photo of monarch on milkweed

Milkweed & Monarchs: How One Plant Can Save a Species

Monarch butterflies, Texas’s official state insect, need our help amidst a staggering population decline. Planting native milkweed is vital for their recovery, and we’ll give you our top tips for planting it in your own backyard! Join The Woodlands Township’s efforts as a Monarch Champion City—plant, protect, and revolutionize your garden for these endangered pollinators.

Crane Flies vs. Mosquitoes: Identifying Spring’s Buzzing Visitors

As spring arrives and insects become a part of our everyday life again, many encounter crane flies and mosquitoes, often confused for one another. While mosquitoes are the source of itchy bites, crane flies are actually harmless! By identifying these insects, you’ll be able to take appropriate action and feel at ease this spring!

girl and her mom planting a tree together

Roots of Change: Our Community’s Tree Conservation

The Woodlands Township celebrated its connection to nature with the 49th annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway and the 11th Community Tree Planting event. During these events, 15,000 seedlings were distributed, and 1,355 trees were planted to enhance local ecosystems, benefiting wildlife and improving air and water quality. Learn more about the incredible work of our residents, volunteers, and staff to keep the woods in The Woodlands!

Beautify Your Home Landscape with Texas Mountain Laurel

Let’s plant native! Texas Mountain Laurel, a stunning evergreen shrub, bursts into bloom in southeast Texas each spring with vibrant purple flowers, attracting a chorus of pollinators. This low-maintenance plant offers beauty and fragrance while supporting the ecosystem, including the Henry’s Elfin butterfly. Read more to learn how to plant this Texas native and enjoy beautiful pops of color right in your own backyard!

graphic of a bathroom with the text "every drop counts"

Simple Ways to Conserve Water in the Bathroom

Water conservation starts in the home, and it starts with you! Simple bathroom adjustments can save gallons yearly. Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures, fixing leaks promptly, and being mindful of usage can significantly reduce your water bill and environmental impact. Small habits lead to substantial savings, and every drop counts.

compost thermometer

Solving Common Backyard Compost Problems: Heating Your Pile

Composting enriches soil, reduces landfill waste, and stores carbon, benefiting every household. Achieve success with a balanced mix of brown and green materials, maintain moisture, and address common problems, such as heating your pile, to create nutrient-rich compost—your garden’s “black gold.” Join our upcoming class for hands-on experience!

Master the Art of Native Tree Care with these Essential Resources

Learn how to care for your trees and ensure they thrive with these resources! Discover tips for planting bare-root trees, mulching, pruning, and choosing the right tree for the right place. Explore this year’s 12 tree varieties from the 49th Annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway on January 25, 2025.

Trees on the Trail: Battle of the Red Oaks – Which Oak Best Suits Your Needs?

Learn about two trees on the trail that are featured in this year’s Arbor Day Tree Giveaway. When choosing between Willow Oak and Shumard Oak, there are many factors to consider, such as size, growing conditions, and physical appearance. Willow Oak suits smaller, moist areas and grows quickly, while Shumard Oak thrives in larger spaces with well-drained soil, providing lasting shade and vibrant fall colors. Both enhance local wildlife and enrich landscapes effectively. Read on to choose which oak is best suited for your yard!

group of volunteers with trash piled in front of them

2025 Starts with You: Set a Date to Volunteer

As we enter 2025, Environmental Services invites community members to volunteer and get involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing local ecological health. In 2024, volunteers contributed 4,500 hours, achieving significant waste reduction and habitat restoration. Opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing commitments, supporting cleanups, recycling, and pollinator programs.

Best of 2024: Earthwise Environmental Services Most Read Resources

We want to say thank you to our readers as this year draws to a close! Take a walk down memory lane with us as we explore our most read resources in 2024. See if your favorite is among our top posts and let us know what content you’d like to see in 2025!

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