News

Texas A&M institute releases new Texas landowner survey

Texas Land Trends survey to examine status of working lands, needs of land managers

LPC Releases New Fact Sheet on Advantages of Longleaf in Windstorms

The Longleaf Partnership Council (LPC) is pleased to announce a new communications fact sheet, Blowing in the Wind: Advantages of Longleaf Pine in Wind Storms.  This informational product demonstrates the benefits of longleaf pine during windstorms such as hurricanes and tornadoes.    

NRI and TALT: Beyond the fence line

Listen in on Texas Ag Land Trust's latest podcast as TALT CEO Chad Ellis and NRI's Dr. Lopez delve into key land trend findings and what they mean for Texas’ working lands.

Texas A&M AgriLife maps out Texas’ working lands

A new set of visual representations by the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, NRI, shows the breadth and diversity of the state’s working lands for agricultural production as well as the statewide support provided by Texas A&M AgriLife.

NRI's Dale Rollins awarded professor emeritus

For someone who retired from his roles with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas A&M AgriLife Research seven years ago, Dale Rollins, Ph.D., has yet to slow down.

Introducing the NRI Sourcebook, protecting water quality through lawncare, meet a scientist & more in this issue of Conservation Matters

Live demonstrations highlight Texas A&M Virtual Beef Cattle Short Course Aug. 3-5

While the three-day event will be online this year due to COVID-19, the live demonstrations will continue, offering ranchers who need basic beef production information the ability to see how things are done up close.

NRI researchers present in Texas Wildlife Association's seminar series

Each year, the Texas Wildlife Association welcomes the opportunity to showcase to its members, partners and guests a variety of natural resource and conservation presentations by agency, landowner, non-profit and university partners. This year’s line-up represents a diversity of topics focusing on wildlife, natural resource management, production agriculture, landowner liability and lease law, wild game cooking and conservation education.

Read Reason for Hope: Reversing the Quail Decline Newsletter

As nesting season begins in earnest, we're encouraged by reports from our TQI cooperators, the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch, and Texas landowners that they're hearing and seeing more birds this year. Fingers crossed that this summer is a productive one for our quail!

The 2020 Sustaining Military Readiness Conference is postponed

In coordination with the Sustaining Military Readiness (SMR) Planning Committee, we've made the difficult decision to postpone the 2020 SMR Conference planned for August 10-13 in San Antonio, Texas.

America's Longleaf Restoration Initiative 2019 Range-wide Accomplishment Report is published

In 2019, we celebrated more than 1.7 million acres of accomplishments on public and private lands. Flip open the latest Range-Wide Accomplishments Report to read what else 2019 had in store for longleaf conservation.

Laying a foundation for feral hog removal

High Plains Journal — Brought over on ships by Spanish explorers as traveling food sources, feral hogs have slowly built up their numbers over the years. Feral hog populations have reportedly been established in 35 states, but sighted in 48. Read more to learn about the complexities of feral hog population management and damage control where the potential for dedicated resources and funding is steadily growing.

Texas Wildlife Magazine: How Quail Beat the Heat

NRI's Amanda Gobeli was featured in the Texas Wildlife Association's magazine Texas Wildlife covering an important summer topic—How Quail Beat the Heat.

See the NRI 2019 Annual Report

Each spring, NRI releases an Annual Report highlighting our core values, our programs and accolades defining the year. Year 2019 was an exceptional year—because of the work of the people behind NRI, we more than doubled our readership across the board, putting the right research in the hands of stewards around the world.

Quail are Calling

The quail are calling, and we've got our fingers crossed for a great breeding season this year. The Texas Quail Index is starting with Spring Call Counts, and now you can participate (or just learn what it's all about) by taking our online vignette. We also highlight an upcoming webinar for landowners with small-acreage properties and wildlife management goals.

New private land stewardship virtual decks teach all ages about wildlife

In the last few months, the NRI Engagement Team has released several new private land stewardship decks featuring mapping techniques and wildlife management tips. 

Borderlands Bulletin features Texas Land Trends report on fragmentation risk

The Borderlands Research Institute recently featured the Texas Land Trends report in their newsletter Borderlands Bulletin.

‘Sentinel landscapes’ keep quiet vigil against encroachment

April Reversing the Quail Decline Newsletter

A lot can change in a month. As we adjust to new ways of working, socializing, and just plain living, we want to encourage you to persevere. We know our Students of Quail are a resourceful bunch, and we're all in this together! If you're looking for ways to stay busy and learn something new, we have an opportunity for you: help us refine the new TQI Online Course!

Join the Wildlife Diversity Webinar March 18

Hop online on March 18, 2020 from noon until 1 p.m. to hear about the TPWD Conservation License Plate Program funded research by Texas A&M University researchers Danielle K. Walkup, Toby J. Hibbitts, and Wade A. Ryberg:  Movement, Home Range, and Habitat Use of the Spot-tailed Earless Lizards

2020 REPI Report to Congress Now Available

We are pleased to announce from the Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program that the 2020 REPI Report to Congress is now available on the Program’s website, www.REPI.mil.

Howdy Abroad: An Interview with Graduate Student and Fulbright Recipient Melissa Meierhofer

Melissa Meierhofer is a Ph.D. candidate in Wildlife and Fisheries Science at Texas A&M and a research associate at A&M’s Natural Resources Institute. The recipient of a Fulbright Grant for the 2019-2020 academic year, she is currently living and studying in Finland. Her research focuses on a fungus-causing disease in bats called “white-nose syndrome,” which is spreading rapidly in North America. In Finland, she is working with other researchers to create mathematical models of the spread of the disease to assist the U.S. Fisheries and Wildlife Service as they try to save bat species. OGAPS caught up with Meierhofer for an update on her research and life in Finland.

The Sentinels to Premiere at the D.C. Environmental Film Festival

The D.C. Environmental Film Festival will hold the first public screening of the documentary “The Sentinels” on Friday, March 13^th at the U.S. Department of the Interior, located at 1849 C Street NW, Washington D.C.  

As population grows, feral hogs start to make traction in Lake Houston area

Feral hogs have been seen clashing with people near suburban hubs across the greater Houston area on social media and in the news this year. The wild pigs have been seen chasing teenagers in Atascocita, on ranches and farms in Liberty County and chastising home owners in The Woodlands.

New survey looks at land-use changes in Far West Texas

A new Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute report shows some interesting land-use changes over the past 20 years for 16 counties in Far West Texas.

New landowner report shows energy, growth trends in West Texas

The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, or NRI, led a collaboration to develop a new report showing how changes in land use have influenced multiple counties in West Texas over the past two decades.

New book published covering all aspects of wild pig biology, ecology, damage, management

NRI's Private Land Stewardship and Engagement Associate Director Dr. Jim Cathey co-authored Chapter 15: "Wild Pigs in South-Central North America" providing scientific research and a review of management practices within a geographical context, in the comprehensive volume Invasive Wild Pigs in North America: Ecology, Impacts, and Management addressing all aspects of wild pig biology, ecology, damage, and management.

Ranch Management University set for April 6-10

COLLEGE STATION — Plans for the next Ranch Management University, to be held April 6-10 at Texas A&M University in College Station, are being finalized and registration is now open.

Open the Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative February Newsletter

February—Disking, shredding, prescribed (Rx) burning—'tis the season for habitat disturbance. Disturbance can open up the landscape and allow for lower successional plant species (like food-producing forbs) to take hold. Doing it now leaves enough time for recovery before nesting season is underway.

If prescribed burning is something you're curious about but the thought of setting fire to your property makes you nervous, never fear—we have some resources to help you get started in this issue.

Report addresses status of working lands in Texas

For more than two decades, land-trends reports have informed private and public landowners and decision-makers. The new Texas Land Trends report "Status Update and Trends of Texas Working Lands 1997-2017," produced by the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, has been published to add to those reports.

Report Reveals Values Increased For Rural Land In Texas

TEXAS RURAL LAND VALUES - A new report shows an increase in rural land values in Texas.  According to a new Texas Lands Trend Report --- from 1997 to 2017, the Lone Star state’s population increased from 19 Million residents to 29 Million.  

Documentary on collaboration between defense, conservation, and agricultural communities will premiere at the D.C. Environmental Film Festival

An exciting new documentary that explores the benefits of the Sentinel Landscapes Partnership will premiere on Friday, March 13th at the 2020 D.C. Environmental Film Festival in Washington, D.C. Now in its 27th year, the Festival is considered the world’s premiere showcase of environmentally-themed films.

Some landowners diversify as Texas working land declines

The Big Bend Sentinel — Over a twenty-year period, Texas lost 2.2 million acres of working lands, with 1.2 million of those being converted to non-agricultural use in the last five years alone,  according to a new study of Texas land trends from 1997 to 2017 by Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute.

Report Shows Land Value Outside Big Texas Cities Is Increasing

Rural land values in Texas are increasing, driven in part by the state’s population growth, according to a new “Texas Land Trends” report by the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute.

From 1997 to 2017, Texas’ population increased 48% from 19 million residents to 29 million. That’s roughly 470,000 new residents annually, according to the report.

NRI launches new screening tool for wind energy developers and military

COLLEGE STATION, TX — The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute (NRI), in collaboration with the Texas Military Preparedness Commission (TMPC) within the Office of the Governor, Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA), and with input from the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), launched the Texas Early Notification Tool (TENT).

NRI publishes Status Update and Trends of Texas Working Lands 1997-2017

We are proud to present the long-awaited Texas Land Trends: Status Update and Trends of Texas Working Lands 1997 - 2017  published in December 2019. Texas Land Trends reports have informed private and public landowners and decision-makers for over two decades. With this report, we are able to examine new patterns and identify trends following the release of the Census of Agriculture datasets by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service’s (NASS). These datasets provide key information for complex Texas natural resource challenges through the power of a “good map.”  The Texas Land Trends:  Status Update and Trends report is the fifth iteration and specifically describes the status and recent changes in land values, ownership size and land use of privately-owned Texas working lands. 

Reversing the Quail Decline December Newsletter

The end of the year is a time of celebration for many, but for quail it's often a time of hardship. This month we have an episode of Dr. Dale on Quail that explains why winter is such a tough time for these little birds. Plus we've got a new online lesson all about quail songs and calls.

Arkansas, Texas get feral hog eradication grants

U.S. Department of Agriculture grants will fund feral hog control and eradication programs in Arkansas, Texas and eight other states.

Sentinel Landscapes Partnership Announces a New Landowner Resources Tool

The Sentinel Landscapes Partnership is proud to introduce an Interactive Landowner Resources Tool as part of the newly designed website to make it easier for private landowners to find voluntary state and federal landowner assistance programs.

Saving Working Lands Workshop Preps West Texas Landowners for Energy Development

On Nov. 14 at Sul Ross State University-Alpine, the Texas Agricultural Land Trust (TALT) and the Borderlands Research Institute (BRI) hosted a landowner workshop to address issues related to burgeoning energy development in West Texas.

USDA Announces Funding to Control Feral Swine in Texas

USDA — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today it is awarding more than $1.4 million to fund three pilot projects to control feral swine in Texas.

Outstanding Early Career Alumni

Alumni from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences received awards for their hard work and dedication following their time at Texas A&M University during a Nov. 15 ceremony held at the Brazos County Expo Center in Bryan.  

NRI's Melissa Meierhofer awarded Vice Chancellor's Award in Excellence 2019

Congratulations to NRI's Melissa Meierhofer, the latest recipient of the 2019 Vice Chancellor's Award in Excellence for Graduate Student Research.

Protecting US Bases Increasingly Requires Civilian Infrastructure

Defense One — As the House and Senate work to complete the DoD Appropriations and the National Defense Authorization Act, they need to prioritize resilience efforts not only at military installations but the communities that surround them. 

Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative November Newsletter

The November Reversing the Quail Decline newsletter is here! Learn about the latest quail resources, the opening of quail season and more! If this hasn't landed in your inbox yet, sign up! 

Startling statistics everyone needs to know about wild pigs

Whether you refer to them as feral hogs or wild pigs, Sus scrofa is a species that negatively is impacting nearly every part of Texas.

Not only do wild pigs wreak havoc on pastures, fields and golf courses alike, they contaminate our water sources and destroy native species.

Army Reserve ambassador awarded prestigious medal named after own war hero

Col. Olin Findley Brewster, who retired from the military but still serves today as an Army Reserve ambassador in Texas, received the Maj. Gen. James Earl Rudder Medal in Washington, D.C., Oct. 14, 2019.

New online, interactive atlas gives comprehensive view of Texas quail decline

The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, or NRI, has recently published the Texas Quail Atlas, a free online resource and the newest "story map" to be developed by the institute.

Creepy Halloween critters found in Texas

SAN ANTONIO - Are you a fan of spiders or bats or how about some pumpkins?

All those iconic symbols of Halloween are found right here in Texas. But here are some facts on those spooky critters that you may not have known about.

DoD Natural Resource Program to present Climate Adaptation for DoD Resources Managers

This webinar will introduce overarching principles for climate adaptation, describe key climate impacts to DoD natural resources programs and INRMP elements, and provide an overview of the six-step INRMP adaptation planning cycle.

The Collaborative Wildlife Protection and Recovery Initiative releases first national program review

The Collaborative Wildlife Protection and Recovery Initiative (CWPRI) is a voluntary, informal partnership of federal and state agencies and non-governmental parties interested in recovering listed species and preventing new listings under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative October Newsletter

The latest Dr. Dale on Quail podcast is here; you'll definitely want to give it a listen if you're planning on going quail hunting this season. We've also got an article about raptors, one of the top predators of quail, and some great news for the Texas Bobwhite Brigades.

2 Texas mussel species don’t need special protections, study finds

Two species of Texas mussels that were in the running to qualify as federally protected endangered species, it turns out, are doing just fine.

Memorandum of understanding signed between Texas, Mexico universities

Southwest Farm Press — Existing collaboration to address agriculture, natural resource issues along the Tamaulipas-Texas borderland region.

State-Funded Studies Help Federal Agency Remove Two Mussels from Endangered Species Candidate List

(Texas Comptroller) — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has determined that two Texas mussels can be removed from the list of candidate species under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). The determinations were based mainly on research funded by the Texas Comptroller’s office and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

AgriLife Research, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas sign memorandum of understanding

The Eagle — Formalize existing collaboration to address transboundary agriculture, natural resource issues. 

Guide to grazing matters

Grazing is a powerful tool for improving the health of plants and the soil supporting them when it’s managed correctly. Read these adapted remarks by NRI's Dr. James Cathey from the Private Lands Summit hosted by the Texas Wildlife Association.

Newly discovered mussels help refocus conservation

Two new freshwater mussel species in Texas will most likely impact current efforts

Sheppard AFB, wind farm industry improve communication

Times Record News — A fine line exists between sustaining wind energy development and securing safe operating areas used for military installations, but it’s a balance that can be reached, a Texas A&M University Natural Resources Institute official said here Aug. 8.

Online private land stewardship decks available

New land stewardship experiences from the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute (NRI) can help those who own or manage land.

Newly discovered mussels may help refocus conservation efforts in Texas

DALLAS – A team of researchers recently discovered two new freshwater mussel species in Texas, which will likely impact current conservation efforts by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The 2019 Sentinel Landscapes Accomplishments Report is here!

It's our pleasure to announce that the 2019 Sentinel Landscapes Accomplishments Report is now available featuring the Sentinel Landscapes Partnership's achievements through Fiscal Year (FY) 2018.

Dr. Roel Lopez awarded the Sam Beasom Conservation Leader Award

The TWA Sam Beasom Conservation Leader Award is given to a member of the professional conservation community who has made an outstanding contribution to the conservation of Texas wildlife and shares the philosophies of Texas Wildlife Association.

AUSA announces Major General James Earl Rudder Medal winner

The Major General James Earl Rudder Medal was established in 1999 and is awarded annually to a serving or former member of the United States Army Reserve who has contributed most to the advancement of the Association’s goal of a seamless and component-integrated Army.

Conservation Wrangler Summit and Celebration Dinner announced

Each year, Texan by Nature celebrates their mission of bringing business and conservation together at their Conservation Wrangler Summit & Celebration Dinner. Leaders in conservation and business come together from all corners of Texas to discuss the positive impacts they are making for community health, economic prosperity, and natural resources.

NRI takes home gold at the ESRI User Conference

Congratulations to Garrett Powers and the team behind story map “Measuring Hurricane Irma's Impact on Coastal Forests” for bringing home First Place in the Spatial Analysis Story Map category from the 2019 Esri User Conference Map Gallery.

New report shows changes in Texas borderlands over time

The Madisonville Meteor—Changes in population density, rapid urbanization and rising land values have altered much of the historically rural landscape of the Texas borderlands, according to a recent Texas Land Trends report. 

Texas Wildlife Radio Show features new Private Land Stewardship experiences

Thanks to our friends at Texas Farm Bureau and to Gary Joiner for producing the latest announcement of our new Private Land Stewardship decks. 

Texas A&M Natural Resource Institute offers online Private Land Stewardship experiences

AgriLife Today — The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute has added a series of new Private Land Stewardship experiences to its website.

Reversing the Quail Decline July newsletter is here!

Summer is here! We're celebrating another successful round of Bobwhite Brigades Camps and giving you an exciting new way to further your quail studies with Private Land Stewardship Lessons.

SERPPAS Principals meet to share priorities for the upcoming year

The 2019 SERPPAS Principals Meeting, chaired by DoD Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Environment and the Commissioner of Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR), was held on June 4-5, 2019, at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Alabama. 

First endangered mussels successfully raised in captivity by NRI researchers

The freshwater mussel team successfully raised an endangered species of mussel in the lab.

New Texas Land Trends report shows changes in Texas borderlands over time

New Land Trends report covers trends in land ownership along borderlands and addresses population growth, land ownership and fragmentation.

Spending the game bird stamp money

Lone Star Outdoor News — Research, education at the forefront. Funds from the $7 Upland Game Bird Endorsement purchased with hunting licenses in Texas have been used to support research and education regarding bobwhite and scaled quail over the past six years.

Texas Land Trends releases key findings from upcoming 5 year report

The summary report of the 2019 Texas Land Trends report describes key findings of recent changes in topics such as land use, ownership size and property values of private working lands from 1997 to 2017. 

America's Longleaf Restoration Initiative Range-Wide Accomplishment Report is here!

Rather than producing a report solely on what has been accomplished over the past year, this report is a tool showcasing what can be done to reach ALRI's goal of 8 million acres of longleaf pine habitat by 2025.

Texan By Nature — June Conservation Round-Up

Highlighting conservation efforts & events from across the Lone Star State, read June's issue of Conservation Round-Up!

Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative June Newsletter

The birds are hatching eggs, and we're hatching plans! We're gearing up for the Bobwhite Brigades and Statewide Quail Symposium while providing a new podcast and video resources.

JBSA Natural Resource office spotlights endangered bird species

Joint Base San Antonio — May 11 was International Migratory Bird Day and the Joint Base San Antonio Natural Resource office wants to highlight Texas’ native migrant, the golden-cheeked warbler, also known as Setophaga chrysoparia.

Wild Pig Wars: Controversy Over Hunting, Trapping

While Louisiana has a stout wild pig population, and Missouri presumably has a relatively small population, Texas wears a painful crown at the top of the porcine heap in the U.S., as home to roughly 3 million wild pigs. The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute (NRI) places the control rate to maintain wild pig populations at 66%. In stripped-down parlance: Texas needs to remove approximately 2 million wild pigs per year to keep 3 million wild pigs on the landscape...

Fungus Causing White-Nose Syndrome in Bats Continues to Spread in Texas

TPWD — The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats has continued to spread into parts of Central, South, and East Texas, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

DOD Announces Winners of the 2019 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards

The research and relocation teams supporting the vulnerable gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) were announced the winner of DOD's 2019 Secretary of Defense Natural Resources Conservation, Large Installation Environmental Award.

Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative May Newsletter

April showers bring May flowers...and hopefully, plenty of great nesting habitat for quail! We recently celebrated Earth Day with our quail ambassadors, Kirby and Bonnie Blue, and we have a new article that goes into more detail about their role in the Quail Decline Initiative.

Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch Wins Lone Star Land Steward Regional Award

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Lone Star Land Steward Awards program recognizes those private landowners for excellence in habitat management and wildlife conservation. The awards also seek to publicize the best examples of sound natural resource management practices and promote long-term conservation of unique natural and cultural resources.

Oaks and Prairies Wildlifer - Spring 2019

The Spring 2019 newsletter for landowners in the Post Oak Savannah and Costal Prairies Regions of Texas is here!

Three Texas Takeaways From The Latest Agriculture Census

TEXAS STANDARD — Roel Lopez on the 2017 data reflecting a changing Texas when it comes to farming and ranching.

Texas Land Trends report shows value of conservation easements to ag, water, wildlife

NORTH TEXAS NEWS — The Texas Land Trends project of Texas A&M’s Natural Resources Institute, or NRI, has published a special series report describing Texas landowner participation in land conservation easements and their value to agricultural production, water and wildlife.

Blooming news in April's Conservation Matters

Read April's Conservation Matters to stay in the know on all things moving the needle for conservation from impact reports to advancing science. 

Melissa Meierhofer receives the P.E.O. Scholars Award

April Quail Decline Newsletter: Spring Has Sprung

Are you hearing that "poor, Bob-WHITE" whistle yet? While quail gear up for the breeding season, we've stayed busy with several programs and preparations for this year's Texas Quail Index.

Melrose Air Force Range: more than a training range

Melrose Air Force Range is not only Air Force Special Operations Command’s only training range used to train our special operations teams, but it is an environmental preserve as well where NRI implements passive automated monitoring systems for T&E species research.

NRI's Dale Rollins launches new podcast on quail

Today, the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch and NRI's Dale Rollins released the inaugural episode with our great friend Gary Joiner with Texas Farm Bureau.

NRI attends TAMU Drone Day

Members of NRI's geospatial team attended the second annual TAMU Drone Day hosted by the Texas A&M Geospatial Professional Society on March 20th.

MJ Hanna hosts plant contest

The first MJ Hanna Foundation Range and Pasture Plant Identification and Range Evaluation contests drew 57 contestants from all over Texas.

NRI scientist is Finland-bound with prestigious Fulbright Award

Melissa Meierhofer was awarded the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship to Finland as a reflection of her leadership and contributions to society.

NRI 2018 Annual Report is here

NRI's latest Annual Report showcases the impactful work our team of research and extension professionals both achieved and launched in 2018 guided by the Land Grant mission.

Houston-area suburbs see uptick in feral hog populations destroying streets, property

Houston Chronicle — If you have noticed more feral hogs in your Houston-area neighborhood recently, you are not alone. Neighbors across the Greater Houston report the wild animals are more frequently making their way into their subdivisions and streets, leaving properties destroyed in their wake.

NRI scientists share achievements at TCTWS

Held February 20-23 in Montgomery, Texas, the Texas Chapter of the Wildlife Society annual meeting was a success! This year's theme was Preparing Biologists for the 21st Century and Beyond and included activities ranging from paper and poster sessions to workshops and field trips.

Reversing the Quail Decline: Busy as a Bird

March Newsletter — Kirby and Bonnie got to stretch their wings at two events last month where they got to meet-and-great eager wildlife enthusiasts. If that's a descriptor that applies to you, then you'll also want to check out the article and videos below!

Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Report to Congress Now Available

The 2019 REPI Report to Congress summarizing and reviewing the achievements of REPI through Fiscal Year 2018 in now available.

Texas Land Trends report shows value of conservation easements to ag, water, wildlife

AGRILIFE TODAY — The Texas Land Trends project of Texas A&M’s Natural Resources Institute, or NRI, has published a special series report describing Texas landowner participation in land conservation easements and their value to agricultural production, water and wildlife.

More worms, more problems in the February Quail Decline newsletter

The February Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative is here!

Researcher's illustrations appear in Field Identification Key and Guide for U.S. Bat ID Project

Research Associate Krysta Demere was asked to illustrate the anatomical drawings for the U.S. Bat ID Project for the Center for Disease Control in late 2017, and now after a year-long process, the official Field Identification Key and Guide for Bats of the United States of America is published!

SARA Student Internship Announced

The San Antonio River Authority Internship was established in 2012 and is awarded to a highly motivated outstanding undergraduate student of a Texas institute of higher education. This internship is designed to provide an individual interested in Biology, Chemistry, Geology, other Natural or Environmental Science an opportunity to intern with the San Antonio River Authority Environmental Sciences Department in San Antonio, Texas. Applications close February 28, 2019. 

Wild pig control read around the world

Read how NRI's wild pig team expertise is traveling around the world to support local land managers without language barriers.

Hot off the press: Oaks and Prairies Wildlifer

The 2019 winter edition of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Wildlifer newsletter is here!

NRI releases first Conservation Easements in Texas publication

This special series report describes the state’s current participation and growing need for land conservation easements. In this report we assess the value of all conservation easement acres in Texas within three broad categories of ecosystem services to describe the significant impact these lands have on the state's economy.

NRI publishes Development of Multispecies, Long-Term Monitoring Programs for Resource Management

There's growing interest among resource managers to implement long-term wildlife monitoring. The process to develop such a program for your land, as you might guess, can be daunting. So, we set out to build example programs for land managers specific to their objectives—one requiring the most amount of effort, and one requiring the least amount. You decide!

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Superior Service Awards

Congratulations to Dr. Jim Cathey, NRI's 2019 recipient of the AgriLife Extension Superior Service Award!

January Conservation Matters hits the stands

In the January issue, we start the year off announcing a new interactive webpage for one of our projects, diving into the story behind multi-species management and celebrating youth education workshops for local students. Subscribe here to stay in the know on all things moving the needle for research-driven conservation.

New "Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative" Webpage

We have a brand new web page for the Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative on the Dallas AgriLife Center website! Here you'll find an overview of the program, information on our native quail species and links to valuable resources.

Texan X Nature December Conservation Round-Up

NRI is featured in the December Texan by Nature Conservation Partner Round-Up where conservation efforts and events from across the Lone Star State are highlighted. 

December Conservation Matters is here

In the December issue, we're revealing more information for landowners reporting on wild pigs, recapping influential events and updating readers on a few impactful conservation projects. Subscribe here to stay in the know on all things moving the needle for research-driven conservation.

AgriLife Today: Innovative tool will let landowners easily report wild pig activity, damage

AgriLife Today publishes new article on NRI's first-of-its-kind wild pig reporting tool.

Home Locator: Website designed to get a better view of wild pig problem

Tyler Paper: With 79 percent of the state considered potential habitat wild pigs have become a costly problem in both rural and urban areas of Texas. Texas A&M’s Natural Resources Institute has created a website to help better map the problem.

Texas A&M launches new online tool for reporting feral hogs

National Hog Farmer: Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute has released a new online tool to help in the growing effort to control the feral hog population in the state. The wild pig website offers Texas landowners and homeowners an easy-to-use tool to report sightings of feral hogs and the damage that may have occurred from them.

Seen Any Wild Hogs Lately? Tell the State

KETR: The Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute is making it easier to report wild hog sightings in the state. The NRI has a new webpage where Texas residents can provide details of how many hogs they saw, where they saw them, and what kind of damage the animals cause – such as crop or fence damage, wallowing, or rubbing.

Research on bats funded by National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

News Wise: Multi-year grant focuses on integrated disease management of white-nose syndrome in bats

Texas A&M releases online tool for reporting wild hog sightings

KLTV: A new online tool from the Texas A&M National Resource Institute may aide in the growing effort to control the feral hog population in East Texas. They say it will help them locate areas of high activity as well as manage the growing population in the state.

Wild Pig Fall Season Newsletter

This edition discusses aerial gunning as a tool for wild pig control as well as available options for Texas landowners and wildlife managers. Also addressed is research related to various baiting and head gate options for trapping wild pigs.

The Eagle cites NRI on Texas Tribune's Preserving Natural Resources panel

In a two-day event organized by the Texas Tribune, more than 200 officials, agriculture stakeholders including NRI's director Dr. Roel Lopez, and residents from across the state gathered to discuss and answer questions about challenges and opportunities facing rural Texans.

The Woodlands targets tree preservation at build-out

Community Impact Newspaper: As growth continues, local entities look to protect land from overdevelopment, flooding

New Reporting Tool for Wild Pigs

Thanks to Texas Farm Bureau's Gary Joiner and team for helping share the news on the Texas Wildlife Radio Show about the new reporting tool for Texans with NRI's Dr. Jim Cathey. Listen to learn more about what our wildlife and state researchers are working on to understand the scope and size of the wild pig problem in Texas. 

November Conservation Matters is here!

What do climate change, forest restoration and a yellow rose have in common? They're all featured in the November Conservation Matters. 

TSSWCB Announces Friend of Conservation M.J. Hanna Trust

Each year the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts recognize and honor individuals that dedicate themselves to the conservation and management of renewable natural resources. The 2018 Friend of Conservation was awarded to M.J. Hanna Trust.

Bonnie or Beau? Blue's Gender Revealed!

Happy hunting! Quail season started on October 27th, but be warned: Texas Quail Index data, as well as other sources, suggest there may be fewer birds this year. Look for a full write-up on the TQI in the next month.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and partners announce 2018 Bats for the Future Fund

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the Avangrid Foundation, Southern Company, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Forest Service, announced the 2018 round of funding for the Bats for the Future Fund. Four grants totaling $1.1 million were awarded to prevent and slow the spread of white-nose syndrome (WNS), advance management tools and treatments to minimize WNS, promote the survival and recovery of WNS-affected bats, and support innovative research leading to lasting management solutions.

Alison Lund receives Yellow Rose of Texas Commission

The Yellow Rose of Texas is the highest award presented to women in Texas. The commission is given by the Texas Governor in honor of Texas women who have demonstrated exceptional volunteer and community service.

Longing for Longleaf: A Tale of Forest Restoration

SERPPAS Circular Newsletter September/October is published

The SERPPAS Circular is a bimonthly collection of media coverage, funding opportunities and upcoming events/webinars from SERPPAS Partners across the Southeast. Updates are collected from websites, press releases, and newsletters, and organized according to the focus areas outlined in the 2018 – 2020 SERPPAS Strategic Plan.

NRI's Brian Hays presents Holloway with range management society Grass Roots Award

LUBBOCK – Andy Holloway, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service agriculture and natural resources agent in Hemphill County, received the Grass Roots Award – Extension Agent given by NRI's Brian Hays, president of the Texas Section Society for Range Management.

Texan by Nature October Round-Up

Highlighting conservation efforts and events from across the Lone Star State, October's newsletter includes NRI in a momentous month for conservation. See the more than 20 feats happening right now in Texas.

Celebrating success in this month's Conservation Matters

In the October issue, we're launching a brand new UAV short course, discussing a recent bipartisan bill in congress and celebrating more than 800 gopher tortoise rescues. Subscribe today to stay in the know on all things moving the needle for discovery, conservation and applied science. 

Relocation efforts reach 800 rescued gopher tortoises

This just in—southeast relocation efforts reported reaching 800 gopher tortoise rescues on October 4, 2018. 

Read the Quail Decline Initiative October Newsletter!

We hope you've been the beneficiary of some rain this past month! In addition to celebrating the cooler, wetter weather, we have several new QuailMasters to congratulate, a new article, and more webisodes on the horizon.

European Federation for Hunting and Conservation cites NRI

Many hunters in Europe have been skeptical about the effectiveness of non-lead shot for hunting/shooting purposes and compliance, when measured, is often poor. However, read more to find out how NRI's Dr. Brian Pierce's field trials solve the case. 

Relocation efforts rescue 600 gopher tortoises and counting

By the end of September, the gopher tortoise research and relocation team reported reaching a significant benchmark in rescues.

NRI launches first UAV Short Course

We're excited to be expanding our work into the field of UAVs and we're looking forward to the ways we can continually educate land owners and conservationists alike. Read more to find out how UAVs are shaping the vantage points of our research.

Bigger isn’t always better for agriculture

NRI serves integral role for Sustaining Military Readiness Conference

In August, members of the NRI policy team attended the 2018 Sustaining Military Readiness Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. The conference, sponsored by the Department of Defense and held for the first time since 2011, was designed to provide a forum to encourage beneficial discussions and connections with thought-provoking panel sessions and workshops to support the future of military readiness through partnerships and planning.

Meet Beauregard Blue!

Meet the newest member of the quail decline initiative team!

NRI featured in DoD Natural Selections Summer 2018

NRI's Mike Marshall, Tad McCall, Stephanie Hertz and others involved in conservation efforts are featured in the Department of Defense's Summer 2018 edition of Natural Selections, DoD's top-tier communication vehicle for natural resources.

Showing off our mussels with AgriLife Vice Chancellor

Vice Chancellor Dr. Stover, who joined Texas A&M in March and was also sole finalist for director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research, met with Dallas Center and NRI leadership late August on a two-day tour of the construction and integral initiatives within the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas. 

New Summer Wild Pig Newsletter

The Summer Wild Pig Newsletter is here! In this issue, we discuss the place unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have in wild pig management, the many functions of wallowing, our brand new website and much more!

August Conservation Matters: from sea-level rise to global desalination

In the August issue, we're uncovering the ways sea-level rise affects the habitat of focal species, sharing quick access to apps in the field, celebrating NRI scientists appointed to TPWD advisory committees and more.

NRI employees appointed to TPWD advisory committees

Three NRI employees have recently been appointed to Advisory Committees to support the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission.

Texan by Nature Conservation Partners August Round Up

Through the TxN Monthly Round-Up, we highlight conservation events, milestones, and updates from across Texas. See NRI's highlight on our recent predation theories for key vulnerable or endangered species.

Skype A Scientist program lets NRI research associate connect to new audience

What are bat wings made of? How are bats different from birds? What is the oldest bat in the world?

These were some of the questions Melissa Meierhofer, research associate with Texas A&M AgriLife Research based in College Station, was asked recently by a third-grade class at Wells Elementary School in Wells, Nevada, during her first Skype a Scientist experience.

We're in pursuit of discovery in July's Conservation Matters

In the July issue, we're uncovering the ways researchers are connecting their work with communities for good, the importance of knowing your animals, the unlikely suspects devastating research sites, mobile apps for private land stewardship and more. 

Texan by Nature Conservation Partners July Round-Up

Through the TxN Monthly Round-Up, we highlight conservation events, milestones, and updates from across Texas. See what NRI and other conservation partners are up to this month!

July Quail Decline Newsletter: The Future of Quail Conservation

Reversing the Quail Decline's monthly newsletter is here! This past month, they focused on the future of quail conservation by participating in both the North and South Bobwhite Brigades leadership camps!

KXVA interviews NRI's hog population expert Josh Helcel

KXVA Fox15 in Abilene talked with Josh Helcel about new traps used to combat the millions of wild pig negatively impacting Texas. 

Innovation is bringing the heat with June's Conservation Matters

In the June issue, we cover innovative techniques built by NRI researchers that are changing the game for collecting data in the field—not to mention a few other phone apps that will take private land stewardship to the next level. In addition to technology, we're reviewing where conservation meets policy, pollinators, Texas Land Trends, alligators and energy.

Just in: Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative June Newsletter

See highlights from QuailMasters Part 2 and Quail Appreciation Day: Dallas. Plus a new article about invasive species, a classic resource for quail management, and an upcoming appearance at the TWA Convention.

New Pub Examines Climate Change Impacts on Alligators

The American alligator has existed in its current form for tens of millions of years, but what does its future look like when faced with rapid climate change? Researchers provide insight in this new publication.

NRI's Addie Thornton honored with two challenge coins

While coordinating the SERPPAS Principals meeting in May, Colonel Schuliger, Commander of the 96th Civil Engineer Group at Eglin AFB and Mr. Tad Davis, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment and current DoD Principal Co-Chair for SERPPAS, honored Addie Thornton with two challenge coins for her work coordinating SERPPAS, and for the successful tour of Eglin Air Force Base.

New Pub Looks at the Landscape Impacts of Energy vs Other Activities

Recent research compared how different land use activities alter the landscape, including oil and gas, agriculture, and renewable energy operations. Read the results in the full article.

Quail Decline Initiative May Newsletter is Here!

QuailMasters Session 1 aftermath, a successful Earth Day appearance, new resources and an upcoming Quail Appreciation Day!

New Research Illuminates Spot-tailed Earless Lizard Genetics

A recent publication reveals the genetic differences between spot-tailed earless lizard subspecies and explains what those differences tell us about changes in their distributions over time. Read more in the full article.

NRI's Findley Brewster named U.S. Army Distinguished Quartermaster

Lieutenant General Jeffrey Buchanan Commander, U.S. Army North and Fort Sam Houston presented NRI's program manager Findley Brewster with the Distinguished Quartermaster award for lifelong support of the U.S. Army, military personnel and military families. The Distinguished Quartermaster program recognizes the efforts of private citizens in the communities surrounding Fort Sam Houston for enhancing the quality of life for soldiers and their families. 

April showers bring May flowers and a brand new Conservation Matters

In the May issue, we discuss key indicators of ecosystem health and why knowing plants is essential to private land stewardship. Also included are updates on vital research happening in Texas for white-nose syndrome and how the gopher tortoise is teaching us about endangered species conservation. There are plenty of upcoming events you won't want to miss!

Students Honored with Wildlife and Fisheries Science Awards

Two NRI affiliated students, Shelby McCay and Danielle Walkup, have been recognized as outstanding M.S. and Ph.D. students (respectively) by Texas A&M's Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences.

NRI's Josh Helcel Interviewed For "Hog Wars"

NRI Associate Josh Helcel was recently interviewed about the severe feral hog problem in the state of Texas.

NRI supporting statewide pollinator initiative

NRI partnered with other organizations like the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Texas Wildlife Association to promote statewide land stewardship by launching a new campaign themed The Importance of Pollinators to Soil and Water Conservation in Texas.

Texas Land Trends Spotted in the San Antonio Express-News

"...according to the Texas A&M Texas Land Trends study, we are losing our agricultural lands at one of the fastest rates in the country."

Black-Capped Vireo Delisted

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has officially announced the de-listing of the black-capped vireo (Vireo atricapilla) from protections under the Endangered Species Act.

Spring Wild Pig Newsletter is here!

In this issue, readers will learn about the effects of abatement efforts on wild pig behavior, the impact wild pigs have on water quality, and get the opportunity to read trending articles and much more!

Quail Decline Initiative April newsletter is here!

In the Quail Decline Initiative April newsletter we look back on a successful Fort Worth Quail Appreciation Day and share our new resources that will help you learn more about a lesser-known Texas quail species, the many plants that quail utilize for food and shelter, and how to conduct spring call counts with our video of the month. Coming up: Dallas Quail Appreciation Day in May!

White-Nose Syndrome Fungus Detected in Central Texas

The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome, a deadly disease for bats, has been detected for the first time in central Texas counties. Learn more about the disease and efforts to study it here.

What can the gopher tortoise teach us about endangered species conservation?

Mike Brennan, director of the Wildlife Conservation and Mitigation Program at Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute gives insights on the Endangered Species Act and candidate species policy and conservation in a new article titled “Lesson from a Tortoise.” 

April Conservation Matters is here!

In the April issue, we recognize the winners of the 2018 Texas Environmental Excellence Award in education, reflect on a year of accomplishments in our 2017 Annual Report, and highlight new resources about the importance of soils, irrigation, and riparian restoration in land stewardship. Also included are updates from our partner organizations and plenty of upcoming events you won't want to miss!

NRI Annual Report Showcases Institute Efforts

The Texas Natural Resource Institute has published its annual report for 2017! Join us as we take a look back on some of our major accomplishments in research, stewardship, conservation, engagement, and more.

Houston Chronicle: The ins and outs of feral hog hunting in Texas

Texas is home to the largest feral hog population in the United States, with an estimated 4 million hogs statewide. The Houston Chronicle shares local land owners' difficulty with wild pigs and resources from Texas A&M AgriLife.

2018 REPI Report Now Available

Check out the 2018 Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program (REPI) Report to Congress, which highlights the accomplishments of the REPI program this year.

February/March SERPPAS Circular is Here!

The "SERPPAS Circular" contains information on the latest media coverage, funding opportunities and upcoming events/webinars on sustainability and conservation.

Urban Quail Appreciation Day set March 29 in Fort Worth

The Fort Worth "Quail Appreciation Day" on March 29 aims to inform North Texans about the value of one of the state’s most popular game birds and what people can do to help reverse declining quail populations. Learn about quail anatomy, ecology and habitat, and interact with a live northern bobwhite quail!

March Conservation Matters is here!

In the March 2018 edition, read about Texas' first federally endangered mussel species and what it means for the future of freshwater mussel conservation. Save the date for several upcoming programs and learn more about the economics of hunting, urban growth in Texas, and a talented wildlife artist taking up her mentor's mantle.

Dallas Center scientists study Texas' first federally endangered mussel species

Texas A&M AgriLife scientists are working to better understand the ecology and taxonomy of Texas freshwater mussels. These mussels play critically important roles in freshwater ecosystems and have beneficial impacts on human health, making them a high priority for conservation. Fifteen species have previously been classified as "threatened," and now one--the Texas hornshell mussel--is officially listed as "endangered."

February Conservation Matters is here!

In the February 2018 edition, read about a treasured herpetology tradition, how Kirby the quail is helping youth learn about stewardship, a few honorable mentions including an induction into the Texas Conservation Hall of Fame, a new generation of natural resource heroes and much more!

Forrest Cobb accepted as 2018 James Teer Conservation Leadership Institute Fellow

Congratulations to Forrest Cobb on his acceptance as a 2018 James Teer Conservation Leadership Institute Fellow! His application was accepted because of the leadership potential he's demonstrated through professional endeavors and commitment to improving the natural resources of Texas. 

Texas Landowner’s Guide to the Endangered Species Act Published

Listing an animal or plant as “threatened” or “endangered” under federal law can impact the lives of landowners, ranchers, and farmers. Unlike states where much of the land is publicly owned, Texas is roughly 97 percent privately owned. For this reason, successful conservation efforts in Texas require private landowners and government agencies to work together.

Kirby the Quail helps spread message of wildlife conservation

One of the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute’s most popular “spokespersons” for quail appreciation and conservation isn’t a person at all, but a sociable 6-inch-tall northern bobwhite named Kirby...

Nine NRI Research Projects to Take Stage at The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting

Nine NRI research projects will take the stage at this year's Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting in Dallas February 9-11. 

Youth learn soil conservation, nature appreciation at Long Acres Ranch

NRI's Jim Kidda and Long Acres Ranch near Richmond recently hosted four groups of fourth- and fifth-grade students from Lamar Consolidated Independent School District, providing firsthand instruction on soil erosion and its effect on the environment.

Despite efforts, feral hogs continue to wreak havoc on local cemetery

Read up on associate director Jim Cathey's insight for The Eagle on College Station's feral hog residents—some of Texas' most formidable foes have taken their destructive tendencies to the College Station Memorial Cemetery and Aggie Field of Honor.

NRI's Dr. Dale Rollins to be inducted into Texas Conservation Hall of Fame

Dr. Rollins is being honored for a lifetime of conservation achievements, including the development of the Bobwhite Brigade youth program, which has evolved into a statewide program called Texas Brigades.

Prescribed fire practitioners have new tools at their fingertips

As prescribed fire gains popularity as a range management tool, so does the need for up-to-the-minute information.

To meet the growing need, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service developed a prescribed burning handbook funded by the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute.

Project Manager Stephanie Hertz appears in The Longleaf Leader

Hear from NRI's Stephanie Hertz in The Longleaf Leader Winter 2018 on what inspires her to be among the next generation of longleaf leaders. 

DoD Gopher Tortoise Conservation and Crediting Strategy reaches new milestone

Leopoldo Miranda, Assistant Regional Director for Ecological Services of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Southeast Region, signed the Framework Programmatic Conference Opinion for the Department of Defense (DoD) Gopher Tortoise Conservation and Crediting Strategy (Strategy).

Stewards of the Wild in Bryan/College Station

Lower Keys marsh rabbit survey shows promising survival rates

NRI researchers surveyed for the endangered Lower Keys marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri) following Hurricane Irma, a Category 4 storm, on Naval Air Station Key West. Preliminary survival results are very promising. 

Southern Georgia Named ‘Sentinel Landscape’ for Readiness Enhancement

The Departments of Agriculture, Defense and Interior have designated portions of southern Georgia as the newest Sentinel Landscape designed to protect natural resources, enhance habitat for several key species, and maintain military readiness. The Georgia Sentinel Landscape was selected because of its broad partnerships and defined objectives.

December Conservation Matters published

Scroll through NRI's story map on the habitat requirements of Texas quails, learn about wild pigs and mast crops, read the latest report on habitat modeling and conservation of the Western Chicken Turtle and get to know the art behind bat science coming soon!

TWA: The Massive Urban-Rural Imbalance in Texas

David Yeates, Texas Wildlife Association Chief Executive Officer, speaks on how Texas Land Trends data reveals the challenge that is: far too few urban Texans, including Legislators, have a sense of relevancy to our natural resources and their importance.

Researcher to submit art for U.S. Bat ID Project for Center for Disease Control

Research Associate Krysta Demere has been asked to do the anatomical drawings for the Bat ID Project for the Center for Disease Control. She will be contributing 20+ anatomical drawings of bats for this endeavor and we couldn't be prouder to be a part of this expertise-driven collaboration.

Published: Habitat Modeling and Conservation of the Western Chicken Turtle

The Western Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia miaria) is considered rare and declining throughout its range, although no population surveys have been conducted range-wide. Uncertainty regarding population status and perceived threats to habitat convinced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to consider Endangered Species Act protection for the subspecies. The goal of this study was to inform the listing process by describing the biological and conservation requirements for Western Chicken Turtles.

November Conservation Matters published

See an update on the day in the life of a Northern Bobwhite, an experience at the 2017 Texas Master Naturalists Annual Meeting, November's Map of the Month and more.

Bastrop County Soil and Water Conservation District to host wild hog management workshop

Join the Bastrop County SWCD in McDade, Texas for their annual Field Tour to learn about wild hog management practices. Speakers will discuss the effects hogs have on the landscape, different trapping systems, and the rules and regulations for controlling populations on your property. 

Texas Master Naturalists connect on conservation of quail and other Texas wildlife

October Conservation Matters published

New Texas Land Trends report published, October's Map of the Month and more.

Fall Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this sixth issue, landowners will learn about wild pigs and mast crops, view the best of the wild pig photo and video contest, read about the origin of the wild pig species and get a peek at trending articles and videos. 

Texas Land Trends report shows changes in rural working lands, operators

Fragmentation of rural working lands, an increasing population and changes in landowner age, residency, land-use preferences and other factors are addressed in the new Texas Landowner Changes and Trends report.

Urban Quail Appreciation Day slated Oct. 5 in San Antonio

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, San Antonio Quail Coalition and Witte Museum will present the first-ever Urban Quail Appreciation Day from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Memorial Auditorium of the Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway St., San Antonio.

Irma leaves plenty of food and water for key deer

If you’re worried about Florida Key deer dying of thirst or starvation following Hurricane Irma, an expert on the tiny creatures has one word of advice: don’t.

New Conservation Matters published

Backpacks for Birds Tell Us Where They Spend Their Winters

There’s one endangered songbird, the golden-cheeked warbler, that spends its summers in the hill country of Central Texas and its winters in Central America, but we don’t know much about specific populations and where they go.

Wildlife appraisal practices workshop offered for property tax professionals

A workshop to help property tax appraisers learn wildlife appraisal practices will be held from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Kerr Wildlife Management Area, 2625 Farm-to-Market Road, Hunt.

Summer Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this fifth issue, landowners will learn about county-based cooperative wild pig abatement, see an evaluation of contraceptive viability in wild pigs and view trending articles and videos. 

Texas Land Trends tracks a changing state

Is Texas a rural state? Yes. Eighty-three percent of the state’s lands are farms, ranches and forests. But it’s also an urban state. Eighty-six percent of Texans live in urban areas.

Mussel woman: Researcher looks into declining Texas mussel populations

Jennifer Morton hovers methodically over a row of clear, water-filled containers on a tight-spaced industrial shelving system. She plucks a mollusk from one of the containers, observing the specimen as part of a study on freshwater mussel tolerances.

Texas A&M institute adopts new name, continues same mission

COLLEGE STATION – A Texas A&M institute dedicated to solving complex natural resource challenges through discovery, engagement, innovation and land stewardship has changed its name but not its mission, according to the institute’s director.

Dallas researcher recognized for mussel sex identification research

Megan Hess, an assistant researcher looking into declining mussel populations, was recognized this past week for her ongoing work to determine the ratio of male to female freshwater mussels among certain critically imperiled species.

Texas A&M AgriLife helping address disease deadly to bats

COLLEGE STATION – The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome in hibernating bats has been detected on three species in the Texas counties of Childress, Collingsworth, Cottle, Hardeman, King and Scurry.

Social media training for natural resources professionals April 13-14 in Austin

The Texas Watershed Planning Program of the Texas Water Resources Institute will hold a social media workshop for natural resources professionals April 13-14 at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, 12100 Park 35 Circle in Austin.

State program makes conservation pay for farm, ranch owners, Houston Chronicle

WEST COLUMBIA - The Brazos River passes - wide and muddy - through the Griffith family ranch. Floodwaters frequently prompt family members and an armada of cowboys for hire to round up their cows and move them to higher ground.

Spring Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this fourth issue, landowners will learn about wild pig control concerns, about considerations for hunting with dogs and get a peek at trending articles and videos. 

Texas A&M institute helping find ‘key’ to preserving endangered Florida deer

For the past several months, a Texas A&M University System institute has been actively involved in efforts to quash a screwworm outbreak in Florida that has jeopardized an already endangered species.

Carter Smith talks about the Impact of the Texas Farm & Ranch Lands Conservation Program, Texas Agricultural Land Trust

In this Texas Agricultural Land Trust video, Carter Smith, Executive Director of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department explains the impact of the initial round of funding used to conserve working agricultural lands through the Texas Farm & Ranch Lands Conservation Program which provides grants for paid conservation easements to private land owners.

Texas A&M institute sends up ‘bat signal’ for help from Texas landowners

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources bat research team is asking Texas residents to help document bat species and populations throughout the state.

Research shows Central Texas landscapes can go ‘thirsty’ but still thrive

Many ornamental plants popular in Central Texas landscapes can still grow and thrive when watered using half or less of the usual recommended irrigation amounts, according to research results recently published by two Texas A&M AgriLife institutes.

Freshwater mussel research underway in the Guadalupe River, Victoria Advocate

New study places Key deer herd at 875

The population of federally-protected Key deer spread out between 11 different islands is roughly 875 following an outbreak of the flesh-eating New World screwworm, according to a study completed last week.

Fire summit slated for Dec. 7-9 in Manhattan, Kansas

The Fire Summit 2016: Changing Fire Regimes, a regional conference on fire science in the Great Plains, is set for Dec. 7-9 at the Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center in Manhattan, Kansas.

Fall Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this third issue, landowners will learn about white-tailed deer management with considerations for wild pig control, read about considerations for the ethical harvest of wild pigs and get a peek at trending articles and videos.

Who’s been sleeping in my cave?

Researchers studying the impact of small mammals on cave habitats with endangered invertebrate species got a prickly surprise when they discovered large numbers of porcupines parading in and out of dozens of caves in the San Antonio area.

Troxler announces N.C. Sentinel Landscape designation

N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler today announced the federal designation of 33 counties as the North Carolina Sentinel Landscape, and the development of voluntary programs of incentives for landowners and local governments that desire to participate.

Three Military Bases, Ranges Added to Sentinel Landscape Partnership

The U.S. Departments of Defense (DoD), Agriculture and the Interior today announced the addition of three military bases to the Sentinel Landscape Partnership, a conservation effort begun in 2013 to improve military readiness, protect at-risk and endangered species, enhance critical wildlife habitat and restore working agricultural and natural lands in the Southeast and Midwest.

Summer Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this second issue, landowners will get to see an urban wild pig video series, learn about the seasonal spotlight, emerging technology and innovation in wild pig management and hear about upcoming programs.

Spring Wild Pig Newsletter is Here!

In this first issue, land stewards will meet the Wild Pig team, read the seasonal spotlight, learn about new Wild Pig continuing education courses and landowner cooperatives, hear about upcoming programs and much more...

Geographic Information Systems training course set for March 30-31 in San Antonio

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an Introduction to ArcGIS 10 training course March 30-31 in San Antonio.

Natural resources stewardship conference set for April 14-15 in Kerrville

The third annual Bennett Trust Resource Stewardship Conference is scheduled for April 14-15 at the Inn of the Hills Resort and Conference Center in Kerrville.

Texas A&M institute offers new land-use trend Web tool

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources has recently added a new interactive Web tool to its Texas Land Trends website, http://txlandtrends.org, allowing users to access land-use information released in 2014, according to an institute official

Geographic Information Systems training course set for Oct. 21-22 in College Station

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an Introduction to ArcGIS 10 training course Oct. 21-22 in College Station.

Private Land Stewardship Workshop set for Sept. 25 in Brown County

A Private Land Stewardship Workshop has been slated from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 25 at the McGillivray and Leona McKie Muse Wildlife Management Area, 15 miles northeast of Brownwood off County Road 478.

Texas A&M entities helping understand, monitor Chagas disease

To keep both animals and humans protected from Chagas disease, Texas A&M University System entities have been studying the parasite-host-vector interaction at sites in South Central Texas.

Rare deer disease prompts investigation

Partnership provides agricultural landowners conservation assistance in Nueces River Basin

Agricultural landowners and land managers in the 15-county region of the Nueces River basin have the opportunity to receive technical and financial assistance to help protect, improve and enhance their agricultural lands. Through this conservation stewardship, landowners will reduce runoff from their land and helping improve the water quality and quantity that flows into the Gulf of Mexico.

AgriLife Extension debuts Living with Texas Fire educational videos

Texas prescribed fire aficionados now have a series of free educational YouTube videos tailored specifically for the Lone Star State, the project’s leader said.

Landowner issue conference set May 8 in Lufkin

“The Value of Land,” a conference on issues affecting landowners, will be held May 8 at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office in Angelina County,
2201 S. Medford Drive in Lufkin.

Riparian and stream ecosystem workshop set for March 12 in Hamilton

The Texas Water Resources Institute’s Texas Riparian and Stream Ecosystem Education Program will host a workshop from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. March 12 in Hamilton for area residents interested in land and water stewardship in the Leon River watershed.

Water quality training March 25 in Dublin will focus on Leon River

A Texas Watershed Steward workshop on water quality and availability issues related to the Leon River will be held from 1-5 p.m. March 25 at the Rotary Building, 126 E. Blackjack St. in Dublin.

Central Texas project will study drought tolerance of landscape plants

Does a tough modern rose really need 4 inches of water a month to survive a drought? Can a plant bounce back after an entire growing season without rain?

Testing the toughest plants for drought tolerance

A nine-month drought of epic proportion begins Saturday. This one, however, is restricted to a small plot of land in southern San Antonio that the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources (IRNR) uses for research. When the scientific findings become available about a year from now, they should be a boon to home and business owners who want lovely landscapes that require little or no watering.

Lead vs. steel? It's a draw in dove study shootout

Results released this week of a multiyear, peer-reviewed research project, conducted in Texas, indicate dove hunters using shotshells loaded with lead pellets enjoy no advantage in effectiveness over those using shotshells firing non-toxic steel pellets of similar or slightly larger size.

Texas A&M receives $1.4 million grant for woody plant encroachment research

Plugging in the human factor to woody plant encroachment will be the focus of a $1.4 million grant awarded to a team led by Dr. Bradford Wilcox, Texas A&M AgriLife Research ecologist in the department of ecosystem science and management in College Station.

Texas Land Trends publishes new report

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources' Texas Land Trends has published its latest report on the status of the state's rural working lands, which include the state's forests, farms and ranches.

Social media training set for Oct. 28-29 in Houston

The Texas Water Resources Institute’s Texas Watershed Planning Program will present a social media workshop for natural resources professionals Oct. 28-29 at the Houston-Galveston Area Council, 3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 120, in Houston.

Texas sees significant decline in rural land

The vast majority of Texas land — 83 percent — is part of a farm, ranch or forest. But Texas is losing such rural land more than any other state, in large part because of the exploding growth of metropolitan areas, according to newly released data.

Private Land Stewardship Field Day set for Nov. 5 in Coryell County

Two state agencies and one federal agency will conduct a multi-county Private Land Stewardship Field Day Nov. 5 at two sites in Coryell County.

Texas lost over 1 million acres of private farm and ranch land In 15 years

Talk of Texas often conjures images of wide open ranch land and farmers at work their fields. But that iconic territory is being lost, according to a new analysis.

Institute reports new information about land conversion losses in Texas

Texas experienced a net loss of nearly 1.1 million acres of privately owned farms, ranches and forests from 1997 to 2012, continuing the trend of rural land conversion and fragmentation in Texas, according to Dr. Roel Lopez, director of the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources.

AgriLife Extension to offer three-part quail decline webinar beginning Sept. 11

Texans concerned with the widespread decline of wild quail across the state can learn about measures to stop the loss by tuning in to three fall webinars starting Sept. 11.

Social media training for natural resource professionals Sept. 10-11 in Austin

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will hold a social media training for natural resource professionals Sept. 10-11 at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Airport Commerce Park, 1340 Airport Commerce Drive in Austin.

Range and Wildlife Field Day set for Sept. 19 in Brown County

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will conduct a multi-county Range and Wildlife Management Field Day on Sept. 19 in Brown County for landowners interested in managing wildlife and livestock.

AgriLife Extension to hold three landowners’ planning, management workshops in San Antonio

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will hold three Landowners’ Planning and Management Workshops in August, September and October to address issues of importance to rural and semi-rural landholders in and around Bexar County.

Earth-Kind Landscape School to be held in San Antonio

The Texas Water Star Program will present the four-part “Earth-Kind Landscape School for Homeowners” program on four Saturdays during September and October, said program coordinators at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Bexar County.

Geographic information systems training scheduled July 22-23 in College Station

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an Introduction to ArcGIS 10 training course July 22-23 in College Station.

Programs in San Antonio will spotlight watershed stakeholder engagement

The Texas Water Resources Institute’s Texas Watershed Planning Program is hosting two training programs for water and natural resources professionals July 21-22 in San Antonio.

Texas Water Star sports, athletic field workshop slated for June 17 in San Antonio

The Texas Water Star Program will present the “Sports and Athletic Field Workshop: Maintenance and Management” from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. June 17 at Wolff Stadium, 5757 U. S. Highway 90, San Antonio.

Social media training set for June 18-19 in College Station

The Texas Watershed Planning Program of the Texas Water Resources Institute is sponsoring a social media workshop for natural resources professionals June 18-19 in Room 113 of the Texas A&M University Agriculture and Life Sciences Building, 600 John Kimbrough Blvd., College Station.

Range and Wildlife Management Field Day set for May 6 in Coryell County

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will conduct a multi-county Range and Wildlife Management Field Day May 6 in Coryell County for landowners interested in managing both wildlife and livestock.

Geographic Information Systems training course set for May 13-14 in College Station

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an Introduction to ArcGIS 10 training course May 13-14 in College Station.

Alamo Area Water and Land Stewardship program slated for April 3 in San Antonio

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office for Bexar County will host the “Alamo Area Water and Land Stewardship – Class Day” from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. April 3 in San Antonio.

Learn how to make a rain barrel at this Backyard Basics workshop, April 5 in San Antonio

The Stone Oak Property Owners Association and Trinity Glen Rose Groundwater Conservation District will co-host “A Rain Barrel Workshop” from 9 a.m.-noon April 12 at the property owners association offices at 19210 Huebner Road in San Antonio.

AgriLife Extension ‘Spring Grounds Maintenance Workshop’ set for March 28 in San Antonio

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Water Star Program will present a Spring Grounds Maintenance Workshop from 8 a.m.-4:15 p.m. March 28 in San Antonio.

Geographic Information Systems training course March 24-25 in College Station

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an Introduction to ArcGIS 10 training course March 24-25 in College Station.

Earth-Kind landscping school draws variety of green industry, other professionals

More than 40 green industry and other professionals attended the recent Texas Water Star Program presentation of an Earth-Kind landscaping school at the San Antonio Garden Center in San Antonio.

Conserving private lands conserves water

Former President and Texas native Lyndon B. Johnson once said: “Saving the water and the soil must start where the first raindrop falls.”

In Texas, where about 95 percent of the land is privately owned, and 83 percent of that land is rural farms, ranches and forests, it is essential that all Texans understand the interconnection of land and water to ensure the healthy stewardship of both, according to natural resource professionals.

Farms aren’t going away, but a lot of little ones are

More Texans are leaving farming and ranching because of opportunities in urban areas, increased land prices and concerns about weather patterns fueled by drought.

Texas Water Star/Earth-Kind landscaping workshop slated Feb. 14 in San Antonio

The Texas Water Star Program will present the Earth-Kind Landscaping School from 8:15 a.m.–4 p.m. Feb. 14 at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels in San Antonio.

Geographic Information Systems training course set for Jan. 15-16 in College Station

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will conduct an “Introduction to ArcGIS 10” training course Jan. 15-16 in College Station.

IRNR contributes to Notice Nature Field Day in Duval County

Some 200 Duval County seventh graders had a very special field trip Wednesday in Freer. The students were taken to the Temple Ranch to learn about nature.

In Perfect Harmony: Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg covers over 160,00 acres and is home to over 57,000 military personnel. If you think extraordinary training and military readiness are incompatible with a environmental protection and sustainability, think again. At Fort Bragg, the longleaf pine forests are flourishing and the training has never been better. Exploring North Carolina will show you this great American conservation story.

Mussels Matter: Research team increasing knowledge of mussels, txH2O

IRNR to hold social media training Nov. 6 in San Angelo

The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources will hold a social media training Nov. 6 at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, 7887 U.S. Highway 87 North, San Angelo.

Trinity River Land and Water Summit set Oct. 2 in Athens

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Trinity Waters will conduct the Trinity River Land and Water Summit from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Cain Center, 915 S. Palestine St. in Athens.

Texas A&M institute to engage private landowners in national program

A Texas A&M University System institute is playing an integral role in a new federal, local and private collaboration

Texas A&M institute researchers: Relocation may save freshwater mussels

Researchers with the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources have found that relocating freshwater mussels may be an effective strategy for saving populations affected by drought or bridge construction.

Prescribed fire community of practice goes live

Most plant communities across North America are adapted to fire, and many plant and wildlife species are dependent upon fire for their survival. Fire suppression following European settlement in North America has caused these areas to dramatically change. Grasslands and prairies are being invaded by trees; savannas and open woodlands are becoming closed canopy forests; and prairie birds are declining with some species now threatened or endangered. It is critical that fire be restored to create and maintain the conditions necessary for the survival of our native plants and wildlife. Prescribed fire, sometimes also known as controlled burning, is the way land managers safely and effectively get fire back into these natural areas.

Trinity River basin webinars focus on land and water management

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Trinity Waters, a conservation organization based in the Trinity River basin, will conduct three webinars for landowners in the Trinity River basin.

Clean air, clean technology take hold in South Texas

Increased production and economic stimulus are two of the most talked about outcomes emanating from South Texas' Eagle Ford shale. Given the arid region, water management has become a top priority for both operating companies and community stakeholders. In states where drilling activity is a fairly new commodity, hydraulic fracturing garners most of the attention. In the rapidly developing South Texas Eagle Ford, air quality is on the minds of both regulators and companies working the play.

Institute to conduct social media training July 18 in Austin

The Texas A&M Institute of Natural Resources will conduct a “Social Media 101—Raising Stakeholder Awareness in an Information Age” workshop July 18 in Austin.

Smartphones help trappers wrangle feral hogs

As feral hogs continue to barrel into suburban and urban areas -- and even into Dallas' city limits -- trappers are turning to smartphone technology to help catch the animals.