Buy pasta, seafood, cheesecake, muffins, gourmet items and honey - all fresh!
The Grand Prairie Farmers Market is open in downtown Grand Prairie, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more. Check out the Farmers Market Calendar on the GPFM website for a listing of special events, including cooking demonstrations, festivals and holiday market.
Is your yard work piling up? Let it! Learn the basics of turning that garden debris into garden gold through composting. We cover what to put in, what to leave out, and how to mix, moisten and manage your way to successful soil enrichment. We'll also teach you to use specialized red worms to compost your food waste and create a fertile soil amendment for plants.
Cost: $5 residents. $9 non-residents.
The Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council will host the first ever Green Apple Day of Service. For one day, advocates from across the country and around the world will come together in support of healthy, sustainable schools by taking real action in their communities.
For more information or to learn how to fund a service project, see website.
The Allen Garden Club, Keep Allen Beautiful and the Allen Heritage Guild are holding a community event for residents to take part in the beautification of Allen Heritage Village. Residents are encouraged to join in the event by helping to plant flowers, spread mulch or help install irrigation around the historic Lynge House. To participate, just show up during the specified time and come prepared to plant. Please bring a pair of gloves and a spade or hand shovel to assist in the fun. For more details, contact the Allen Garden Club at allengardenclub@yahoo.com or Donna Kliewer at 214-509-4554.
Transform your property into a sustainable, food producing, eco-friendly habitat. Our workshops feature some of the best and brightest eco-minded enthusiasts in the DFW area. The USE workshops are designed for beginning and advanced gardeners and/or eco-friendly homeowners who are seeking solutions to move their homestead to the next level of sustainability. Cost: $100 each or $80 per workshop when you register for both USE workshops (First workshop held Sept. 15). To register, go to the Texas Worm Ranch website and click on the "U.S.E." tab where you can pay via PayPal or by check (with a deadline of 14 days prior to each workshop.) See website for itinerary. Email builduse@gmail.com.
Over the past 11 years, this community and family oriented Green Living Fair has grown to be the largest “green show” in the South. It occurs at the end of September, every year, in historic Fredericksburg, Texas. You can see the latest in eco-friendly technologies. Learn how to save and create your own energy. Attend informative talks by the experts. Visit with our vendors to see contemporary green living and sustainability practices. Come test drive the next generation in personal transportation. It’s fun, environmentally friendly, and a great place to learn how you can make a difference!
The city of Dallas is collecting televisions, toys, clothing and shoes, used books, scrap metal, tires, paper/cardboard, documents for shred, styrofoam, packaging foam, bubble/shrink wrap, clean plastic bags/packaging, appliances, batteries (automotive or alkaline), used oil (cooking or automotive), fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs, electronics (video games, compact discs, cell phones, computers, calculators, etc.). NO household hazardous chemicals or paint, building supplies, pharmaceuticals, furniture or mattresses. For more information, call 311 or the Waste Diversion Hotline at 214-670-4475.
Hosted by the Molly Hollar Wildscape. The sale features a large variety of plant species grown at the greenhouse by Wildscape volunteers, including: ground covers, perennials, shrubs, vines and trees. Many species of grasses are provided by Blue Stem Nursery. These plants are mostly from local seeds and cuttings. These plants are better adapted to our local climate and rainfall.
Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Free volunteer picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. will be held at Common Ground Community Garden. Sign up by calling 817-427-6651 or emailing dyork@nrhtx.com.
Maps and refreshments will be available at 8:30 a.m. at Helping Hands Garden. This is a self-guided tour of Coppell landscapes and gardens, featuring drought-tolerant native and adapted plants that require minimal irrigation. The tour will showcase five Coppell homes and the two Coppell Community Gardens. Volunteers and homeowners will be available on site to answer questions about gardening using SmartScape techniques. Come see what you should plant now for beautiful blooms next year from the homeowners of some of the most unique landscapes in Coppell. This free tour is easily biked and is a great reason to get out and enjoy the fall weather. Bike route map will be included.
For more information, contact Jen Ferguson at jferguson@coppelltx.gov.
An off-grid Earthship/Monolithic Dome is being built near Bastrop, Texas. Biotechture Training is hosting a two-day Sustainability Seminar Sept. 29-30 at the build site. This is a your chance to see a build in progress while you learn about sustainability. Also, there are internship opportunities for you to participate in and get hands-on experience.
Exact location and directions will be emailed when you register at:
http://www.biotechturetraining.com/training.html.
Fee is $100. See website for details.
Discover how much fun science can be by attending Science Day at the Dallas Zoo. Guests will encounter booths that demonstrate scientific principles in entertaining ways, while teachers and homeschool parents participate in educational workshops and earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours. All zoo guests are invited to try the fun activities at booths.
Cost: Free for pre-registered teachers; booths free for zoo patrons with paid admission.
Learn how to identify invasive plants and help prevent them from spreading in our community. During this workshop you will learn what is an invasive plant, some of the common ones in our area and what steps can you take on your property to improve native species. Bring water and wear outdoor gear and bring GPS and camera if you have them. FREE (with paid admission). Reservations required.
Every Saturday, Elizabeth Anna’s hosts a local and organic market featuring in-season produce, fresh eggs and ground wheat bread along with other baked goods. Pre-order meat & dairy. Check the website for specials of the week and sneak peaks at our recipe kits.
Turn in your unused or expired medication for safe disposal. A partnership of the Dallas Area Drug Prevention Partnership, Dallas Police Department, Dallas ISD Police, University Park Police,
The Council on Alcohol & Drug Abuse, 12th Step Ministry and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Fort Worth residents can use any one of five locations within Fort Worth or our partner communities to drop off unused medications for proper disposal. Locations:
Ridgmar Mall, 1888 Green Oaks Road;
Nashville Avenue Police Station, 1100 Nashville Ave.;
Saginaw Fire Station No. 1, 400 S. Saginaw Blvd.;
Keller Police Department, 330 Rufe Snow Dr.;
Burleson: Old Municipal Service Ctr., 133 N. Main St.
The Backyard Chickens Collaborative DFW North is exhibiting chickens at the Fall Trash Bash and Green Environmental Fair put on by Keep Flower Mound Beautiful in the Home Depot parking lot.
Two classes are scheduled to help new chicken advocates get started:
10:30 a.m.- Getting Started with Backyard Chickens, by Michelle Fischer.
Considerations to starting your backyard chicken flock. What you need to plan for and do to get started.
11:30 a.m. - Picking Chickens, How to Select Chicken Breeds, by Mark Glover.
How to select the best chicken breeds for your backyard flock.
Michael Fazi is raising funds for his Eagle Scout project by hosting a Spaghetti Dinner. Dinner is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.
All proceeds from the dinner and all donations will go to support the construction of an outdoor classroom in Tandy Hills Natural Area. (See http://tandyhills.org/)
The eight new benches will be used for the Kids On the Prairie Program, which introduces city school kids to the wonders of nature.
Any funds remaining at the completion of the project will be donated to Friends of Tandy Hills Natural Area.
The Trinity River bisects the Fort Worth Nature Center and provides a home to many fascinating critters. Come join us as we explore many of the amazing animals that live in, on, over, and around the river. We'll cover water, earth and sky as we discover just who calls the Trinity home. FREE (with paid admission). Reservations required.