The 2011 drought wreaked havoc on the state’s trees, but according to a new report, few of them died directly from dehydration. Rather, trees weakened by the drought likely fell prey to a different culprit: diseases and insects.
Environment
Coverage of climate, conservation, natural resources, and environmental policy shaping the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Energy
Refinery’s Smokestacks Have Avid Fans in El Paso
Two smokestacks in El Paso — remnants of the smelting company ASARCO — remind many residents of a legacy of environmental damage. But to a local group, the stacks, now slated for demolition, are landmarks worth saving.
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Energy
As August Approaches, the Great Texas Electricity Debate Intensifies
Texas likes to be No. 1 at everything. But the state is last when it comes to the reliability of our electrical system, according to a recent assessment by an outside group. Can higher prices and conservation solve the problem?
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Energy
Pain in Midwest Could Be Texas Farmers’ Gain
Though Texas has partly recovered from extreme drought conditions thanks to heavy rains, the Midwest is enduring one of its worst dry spells in decades. And as conditions in the Midwest drive food prices up, some say Texas farmers stand to benefit.
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Energy
Does It Matter Who Wins the Railroad Commission Runoffs?
The four Republican Railroad Commission candidates sound remarkably similar on the big-ticket topics. But that doesn’t mean they will vote the same way on everything once they get into office.
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Energy
Electric Utilities Say Price Hikes Aren’t High Enough
Population growth has strained energy resources in Texas, leading state officials to raise prices in an attempt to encourage new power plant construction. But some utility companies say the increases may not be nearly high enough to meet Texas’ growing needs.
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Energy
Petrochemical Boom Fuels Hopes and Concerns
A dozen or more chemical plants in Texas are moving forward with expansion projects, spurred by the cheap natural gas created by hydraulic fracturing. But the boom is also raising concerns about water and air pollution.
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Energy
Decision to Allow Booze at Alamo Draws Criticism
The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, which controlled the site until a year ago, has called the decision disrespectful to the memory of the Alamo.
Posted inEnergy, Environment
Slideshow: The Drilling Boom in Midland
Midland lies at the heart of a region that produces 14 percent of the world’s oil. With oil prices above $80 a barrel on the world market, the area is experiencing a major boom. But the growth has also strained Midland like never before.
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Energy
Slideshow: The Drilling Boom in Midland
Midland lies at the heart of the Permian Basin, a region that produces 14 percent of the nation’s oil — and with oil prices high, the place is booming. But the rapid growth has also strained this once tight-knit community as never before.