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Houston Environmental News Update March 27, 2019
March 27, 2019

Houston Environmental News Update March 27, 2019

After the smoke clears, Climate Action Plan Community Meetings, Trash Bash, Earth Day Houston, jobs, and more

The smoke has cleared, but the need to keep our eyes focused on the issues raised by last week’s events remains. Earth Day is next month, but it is more than just a single day. The Citizens’ Environmental Coalition is the vital link connecting the environmental community of Houston. And our concerted efforts to improve the quality of life in this vast region are often informed by one very important source: the Houston Environmental News Update. It is the leading source of information for local environmentalists and the best-kept secret within our environmental community.

Just since last week:

  • A young man called, angry about the disaster in Deer Park, and asked how he could encourage people to become more civically engaged.
  • A teacher emailed because his students in Pasadena were upset about the fire, and he wanted to know to whom the students could write to advocate for change.
  • In the wake of the disaster, several reporters (TV, print, and radio) have called for referrals to area experts on air quality and water pollution.
  • An elected official’s office called and asked us to help invite people to testify at an upcoming county court meeting.

We were able to respond to each of these people about what should have been a highly unusual event, connecting them with local environmental organizations and experts who could answer questions and provide information about ongoing efforts to protect our environment. But even when we don’t have black clouds in the sky, the CEC sends this newsletter to thousands of people each week. As one of our subscribers, you know better than anyone that the CEC newsletter is full of information about opportunities to help protect and improve our environment, including events, petitions, collaborations, volunteer needs, news articles… many ways to get involved and make a difference. Together, we can make a difference.

That’s why we’re asking you to forward our newsletter to five of your friends who might be interested in reading the Houston Environmental News Update. Read each week by friends like you, our indispensable newsletter shares the latest stories on the environment; job opportunities; event listings; headlines; legislative updates; and much more. Help keep residents of the greater Houston region informed of local environmental news and community opportunities.

Thank you for subscribing, and for helping us grow our readership of the Houston Environmental News Update. Dedicated members like you are the driving force behind the success of the CEC!

Note: The banner photo above is one of the tens of thousands of volunteers who have participated in the River, Lakes, Bays ‘N Bayous Trash Bash®. It’s happening again this Saturday, March 30, 2019, at 16 sites through the location. Be sure to check the website for location changes due to the ITC fire.

CEC NOTES

Earth Day returns to Discovery Green in 2019 on April 14, 2019.

Presented by Green Mountain Energy in partnership with the Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Discovery Green’s citywide Earth Day celebration is designed to educate, inspire and encourage action. The event features displays, exhibits and booths on topics ranging from alternative energy to recycling methods, a foodie farmers market, unplugged – a live music acoustic mini-festival, EarthTalks and more, all in a zero-waste footprint. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, April 14, from 12 to 5 p.m.

Volunteer! Opportunities are available for individuals, families, and groups. Sign up at earthdayhouston.org/volunteer.

The Earth Day celebration at Discovery Green isn’t the only game in town. If you know of an observance in the greater Houston region, please let us know at news@cechouston.org.

Summer Internships with CEC

CEC anticipates hiring several volunteer and paid summer interns in 2019.

Typical internships involve Communications and Marketing, Policy & Government Relations, Publications/Journalism, Digital Media, Development, Event Coordination, Business Development and Bookkeeping, and Environmental Education; we are also open to customized internships to meet professional and academic goals. Internships include mentorship and networking opportunities, field trips, camaraderie, and chocolate. To be considered for summer internship opportunities, please submit a cover letter and resume to internships@cechouston.org.

With much gratitude for the generosity of the City of Houston’s Hire Houston Youth program, CEC has the opportunity to offer a limited number of paid internships, for which youth ages 16-24 may apply through hirehoustonyouth.org by APRIL 6, 2019. (New date!)

Scroll down to read notes from our member organizations and the community, or view the emailed version of the newsletter, which includes a green job listing

COALITION & COMMUNITY NOTES

We have endeavored to confirm the events listed below. Please consider confirming directly with the hosts.

City of Houston Climate Action Plan Community Meetings

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Sources Houston 2014: Buildings 49%, Transportation 47%, Waste 4%

As you’re probably aware, the City of Houston, working with the Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC), has embarked on drafting a Climate Action Plan. The goal is to create ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and establish a pathway to meet the Paris Agreement goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050, while also decreasing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and reducing costs through energy efficiency and renewable energy. The target completion date for the Plan is December 2019, with implementation by the City to start in 2020.

The City has scheduled a set of Community Meetings to give members of the public information about the Plan, as well as receive input: Each meeting will be held from 6-8 p.m. on the following dates (see details here):

  • April 1, 2019 — Acres Homes Multiservice Center
  • April 6, 2019 — Southwest Multiservice Center
  • April 16, 2019 — Denver Harbor Multiservice Center
  • May 2, 2019 — Northeast Multiservice Center

Community Meetings on I-45 Expansion and Children’s Health

Air Alliance Houston is hosting a series of Community Meetings on the effects on children’s health of the proposed I-45 expansion project. The meetings will gather input for a Health Impact Assessment, which is designed to combine maps and data assessment with information from community members describing their daily experience of air pollution, pedestrian and cycling safety, and other environmental impacts of the freeway to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the I-45 project on community health. The remaining meetings are:

Texas Environmental Education Mapping Project

Texas Children in Nature (TCiN) is asking environmental organizations to participate in an ambitious project to map out the landscape of environmental/sustainability/environmental literacy education throughout Texas. The project aims to better understand the work being done around the state and identify opportunities for K-12 providers to join forces, share resources and accelerate collective impact. Participants must complete a 30-minute survey which gathers information about programming, operations, and needs for the future. Participating organizations will receive: $50 unrestricted donation to the organization (for nonprofits); access to the aggregated map with data from hundreds of service providers; a final report summarizing survey findings, including a statewide program directory; and an invitation to participate in the ongoing exploration of collective impact strategies in the field. Please fill out the survey by March 31, 2019 at surveymonkey.com. Contact Ilya Shmulenson at ilya@ecorise.org or 512-571-9968 with any questions. 

MECA presents “Rebuilding After the Storm” fundraiser

You may know that CEC’s offices are housed in the headquarters of MECA (Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts) in the historic (built in 1912) John E. Dow Elementary School, 1900 Kane Street in Old Sixth Ward. On March 28, 2019, beginning at 6 p.m., MECA is hosting its “Rebuilding After the Storm” fundraiser. The event’s featured speakers will be Minnette Boesel, chair of the Houston Archaeological and Historic Commission, and Kathleen English, principal of English + Associates Architects, Inc. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit meca-houston.org.

JASON National Educators’ Conference

The JASON National Educators’ Conference is a three-day event in which educators can experience engaging science and engineering lessons using low-cost materials easily accessible to all classroom types. This year’s conference will be held from March 28-30 , 2019 at the Texas Medical Center Innovation Institute, 2450 Holcombe Drive. For more information, visit jason.org.

Greens Bayou Greenway Ribbon-Cutting

On March 28, 2019, at 10 a.m, the Houston Parks Board will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Greens Bayou Greenway, Houston’s newest greenway and hike-and-bike trails. The ceremony will be held at 1018 W. Greens Road, the cul-de-sac at the end of Gears Loop Road. For more information, visit houstonparksboard.org.

“Best Bets for Texas Water”

On March 28, 2019, from 1:30-3 p.m., the Water Efficiency Network of the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District will host a presentation by Ann Schmitt, counsel for the National Wildlife Federation and the Texas Living Waters Project, on developing a creative approach to simultaneously protect clean water supplies as well as to create flood-resilient communities. The presentation will introduce “Best Bets for Texas Water“, a guidebook created by the Texas Living Waters Project that explores water supply strategies for building a better water future for all. The event will be held at the offices of the Houston-Galveston Area Council, 3555 Timmons Lane.

UH Energy Symposium – “Offshore Wind: Will It Happen In Texas?”

On March 28, 2019, from 6-7:30 p.m., UH Energy will host the latest of its Energy Symposium Series, entitled “Offshore Wind: Will It Happen in Texas?” The event will be held at the UH Student Center South. For more information and to register, visit evenbrite.com.

“Texas Forest Pests: Some Old and Some New”

On March 28, 2019, from 7-8:30 p.m., The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. will present a Going Green Lecture featuring Allen Smith, forest health coordinator with the Texas Forest Service, on the common threats to forest health in Texas and the region. The event will be held at the the Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC), 8801 Gosling Road. For more information, visit thewoodlandsgreen.org.

Solar Energy System Workshop

On March 29, 2019, from 2-4 p.m., Bill Swann will lead a free workshop that addresses the basics on how to install and operate a solar system. This is ideal for those with a technical background or DIYer in need of guidance or troubleshooting with their solar installation project. Hands-on experience will be provided with the installation of a ground-mount system. The workshop will be at TXRX, 205 Roberts Street.

Society for the Advancement of Youth applications due March 29

The Society for the Advancement of Volunteer Youth (SAVY) at Moody Gardens in Galveston provides students 14 to 17 years of age with the opportunity to volunteer within their community while gaining experience in a variety of career fields. The program will begin with an Open House on April 6, 2019, with Orientations scheduled for May 31 an June 1. The deadline to apply has been extended to March 29, 2019. For more information, visit moodygardens.com.

River, Lakes, Bays ‘N Bayous Trash Bash

The 2019 River, Lakes, Bays ‘N Bayous Trash Bash will be held on March 30, 2019. Join thousands of volunteers cleaning up trash and debris along area waterways. With locations across the Galveston Bay watershed, there’s a cleanup site near home, work, or school. There are 16 locations to choose from. Groups of 10 or more can complete a group reservation to let the site know you are coming – individual registration on the day of the event is still required for each member of the group. Visit the Trash Bash website to find out where to volunteer, get registration information, donate online to support the cleanup, and much more.

Spring Saturday Morning Series at Houston Botanic Garden

On March 30, 2019, the Houston Botanic Garden will kick off its new Spring Saturday Morning Series to give the public the opportunity to interact with nature at its future site. At 9 a.m., there will be a Family Workshop on Pollinators with representatives of Katy Prairie Conservancy, followed at 11 a.m. by an Adult Workshop and Native Plant Sale. For more information and to register, visit hbg.org.

Walk for The Woods Project 2019

On March 30, 2019, The Woods Project, which works to develop leadership qualities among low-income youth through outdoor/environmental awareness programs, will host its annual 5K walk fundraiser through Houston’s historic East End. The route includes stops along an undeveloped area of Buffalo Bayou, where walkers will meet TWP students and hear inspiring stories about their transformative experiences during summer trip. For more information and to register, visit thewoodsproject.org.

Earth Hour 2019

On March 30, 2019, from 8:30-9:30 p.m., millions around the world will turn off the lights to speak up about why nature matters. Earth Hour 2019 hopes to show our connection to Earth and nature. For more information on how to participate, visit earthhour.org.

Trees for Houston Annual Tribute Tree Planting

On March 30, 2019, from 9-11 a.m., Trees for Houston will host its Annual Tribute Tree Planting at Willow Waterhole Greenspace, 11346 Ricecrest St . Shovels and gloves will be provided for volunteers and minors are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. For more information and to RSVP, email Carolina at carolina@treesforhouston.org.

Restoration project at Sylvan Rodriguez Park

On Mar. 30, 2019, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department’s Natural Resources Management Program will host a restoration project at Sylvan Rodriguez Park, 1201 Clear Lake City. Volunteers will help install native grasses and forbs in the park’s 72-acre restoration site. For more information, and to RSVP, email NaturalResources@houstontx.gov.

Scenic City Certification Program Applications Due March 31

The mission of the Scenic City Certification Program is to support and recognize Texas municipalities that implement high-quality scenic standards for public roadways and public spaces. The Scenic City Certification Program provides a proven, highly-regarded tool to Texas cities for assessment, evaluation, and recognition of infrastructure standards. The deadline for the annual Scenic City Certification Program application is March 31, 2019. For more information and to apply, visit sceniccitycertification.org.

Gardening with Prairie Plants & Milkweed Propagation Workshop

On March 31, 2019, from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., the Coastal Prairie Partnership and the Native Prairies Association of Texas will host a workshop for prairie plant gardening and milkweed propagation. It will be taught by Mark Morgenstern of Morning Star Prairie Plants and Barbara Willy of Monarch Gateway. The workshop will be at the Brazos Bend State Park Dining Hall, 21901 FM 762, in Needville. To register and for more information, visit houstonprairie.org.

Climate and Deep Sustainability: Awakening to Grief and Gratitude

On March 31, 2019, from 5-7 p.m., eco-theologian The Rev. Michael Dowd will discuss the convergence of science, inspiration, and sustainability with a multimedia presentation at the First Unitarian-Universalist Church of Houston, Museum District Campus, 5200 Fannin St. For more information and to register, visit eventbrite.com. 

Webinar: Plastic Pollution and What You Can Do

On March 31, 2019, from 6-7 p.m., Christ the King Evangelical Lutheran Church will present a webinar titled “Plastic Pollution and What You Can Do” featuring
Hyun-Min Hwang, associate professor at Texas Southern University, Department of Environmental & Interdisciplinary Studies Hyun-Min Hwang, associate professor at Texas Southern University, Department of Environmental & Interdisciplinary Studies. For more information and to register, visit eventbrite.com.

Great Texas Birding Classic registration ends April 1

From April 15-May 15, 2019, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department will host the 23rd Annual Birding Classic, a fun, friendly bird-watching event. There are categories for all ages and skill levels. Registration fees raise money for Texas bird and birding conservation project grants. The registration deadline is April 1. For more information, visit tpwd.texas.gov.

Second Annual Drawdown EcoChallenge begins April 3

Drawdown EcoChallenge is a 21-day engagement program focused on carbon reduction. The challenge takes place April 3-24, 2019 and follows actions highlighted in Drawdown, a book based on meticulous research that maps, measures, models, and describes solutions to global warming that already exists. Participants track and share their progress online in a robust platform and earn points for taking action. For more information and a list of challenges you can join, visit drawdown.ecochallenge.org.

Air Alliance Houston’s State of the Air Gala

On April 4, 2019, from 6-9 p.m., Air Alliance Houston will hold its Second Annual State of the Air Gala at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, 3816 Caroline. Keynote spekaer Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will discuss the Houston region’s air quality concerns and initiatives, and executive director Dr. Bakeyah Nelson will discuss Air Alliance Houston’s current projects and priorities to advance clean air and environmental justice in Texas. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 2019stateoftheair.ezregister.com.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s Alfresco Gala

On April 5, 2019, from 7-11 p.m., the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center will hold its Alfresco Gala, with the theme “Magnolias Under the Moon,” at The Bayou Club. The event will honor Ruth Flournoy, champion for conservation and nature education. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit houstonarboretum.org.

GCBO Spring Fling

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory’s Spring Fling is an amazing opportunity to see and celebrate millions of migratory songbirds as they arrive at stopover habitat along the coast. This is great time to enjoy the wide variety of species that migrate through Texas dressed in their spring finery and to see colorful birds like orioles, grosbeaks, tanagers, and numerous warbler species. Spring Fling takes place at the Quintana Neotropic Bird Sanctuary and runs from April 6 to May 5, 2019, from 9 am – 4 pm daily. The Sanctuary is located on Lamar Street across from the Quintana town hall building. http://www.gcbo.org/spring-fling/

4th Annual Pearland Clean and Green

On April 6, 2019, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Keep Pearland Beautiful and its partner organizations will host the 4th Annual Pearland Clean and Green, a grassroots event where the residents of participate in the city’s biggest cleanup. The event includes electronics recycling, document shredding, and more. For more information, visit the Facebook event.

2019 Fight for Air Climb

On April 6, 2019, beginning at 9 a.m., the American Lung Association’s Houston chapter will host the 2019 Fight for Air Climb at the 1001 Fannin Building in downtown. Participants can climb the building’s stairs alone or with friends and family to raise funds to support the American Lung Association’s mission. For more information and to register, visit action.lung.org.

Bayou Greenway Day 2019

On April 6, 2019, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., the Houston Parks Board will hold Bayou Greenway Day 2019, a free outdoor festival at Mason Park, 541 South 75th Street. The event will feature a 5k Run/Walk, followed by fun activities for the whole family, including live music, an Easter egg hunt, football and cheer activities with the Houston Texans and The Wade Smith Foundation soccer games with Houston Dynamo staff, and more. For more information and to register, visit eventbrite.com.

TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife

Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3 p.m. each Saturday and on municipal access cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Houston, Texas City, Galveston, Nassau Bay, Pasadena, Seabrook, Sugar Land, and on HCC TV. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area). For a preview, visit TPWD’s YouTube Page.

  • Fort Parker State Park offers a tranquil setting for camping, hiking, biking and fishing
  • Watch a bee specialist relocate a hive of European honey bees
  • The rise of the southern flounder

Additional Upcoming Events