The latest environment news from The Texas Tribune.
Two years ago, the drought prompted a rare outbreak of teamwork as lawmakers from both parties and most corners of Texas together crafted a $2 billion fund to provide more water. This session, though, it looks like we're going back to good old-fashioned water rivalries. Full Story
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In a week where the news was driven to a large degree by rallies on the Capitol grounds — from open carry activists to anti-Muslim protesters — it's perhaps fitting that the week closes with another one. Full Story
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Small and organic farmers being sapped by the drought often don't qualify for, or know about, government programs that might help them out. A gathering Thursday aimed to help them get over those stumbling blocks. Full Story
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In this week's edition of the Trib+Water newsletter: Water wars in Hays County and on the Edwards Aquifer, the new ag commissioner says water is a top issue and an interview with Anthony Tarquin of the University of Texas at El Paso Full Story
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The Texas Railroad Commission is overhauling its media policy, striking language that mentions punishment for agency employees who relay incorrect information to news outlets. Full Story
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State lawmakers are considering a nearly $2.5 million plan to help answer a pressing question in some Texas communities: Why does the ground keep shaking? Full Story
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A crack in Texas' mishmash groundwater regulatory framework is allowing a water company to pump a huge amount of water from underneath Hays County with virtually no oversight. Full Story
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After Denton voters decided to ban fracking, other Texas cities could weigh similar moves. Legislators are expected to look at ways to avoid a city-by-city fight over drilling regulations. This is the fourth video in our eight-part State of Mind series. Full Story
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More news reports are highlighting growing questions about 21CT's activity at various state agencies. Full Story
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A former Texas environmental investigator says he tried to blow the whistle on his employer. But instead of helping him, he said, a high-profile Texas law firm tattled on him, leading to his dismissal. Full Story
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Festivities are the order of the day as the state's newest governor and lieutenant governor are sworn in. Full Story
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With Rick Perry and David Dewhurst leaving town, the spotlight shines fully this week on incoming Gov. Greg Abbott. Full Story
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Gov. Rick Perry's formal farewell Thursday afternoon to the state Legislature dominated headlines with writers trying to discern from his speech what the future holds for him. Full Story
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Gov. Rick Perry will close the door on 30 years of state government work with a farewell address Thursday afternoon to the Legislature. Full Story
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On Wednesday, the Obama administration announced another major plan to combat climate change that aims to slash emissions of methane gas in the next decade by almost a half. Here’s why that’s a big deal for Texas. Full Story
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In this week's edition of the Trib+Water newsletter: an easing drought is not yet providing relief for the Edwards Aquifer, Marvin Nichols reservoir stays in state water plan and an interview with Greg Flores of the San Antonio Water System. Full Story
A video of a confrontation between open-carry activists and a lawmaker drew attention to the group's tactics on Tuesday. Full Story
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A historic vote for House speaker could happen on a day long on ceremony otherwise. Full Story
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Glenn Hegar, the state's new comptroller, today releases his revenue estimate for the next two years, which will go a long way to setting the early tone for the 84th Legislature. Full Story
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The Texas Railroad Commission recently endorsed changes to how cities can challenge natural gas utility rate increases. Commissioners say the rule should help cut expenses for ratepayers. But some critics say the rule puts cities at a disadvantage. Full Story
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