CP-008: Protection, Conservation, and Management of Natural and Cultural Resources

Purpose

This policy is established in recognition of the statutory responsibility of the Commission and TPWD to protect, conserve, manage, and interpret the state’s natural and cultural resources, and to aid in minimizing adverse impacts on these resources.

General Policy Statement

It shall be the policy of the Commission that TPWD activities be conducted, and TPWD facilities be managed, using sound principles of natural and cultural resource management in order to protect, conserve, and provide for the wise use and enjoyment of the state’s resources. These management principles shall be consistent with other TPWD objectives and legal obligations. Further, TPWD will serve as a model of compliance with the letter and spirit of natural and cultural resource laws and regulations.

When conducting TPWD activities and managing TPWD facilities, the following areas of responsibility will be considered.

Toxic and Hazardous Substances

The management of TPWD activities and facilities may require the use of toxic or hazardous substances, including pesticides and herbicides.  Responsible application and use of those substances must be undertaken only by personnel trained in their use, with equipment appropriate for use of the substances, and in full compliance with applicable laws. Alternatives to the use of those substances should be considered and adopted wherever practicable. Where alternatives are not available or practicable, the use of those substances should be kept to the minimum necessary to accomplish each task.

Sustainability

TPWD recognizes that sustainability is an important component of natural and cultural resource management. As a conservation agency, TPWD strives to lead in the area of sustainability and will encourage staff to participate in sustainable practices. In support of these efforts, TPWD will focus on four major categories: energy efficiency, water conservation, clean air and transportation, and waste management and recycling. In addition, TPWD will strive to integrate climate resilience efforts into the conservation of fish and wildlife, vegetation communities, and ecosystem functions, as well as the human use of natural systems.

In addressing sustainability, TPWD must balance the need for sustainability with the operational realities of TPWD sites and facilities (e.g., long-term maintenance, repair, life-cycle costs).  Prior to implementing sustainability measures, TPWD will consider feasibility and efficacy.

Natural and Cultural Resource Review 

Internal TPWD resource review processes will be implemented to apply to permits and grant applications received or submitted by TPWD; major planning and management initiatives developed by TPWD; major construction and renovation projects undertaken by TPWD; and any departmental activity potentially affecting endangered resources. TPWD divisions will develop review processes to ensure TPWD actions are consistent with natural and cultural resource laws and with recommendations made by TPWD on projects proposed by other regulated entities.

The Executive Director is specifically directed to institute measures to ensure accountability for compliance with this policy, and may direct as appropriate, periodic audits for all TPWD programs and activities.

Public Outreach

As part of the review processes and/or in order to encourage public awareness of conservation principles, TPWD will distribute informational materials, develop programs, and provide other opportunities to engage with the public about TPWD’s conservation activities and the importance thereof to the public. The Executive Director shall authorize staff to implement efforts to educate the public about the value and importance of natural communities, cultural use of the natural environment, biodiversity, ecological principles, and natural and cultural resource management.