Establishing the
Knowledge
Base…
We live in a beautiful state
with tremendous environmental variety
What do we know about the condition
of the environment in Texas?
Work in groups to
identify and locate
environmental
issues in Texas.
Environmental issues affect
Texans everywhere…
Air quality in all cities is a matter of
concern.
Issues…
Oil rich regions face
the threat of
abandoned oil wells
leaking into underground
water supplies
Issues…
The Rio Grande no longer flows to the
Gulf of Mexico
Issues…
Killer bees, fire ants, dengue fever
spreading mosquitoes are spreading
across the state
Issues…
Agricultural runoff, including
pesticides.
Herbicides, and
fertilizers
affect water
supplies on land
and at sea
Issues…
The Black
Footed Ferret,
the Attwater
Prairie Chicken,
and other
species are
threatened,
endangered, and
disappearing
Issues…
Introduced plants threaten Texas
wildflowers and biodiversity
statewide
Issues…
Urban growth and economic
development are affected by water
shortages
Issues…
Neighborhoods throughout Dallas,
Houston, El Paso and elsewhere are
threatened by toxic releases from
aging industries
Issues…
Extreme weather and
climate events such as
floods, droughts are
more common
Issues…
Natural environments
have been altered,
wetlands drained,
dunes leveled with
devastating effects
on living creatures
Texans face many
environmental
management issues
It’s Important…
These issues are
sensitive,
significant, and
demand careful
consideration for
the sake of our
children
A new approach…
Combine programs to preserve and
protect the environment with marketbased solutions to environmental
problems
Financial incentives to guide the use of
the environment
New approach…
The economic health
of Texas depends upon
the health of its
environment
It’s our duty to prepare
the next generation to
preserve our heritage