By Julie Thibodeaux. Photos by Phillip Shinoda. Aug. 29, 2013
Local environmental advocates celebrated at a downtown watering hole Wednesday night after the Dallas City Council finally put an end to a request by Trinity East Energy to drill on public parkland.
Environmentalists are riding a wave of optimism this week after the Dallas City Plan Commission confirmed it has included a 1,500-foot setback in the new gas drilling ordinance being drafted by the city.
A coalition of supporters is lobbying to keep a little bit of country in the city. Merriwood Ranch is a horse riding facility and summer camp in Garland that’s been in operation since 1956. The 28-acre property was put up for sale this year by heirs after the owner and founder of Merriwood died last year. A developer has purchased the property and wants to build about 40 homes on the land.
“I believe that you are all here in this room today because you have a similar (nature) experience whether it’s from your childhood or one from a more recent time that made you feel truly connected to the natural world around you.”
Lots of ways to liven up your week and even help some great causes at the same time. Bowling, birding, geocaching, a musical and a community garden bash - all happening this week in DFW!
Local environmental advocates celebrated at a downtown watering hole Wednesday night after the Dallas City Council finally put an end to a request by Trinity East Energy to drill on public parkland. 
Environmentalists are riding a wave of optimism this week after the Dallas City Plan Commission confirmed it has included a 1,500-foot setback in the new gas drilling ordinance being drafted by the city. 
By Julie Thibodeaux
More than 30 environmental enthusiasts turned out for the 
