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Newspapers
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Hughes Springs, TX
Phone 903-639-2516

www.deweymooreford.com

Wildman's Weekly Outdoor Report June 17, 2013 Edition

Some very important deadlines are drawing near. The month of June is the month to apply for some special hunts for this fall.

Steve "Wildman" Wilson's Outdoor Report for this week is now available. Click here to go to the Podcast page, then scroll down and click on the latest Outdoor Report to download the file.

The audio file can be downloaded by "right-clicking" on the link below and clicking "Save Target As" to save to your computer.

http://www.agfc.com/resources/PodcastAudio/outdoor_report.mp3

________________________________________
Follow Wildman on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/Steve_wildman

TPWD News Digest for the Week of June 6-13, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
June 6, 2013
• NOAA Fisheries Sets Gulf-Wide Red Snapper Season at 28 Days — Season in Federal Waters Off Texas Coast to End at 12:01 a.m., June 29 AUSTIN – NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service yesterday announced a 28-day recreational red snapper fishing season in Gulf of Mexico federal waters. NMFS indicated it will publish a temporary rule in the federal register on June 10 to establish a Gulf-wide season closure at 12:01 a.m., June 29. This sets the end date for the red snapper season that started June 1.
• TPWD Texas State Parks Junior Ranger Explorer Packs Available at 30 Parks This Summer [News Images] AUSTIN- With school ending across the state, families are heading out to Texas State Parks and looking for new trails to hike, rivers to swim, and other activities to enjoy.
Video News Reports
Neighborhood Fishing – Catching a Fish is Closer Than You Think!
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “Neighborhood Fishing.”
Well it’s that time again, school is out and that means kids are looking for something to do. This summer many families are discovering they don’t have to look far for fun and inexpensive ways to get kids out of the house and hooked on the outdoors.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/Mqr6MVZp3jM
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “JuneVNR_Neighborhood Fishing” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
National Trails Day Brings Families to Texas State Parks
On June 1, about 1,000 people around Texas visited their local state parks to celebrate National Trails Day. Eighty-five hikes were taken and over 400 kids under the age of 18 spent their Saturday outdoors.
Brazos Bend State Park had the highest number of visitors for their event and had 80 adults and 100 kids attend. Colorado Bend offered events such as hikes, runs, hiking, trailbuilding and debuted a hatha yoga hike that was attended by eight people. In addition to offering a hike, the Hill Country State Natural Area hosted a covered wagon trail ride, and a Boy Scout troop worked on the trails. Beginning-level and advanced hikes were offered at Cedar Hill State Park and a crew of volunteers worked on the Dallas Off-Road Bike Association mountain-bike trails. A women’s-only hike was held at Franklin Mountains State Park and a crew of volunteers worked on trailbuilding.
Learn About the Snakes of Texas at Washington-on-the-Brazos SHS
With snake season slithering closer, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is offering a presentation about the snakes of Texas to inform visitors about their habitats, diets, and daily lives. Saturday’s presentation will include a look into the many different, colorful venomous and non-venomous snake species that live in Texas. The presentations will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. and will last between 30-45 minutes. For more information, please call 936-878-2214.
Learn about the Pecans of Texas at Washington-on-the-Brazos SHS
The pecan is one of the most iconic symbols of Texas and is deeply tied to its history and culture. Visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site this Sunday and see the home of a Pecan tree that is deeply rooted in Texas history and learn about other kinds of Pecan trees that are in existence around the state. The presentations will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. and will last between 30-45 minutes. For more information, please call 936-878-2214.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

Wildman's Weekly Outdoor Report June 10, 2013 Edition

Father's Day is this coming weekend. Stay tuned for some ideas about what to buy for Dad this year.

Steve "Wildman" Wilson's Outdoor Report for this week is now available. Click here to go to the Podcast page, then scroll down and click on the latest Outdoor Report to download the file.

The audio file can be downloaded by "right-clicking" on the link below and clicking "Save Target As" to save to your computer.

http://www.agfc.com/resources/PodcastAudio/outdoor_report.mp3
________________________________________
Follow Wildman on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/Steve_wildman

TPWD News Digest for the Week of May 30-June 6, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under "Briefs")
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks

June 6, 2013
• TPWD Texas State Parks Junior Ranger Explorer Packs Available at 30 Parks This Summer [News Images]
AUSTIN- With school ending across the state, families are heading out to Texas State Parks and looking for new trails to hike, rivers to swim, and other activities to enjoy.
June 4, 2013
• Summertime, and the Fishing is Easy
AUSTIN -- Fish are biting as the weather warms up, and many Texans are eager to get outdoors to reel in bass, catfish, redfish and other sport fish.
• Take Care of Texas Campaign Helps Texans Conserve Water During Drought, Care for Air, Water, Parks -- Country Music Star Kevin Fowler is Spokesperson in PSAs, Donates Song to Support Effort [News Images]
In a shared announcement today, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Texas Parks and Wildlife unveiled a statewide public service campaign to promote outdoor recreation and encourage personal responsibility in protecting our state's natural resources.
June 3, 2013
• Judge Strikes Down Red Snapper Emergency Rule -- Ruling Means Longer Fishing Season in Federal Waters off Texas Coast
AUSTIN -- A federal judge in Brownsville has ruled in favor of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) in a joint lawsuit brought by both agencies challenging an emergency regulation enacted by the federal National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The ruling means that the 2013 recreational red snapper fishing season in federal waters off the Texas coast will be longer than it would have been under the emergency rule.
May 31, 2013
• 2013 State Parks Photo Contest Closes, Winners Announced
Video News Reports:
Neighborhood Fishing -- Catching a Fish is Closer Than You Think!
A Video News Report is now available on our site called "Neighborhood Fishing." Well it's that time again, school is out and that means kids are looking for something to do. This summer many families are discovering they don't have to look far for fun and inexpensive ways to get kids out of the house and hooked on the outdoors.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/Mqr6MVZp3jM
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for "JuneVNR_Neighborhood Fishing" There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
Calendar:
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of May 23-30, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
May 29, 2013
• Free Food, Fishing at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center for National Fishing Day
ATHENS, Texas- National Fishing and Boating Week will start this weekend with a big splash at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens with their annual National Fishing Day celebration.
• Angler Sets New Fly Rod State Record for Channel Catfish [News Images]
ATHENS—When Bryan Smith of Athens isn’t helping visitors to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) catch fish, he does some fishing on his own.
May 28, 2013
• Charges Filed in Galveston Hit-and-Run Boating Accident
AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens have filed felony charges against a Galveston man accused of failing to stop and render aid while operating a motorboat that collided with a sailboat in the Galveston Channel Sunday night.
May 24, 2013
• “Clean, Drain and Dry” Regimen Bad News for Zebra Mussels [News Images]
AUSTIN — Nothing ruins a zebra mussel’s day more than a boater who Cleans, Drains and Dries his boat to prevent the spread of this small but devastating aquatic invasive species.
May 23, 2013
• Balmorhea Springs Placed on “Waters to Watch” List
• TPWD Proposals Aim to Streamline Hunter Education Process
• TPW Commission Approves Land Acquisition to Benefit Lesser Prairie Chicken — Permian Basin company makes $400,000 donation to facilitate purchase [News Images]
• $5.7 Million Recreational Trail Grant Largest Award in Program’s History
News Briefs and Upcoming Events:
Free Food, Fishing at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center for National Fishing Day
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens will be hosting their annual National Fishing Day celebration this Saturday from 9 a.m. — 4 p.m. Admission will be free from Children 12 and under, and free fishing will be available all day for the whole family. Kids may also compete to win prizes in the catfishing tournament at the TFFC’s casting pond. Free hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be served all day by employees of the Athens Wal-Mart.
TPWD Offers Easy Search for State Parks Near Major Cities
Looking for something to this summer? Texas Parks and Wildlife hosts weekly events at parks around the state and now there is an easier way to find them close to home. The TPWD Calendar Event Collection offers a quick way to search for events near Austin, Dallas/ Ft. Worth, Houston and San Antonio.
Drought Relief Funding Available for Texas Landowners
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service State Conservationist Salvador Salinas has announced that additional funding will be available for agriculture operators wishing to address pant health conditions on their land through NRCS’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program.
Applications will be accepted at NRCS field offices until June 14. Priority for funding will target 129 counties that have been distinguished as extreme drought or exceptional drought, according to the current U.S. Drought Monitor map. Priority counties will be adjusted as the drought changes.
Landowners interested in participating in the incentives program are encouraged to contact their local USDA-NRCS field office located in the nearest USDA Service Center.
For additional information about EQIP, or to find the NRCS service center nearest you, visit http://www.tx.nrcs.usda.gov/
NRCS in Texas Announces Incentive Payments to Improve Wildlife Habitat
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service State Conservationist Salvador Salinas has announced that NRCS in Texas has $5.5 million in funding available for people who want to develop and improve wildlife habitat on their land through the agency’s Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP).
The funding has been established to improve Bobwhite quail and Pronghorn antelope habitat, as well as assist landowners who have lost wildlife habitat through the drought and wildfires in recent years.
Through WHIP, the NRCS will provide technical and financial assistance to establish and improve fish and wildlife habitat. WHIP agreements between NRCS and the participant generally last for five to ten years.
WHIP applications must address traditional natural resource issues such as water quantity, water quality, grazing lands, forest health, soil management, emerging natural resource issues, and climate change.
For additional information about WHIP, or to find the NRCS service center nearest you, visit http://www.tx.nrcs.usda.gov/.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

Wildman's Weekly Outdoor Report May 27, 2013 Edition

Good things come to those who bait. You could win a prize. Listen to find out how.

Steve "Wildman" Wilson's Outdoor Report for this week is now available. Click here to go to the Podcast page, then scroll down and click on the latest Outdoor Report to download the file.

The audio file can be downloaded by "right-clicking" on the link below and clicking "Save Target As" to save to your computer.

http://www.agfc.com/resources/PodcastAudio/outdoor_report.mp3

________________________________________
Follow Wildman on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/Steve_wildman

TPWD News Digest for the Week of May 16-24, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
May 24, 2013
• “Clean, Drain and Dry” Regimen Bad News for Zebra Mussels [News Images]
AUSTIN — Nothing ruins a zebra mussel’s day more than a boater who Cleans, Drains and Dries his boat to prevent the spread of this small but devastating aquatic invasive species.
May 23, 2013
• Balmorhea Springs Placed on “Waters to Watch” List
BALMORHEA—Balmorhea Springs, a complex of Trans-Pecos water sources which supports two endangered fish species, an endangered snail, and four other species of concern, has been placed on the National Fish Habitat Partnership’s 10 “Water to Watch” list for 2013.
• TPWD Proposals Aim to Streamline Hunter Education Process
AUSTIN – Proposed changes to the state’s hunter education certification program would streamline the process for the tens of thousands of Texans who take the course annually, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials.
• TPW Commission Approves Land Acquisition to Benefit Lesser Prairie Chicken — Permian Basin company makes $400,000 donation to facilitate purchase [News Images]
AUSTIN- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved the acquisition of more than 3,000 acres of lesser prairie chicken habitat as an addition to the Yoakum Dunes Preserve in the Texas Panhandle, which is dedicated to the conservation of this iconic grasslands species.
• $5.7 Million Recreational Trail Grant Largest Award in Program’s History
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on Thursday approved $5.7 million in federal grants for 33 recreational trail projects across the state. This is the largest amount of grant funds awarded from the Recreational Trail Grant Program in the 20-year history of the program in Texas. Seventy-two project proposals were submitted requesting almost $12 million in funding assistance.
May 22, 2013
• Houston Couple Honored for Land Conservation Efforts [News Images]
AUSTIN – Revitalization efforts on two ranches in two different ecological regions of the state have earned a Houston couple the 2013 Leopold Conservation Award, Texas’s highest honor for private land conservation.
May 17, 2013
• Lake Belton Trails to Join Texas Paddling Trails Network — Dedication of New Trails Set for 10 a.m., May 22 [News Images]
May 16, 2013
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Creates New Marine Investigations Unit [News Images]
• 35 Miles of Brazos River Now Part of TPWD’s Texas Paddling Trails [News Images]
Video News Reports:
Go Fish! – Fishing is the Activity of the Month for June
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “Go Fish.” Catching a fish is fun for kids, but many families have questions about how to get started. That’s why some state parks are offering free fishing classes. They’ll teach you the basics through fun, hands-on activities. Texas Parks and Wildlife has this report on a program called “Go Fish” as the June Outdoor Activity of the Month.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/CBIornYLod0
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “May VNR_Go Fish” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

Wildman's Weekly Outdoor Report May 13, 2013 Edition

Get your daytimers and calendars out. I'm going to give you the dates and times of several events the AGFC has coming up.

Steve "Wildman" Wilson's Outdoor Report for this week is now available. Click here to go to the Podcast page, then scroll down and click on the latest Outdoor Report to download the file.

The audio file can be downloaded by "right-clicking" on the link below and clicking "Save Target As" to save to your computer.

http://www.agfc.com/resources/PodcastAudio/outdoor_report.mp3

________________________________________
Follow Wildman on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/Steve_wildman

THE MONKEY MAN "CHUCK COMBS"

AND THE BOGGY MAN,  "WAYNE COMBS"
 

Looking for a deer lease contact 903-650-4466.

TPWD News Digest for the Week of May 2-9, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
May 9, 2013
• Lake Conroe Conservation Efforts Receive State, National Recognition [News Images]
ATHENS—Lake Conroe has suffered more than its share of ups and downs over the years—pun intended.
May 7, 2013
• Mother Nature is the Best Gift for Mom [News Images]
This Mother’s Day, Texas Parks and Wildlife suggests that Texans give mom a chance to relax with a family picnic at one of more than 90 Texas state parks. Picnicking can be a fresh alternative to traditional Mother’s Day events; the agency suggests you take mom to a park, where you can enjoy activities like hiking or birding, along with sharing a picnic.
• Gulf Shrimp Season Closing May 23
AUSTIN — The Gulf of Mexico commercial shrimp season for both Texas and federal waters will close 30 minutes after sunset on May 23 until a still-to-be determined time in July.
May 2, 2013
• Texas to Receive Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Restoration Funding — Artificial Reef, Coastal State Park Projects Proposed for Latest Round of Early Restoration
AUSTIN – Five Texas-based projects totaling about $18 million have been proposed to begin to compensate Texas for lost human use of natural resources resulting from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The three artificial reef and two state park projects are part of the latest round of early restoration led by state and federal Natural Resource Damage Assessment trustees.
Video News Reports
Mother’s Day Picnic at the Parks – Celebrate Mom at a State Park!
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “Mother’s Day Picnic in the Parks.” If you’re looking for a unique Mother’s Day experience, consider an outing to a Texas state park. State parks across Texas are encouraging families to visit this weekend. According to one group of moms, it’s a great way to bond with your kids.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/wwg-r_ki60E
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “April VNR_Mother’s Day Picnic at the Parks” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of March 8-14, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
March 14, 2013
• Lingering Aftereffects of Drought Could Impact Turkey Hunting
AUSTIN — Turkey hunters can focus their attention on coaxing old boss toms during the upcoming spring season, with relatively few gullible two-year-old birds available, but will also have to contend with curious jakes, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife biologists.
• Possum Kingdom Fish Survey Results
ATHENS — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries office in Wichita Falls recently completed fall electrofishing and spring gillnet surveys on Possum Kingdom Reservoir. Fisheries biologists use information from these surveys to develop plans for managing fish populations.
March 12, 2013
• Smartphone App Now Available for Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center [News Images]
ATHENS—More than 50 percent of Americans depend on mobile devices to communicate, navigate and recreate, and the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center now has an app for that.
• April Events at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center Feature Food, Fun, Fishing
ATHENS—There’s no better example of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department motto “Life’s Better Outside” than April events at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.
• Major Repairs to Battleship Texas Hull to Begin in April
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has contracted with Taylor Marine Construction, Inc. to make the first significant structural repairs to the Battleship TEXAS in more than 20 years. Today marks the 99th anniversary of the battleship’s commissioning in 1912.
March 9, 2013
• Running Wild — Hundreds on Hand for Adventure Race at Cedar Hill State Park [News Images]
CEDAR HILL, TX—Hundreds of visitors from all over Texas and surrounding states crowded the Dallas Off-Road Biking Association trailhead inside Cedar Hill State Park for the Eco Lone Star Adventure Race series sport and extreme outdoor triathlon early Saturday morning.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
TPWD Wins Top Social Media Award
As the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department observes its 50th anniversary as a state agency, TPWD has been given another reason to celebrate. The Austin American-Statesman has awarded TPWD with the top Texas Social Media Award. With more than 100,000 followers and a YouTube channel with more than 4 million views, TPWD has created a social media web that has made information not only about outdoors regulations, state parks and news, but has proven to be a useful tool during emergencies such as the 2011 Bastrop wildfire.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of February 7- March 8, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
March 7, 2013
• Latest Zebra Mussel Test Results Reinforce Need to Protect Texas Lakes — Zebra mussel DNA detected in five North Texas lakes
ATHENS—The latest tests and monitoring looking for zebra mussels in North Texas lakes yielded mixed results.
• CCC Vets, Families Sought to Attend 80th Anniversary Celebration in April
CANYON – At his March 1933 inauguration amid the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called for the creation of a “forest army” to staff a massive conservation and public recreation program that included the development of state and local parks. By July, 274,000 men between the ages of 17 to 25 had joined the Civilian Conservation Corps.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Turns 50 This Year — Agency Calls for Texans To Share Stories, Photos, Become Ambassadors for the Future
AUSTIN – In the late summer of 1963, the most popular show on television was “The Beverly Hillbillies,” a gallon of gas cost 29 cents, the University of Texas Longhorns were headed toward their first national football championship, “My Boyfriend’s Back” was the top hit on AM radio and Texas had a new state agency called the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
March 6, 2013
• Cedar Hill State Park to Host Adventure Race, 5k-15k Run — Unique Triathlon Format at DFW Area Park for Trail Run, Mountain Bike and Paddling Events
CEDAR HILL—Ordinarily, the miles of scenic hike and bike trails of the 1,500-acre Cedar Hill State Park are a welcome retreat for nature lovers seeking respite from surrounding urban sprawl. But this weekend, those same wooded paths along the shores of Joe Pool Reservoir in the southern DFW Metro area will play host to a series of running events, including a unique triathlon format of the Eco Lone Star Adventure Race series and the XTERRA Trail Run 5k and 15k.
• Texas Birding Classic Spreading Its Wings This Spring ]
AUSTIN – Grab your binoculars and birding guides and get ready for fun at the 17th annual Great Texas Birding Classic. The registration deadline for year’s event, which will feature a number of firsts, is April 1.
March 4, 2013
• Lake Palestine Joins Ranks of ShareLunker Lakes [News Images]
ATHENS—Lake Palestine produced its first Toyota ShareLunker March 2, becoming the sixty-fourth public reservoir in Texas to allow an angler to land a 13-pound or larger largemouth bass.
March 1, 2013
• Operation Shark Fin targets illegal gill netting and long lines along lower coast [News Images]
Feb. 28, 2013
• Meadows Foundation Awards $150,000 Grant to Restore Fire-Ravaged Bastrop State Park
• Photography Takes Center Stage at Texas State Parks This March [News Images] Texas White Bass, Other Fisheries Threatened by Drought
Video News Reports
An Office in the Ocean – Biologists Check Productivity of Artificial Reefs.
A fresh Video News Report is now available on our site called “An Office in the Ocean.” Since 1993, Texas Parks and Wildlife biologists have created artificial reefs with retired oil rigs, pre-made reef structures and old ships making habitat for marine life for all to enjoy. To help better inform Texans, a new website with an interactive map, video and animation is now available, giving a rare look at this undersea world. Texas Parks and Wildlife shows us the men and women who create artificial reefs for a living.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/vd_gASm8i2g
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “MarchVNR_An Office in the Ocean” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

A series of public hearings on proposed changes to the state's hunting and fishing regulations begin next week. For details, dates and locations, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

Each year, TPWD considers changes in hunting and fishing regulations to achieve resource management objectives and maximize outdoor recreation opportunities consistent with good stewardship. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission will make final decisions on the proposals.

Pictured: the BOGGYMAN PERCHJERKER....... him and a cousin caught over 90 yesterday. This is a two pounder plus........

TPWD News Digest for the Week of February 21-28, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Feb. 28, 2013
• Meadows Foundation Awards $150,000 Grant to Restore Fire-Ravaged Bastrop State Park
DALLAS — Almost two years after a devastating wildfire, signs of new life and activity are springing up once again at Bastrop State Park, thanks in part to the generosity of donors like The Meadows Foundation, which recently awarded the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation a $150,000 grant to help restore the fire-ravaged park.
• Photography Takes Center Stage at Texas State Parks This March [News Images]
AUSTIN – Channel your inner Ansel Adams or Wyman Meinzer this spring by heading to one of more than 90 Texas state parks and historic sites to photograph your friends and loved ones, wildflowers, wildlife and revered state landmarks. Snap away just for fun or record your best images to enter in the Texas State Parks Photo Contest.
• Texas White Bass, Other Fisheries Threatened by Drought
ATHENS—Puxatawney Phil may herald the onset of spring for folks in the Northeast, but for Texans there is another signal: The beginning of the annual white bass run upstream from reservoirs into rivers.
Feb. 26, 2013
• Dallas Fly Fishers to Offer Classes at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center March 9
ATHENS — The Dallas Fly Fishers will teach classes for beginning fly-fishers at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens on March 9.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Mulls Options on Red Snapper Issue
AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission received a briefing from staff on the state’s red snapper fishery as well as recent action by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council that is likely to shorten this year’s recreational fishing season in federal waters.
• Buffalo Soldiers’ Salute — TPWD Program Opens TLBC African American Legislative Summit [News Images]
AUSTIN – Members of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Outreach Program led a room full of state senators, representatives and their staff in the Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. and Texas flags, marching in full 19th-Century uniform and formation to post colors during the Community Awards Breakfast for the Texas Legislative Black Caucus African American Legislative Summit at the downtown Hilton Austin hotel earlier today.
Feb. 25, 2013
• Panhandle Meeting On Multi-State Lesser Prairie Chicken Plan Reset — Due to Weather, Feb. 25 Meeting in Morton moved to March 4
LUBBOCK – As an update to an earlier news announcement, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is postponing a meeting that had been set for tonight in Morton, Texas to Monday, March 4, because of snow and high winds.
Feb. 22, 2013
Texas Meetings Set for Multi-State Lesser Prairie Chicken Plan — Outcome Could Affect Federal Threatened Species Listing Proposal
News Briefs and Upcoming Events:
Two Texas State Park Trees Are Now ‘Famous’
The Texas A&M Forest Service has selected trees at two state parks for addition to the Famous Trees of Texas Registry. A towering bald cypress at McKinney Falls State Park in Austin and a giant evergreen anacua tree growing next to Mission Espiritu Santo inside Goliad State Park & Historic Site have been added to the registry. “Old Baldy” and the “Goliad Anacua” join 85 trees rich in Texas history on the Famous Trees list, which was begun in 1969. Of the 87 trees, 65 are living. The Texas Forest Service’s registry recognizes trees that have witnessed exciting periods and events in Texas history. TFS is seeking nominations to bring the total number of famous trees to 100 by 2015. You can view the complete list of noteworthy heritage trees and qualification criteria online by visiting: http://famoustreesoftexas.tamu.edu.
Calendar:
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

Pictured At Left:
THE MONKEY MAN

TPWD News Digest for the Week of February 14-21, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Feb. 20, 2013
• Little Lake Does Not Always Mean Little Fish [News Images]
ATHENS—The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center’s main stocked fishing pond, Lake Zebco, covers only about an acre and a half. (A full football field including end zones covers 1.32 acres.) Walking at a brisk pace, you can circle it in three or four minutes.
Feb. 19, 2013
• Caprock Canyons State Park, Bison Herd Honored at Texas State Capitol — STAR Day Foundation Recognizes Panhandle Park for Conservation Efforts [News Images]
AUSTIN—Elected officials and numerous students from around Texas packed the State Capitol of Texas rotunda to honor Caprock Canyons State Park and its ongoing efforts to preserve the Texas State Bison Herd, as park superintendent Donald Beard received the Service of Achievement Merit Award on this the 167th anniversary of Texas’ statehood.
• ShareLunker Bite Heats Up: Lake O’ the Pines, Toledo Bend, Lake Fork [News Images]
ATHENS—Toyota ShareLunker entries came from three East Texas reservoirs within the last week.
• TPWD Scoping Potential Special White-Winged Dove Area Regulations
AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will be gathering input on possible dove hunting changes in conjunction with upcoming public hearings in San Antonio and Corpus Christi.
• Trans-Pecos Pronghorn Restoration Effort Continues
AUSTIN — The continuation of the Trans-Pecos pronghorn restoration project took another step forward with the successful relocation of 130 pronghorn recently.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission to Meet on Red Snapper Issue
AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission will hold a special meeting in Austin on Feb. 26 to discuss recent events and options involving the Gulf of Mexico red snapper fishery.
Feb. 18, 2013
• Deep Yet Silent No Longer: Texas Artificial Reefs Launch New Website, Facebook Page [News Images]
For more than thirty years, the Texas Artificial Reef program has generally run silent and deep – deep in its positive impact on marine ecosystems, recreational fishing and diving and coastal economies, silent because it’s probably largely unknown to most people. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department scientists hope that will change soon with a major website overhaul and new Facebook page.
Feb. 15, 2013
• Prescribed burn planned for Mustang Island State Park
Video News Reports
The Thrashers – Great Texas Birding Classic Is Back Statewide!
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “The Thrashers.” The largest bird watching tournament in the world is coming back this spring and it’s even bigger! For 16 years, the Great Texas Birding Classic was just a coastal competition but this year, it’s gone statewide. Texas Parks and Wildlife takes us back to 1997 when a group of teenagers won their competition category the first year by looking at birds rather than chicks.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/_UPcCvY8UD4
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “FebVNR_The Thrashers” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of February 7-14, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Feb. 13, 2013
• Gentilz Exhibit to Debut at Texas Independence Celebration
WASHINGTON, Texas – An exhibit showcasing the works of a 19th century Paris-born painter and draftsman who chronicled early Texas life and its indigenous cultures will open on March 2 as part of the kickoff of the annual Texas Independence Day celebration.
Feb. 12, 2013
• Houston Area Hatchery-Aquarium Hosts Free Anniversary Bash Feb. 23 — Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson Offers Family-Oriented Nature Day
LAKE JACKSON — Sea Center Texas will host its 8th annual Nature Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Feb. 23, and the public is invited to join in the free festivities and help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the 30th anniversary of TPWD Coastal Fish Hatcheries, and Sea Center’s 17th anniversary.
• Young Whooping Crane Accidentally Shot
AUSTIN — A juvenile whooping crane was accidentally shot and killed earlier this year near St. Joseph’s Island in Aransas County, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department law enforcement officials.
Feb. 11, 2013
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Stunned by Gulf Council Snapper Vote
AUSTIN – In a stunning move Feb. 8, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council voted to recommend an emergency rule that could shorten the recreational red snapper fishing season in federal waters off the Texas coast to as little as 11 days from the planned 27 day season.
• Falcon Takes Wing with Toyota ShareLunker 541 [News Images]
ATHENS—Falcon International Reservoir joined the Toyota ShareLunker action on Thursday, February 7, with a 13.4-pound entry into the ShareLunker program.
• Get Hooked on Fly Fishing March 9 at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center [News Images]
ATHENS—Fly Fish Texas returns to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center March 9 with the goal of teaching visitors to tie a fly, cast a fly and catch a fish with it all in one day.
• Four New Positives Found in Trans Pecos CWD Surveillance — Disease not discovered outside Containment Zone
AUSTIN – Nearly 300 tissue samples were collected from hunter harvested mule deer from the Trans Pecos ecoregion of far West Texas during the 2012-13 season for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) testing. Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) have confirmed CWD in four of those samples. All CWD-positive deer were harvested within the CWD Containment Zone.
Feb. 8, 2013
• Texas Birding Classic Spreading Its Wings, Its Reach This Spring
Video News Reports
Fast Freddy – 80-year-old bicyclist advocates biking in state parks.
A fresh Video News Report is now available on our site called “Fast Freddy.” The new year brings a lot of New Year’s resolutions and usually at the top of the list is to get more exercise. Well, one man puts us all to shame with his commitment to stay fit through mountain biking. At nearly 80 years of age, Fred Schmid is not only exercising, he’s competing and winning! Texas Parks and Wildlife has this report on February’s outdoor activity of the month: biking in state parks.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/M9i9d3QwFX4
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “FebVNR_Fast Freddy” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
The Thrashers – Great Texas Birding Classic Is Back Statewide!
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “The Thrashers.” The largest bird watching tournament in the world is coming back this Spring and it’s even bigger! For 16 years, the Great Texas Birding Classic was just a coastal competition but this year, it’s gone statewide. Texas Parks and Wildlife takes us back to 1997 when a group of teenagers won their competition category the first year by looking at birds rather than picking up chicks.
Check out press release at bottom.
See the YouTube video at http://youtu.be/_UPcCvY8UD4
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “FebVNR_The Thrashers” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
EDWARDS AQUIFER HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN APPROVED
After Five Years, A Triumph For Cities, River/Springs Users, Rare Species
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service this week approved a Habitat Conservation Plan and incidental take permit for the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP). The move put a formal stamp of approval on five years of work to balance water pumping and use of the aquifer with protection of several endangered species that depend on freshwater springs in Central Texas. The Edwards Aquifer extends 180 miles from Brackettville in Kinney County to Kyle in Hays County and is the main source of drinking water for over 2 million people in south central Texas as well as an important source of water for agriculture, industry and recreation. In addition, the Edwards Aquifer is the source of San Marcos and Comal Springs, two of the largest springs in the Southwestern U.S. These springs are the headwaters of the San Marcos and Comal Rivers and provide important baseflows, especially during drought, to the Guadalupe River and Estuary. There are currently eight federally-listed species that depend directly on the Edwards Aquifer system: the fountain darter, San Marcos salamander, San Marcos gambusia, Texas blind salamander, Peck’s cave amphipod, Comal Springs dryopid beetle, Comal Springs riffle beetle, and Texas wild rice. The San Marcos gambusia, last collected in the wild in 1983, may already be extinct. Conflict over the Edwards Aquifer had been brewing for decades and came to head in 1991 when the Sierra Club filed a lawsuit under the federal Endangered Species Act. The EARIP was created in 2006 and modified by the Texas Legislature through Senate Bill 3 in 2007. This started a collaborative process involving local and state governments, river authorities, environmental interests, recreational and public interest groups, agriculture and industry, groundwater and surface water developers and users, and universities. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department staff from several divisions have played key roles, serving on the steering committee and science team, helping to identify strategies to protect springflows, especially during droughts. See details about this week’s HCP approval in the USFWS news release at http://onlinepressroom.net/fws/, or call Adam Zerrenner at (512) 4909-0057, ext. 248.
Workshop for Managing Urban Wildlife in Houston
This workshop was developed as a response to the urban wildlife issues that have been reported near Houston. Dr. Stan Gehrt, an urban coyote behavior expert, will be speaking about managing urban coyotes. His information is based on years of researching urban coyotes in downtown Chicago. Speakers also will cover topics about feral hog control, egret/heron rookeries, urban bobcats (often mistaken as mountain lions in our area), urban deer, and hawks/vultures. These speakers were carefully selected due to their experience dealing with these specific situations and species under urban conditions. The information presented will benefit land managers in urban areas statewide, not just the Houston area. The “Managing Urban Wildlife: Best Management Practices” workshop will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 21. This workshop is being held in conjunction with the Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society annual meeting. Registration for the Managing Urban Wildlife workshop is on the TCTWS online conference registration page. However, anyone can attend the Urban Wildlife workshop separately. You do not need to sign up for the entire annual meeting/conference. Cost is $10.00 and the workshop will take place at the Doubletree by Hilton hotel near Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.
McKinney Falls State Park to host the CenTex Survival Fair
Calling all wilderness survival experts in training! Come learn how to survive and thrive in the Central Texas outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 23 at the CenTex Survival Fair hosted by McKinney Falls State Park in Austin. Meet first responders responsible for outdoor emergency services, see spiders, snakes, lizards and other wildlife in live demonstrations, learn to set up your own campsite, take a wilderness survival hike and try your hand at archery, atlatl, flint knapping, rock climbing, geocaching and other sports. A fishing contest with prizes will be held at this event along with a first- time fishing kids’ program. This event is free and open to the public after park entrance fees. For more information contact Amber.conrad@tpwd.state.tx.us or visit facebook.com/CenTexSurvivalFair or follow twitter.com/MckinneyFalls.
Ranching and Wildlife Expo Takes Part in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The “Ranching and Wildlife Expo” will take place Feb. 26-Mar. 2 as a part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Partnered with Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas Wildlife Association, Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Expo will feature seminars and booths that cover a wide range of topics such as bison, quail and preservation of habitats and ranching. The booths will be open between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. each day, and seminars are being held from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Feb. 26- Feb. 28. On March 1, the Expo will hold an auction, and proceeds from the auction will fund scholarships for students wishing to study agriculture, ranching, or wildlife in college. Auction items include special guided hunt packages, fishing trips, bird watching getaways, and a wide variety of nature/outdoor related gear and gifts.
A Lesson in Leeching
Nineteenth century medical practices usually involved leeches, 10amputations, bloodletting, and mercury or arsenic potions as a cure. Before the discovery of germs and bacteria, physicians used leeches to help treat patients for their ailments. Today, a doctor can treat patients without having to submit to potions and procedures that were used in the 1800s. This weekend, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site will lead a presentation showing the unusual ways that doctors treated patients in the 1850s. The “Lesson in Leeching” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday Feb. 16-17 at the Barrington Living History Farm. Admission is free with general admission and reservations are not required. For more information, call 936-878-2214.
Texas History Captured in Song and Prose
The history of Texas will be explored through songs and poetry at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site this Sunday Feb. 17 at Independence Hall. The presentations will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., and will last approximately 30-45 minutes. For more information, call 936-878-2214 x228.
The Annexation of Texas Program at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
Visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site this Saturday and explore the annexation of Texas through documents prepared by people who were there. “The Republic is No More!” presentation will offer visitors a chance to experience contemporary accounts and documents from the witnesses of the annexation of Texas. The presentations will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., and will last approximately 30-45 minutes each. For more information, call 936-878-2214 x224.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of January 31- February 7, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Feb. 6, 2013
• Game Warden Field Notes
The following items are compiled from recent Texas Parks and Wildlife Department law enforcement reports.
Feb. 5, 2013
• Athens Eggfest 2013 Set for April 13 at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center [News Images]
ATHENS—The third annual Athens Eggfest is scheduled for Saturday, April 13, at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC).
Feb. 4, 2013
• Toyota ShareLunker 540 Comes from Lake Fork — 16.04-pounder ties for number 22 spot on Top 50 list [News Images]
ATHENS—Richard Scibek of Granbury went to Lake Fork Saturday to enjoy a day of fishing with his friend James Quisenberry.
• Giant Salvinia on the Move in East Texas — Infestations spotted at four area lakes
ATHENS—Giant salvinia, a non-native invasive aquatic plant, has been found at several lakes around East Texas over the past few months, leading to concerns over how quickly the destructive plant is spreading.
• TPWD Proposes Changes to Mule Deer, Pronghorn Seasons
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is considering an experimental landowner controlled harvest pronghorn buck season. Wildlife officials are also proposing an extension of mule deer season under Managed Lands Deer Permits as part of recommended changes to the 2013-14 Statewide Hunting Proclamation.
Jan. 31, 2013
• Pedaling Adventures Await in Texas State Parks [News Images]

Video News Reports
Winter Trout Stocking – Time with Grandpa
A Video News Report is now available on our site called “Winter Trout Stocking.” This winter, Texas Parks and Wildlife will stock more than 250-thousand rainbow trout at more than 100 sites across the state. The program hopes to hook new anglers into the sport by making fishing more accessible at urban lakes, state parks and river tailraces.
See the Youtube link at http://youtu.be/YRGUSNwdw_Q
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “JAN VNR_Trout Stocking” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

February 2013 - Biking
This month take your family biking in a Texas State Park!

Ride together along shaded creeks, limestone bluffs and stream beds while pedaling through prairies, deserts, fields or forests. Texas state parks offer varying levels of difficulty on both paved and unpaved trails — from easy, flat trails for less experienced bikers to challenging, rocky trails and switchbacks for more experienced cyclists.

Visit the Biking activities page for a list of biking trails in Texas State Parks, along with trail ratings and descriptions.

Austin-Area Park Ranger Picks
• Buescher State Park - Enjoy a scenic 12.5 mile ride through the Lost Pines on the paved Park Road 1C, between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks.
• Colorado Bend State Park - Access 26 miles of multi-use trails over varied terrain. Watch a video of Mountain Biking at Colorado Bend.
• McKinney Falls State Park - Try 3.5 miles of paved trails or 4 miles of multi-use trails for mountain-biking.
• 16 other Texas State Parks are in the Austin area.

DFW-Area Park Ranger Picks
• Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway - The park's 20-mile trailway follows an abandoned railroad path, making it a car-free trail for biking. The grades are very flat and curves are very gentle, making it popular for all ages and abilities - on mountain bikes or road bikes. The route cuts through farm and ranch land, connecting the town of Weatherford to the downtown district of Mineral Wells.
• Ray Roberts Lake State Park - Greenbelt Corridor - The corridor is a 20-mile, multi-use trail system with 10 miles of hard-surface trail open to bikers. The trail has three trailheads and meanders along the heavily-wooded banks of the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River.
• Tyler State Park - Tyler is one of the top mountain-biking destinations in Texas, offering challenges for all levels. The Pineywoods terrain includes hills, loops, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• 23 other Texas State Parks are in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Houston-Area Park Ranger Picks
• Brazos Bend State Park - Only 15 miles from Houston, this park offers thirty-five miles of biking trails. Family-friendly gravel trails are good for less experienced riders, but there are trails for all levels. Watch for wildlife while riding along the Elm Lake Trail, which borders a marsh on one side and a lake on the other. Check out this Brazos Bend biking video.
• Galveston Island State Park - Four miles of easy multi-use trails provide bicyclists with opportunities to see wildlife (birds, ducks, raccoon, armadillos, marsh rabbits) and experience spectacular ocean views.
• Lake Livingston State Park - Pedal your way around this scenic park (only 50 miles from Houston) on five miles of easy trails. Lake Livingston is one of the state's largest lakes at 84,800 acres. Bike rentals are available.
• 5 other Texas State Parks are in the Houston area.

San Antonio-Area Park Ranger Picks
• Government Canyon State Natural Area - You’ll find it all on the 36+ miles of trails - scenic valleys, woods, canyons, meadows, creek beds and a lot of Edwards Plateau limestone. There are numerous front country and back country biking trails, and trails range in length so that bikers can create routes that work best for them. Watch this biking video shot at Government Canyon.
• Guadalupe River State Park - Only 30 miles from San Antonio, this park recently opened a 5.3-mile trail to mountain biking. Its many multi-use loops provide scenic views and varied rides. This beautiful park has 4 miles of Guadalupe River frontage.
• 20 other Texas State Parks are in the San Antonio area.

Check out a video roundup of what it’s like to bike in a variety of state park settings

Tune up for the Chihuahuan Desert Bike Fest featuring ranger-led rides through the Big Bend Ranch State Park trail system, including the EPIC ride, Rincon Loop, Contrabando Loop, and the new Rock House and Geocache rides!

TPWD News Digest for the Week of January 24-31, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Jan. 31, 2013
• Pedaling Adventures Await in Texas State Parks [News Images]
AUSTIN – Hundreds of miles of dirt, caliche, crushed granite and paved bike trails wind through Texas State Parks, offering both easy and challenging rides in safe and scenic environments. February is a great time to join a scheduled ride, tackle an ambitious biking event, or better yet, take an unguided cruise on your own schedule with your family and friends.
Jan. 29, 2013
• Chihuahuan Desert Bike Fest to be Held at Big Bend Ranch State Park — Three-Day Mountain Bike Event Continues to Grow at Texas’ Largest State Park [News Images]
LAJITAS—The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will partner with Terlingua-based outfitter Desert Sports to present the third annual Chihuahuan Desert Bike Fest, February 14–16, in the Lajitas/Terlingua area.
Jan. 28, 2013
• 10 Texas Paddling Trails to Open on Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou on World Wetlands Day [News Images]
KARNACK – Ten new paddling trails encompassing more than 50 miles will open along a scenic stretch of Big Cypress Bayou and areas in and around Caddo Lake on Saturday, Feb. 2, to coincide with World Wetlands Day.
Jan. 25, 2013
• Multiple Indictments Returned in State Game Warden Hostage Case
AUSTIN – An Upshur County grand jury has returned multiple felony indictments, including two first degree counts of aggravated assault on a police officer, naming a father and son accused of holding a state game warden at gunpoint last October.
• Wanted: Coastal Ghost Busters
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is looking for volunteers interested in helping to remove abandoned crab traps — ghostlike killers of marine life — from their haunts along the coast.
• TPW Commission Approves Land Transfer to Aid Construction of New Franklin Mountains State Park Entrance
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission at its Thursday meeting passed a resolution approving the transfer eight acres of Franklin Mountains State Park property in El Paso to facilitate the construction of a new, safer park entrance off of State Loop 375.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events:
Texas Wetlands Restoration Project Gets $500,000 Federal GranT
Dickinson Bayou Project Among 24 Grants Awarded Nationwide
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has been awarded a $500,000 federal grant from the National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant Program administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to restore and enhance approximately 27 acres of estuarine intertidal emergent wetlands and tidal channels along the Dickinson Bayou part of the Galveston Bay estuary, a nationally significant ecosystem benefiting invertebrates, fish and wildlife species. The project also will improve water quality and enhance recreational fishing and birding opportunities for the public. The project is part of $20 million in grants to 24 critical coastal wetland projects in 13 states and territories. Participating partners for this conservation project include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Texas Coastal Program, Texas Commission for Environmental Quality’s Galveston Bay Estuary Program, Galveston Bay Foundation, NRG, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Restoration Center, Coastal Conservation Association Texas’ Habitat Today for Fish Tomorrow Program, Ducks Unlimited, the Texas General Land Office’s (TxGLO) Coastal Management Program and TPWD. An additional potential partner is the TxGLO’s Coastal Erosion Planning and Response Act Program. For more information about the Dickinson Bayou project, contact the project manager, Jan Culbertson with TPWD in Dickinson, jan.culbertson@tpwd.state.tx.us, (281) 534-0111.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Holds Texas Meeting on Lesser Prairie Chicken Feb. 11 in Lubbock
Public Comments Sought on Federal Proposal to List Bird as Threatened
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will hold February public meetings in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and New Mexico to obtain comments about the service’s proposal to list the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The Texas meeting is the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Lubbock Civic Center. From 4:30-5:30 p.m. that day is an informational session, with the more formal public hearing running 6:30-8:30 p.m. On Dec. 11, the service published a proposal to list the lesser prairie-chicken as threatened and opened a 90-day public comment period. The federal agency will make a final determination on whether to list the bird by Sep. 30. See more information, including a link to the Service’s full news release about the public hearings, on its lesser prairie-chicken web page at http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/LPC.html.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/

TPWD News Digest for the Week of January 17-24, 2013
(Upcoming events are located under “Briefs”)
All TPWD news releases available online:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/ or on our twitter site @tpwdnews, @tpwdhunt or @tpwdparks
Jan. 24, 2013
• TPWD Proposing Changes to Fishing Regulations
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is proposing fishing regulation changes on two largemouth bass fisheries in East Texas, a clarification of fish harassment rules and new possession rules in state waters for aquatic resources taken in violation of federal regulations in the EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone).
• $1.33 million in Local Outdoor Grants to Benefit Texas Communities
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on Thursday approved $1.3 million in competitive grants for city and county parks across the state, funding 12 out of 35 funding requests.
• Game Warden Named Texas “Officer of the Year” by Conservation Association [News Images]
AUSTIN — Texas Game Warden Ryan Hunter has been named Texas “Officer of the Year” by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.
Jan. 23, 2013
• Toyota Texas Bass Classic Announces 2013 Date; Future Changes — Contest to return to Lake Fork in 2014
ATHENS—Toyota Texas Bass Classic (TTBC) officials have announced that this year’s World Championship of Bass Fishing is scheduled for Oct. 4-6, 2013 at Lake Conroe.
Jan. 22, 2013
• Civilian Conservation Corps Exhibit to Show at Bullock Museum — Handcrafted Furniture, Metalwork, Other Items Featured from Famed Depression-Era Program [News Images]
AUSTIN—The Civilian Conservation Corps, once dubbed the “Tree Army” by president Franklin D. Roosevelt, will be on display as part of a special exhibition Feb. 1-June 30 on the third floor of the Bullock State History Museum, located downtown.
• Coalition Launches Texas Natural Resource/Environmental Literacy Plan — First Lady Laura Bush To Speak, Experts Gather Jan. 25-26 in San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO – For the generation of the great indoors, when most Texans don’t know where their drinking water comes from and may struggle to navigate similar environmental issues , a broad coalition of statewide natural resource and education leaders is gathering here Friday, Jan. 25 to start implementing the Texas Natural Resource/Environmental Literacy Plan. The plan provides a framework for natural resource teaching through education, recreation and life-long learning.
• McKinney Falls State Park to host CenTex Survival Fair
AUSTIN — Calling all wilderness survival experts-in-training! The CenTex Survival Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23. at McKinney Falls State Park in Austin.
• Edward Parten Tapped for Induction into Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame — Kingwood man honored for long history of conservation work [News Images]
ATHENS—Edward Parten of Kingwood, owner of a construction firm, has been selected as the 2013 inductee into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.
Video News Reports
Bastrop Tree Planting – New Life in the New Year!
A fresh Video News Report is now available on our site called “Bastrop Tree Planting.” The new year is bringing new life to Bastrop State Park as volunteers gather to plant the first of 220-thousand Loblolly pine seedlings this winter. The new trees will replace some of those lost from the devastating Labor Day wildfires of 2011. Texas Parks and Wildlife has this report.
See the Youtube link at http://youtu.be/PjCDQujtZVU
For a high resolution download on our site, click on the link
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/files/video/
Look for “JAN VNR_Bastrop Tree Planting” There is a split track version and a mixed audio version with CG, both in HD.
News Briefs and Upcoming Events:
10 New Trails to be Added to Texas Paddling Trails Network
Ten new canoe and kayak trails at Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou will be joining the Texas Paddling Trails family on Feb. 2 (World Wetlands Day). More than 50 miles of new trails range in length from 2.4 to 8.8 miles and eliminate the need for trailering. The new paddling trails feature six put-in and take-out points at Caddo Lake State Park, the Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area and Backwater Jack’s RV Park. The Caddo area trails increase the total number of state paddling trails to 48. The well-marked trails through the bald cypress swamps make it possible for visitors to explore this vast and mysterious area without getting lost. A ribbon-cutting for the new trails will take place at 1 p.m. at Caddo Lake State Park. Park entry fees will be waived for the event. For more information, call (512) 389-4500.
Calendar
For events in your area, visit our calendar section at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar/