Feb. 5, 2010

Abandoned Crab Trap Drop-off Sites Announced

CORPUS CHRISTI — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials announced drop-off sites for the 8th Texas Abandoned Crab Trap Removal Program, scheduled this year from Feb. 19 to 28.

Texas Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Deer Trafficking, Stolen Property

AUSTIN — A four-year, multi-agency investigation that began when two Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Game Wardens received information about possible stolen property on two Northeast Texas ranches has ended with federal prison sentences for a father and son who pled guilty to transporting stolen property and wildlife trafficking.

Feb. 4, 2010

West Texas Community Input Sought for Texas Mountain Trail Project

Van Horn — The Texas Mountain Trail region is seeking wildlife viewing and birding locations to include in new Far West Texas wildlife trail map. The map is a partnership between the Van Horn-based non-profit heritage tourism organization; the Texas Pecos Trail; and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Site nominations are due March 1.

Feb. 2, 2010

TPWD Unveils 2010 Texas Land and Water Plan

AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has completed a major revision of its Land and Water Resources Conservation and Recreation Plan, which is now available to the public. The year-long process created 12 regional forums based on river watersheds to promote dialogue and joint planning with outside stakeholders and field staff.

TPWD to Sell Part of Newly-Acquired Ranch at Palo Duro Canyon

AUSTIN, Texas — In September 2008, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Trust For Public Land announced that the views from inside Palo Duro Canyon State Park will remain grand thanks to the addition of a 2,912-acre property known as Fortress Cliffs Ranch. Now, TPWD is following through on its originally stated plan to sell upland portions of the ranch and use the proceeds to buy other state park land, with a legally binding conservation easement to permanently protect the acreage sold.

Feb. 1, 2010

TPWD Seeks Public Comment on Hunting and Fishing Proposals

AUSTIN — Expansion of mule deer hunting opportunities tops a short list of proposed changes to the state’s hunting and fishing regulations the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is considering for 2010-2011.

Jan. 29, 2010

Riechers Named TPWD Coastal Fisheries Director

AUSTIN — Following an extensive nationwide search, Robin Riechers has been selected to lead the Coastal Fisheries Division at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Riechers began his career with TPWD in 1988 and has served in various roles within coastal fisheries, most recently as the Science and Policy Director.

Jan. 28, 2010

TPW approves More Than $4.5 million in Local Park Grants

AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved more than $4.5 million in competitive grants for city and county parks, sport complexes, nature trails and recreation centers across the state. Nine out of 40 eligible grant requests for indoor and outdoor recreational facilities were chosen by the commission for funding.

Garner State Park to Add 177 Acres in Land Purchase

AUSTIN — One of Texas’ most beloved outdoor recreation destinations — Garner State Park near Concan — will be adding a 177-acre tract that includes the iconic bluff known as Old Baldy as the result of a land deal struck with a willing, conservation-minded landowner.

TPW Commission Approves $2.5 Million in Boat Ramp Grants

AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved $2,545,249 in grants to pay for 10 boat ramp construction or repair projects across the state.