The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday officially deemed Bexar County noncompliant with new, stricter ozone standards enacted under the Obama administration. The so-called “nonattainment designation” will come with stricter federal scrutiny that state and local officials say will adversely impact the local economy.
Environment
Coverage of climate, conservation, natural resources, and environmental policy shaping the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Environment
Lesser prairie-chicken population on the rise, but advocates say it’s not enough
The latest aerial survey shows there are thousands more of the grouse in the Texas Panhandle and four surrounding states. Still, the total is tens of thousands short of what endangered species experts say is needed to achieve true conservation.
Posted in
Energy
As Trump backlash continues, STEM professionals in Texas run for office
Across the country, hundreds of candidates with academic or professional experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics have left their businesses and laboratories to compete in state legislative contests, congressional elections and even governor’s races.
Posted in
Environment
Corpus Christi water tests clean after years of problems
City officials credit the improvement to a change in how water is treated.
Posted in
Environment
Is a massive tunnel system the answer to Houston’s flood woes?
Other Texas cities have built underground channels to divert stormwater. Experts say it might not be the right way to go for Houston, but that it’s still worth exploring.
Posted in
In Harvey's Wake
Trump administration announces more than $5 billion for Texas flood control projects
Almost a year after Hurricane Harvey dumped historic rains on Texas, the state will receive more than $5 billion for a range of flood control projects, repairs and studies, the Trump administration announced Thursday.
Posted in
In Harvey's Wake
Flash flooding in Houston sparks memories of Harvey
Residents watched cautiously as parts of the city received up to 8 inches of rain.
Posted in
Environment
Hays County residents fear the fight to protect their water was all for nothing
Hays County well owners thought they won the water fight against Houston-based Electro Purification three years ago. Now, regulators are left trying to balance residential priorities with business interests.
Posted in
Environment
Texas-New Mexico water fight could be impacted by SCOTUS ruling
The high court’s decision lowers the burden of proof for states locked in similar water battles with upstream neighbors.
Posted in
Environment
Texas Supreme Court strikes down Laredo’s plastic bag ban, likely ending others
The state’s highest civil court has ruled that Laredo’s ban on plastic bags violates state law.