Anglers across the nation are asked to report signs of Blotchy Bass Syndrome (BBS) to support research being conducted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and West Virginia University (WVU). Bass Pro Shops is partnering with WVU and USGS to incentivize angler participation through the donation of gift cards for weekly drawings, including $3,000 in gift cards specifically for Texas anglers. Anglers are encouraged to report signs of BBS to the MyCatch app. To […]
TWPD
Public Input Sought on Texas Hunting Regulation Proposals for 2021-2022
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is now taking public comment on the following proposed changes to the 2021-2022 Statewide Hunting and Migratory Game Bird Proclamations: Add crossbow to the definition of lawful archery equipment Modify the muzzleloader definition to clarify only the bullet or projectile must be loaded through the muzzle Remove the prohibition on trailing wounded deer with dogs in Angelina, Hardin, Nacogdoches, Orange, Shelby, and Tyler counties; In addition, allow the trailing of […]
Zebra Mussels Eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has determined that invasive zebra mussels have been successfully eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas, preventing property damage, protecting water supply infrastructure and avoiding harm to the aquatic ecosystem. The department emphasized the vital importance of continued help from boaters, marina operators and others to Clean, Drain and Dry boats before moving them and remain vigilant to stop the spread. Fisheries biologists cautioned that eradication of the […]
Game Warden Field Notes
Follow Your Nose Two Houston County game wardens were patrolling the northwestern end of Houston County when they entered a tract of land and saw an open field with what first appeared to be dove blinds close to a tripod feeder. One of the wardens crossed the field to check the feeder and as he got closer to the “blinds” he smelled a strong odor of marijuana. The “blinds” were improvised grow houses for many […]
Whooping Cranes Are Heading to the Texas Coast
With the first sightings of iconic, endangered whooping cranes along the Texas coast, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is reminding Texans to be on the lookout for these impressive birds as they move through the state. Whooping cranes are the tallest, rarest birds in North America. Currently, there is a population of around 506 individuals. Thanks to coordinated conservation efforts, whooping cranes are slowly returning from the brink of extinction. Whooping cranes make […]
Free Entrance to Texas State Parks Nov. 8 in Honor of Veterans Day
In honor of both active and retired military, daily entrance fees at Texas State Parks will be waived for all day-use visitors Sunday, Nov. 8. “The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas State Parks are proud to honor the men and women that serve our country in the military,” said Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks. “What better way to celebrate their service and dedication than by spending the day at a beautiful […]
Big Time Texas Hunts Winners Announced
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has announced the winners of this year’s Big Time Texas Hunts, following personal notification to these 14 lucky individuals. The winners were selected in a random drawing from 135,714 entries. More than $1.2 million was raised this year from Big Time Texas Hunts entries, and proceeds from the drawing go to support wildlife research, habitat management and public hunting. “Big Time Texas Hunts continues to be an important […]
Fall in Love With Foliage at a Texas State Park
With the temperatures starting to cool down around the state, Texans are heading outside to see the magical shades of red, orange and yellow leaves ushering in the fall season. Texas State Parks offer an outdoor escape to all who want to take in the changing of the foliage while still maintaining a safe social distance. “Our parks come to life during the fall season with colored leaves, migrating birds, and visitors celebrating a break […]
Hydrilla Rediscovered on Lake Conroe
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) recently confirmed the return of Hydrilla on Lake Conroe for the first time since 2010. This summer, less than a tenth of an acre of hydrilla were found in the Caney Creek arm of Lake Conroe, which spans over 20,000 acres. The small hydrilla colony was immediately treated with a targeted herbicide application. TPWD and the San Jacinto River Authority plan to strictly control current and potential future hydrilla […]
Wildlife Experts Encourage Bear Safety Amid Sporadic Sightings in Texas
As occasional bear sightings continue to crop up in the west and southwestern portions of the state, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) encourages residents to practice bear safety as the likelihood of spotting a bear in a populated area increases. Black bears are native to Texas and are a part of our natural heritage and the Texas ecosystem. On Oct. 16, a black bear sow and her cub were spotted in city limits […]