TPWD, Audubon Texas Launch Bird City Texas Certification Initiative

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AUSTIN – The Bird City Texas Program (BCT), a new community-focused conservation program designed to support critical bird habitat, is empowering towns to make meaningful changes in how they maintain and build public spaces.

The BCT certifications last for three years and communities can use their bird-friendly designation to attract more of the 2.2 million bird watchers in Texas, a major driver in the $1.8 billion economic impact from Texan wildlife viewing. Additionally, BCT certification brings economic benefits that range from budget savings created by sound water management practices to the higher property values associated with greenspaces and bird-friendly habitats.

To apply, communities must meet eight required standards and select an additional 17 criteria from a list within three categories. This flexibility in criteria allows communities to do what is best for their needs and interest. All communities have the option to pursue the top-tier status, aptly named High Flyer.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Audubon Texas, both co-sponsors for the program, encourage all those interested in this new community program to check out the Program Goals, Structure, and Criteria, posted on the Bird City Texas webpage.

Applications can be submitted starting Aug. 12. The deadline to apply for the program is Nov. 29. Communities will be notified about certification by Jan. 31, 2020. 

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow, throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state programs, nature centers, chapters and partners have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire and unite diverse communities in conservation action. Since 1905, Audubon’s vision has been a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Audubon is a nonprofit conservation organization. Learn more at www.audubon.org and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @audubonsociety.

About TPWD

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department serves the state of Texas and its citizens by helping to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas, and by providing outdoor and recreational opportunities for present and future generations. By relying on the best available science to guide conservation decisions, TPWD has proved to be a national leader in protecting native wildlife and the habitats they rely on. Learn more at www.tpwd.texas.gov and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.