The Bayou Banner
October 2019 Edition
October 10, 2019: Wile E. Coyote, Genius!
How many of us remember that phrase from our childhood? This proclamation is really not far from the truth. This canid has used its highly adaptable brain to thrive in ever changing ecosystems, which can wreak havoc on other wildlife. This adaptability has not only led to its success as a species but can lead to conflict with people.
On October 10, Kelly Norrid, Urban Wildlife Biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife will give a background on the nature of this survivor and how with knowledge and proper management, we can continue to share the city with this species.
The event is free and open to the public at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 1805 West Alabama, Houston. Main program starts 7:30 PM. Doors open 7:00 PM.
Go here for more information.
On October 16, Doug Peterson will be the speaker and will address the flood of petrochemical pollution issues in our region. What can concerned citizens do to protect our families from the toxic health threats of the now routine petrochemical disasters near our homes?
Go here for more information.
The Houston Sierra Club has endorsed METRO Proposition A, which will authorize bond funding for projects in the new METRONext transit plan. This measure includes no new tax increase. Proposition A will be on the ballot on November 5; early voting begins on Monday, October 21 and ends on Friday, November 1.
Go here for more information.
Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 5, or vote early.
There are important State Propositions on the Ballot, the MetroNEXT Bond issue, as well as some local positions. We provide you some links where you can find information for your own ballot, and the polling places.
Go here for more information.
By Ken Kramer, Water Resources Chair, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club
“One Water.” To some, the term may sound like a new low-calorie flavored water drink or the new name for a private water supply company. In the water world today, however, “One Water” is an approach to managing water resources in an integrated, equitable, and sustainable way.
Go here for more information.
On September 21, the Houston Sierra Club enjoyed National Drive Electric Week in Houston, at two of the events. Several electric vehicles were on display, and their owners were excited to talk about them!
In Houston, many electric vehicles were on display at IKEA - 15 different models and over 40 Teslas.
Go here for more information.
The U.S. Forest Service (FS) has begun a public process that is important for the protection of our forests, grasslands, water, air, endangered species, game and non-game wildlife, recreational activities, scenic areas, solitude, quiet, and wilderness in East Texas. By speaking up we protect these precious natural resources and “cool down” our “over heated” climate!
Go here for more information.
Describe the first time you felt a strong affinity for nature
Strangely enough I don’t think it was when I was even in nature. I remember a day in 8th grade when my English teacher asked us to describe the most beautiful things we’d ever seen. That summer I had been to Colorado and driven through real, towering mountains for the first time in my life.
Go here for more information.
By Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center
Everyone looks forward to the arrival of the Purple Martins each year. Most of us think their arrival means spring is just around the corner. But, at this time of the year, no one really thinks about them anymore. Most people don’t know that they’re very busy getting ready to migrate south.
Go here for more information.
On April 13th two tornadoes touched down in Davy Crockett National Forest. About 4,000 acres of forest were affected by the tornadoes. The Houston Regional Group and Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club (Sierra Club) were notified by the U.S. Forest Service (FS) on April 16th about the blowdown.
Go here for more information.
By Linda Mundwiller and Brandt Mannchen
If I asked you who is COCO? You might say, she’s the 15-year-old tennis player that beat Venus Williams, and you’d be right! But I want to tell you about another COCO. The Coalition of Community Organizations (COCO) is a nonprofit charitable organization founded by Rev. James Caldwell.
Go here for more information.
The Houston Group of the Sierra Club is looking for help in the following areas:
Webmaster, Proofreading, Lone Star Hiking Trail Volunteers, Outings Leaders, Volunteer Coordinator, Climate Justice Chair, Political Committee, Membership Chair, Audio / Video Coordinator, Forestry.
Help to make a difference for the Sierra Club!
Click the link to see new opportunities to help.
Go here for more information.
Get Outdoors!
For current information on upcoming outings in the Houston area, check out our MeetUp site.