Texas BHA's incredible momentum has continued through the summer months with no signs of slowing down!
The chapter sold out its first annual Conservation Conversation on Aug. 11 in Austin. With more than 150 guests in attendance, the event featured an all-star lineup of today’s most notable conservation figures discussing challenging and timely topics, ranging from the impacts of drought on river and lake ecology to oyster and mountain lion management...and how to use hunting, fishing, gardening and foraging to find a deeper connection to our food and eat healthier. The chapter pulled in more than 20 incredible local sponsors all on their own, developing new relationships and deepening its connection with existing partners.
The funds raised from this event will support TX BHA’s commitment to sponsor an American Fisheries Society Hutton Scholar with an $8,000 annual donation for the next three years. This financial commitment will allow TPWD to double its Hutton scholars, underrepresented high school juniors/seniors, from one to two while enabling the selected applicant to work with a professional mentor for 8 weeks during the summer months.
Earlier this year the chapter worked with USFS and TPWD biologists to improve 11.4 miles of fenceline and approximately 2,467 acres within the Rita Blanca National Grassland, giving pronghorn greater access to critical resources. The chapter continues to rapidly expand at the grassroots level as interest in AFI installations, college clubs and local outreach committees reach new heights.
TX BHA Chairman Grahame Jones as well as Board Member and Coastal Conservation Association Advocacy Director Shane Bonnot are also serving on the Oyster Regulations Work Group and representing recreational fishing interests, and the chapter is consistently hosting monthly Pint Nights in three major metros including Austin, Dallas and Houston.
The passion of our Texas BHA chapter and members for public lands is incredible. We can’t wait to see what they accomplish next!