A misty pond in Hines Park in Dallas - photo by Scot Miller

Nature needs a champion. That’s our mission.

We champion the Great Trinity Forest, the largest urban forest in the United States, and the restoration of the Trinity River watershed, which includes vase forests, floodplains, feeder creeks, and canals.

With the goal of developing national park-quality greenspaces, we work to enhance and manage these vital areas in various ways. We create thriving natural assets for the community to enjoy by building natural surface, multi-use trails, picnic areas, and docks, and organizing year-round clean up campaigns. These urban forests are all near lower income, racially diverse neighborhoods, offering families easy access to the proven health and education benefits of nature.

Together with the partners, volunteers, and members of the community, Greenspace Dallas aims to safeguard these lands, ensuring that future inhabitants of the city can enjoy the urban forests and revitalized riverbanks for years to come.

A group of young conservationists gather in a park in Dallas - photo by RJ Hinkle

Our story is about breathing new life into neglected greenspaces.

Since 2004 Greenspace Dallas has worked to restore and enhance urban greenspaces in the Trinity River Corridor.

The journey begins with the restoration of Hines Park, a once-forgotten area covered in debris. From there, the vision expanded to the 110-acre Frasier Dam Recreation Area - a former illegal dumping ground that we transformed into a vibrant urban forest.

Next we took on the L.B. Houston Nature Trail. The ongoing restoration plan for the 295-acre park envisions an urban haven, accessible to all for hiking, biking, birdwatching, picnicking, and reconnecting with nature.

Our impact extends beyond physical spaces too. Through educational programs and partnerships, we provide hands-on opportunities to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

In harmony with Dallas’ mission to develop, manage, and restore greenspaces, we continue to transform neglected areas into thriving green oases.

Our work builds bridges (literally) and benefits all.

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Restoration

To reclaim of the Trinity River watershed, which includes vast floodplains, forests, watershed areas, feeder creeks, and canals, as a thriving, natural community asset. 

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Education

To provide innovative environmental programs and service opportunities which cultivate the next generation of environmental stewards.

Partnerships

To collaborate closely with community, corporate and program partners in support of restoration and conservation efforts in the Trinity River Basin. 

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Our impact on nature and the community is immediate and enduring.

Greenspace Dallas has worked to transform the Elm Form of the Trinity River, breathing new life into its once-neglected parks, trails, and waterways.

Through dedicated efforts, Greenspace Dallas has cleared over a million pounds of debris, trash, and tires from urban parks, trails, and recreation areas, transforming them into a thriving urban forests.

An egret and some ducks on a pond - photo by Scot Miller

Cleaning, restoration and development of urban nature areas acts as a catalyst the resurgence of native flora and fauna, including egrets, blue herons, red-tailed hawks, coyotes, deer, and a diverse array of aquatic life.

Volunteers for Greenspace Dallas constructing a bridge.

Greenspace Dallas's innovative approach to trail design and raised tread surfaces ensures optimal accessibility, including the installation of ADA-approved kayak and canoe docks, enabling individuals with disabilities to access the river's serene waters unassisted.

A photo of a group of young environmentalists on a conservation trip

Educational initiatives nurture a new generation of environmental advocates. By empowering youth to embrace the importance of preserving the Trinity River's ecosystem, the organization paves the way for a greener, healthier future.