Commission Meeting Agenda Item No. 12
Presenter: Stan David

Action
Acquisition of Land – Cameron County
Approximately 42 Acres at the Ebony Unit of Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area
August 24, 2023

I.      Executive Summary: Staff requests authorization to pursue acquisition of approximately 42 acres adjacent to the Ebony Unit of Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which is available to purchase from a willing seller. The tract would add excellent habitat and operational utility to Las Palomas WMA.

II.     Discussion: The Las Palomas WMA was created to preserve native brush, nesting habitat, farmland, and wetlands for white-winged doves. The mission of Las Palomas WMA is to develop and manage populations of resident and migratory wildlife species and their habitats and to provide quality public recreation in a manner that sustains and conserves native habitats.

Local staff regard this tract as a high-priority strategic acquisition for the Ebony Unit. It would add valuable farmland adjacent to native brushland acreage. The tract would also add much needed open acreage for dove hunters and provide the opportunity for additional food plots.

III.   Recommendation: Staff recommends that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

“The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission authorizes the Executive Director to take all necessary steps to acquire approximately 42 acres of land in Cameron County for addition to Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area.” 

Commission Agenda Item No. 12
Exhibit A

Location Map for the Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
Cameron County

Commission Agenda Item No. 12
Exhibit B

Vicinity Map for the Las Palomas WMA
10 Miles North of Harlingen

Commission Agenda Item No. 12
Exhibit C

Site Map for Las Palomas WMA
The Ebony Unit Outlined in Green
42-Acre Subject Tract Outlined in Red