AUSTIN— New species are popping up at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) sites and agency staff and state park visitors are arming themselves with poke balls trying to catch them all. Around the state, many TPWD sites are using the game as a new way to introduce the real natural world to players venturing into the great outdoors while on virtual hunts for the illusive Japanese characters known as Pokémon.
AUSTIN— After seven months of rigorous training, the 60th Texas game warden cadet class graduated today at the Texas State Capitol. The cadet class includes 41 game warden cadets and five state park police officers.
AUSTIN – “Roads are at the core of humanity’s journey. They satisfy our desire to reach out past the horizon and discover what lies beyond the familiar… Over the centuries, the road known as El Camino Real has lain silently watching the journey of humanity. The road carried both cargo and culture; it fostered conflict and cooperation. In the meantime, the land now known as Texas was changed forever—a transformation that was delivered along El Camino Real.”
AUSTIN— The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Great Texas Birding Classic celebrated its 20th anniversary this year with a record 750 participants enjoying a range of tournament categories that appeal to all levels, from novice to avid birders. The Classic also awarded $36,000 in conservation grants, bring the total to $880,500 of on-the-ground habitat acquisition, restoration and enhancement projects since the Classic first began.
AUSTIN— Unlock the rich history surrounding Texas State Park lands and buildings with new research data collected by the Historic Sites and Structures program at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
AUSTIN – An alarming spike of boating-related fatalities on Texas waterways, including many involving paddle craft such as canoes and kayaks, is prompting a call for boaters to wear life jackets, avoid drinking alcohol and follow other safety practices heading into the peak summer boating season.
AUSTIN—Texas State Parks and the “Get to Know” organization are partnering for the fourth annual Youth Arts Contest. The contest runs through Nov. 1 and anyone 19 and under can enter works of art inspired by the natural beauty in any state park.
AUSTIN – Looking for a summer adventure? Check out the newly updated Texas State Park Guide for an in-depth look at the 95 parks and state natural areas that make up the Texas State Park system.
AUSTIN – Looking for a way to celebrate the end of school year and the start of summer vacation with the children? Saturday, June 4, is Free Fishing Day in Texas as part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which means anyone can fish without a license on any public water body in the state.
CONCAN— Celebrate Garner State Park’s 75th anniversary from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 1, at the park’s historic pavilion.