Texas Forest Service News

Texas Forest Service approved as carbon verifier for Chicago Climate Exchange®

OD OD — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:38:19 GMT

Nov. 5, 2007 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas Forest Service (TFS), well known for its role in protecting and sustaining the state’s forest resources, has added a new dimension to its responsibilities—verifier of forestry offset projects for landowners seeking to sell

Prevention is the Key to Decreasing Oak Wilt Spread(2)

OD OD — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 22:48:03 GMT

TFS Urges Caution When Selecting and Transporting Oak Firewood December 3, 2007 AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Forest Service is encouraging Texans to be careful when collecting and purchasing firewood at this time of year. Transporting and storing diseased wood is

Hard frosts, holidays increase wildfire risk

OD OD — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:18:24 GMT

Dec. 20, 2007 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Texas Forest Service urges increased attention to outdoor fire safety over this holiday season. Hard frosts, cooler weather and the upcoming holiday season increase the possibility of wildfires, according to the Texas Forest Service.

Final deadline approaching for federal timber restoration assistance

Application Administrator — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:54:58 GMT

Dec. 4, 2007 COLLEGE STATION, Texas The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Emergency Forestry Conservation Reserve Program (EFCRP) will be accepting applications for federal assistance to hurricane damaged land tracts until December 31, 2007. This is the final opportunity for landowners

State Forester Hull announces retirement

Application Administrator — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:57:44 GMT

Jan. 4, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas—James B. Hull, Texas state forester and director of the Texas Forest Service, an agency of The Texas A&M University System, announced his retirement today, effective June 1, 2008. Hull’s departure will mark the end of his 12-year tenure as only the seventh state forester

Frontal passage brings high fire danger Tuesday

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:15:40 GMT

FRONTAL PASSAGE BRINGS HIGH FIRE DANGER TUESDAY January 28, 2008 Texas Forest Service fire behavior analysts are calling attention to a series of cold fronts lined up to cross the state this week that will greatly increase fire danger in

High winds prolong high fire danger through weekend

FRP3 FRP3 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:18:31 GMT

February 1, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas High winds and low relative humidity have caused many large wildland fires this week, and Texas Forest Service fire behavior analysts are indicating it is a pattern that will continue into next week for

Last chance for free trees from Operation Green Streets

OD OD — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 18:56:12 GMT

February 8, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas It has been two years since Hurricane Rita struck Southeast Texas. As citizens have been rebuilding their lives and homes, many have found that they can now start rebuilding their towns as well. A

West Texas in bulls eye for fire weather through Tuesday

FRP3 FRP3 — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:21:09 GMT

February 22, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas – With a dry frontal line passing through the state on Saturday, West Texas will again see lower relative humidity and strong winds through Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service and Texas Forest Service fire weather analysts. The winds are predicted to be som

Extremely critical fire weather alert and red flag warnings issued for parts of Texas today

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:56:14 GMT

February 25, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas – For only the second time this year, the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center has issued an “Extremely Critical” fire weather warning for parts of Texas today.

Local and state fire resources remain on alert: Proactive attack saves lives and homes

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:54:17 GMT

February 29, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas – When Texas Forest Service (TFS) and the National Weather Service began forecasting extreme fire weather danger earlier this week, TFS wasted no time activating preparedness measures and pre-positioning firefighting personnel and equipment to areas of the state predicted to be at highest risk.

West Texas under fire danger alert

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:51:50 GMT

March 7, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- A combination of weather factors forecast for the next few days, plus tinder-dry grasses and vegetation have resulted in the National Weather Service to issue Fire Weather Watches in far West Texas for this weekend. Low relative humidity and strong, gusty wind conditions are on tap for at least the next few days.

Second week of March has history of large fires

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:44:00 GMT

March 10, 2008 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- The second week of March has a history of producing large and devastating fires in Texas and weather conditions expected for this week may fuel those large fires once again. The forecast for Wednesday through Friday calls for critical to extreme fire weather over much of west and central Texas where high winds and low relative humidity may combine to accelerate the spread and intensity of established fires.

State activates all-hazard incident management team

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:43:04 GMT

East Texas first responders part of effort

April 4, 2008 -- LUFKIN, Texas -- Following unprecedented storms this weekend that ravaged eastern portions of the state, the State of Texas Governor’s Division of Emergency Management activated a Type 3 All-Hazard Incident Management Team (AHIMT).

El Paso to host statewide Arbor Day celebration

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:41:12 GMT

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Trees in El Paso? To the outsider, this may seem like a reasonable question. But El Paso natives have long known that the desert is home to a unique variety of trees- and they are ready to show the rest of the state they are “Tree Amigos.”

Spring, the season for oak wilt spread

OD OD — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:55:58 GMT

April 9, 2008 -- AUSTIN, Texas -- Spring has arrived and with its dazzling display of color and growth come the sap-feeding beetles that can spread oak wilt and cause death and destruction during this time of renewal. Understanding the oak wilt life cycle is important in preventing new infections from this fungal disease.

Elementary students to explore the forest in Houston’s Backyard

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:26:34 GMT

CONROE, Texas – Will we get to see polar bears in the forest? This was one of the questions asked by a student upon arriving at W. Goodrich Jones State Forest last year for Exploring Houston’s Backyard, a day-long outdoor education program for nearly 1000 fifth-graders in the Houston Independent School District.

Attack from the Black video now available

FRP2 FRP2 — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:53:22 GMT

June 15, 2007 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- The Attack from the Black training video is now available for Fire Departments. This training video encourages FD personnel to think ahead and not just in the moment while fighting a fire. The DVD also stresses the importance of wearing all proper Personal Protective Equipment.

Lufkin Fire Academy draws firefighters from across U.S

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:33:24 GMT

May 14, 2008 -- LUFKIN, Texas -- Firefighters from across the country have converged on the Angelina College campus for the 11th Annual East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy, which runs from May 13-23. Firefighters attending the academy could find that they will quickly put their training to use. Indeed, many firefighters and equipment remain mobilized across the western portion of the state where they are still being called upon to respond to wildfires occurring in the tinder dry conditions.

El Paso is home to the winner of Texas Arbor Day poster contest second year in a row!

FRP2 FRP2 — Wed, 14 May 2008 20:40:24 GMT

COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Edgar Murillo, a fifth-grader from El Paso, Texas, was named winner of the 2007 Texas Arbor Day Poster Contest. Murillo’s artistic rendition of the theme, “Trees are Terrific…and forests are too!” was selected from among 214 entries as the best in Texas. This is the second year in a row that a student from Jane A. Hambric School in El Paso won the state contest.As state winner, Murillo’s poster will represent Texas in the National Poster Contest, the winner of which will be announced on April 27 during the National Arbor Day celebration in Nebraska City, Neb. Texas Arbor Day will also be observed on April 27 in Austin at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

20,000-acre wildfire threatens West Texas communities

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:35:01 GMT

June 5, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--Heavy air tankers, helicopters and ground crews from Texas and New Mexico are attempting to contain the 20,000-acre wildfire burning through Presidio and Jeff Davis Counties, Texas.

According to Texas Forest Service officials, the path of the wildfire is moving northeast at approximately two to three miles-per-hour (mph) and threatens more than 60 homes. Also in the path of the wildfire are the Bloys Camp historic religious site, the Crow’s Nest tourist camp, the Bloys Symbolic Oak historic tree of Texas and numerous wind turbines.

Texas Forest Service honored for its continued commitment to wildfire prevention with Bronze Smokey Award

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:36:57 GMT

June 13, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas “The best fire is the one you never have,” said Jim Hull when he was appointed state forester and director of Texas Forest Service in 1996. With his appointment, Hull brought a philosophy that seemed foreign to his colleagues working in fire operations; that of fire prevention. Since that time, Texas Forest Service has adopted the desire for a “fire culture where having a fire is viewed as failure.”

Be careful with fireworks use

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:01:50 GMT

June 30, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--For many, fireworks are an exciting part of Fourth of July celebrations. But the colorful fun they provide can easily turn into a dangerous situation if proper and safe use is not followed.

“It only takes a spark to start a wildfire,” said Tom Spencer, fire risk assessment coordinator for Texas Forest Service. “Fireworks, especially aerial fireworks, can be the source of that spark.”

Texas Wildfire and Incident Management Information

Application Administrator — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:42:55 GMT

February 18, 2011

Current Situation

Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded six fires for 1,124 acres. The largest yesterday was the 1,044-acre Harper Road Fire in Tom Green County. In the past seven days TFS has responded to 50 fires for 20,670 acres. Fire departments reported 185 fires for 6,548 fires since last Friday in the online fire reporting database.

Predictive Services

FRP2 FRP2 — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 22:03:28 GMT

Texas Forest Service provides current weather, hydrologic and climate forecasts and warnings for the State of Texas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the economy.

Marketing ecosystem services: The Texas carbon project

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:09:19 GMT

Marketing Ecosystem Services The Texas Carbon Experiment Forests provide numerous “ecosystem services” to society, including producing clean air and water, preventing flooding, recharging aquifers, and providing habitat for wildlife. One of the most important services they provide is helping maintain the carbon balance in the earth’s atmosphere.

Connecting kids to nature: Getting out is in!

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:10:29 GMT

Outside playtime for kids is fast becoming a thing of the past. With the rise of popularity in video and computer games, it’s no secret that too many children are missing out on the wonders of the outdoors. A recent study found that children spend approximately 45 hours per week looking at a television or computer screen.

Dolly could fan flames

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:11:19 GMT

July 22, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--While the citizens of South Texas worry about possible flooding associated with Hurricane Dolly, firefighters in most of the state worry that winds associated with Dolly could lead to increased wildfire activity and/or fan the flames of any wildfires that arise.

Agency readies for hurricane response

OD OD — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 18:43:55 GMT

July 22, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--Texas Forest Service personnel have mobilized in preparation for Tropical Storm Dolly’s arrival in Texas. TFS personnel have relocated to South Texas to assist regional Department of Public Safety offices.

Use caution when dealing with storm-damaged trees

OD OD — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 20:13:32 GMT

July 25, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Texas’ involvement with Hurricane Dolly is shifting from response to recovery as citizens are now having some power restored and food, water and ice provided. They are now taking note of the damage the

Specialized team mobilizes for hurricane response

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:11:54 GMT

August 4, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--The Governor’s Division of Emergency Management State Operations Center has activated the Texas Forest Service Lone Star State Incident Management Team (LSSIMT) in response to the tropical storm anticipated to reach the Texas coast Tuesday morning as a hurricane.

Texas competes for resources in fighting wildfires

OD OD — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:51:04 GMT

August 12, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Texas accounts for less than 10% of the acreage of the United States yet, in 2008, wildfires in Texas have consumed 37% of the total national acreage lost to fire.

Wet weather pattern brings end to wildfire season

OD OD — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:56:21 GMT

August 21, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Current rains across Texas bring relief to more than 200 days of the Lone Star State’s summer wildfire season. Due to recent and ongoing significant rainfall, wildfire danger statewide has declined.

Responders mobilize as Gustav impacts Texas

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 19:56:46 GMT

September 1, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--In response to Hurricane Gustav, the Lone Star State Incident Management Team and five Type III local government teams led by TFS personnel have deployed to East Texas to assist with the management of the Regional Staging Areas (RSA’s) in Lufkin and Tyler.

Big Tree Registry grows even bigger

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:19:42 GMT

The Texas Big Tree Registry has a new addition, with the state’s largest known willow oak (Quercus phellos) tree being confirmed about 10 miles northeast of Marshall. The tree is on land owned by the Phil and David Simpson families of Avinger.

Texas Regional Response Network

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:02:23 GMT

September 11, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas During times of emergency, such as an active hurricane season, emergence response personnel need access to the most current resource information possible. This is where the Texas Regional Response Network (TRRN) can help.

Timber damage from Hurricane Ike

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:22:29 GMT

September 26, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas The landfall of Hurricane Ike brought over $350 million in timber damage throughout Texas. Landowners may contact Texas Forest Service for technical assistance or advice regarding damage to timberland from Hurricane Ike.

New pest attacking Afghan Pine in Texas

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:07:20 GMT

October 2, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas In the spring of 2008, Texas Forest Service urban forester Oscar Mestas found dying Afghan pines in El Paso, TX. Subsequent surveys have found dying Afghan pines in several communities in west Texas and New Mexico.

Fire safety needed--Indoors and out

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:06:08 GMT

October 6, 2008—COLLEGE STATION, Texas Every day somewhere in our state or nation, fires claim lives, destroy homes and reduce valuable natural resources to smoldering ashes. This year’s National Fire Prevention Week (October 5-11) marks another coordinated effort by metropolitan, volunteer and wildland firefighters to focus our attention on the importance of fire prevention in the home, on the job and outdoors.

MOSES goes on maiden voyage

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:32:36 GMT

October 15, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas-- When Hurricane Ike hit the Texas Gulf Coast, Texas Forest Service’s satellite trailer, MOSES (Mobile Operations Satellite Emergency System), was ready to roll. MOSES went on its maiden voyage to Reliant Stadium in Houston to serve as the phone for POD orders. After cell phone use was restored in Houston, MOSES was sent to Galveston where it was used to support the teams in the area with communication abilities.

Bastrop home to 11th annual wildfire academy

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 15:05:06 GMT

October 20, 2008--BASTROP, Texas--Firefighters from across the nation will be in Bastrop County for the 11th Annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire Academy Oct. 21-Nov. 3.

“We’re expecting a great response to this training as it is now the second largest in America,” said Rich Gray, academy founder. “More than 600 firefighters from local fire departments, as well as state and federal agencies will train here in the next two weeks.”

High wildfire danger alert for Central Texas

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:46:24 GMT

November 6, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--The Texas Forest Service is urging the public to be aware of heightened wildfire danger in most of Central Texas due to prolonged drought conditions. Below normal rainfall in September and October have increased the dry conditions.

“Fuel sources remain very dry and susceptible to accidental fire because of the prolonged drought in Central Texas,” said Tom Spencer fire risk assessment coordinator for Texas Forest Service. “Normally this time of year we see a decline in wildfires because of decreased temperatures, shorter burning periods and more precipitation.

Personnel meeting brings unity, networking and recognitions

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:47:28 GMT

November 18, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Texas Forest Service closed down for business all across the state one day last week. With the exception of essential emergency personnel stationed in high wildfire risk areas of the state, more than 360

Texas Forest Service UWI team recognized nationally for efforts to reduce wildfire risk

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:44:59 GMT

November 24, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--The Texas Forest Service UWI (Urban Wildland Interface) team received a Firewise Leadership Award recognizing their outstanding efforts in promoting a cooperative approach to reducing the loss of lives, property, and resources in the wildland/urban interface. The National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s (NWCG) Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Working Team announced the winners of the Firewise Leadership Awards at the National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Education Conference, "Backyards and Beyond," in Tampa.

Texas Forest Service is a National Night Out 2008 All-Star

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:49:27 GMT

November 25, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas-- Six years ago, Texas Forest Service (TFS) became a sponsor of National Night Out and began working to increase fire department participation in the event. For their efforts, TFS was recently recognized as a National Night Out 2008 All-Star.

TFS: Think fire safety over the holidays

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:37:49 GMT

Dec. 22, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Christmas trees, trimmed with twinkling lights during the holiday season may be beautiful, but Texas Forest Service warns they could easily become a deadly fire hazard if proper safety precautions are not taken. Between

Texas-grown Christmas trees good for environment and holiday spirit

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:29:06 GMT

ELGIN, Texas – With a saw in one hand and measuring pole in the other, Chris Fisher dutifully followed girlfriend Jessica Nicks as she wandered slowly through the maze of Virginia pines. The Austin-based pair had driven nearly 30 miles to Evergreen Farms and they were determined to find the perfect Christmas tree.

Tax workshops detail incentives for timber landowners

OD OD — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 23:47:54 GMT

December 4, 2008--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--Texas Forest Service is offering two workshops in January for timber landowners who could be eligible for significant tax incentives created last year to encourage land preservation. The 2009 East Texas Timber Income and Property Tax Workshops will focus on federal tax laws related to timber and recent changes in the law.

Timber tax workshops in 2009

OD OD — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 23:47:05 GMT

Jan. 5, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Cleveland landowner Christine Browning did a double take when she got a glimpse of her property tax appraisal last year and saw the amount she soon would owe had nearly tripled.

Texas Forest Service urges Texans to use caution with fireworks this holiday season

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:30:30 GMT

Dec. 16, 2008 COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Many areas across the state will be in danger of accidental wildfires this month as some Texans celebrate the holiday season with fireworks. Fireworks are commonly linked to Christmas and New Year festivities,

Texas Forest Service distributes $5.7 million to local fire departments

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:11:00 GMT

Dec. 23, 2008 --COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas Forest Service is delivering a little holiday cheer to more than 900 Texas fire departments. Through a legislative grant, TFS is distributing $5.7 million to departments that helped fight wildfires during the 2005-06 wildfire season.

Landmark conservation deal protects more than 2,800 acres

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:24:34 GMT

The Conservation Fund, Texas Forest Service and The Campbell Group, LLC, announced today a conservation milestone: the completion of Texas’ first Forest Legacy project, the protection of more than 2,800 acres of forestland adjacent to the Turkey Creek Unit of Big Thicket National Preserve.

Pumping up the first line of defense

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:32:45 GMT

Feb. 23, 2009--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--The state of Texas has over 1,800 volunteer fire departments (VFDs) that are the first line of defense against wildfires. Many of these VFDs make a small budget stretch further than anyone would think possible. Mark Hanson, the Bellevue VFD fire chief, understands making a little go a long way.

Texas Forest Service urges homeowners to take precautions

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:33:51 GMT

BASTROP COUNTY, Texas With a dangerous wildfire bearing down on her Bastrop County neighborhood, Dotty Taylor grabbed little more than a change of clothes and her dog Munch before fleeing her home of nearly 20 years. The 74 year old

Arbor Day signifies rebirth for island devastated by Hurricane Ike

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:13:50 GMT

March 27, 2009 GALVESTON, Texas It was the five mighty old oak trees that drew Shaye Henderson and her family to the lot that spans two thirds of an acre in the Driftwood subdivision. The family built their home around

Everything is bigger and better in Texas — even the forests

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:41:25 GMT

March 25, 2009 AUSTIN, Texas Texas Forest Service on Wednesday unveiled its first ever statewide tree inventory, the results from which show the state is poised to take the lead in emerging alternative energy and ecosystem service markets. The Forest

Extreme wildfire conditions hit Texas

FRP FRP — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 19:57:45 GMT

April 9, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Multiple homes and hundreds of acres have been lost to wildfires across the state today as extreme weather conditions that were forecast for Thursday, April 9, 2009, materialized. Reports of wildfires, evacuations and requests

North Texas firefighters come to rescue as wildfires ravage state

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:26:56 GMT

April 11, 2009 JACKSBORO, Texas The Colony Fire Chief Scott Thompson could see an amber glow in the sky as he neared the emergency staging area in Decatur. At work Thursday, Thompson hadn’t yet seen the news reports detailing the

Regional Strike Team responds to Arkansas ice storm

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:31:53 GMT

April 15, 2009--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--For eight days, foresters Daniel Duncum, Jason Ellis, Wes Moorehead and Pete Smith worked from sun up to sun down, trekking along city streets, parks and wooded trails looking for signs of the ice that melted just weeks earlier.

Texas Forest Expo offers overview of seminar helping reconnect families with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:38:36 GMT

April 17, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Every week, Tracy Adams and her two young boys spend about an hour at the playground just a couple blocks from their College Station home. Sometimes, they work together in the small garden planted

Georgia firefighters join with Texas Forest Service to save North Texas town

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:21:53 GMT

April 10, 2009 ARCHER COUNTY, Texas The acrid and choking black smoke hung heavy in the air, a visible reminder that the county was surrounded. The fires were everywhere. Volunteer firefighters were battling a major blaze on every county border.

Texas Forest EXPO 2009

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:12:41 GMT

Protect yourself from wildfires, while managing and beautifying your land at the same time. April 15, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Do you want to know how to safely wield a chainsaw or get rid of the feral hogs that roam

Texas Forest Expo 2009 helps you protect your property from a second strike by Hurricane Ike

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:30:44 GMT

April 21, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Hurricane Ike wreaked havoc when it roared across Texas last fall, downing power lines, trees and anything else in its way. Seven months later, the massive storm is once again impacting the state. But

Free wildfire prevention classes offered this weekend at Texas Forest Expo 2009

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:28:51 GMT

April 21, 2009 WALKER COUNTY, Texas It was dark, but timber farmer John Swonke still could see the glow of the wildfire as he drove up to his 201 acres of timber and pasture land in the far west end

Texas Forest Expo 2009 helps meet the evolving needs of new landowners

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:25:29 GMT

April 22, 2009 MARSHALL, Texas Jimmy and Vickey Burnett spent three years searching before they stumbled upon the perfect get away spot. Just a half hour from their home in Shreveport, the 100 acre tract of land in far East

Looking for signs of life: Texas Forest Service to assess trees in Galveston

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 20:35:44 GMT

April 17, 2009--GALVESTON, Texas--Texas Forest Service is returning to Galveston next week to take a closer look at the island’s trees, many of which have yet to sprout and sustain leaves in the wake of Hurricane Ike.

Houston fifth-grader wins statewide Arbor Day poster contest

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:49:35 GMT

April 30, 2009 HOUSTON, Texas Surrounded by classmates, Reed Academy fifth grader Luis Meza grabbed a shovel that was nearly as tall as he was and forced it into the ground. Just a few feet away, was a thin, young

More than 10,000 Galveston trees could come down due to Hurricane Ike storm surge

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:23:00 GMT

April 30, 2009 GALVESTON, Texas Preliminary results from a Texas Forest Service assessment of storm damaged trees in Galveston show that roughly half of the island’s trees may need to be removed. An estimated 10,840 of the 21,874 trees in

Emergency response training coming to Lufkin

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:37:39 GMT

May 6, 2009 LUFKIN, Texas Texas Forest Service (TFS) is hosting the 12th Annual East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy May 19 29 at Angelina College in Lufkin, Texas. Emergency personnel from across the United States are invited

Texas Forest Service to help Galveston recover from $48 million loss

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 14 May 2009 17:42:22 GMT

May 8, 2009 GALVESTON, Texas As the island continues to recover from Hurricane Ike, a dedicated urban forester will be needed to help city officials make daily tree decisions and Texas Forest Service is willing to help shoulder the cost.

Mission Possible Nature Challenge 2009 reconnects Southeast Texas families with the outdoors

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:40:38 GMT

Texas Forest Service, Texas AgriLife Extension Service and Houston Wilderness are announcing a campaign to encourage families to get reconnected with each other and the outdoors by participating in a summer-long, nature challenge.

Wildfire risk increases as Texans celebrate holiday weekend

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 22 May 2009 13:02:19 GMT

May 22, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas The grilling season officially kicks off this weekend and Texas Forest Service (TFS) fire prevention specialists warn that an increase in outdoor activities, especially during the Memorial Day weekend, could lead to a spike

Service is what we are truly about

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:40:29 GMT

May 27, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas When Texas Forest Service (TFS) Regional Fire Coordinator Bill Davis was asked to attend the Fort Stockton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet, he was glad to go. When they told him he would be

Mission Possible Nature Challenge 2009

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:41:32 GMT

June 8, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Growing up in a log cabin nestled in the wilds of upstate New York, Angie Soldinger didn’t exactly have a traditional, suburban upbringing. While most kids her age had neighborhood friends to play with,

Hundreds sign up for Mission Possible Nature Challenge 2009

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:52:56 GMT

June 17, 2009 HOUSTON KPRC Chief Meteorologist Frank Billingsley looked out over the several dozen families that had gathered before him and recalled words he often heard from his mother a child. Get outside and play. It didn’t matter if

Do not let a wildfire ruin your Independence Day celebrations

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:39:18 GMT

June 24, 2009 -- COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Fireworks and outdoor activities are commonly linked to Fourth of July celebrations, but Texas Forest Service (TFS) warns that carelessness with fireworks and other outdoor activities can lead to a wildfire.

Ten simple steps to protect your home from wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:27:34 GMT

July 7, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Wildfires can strike home—literally—if you do not take steps to protect yourself and your property. With the record breaking Texas temperatures, wildfire activity is picking up across the state. Since June 25, Texas Forest

State lawmakers appropriate $20 million a year to protect Texas from wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 20:25:40 GMT

July 9, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas State lawmakers have allocated about $20 million in annual, additional funding for Texas Forest Service, allowing the agency beef up volunteer fire departments’ capacity, as well as its own. That money includes $9 million

It's party time!

FRP FRP — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:55:57 GMT

August 1, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas After 65 years Smokey Bear is still reminding Texans that only they can prevent wildfires. Texas Forest Service is honoring Smokey and his fire prevention messages with a birthday celebration Aug. 8, 2009, at

Something bugging your soapberry tree? Tell Texas Forest Service.

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:32:30 GMT

July 28, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas You likely won’t see the hundreds of tiny, black bugs crawling along the trunk of your soapberry tree. You probably won’t even realize the tree has been infested until the bark starts to peel

Galveston live oaks to breathe new life into whaling ship

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 20:57:36 GMT

August 11, 2009 GALVESTON, Texas For a hundred years, mighty live oaks have lined the streets of this gulf coast community. Their sturdy trunks and gently sloping branches became fixtures on the island signs of hope and new life repeatedly

Alabama crews help fight South Texas wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:55:10 GMT

August 19, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Wildland firefighters from across the country have converged in Texas to help the drought stricken Lone Star State battle potentially devastating wildfires. Twenty nine states have responded to Texas since July 10, 2009. In

Signing their way to a safer community

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:46:30 GMT

September 8, 2009 LUFKIN, Texas Two East Texas counties are taking proactive steps to protect their residents from wildfire events like the ones in California by adopting Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPP), which are designed to prevent and mitigate wildfires.

Keep your family fire smart during Fire Prevention Week

FRP FRP — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:37:12 GMT

Across Texas, fire departments will be rolling out the hoses – not to put out fires, but to teach people the importance of being fire smart. This year’s National Fire Prevention Week, held October 4-10, focuses on preventing fires in the home and tips on keeping yourself safe. While structure fires claim many homes each year, Texas Forest Service and Smokey Bear wants to remind everyone that wildfires can be destructive and deadly as well.

Got pine trees? Texas Forest Service wants you to read this.

FRP FRP — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:31:02 GMT

The little black bugs that infest pine trees each summer aren’t that uncommon, but the havoc they are creating this year is, according to Texas Forest Service officials. Texas Forest Service tree and pest experts report seeing a recent increase in the number of pine trees killed as a result of bark beetle attacks.

Texas Forest Service dedicates Ruth Bowling Nichols Arboretum in Jacksonville

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:17:14 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Texas — Ruth Nichols doesn’t know exactly why or when she developed her love of plants and flowers. It’s just always kind of been there. The 95 year old mother of a Texas senator has been a garden club

The future of forests: Texas forest officials converge in Nacogdoches to discuss industry trends

FRP FRP — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:50:13 GMT

NACOGDOCHES, Texas ¬— Standing before a crowd of 350 people, Texas Forest Service Interim Director Tom Boggus promised that East Texas forests were alive and well and that their future was bright. Despite the harsh and sometimes bleak reports about

2009 National Incident Management Conference hosted in Texas

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:44:08 GMT

More than 400 incident management professionals from across the U.S. converged in Houston for the Second Annual All Hazard Incident Management Team (AHIMT) Training and Educational Conference. Texas Forest Service (TFS) hosted the conference, held

Holiday safety tips

FRD2 FRD2 — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 16:58:48 GMT

December 18, 2009 COLLEGE STATION, Texas During the holiday season, Texas Forest Service is urging residents to take precautions to prevent wildfires and protect their property. The holiday season is a time for celebrating, not fighting wildfires. Christmas tree firesWhile

Timber Tax Workshops: Texas Forest Service teaches landowners about timber tax incentives

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 21:18:23 GMT

January 7, 2010 COLLEGE STATION, Texas A woodsy, forested tract of land often makes a perfect home for woodland creatures so it seems almost counterintuitive that landowners creating a wildlife refuge would first be required to cut down all their

College Station forester honored for work in Galveston after Hurricane Ike

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 15:14:05 GMT

January 13, 2010 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Longtime Texas Forest Service forester Pete Smith was honored this week with a Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for his extensive work on trees issues in Galveston following Hurricane Ike.Smith is the agency’s urban

Texas Forest Service protects 10,000 acres of forestland surrounding Big Thicket

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:38:51 GMT

December 22, 2009--COLLEGE STATION, Texas--Texas Forest Service on Monday formally completed its third Forest Legacy Project, permanently protecting more than 10,000 acres of privately-owned forestland surrounding the Big Thicket in East Texas. The protection comes in the form of a 10,729-acre conservation easement that serves as a buffer around the national preserve just about 100 miles northeast of Houston.

Boggus named sole finalist for Texas Forest Service director and state forester

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:01:14 GMT

January 21, 2010 COLLEGE STATION, Texas Tom G. Boggus has been named sole finalist for director and state forester of Texas Forest Service, the agency where he has worked for nearly three decades. A member of The Texas A&M

Boggus named director of Texas Forest Service

OD OD — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:51:21 GMT

Feb. 12, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Veteran forester Tom G. Boggus was named Friday as director of Texas Forest Service, the state agency at which he has

Learning to listen: Texas Forest Service gets crisis response training

OD OD — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:46:24 GMT

Last week, more than 70 Texas Forest Service employees learned how to listen. Dr. Anna Satterfield, associate director of Texas A&M University’s Human Resources focused on the Employee Assistance Program and Employee Relations, held crisis communication training last week in

Boggus selected as director of Texas Forest Service

OD OD — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 23:18:15 GMT

Feb. 12, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Tom G. Boggus was just 6 years old when he decided he wanted to be a forester. It was 1961 and the first grader had spent the summer with his parents, crisscrossing

Wildfire weather forecast for Texas Southern Plains

OD OD — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:43:01 GMT

March 9, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A potent, upper level system is expected to cross the Southern Plains on Wednesday, heightening the risk of wildfire, according to a forecast from the National Weather Service in Midland. The dry,

Texas firefighters helping fight wildfire in Oklahoma

FRP FRP — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:42:58 GMT

March 15, 2010 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Eight Texas Forest Service (TFS) firefighters and three wildland fire engines are helping our neighbors to the north contain wildfires. The crews left Texas on Saturday, March 13, 2010, and will be in Oklahoma

Do your part to prevent spring wildfires

FRP FRP — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:35:00 GMT

April 1, 2010—College Station, Texas—Spring is finally here and across the state Texans are outside cleaning up around their homes and enjoying the sunshine. Even though the grasses and trees are starting to green up, this can be a dangerous

Texas Forest Service partners with Natural Resource Conservation Service to protect state's natural resources

OD OD — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:06:19 GMT

Texas Forest Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service have joined forces to conserve and protect the Lone Star State's natural resources. The two agencies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthens the cooperation between the two by coordinating the

Texas Forest Service schools Sam Houston State student teachers in environmental education

OD OD — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:56:39 GMT

April 5, 2010 — RIVERSIDE, Texas — Texas Forest Service Forester Dawn Vollmer scattered dozens of red, white and blue poker chips on the ground and then watched as the crowd of college students dropped their up stretched arms and

Arsonists light up Southeast Texas

FRP FRP — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 20:52:06 GMT

April 9, 2010 WOODVILLE, Texas – Law enforcement investigators in Southeast Texas are attributing 14 recent wildfires to arsonists. Texas Forest Service fire crews have responded to 19 wildfires that have scorched 2,093 acres since April 1. The 14 arson

Austin Nature Challenge 2010 reconnects Central Texas families to each other — and the outdoors

OD OD — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:35:06 GMT

April 23, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Growing up in a log cabin nestled in the wilds of upstate New York, Angie Soldinger didn’t exactly have a traditional, suburban upbringing.While most kids her age had neighborhood friends to play with, Soldinger spent

Remember Arbor Day: Texas Forest Service celebrates urban forestry during San Antonio tree celebration

OD OD — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:31:07 GMT

April 23, 2010 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Forester Paul Johnson knows trees are important. He knew that long before he started working for Texas Forest Service.Trees are the largest, longest living, most valuable part of the landscape. And yet, he

Texas Woodland & Wildlife Expo offers FREE help for homeowners and landowners

OD OD — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:06:29 GMT

April 27, 2010 — CONROE, Texas — Maybe you want to plant a tree but you’re not sure which species is best suited to your backyard. Perhaps your goal is to lure wildlife to your ranch or stock your pond

Scores of landowners converge on Texas Woodland & Wildlife Expo

OD OD — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:03:04 GMT

May 1, 2010 —CONROE, Texas — Seven year old Bethany Marr stared intently at the deer in front of her as she carefully pulled back the string on the bow resting in her hands.After a few words of encouragement from

Texas Forest Service All Hazard Incident Management Team Exercises State Catastrophic Response

OD OD — Tue, 04 May 2010 22:14:31 GMT

May 4, 2010 — AUSTIN, Texas — Austin area All Hazard Incident Management Team personnel are exercising for a major hurricane strike in the Galveston area. Members of the Texas Forest Service (TFS) Type 3 All Hazard Incident Management Team (AHIMT)

Hundreds of San Antonio residents celebrate Arbor Day at the Alamo

OD OD — Tue, 04 May 2010 14:42:41 GMT

May 4, 2010 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Standing on a platform in Alamo Plaza, Clay Bales looked out over the crowd that had gathered before him at the state’s most recognizable landmark to celebrate one of the state’s most

Dry conditions lead to increasing fire danger in Southeast Texas

OD OD — Wed, 12 May 2010 20:01:38 GMT

May 12, 2010 — LIVINGSTON, Texas — Texas Forest Service is sending fire crews and related resources to Southeast Texas, where extremely dry conditions are resulting in an increasing risk of dangerous wildfires. State wildland firefighters have battled 39 wildfires spanning

Houston students head to the forest to learn about nature

OD OD — Tue, 18 May 2010 21:31:14 GMT

May 13, 2010 — CONROE, Texas — Hundreds of Houston fourth graders are venturing out of the city and into the woods this week as part of Exploring Houston’s Backyard & Beyond at Jones State Forest in Conroe. The annual

Wildfire Academy underway in Lufkin

OD OD — Tue, 25 May 2010 14:36:57 GMT

May 25, 2010 — LUFKIN, Texas — Firefighters from across the nation have converged in this forested town for the 13th Annual East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy. Texas Forest Service is joining with the City of Lufkin and

New position in Temple helps Texas Forest Service better serve landowners

OD OD — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:39:12 GMT

June 21, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service has named a veteran forester to the new role of farm bill coordinator in an effort to foster partnerships with the Natural Resource Conservation and better serve landowners across

Texas Forest Service deploys incident management teams to South Texas for Tropical Storm Alex

OD OD — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:31:41 GMT

June 28, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service is sending nearly 50 emergency responders to South Texas in preparation for Tropical Storm Alex, which is expected to make landfall as a hurricane early Wednesday morning. The agency has mobilized

Texas Forest Service urges residents to use caution over July 4th holiday weekend

OD OD — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:16:33 GMT

For Immediate Release July 1, 2010 Texas Forest Service urges residents to use caution over July 4th holiday weekend COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Whether you’re shooting fireworks or just spending some time around the campfire, Texas Forest Service urges you

Texas Forest Service incident management teams wrapping up hurricane response in valley

OD OD — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 19:21:28 GMT

July 2, 2010 — McALLEN, Texas — As Hurricane Alex dissipates over Mexico, Texas Forest Service is beginning to wrap up emergency response efforts and hopes to begin sending crews home this weekend.Earlier this week, the state agency deployed three of

Wildland firefighter indicted on felony arson charge

OD OD — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:18:38 GMT

July 14, 2010 — KOUNTZE, Texas — A former Texas Forest Service wildland firefighter has been indicted by a Hardin County Grand Jury on a felony arson charge. Jeremy Mansfield, 27, was indicted this week in connection with a two acre

Davis to become USDA Forest Service Assistant Director for Urban and Community Forestry

OD OD — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 21:01:45 GMT

Texas Forest Service is known for producing quality people. We know it. You know it. And now the USDA Forest Service knows it, too. Texas Forest Service Planning and Forest Policy Coordinator Jan Davis has been tapped by the

Federal money available for longleaf pine forest owners

OD OD — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:45:09 GMT

July 21, 2010 — TEMPLE, Texas — Longleaf pine forests once covered much of East Texas — and they could again thanks to a federal program offering money to landowners who grow the trees on their property. The Natural Resource Conservation Service

Ecosystem services markets eventually could help landowners get paid for maintaining their forests

OD OD — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 15:40:59 GMT

Aug. 11, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The vast majority of forest owners would consider keeping their land forested if they got paid for doing so, according to a recently released Texas Forest Service survey. The findings were part

Fire activity likely to remain steady through September

OD OD — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 21:17:35 GMT

Aug. 26, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With temperatures hovering around the 100 degree mark, most Texans aren’t eager to head outside. But the last days of summer historically entice people outdoors — and with their excursions often come a spike

Don't be a bird brain: Keep fire safety in mind during dove season

OD OD — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:00:28 GMT

Sept. 1, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With much of Texas still hot and dry and wildfires continuing to spark up across the state, dove hunters should be especially careful when heading out this week for the season opener.

Fair weather, fire weather for East Texas

OD OD — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 15:24:44 GMT

October 2, 2010 LUFKIN, Texas Sunny skies, cool mornings and low relative humidity make enjoyable conditions for outdoor activities, and many residents will undoubtedly take advantage of the beautiful fall weather to enjoy the outdoors. State wildfire control leaders caution,

2010 Texas Tree Conference honors business, community and educational leaders from across the state

OD OD — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 18:41:27 GMT

Sept. 29, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A team of Galveston tree enthusiasts committed to reforesting the island after it was devastated by Hurricane Ike was honored for dedication to their urban forest during the 2010 Texas Tree Conference held

Bastrop Wildfire Academy aims to ready firefighters for a potentially devastating winter fire season

OD OD — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 17:59:35 GMT

Oct. 4, 2010 — BASTROP, Texas — With a potentially devastating wildfire season looming on the horizon, state officials are encouraging firefighters to head to Bastrop later this month for one of the nation’s largest wildfire academies. The 13th annual

Wildfires plague East Texas, conditions expected to worsen

OD OD — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 21:32:17 GMT

Oct. 7, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Firefighters from across the state are being stationed throughout East Texas, ready to battle a surge in wildfires predicted because of the ongoing, dry conditions in the region. With no rain in the forecast and

Texas Forest Service seeks information regarding recent rash of arson fires in East Texas

OD OD — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:25:17 GMT

Oct. 13, 2010 — LUFKIN, Texas — Texas Forest Service is investigating a recent spike in arson fires in East Texas. Since the beginning of the year, Texas Forest Service has responded to more than 600 fires, 94 of which were deemed

‘Emerging Communities’ workshop helps city officials avoid urban sprawl

OD OD — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:18:14 GMT

Oct. 19, 2010 — RICHARDSON, Texas — Your community is growing — fast. New homes are popping up. New businesses are opening their doors. New people are moving in. That’s a good thing. But it’s even better if you’re prepared

News Alert: Dangerous wildfire conditions predicted for Southeast Texas on Thursday

OD OD — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:28:48 GMT

Oct. 27, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Drought stricken Southeast Texas could see dangerous wildfires on Thursday as a cold front sweeps through the region, bringing with it gusty winds and dry conditions. Residents should be extremely careful when doing

News Update: Dangerous wildfire conditions in Southeast Texas

OD OD — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:39:29 GMT

Oct. 28, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — As predicted earlier this week, weather conditions today are ripe for wildfires in Southeast Texas. Texas Forest Service has stationed resources throughout the region to assist local and volunteer fire departments. At

News Update: Southeast Texas seeing no relief from dangerous wildfire conditions

OD OD — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 19:05:53 GMT

Oct. 29, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service is urging Southeast Texas residents to continue to use extreme caution in the coming days as conditions remain ripe for dangerous wildfires. With no relief in sight, Texas Forest Service is

Hundreds prepare for winter fire season at Bastrop wildfire academy

OD OD — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 21:10:47 GMT

Oct. 29, 2010 — BASTROP, Texas — Faced with the threat of a potentially devastating wildfire season, more than 350 firefighters gathered this week for training at the 12,000 acre Camp Swift in Bastrop. The Capital Area Interagency Wildfire Academy

Be aware of wildfire threat during hunting season

FRP FRP — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:49:23 GMT

Nov. 4, 2010 —COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service officials are urging caution as deer hunting season kicks off this weekend. Hunters should refrain from building campfires and debris burning during windy or dry conditions. More than 60 Texas counties

Awards presented to Texas Forest Service employees

FRP FRP — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:57:25 GMT

Nov. 19, 2010 – CROCKETT, Texas – Although the past year has presented hard work and challenges for Texas Forest Service employees, the agency united recently, renewing a commitment to service at its annual personnel meeting. Hundreds gathered

New World residents work to earn national recognition

FRP FRP — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 15:22:52 GMT

ETOILE, Texas — The New World community in southern Nacogdoches County is working to become the 37th in Texas to earn national recognition as a Firewise Community USA. Firewise communities are recognized for their efforts to reduce the risks to

Texas Forest Service employee wins Regents Award

OD OD — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:58:28 GMT

Dec. 3, 2010 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A longtime Texas Forest Service employee was honored Thursday for his work in protecting residents across the state from potentially deadly wildfires. Predictive Services Department Head Tom Spencer received the designation of

Smokey Bear Award presented to rock legend

FRP FRP — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 19:15:28 GMT

Dec. 8, 2010 — CRAWFORD, Texas — Texas Forest Service officials presented the prestigious Smokey Bear Award to rocker and lifelong conservationist Ted Nugent this week at his Spirit Wild Ranch near Crawford. Only five Smokey Bear Awards were presented nationally this

Officials brace for severe winter wildfire season

OD OD — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:58:25 GMT

Dec. 9, 2010 COLLEGE STATION, Texas A severe winter wildfire season is predicted for Texas, and officials say the public should be aware of the potential threat to their homes and businesses. National Weather Service meteorologists and Texas Forest Service

Galveston to plant 25,000 trees over the next five years

OD OD — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 23:50:52 GMT

Dec. 10, 2010 — GALVESTON, Texas — The Galveston City Council on Thursday signed off on a plan to reforest the island by planting 25,000 trees over the next five years. The island lost nearly half its tree canopy — more

Longleaf pine trees could mean big bucks for East Texas landowners

OD OD — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:14:52 GMT

Dec. 13, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — More than a half million dollars in federal grant money has been earmarked for East Texas landowners interested in reforesting the region with longleaf pine trees. Providing one of the most ecologically

Dangerous wildfire conditions predicted for West Texas

FRP FRP — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:54:43 GMT

MIDLAND, Texas — Drought conditions, high winds and low humidity are prompting Texas Forest Service officials to predict a high risk for wildfire Tuesday and Wednesday in West Texas. Texas Forest Service is stationing resources throughout the state. High risk

Disastrous wildfires could sweep across the Southern Plains this winter

OD OD — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:09:00 GMT

Dec. 16, 2010 — SOUTHERN PLAINS, Texas — The West Texas town of Cross Plains was decimated by a massive and deadly firestorm in 2005. Three months later, a similarly destructive firestorm forced the evacuation of seven communities in the

Holiday safety tips from Texas Forest Service

FRP FRP — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:35:06 GMT

Dec. 20, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Conditions are ripe for a severe winter wildfire season throughout Texas, and officials are cautioning residents to take precautions. Bruce Woods, mitigation and prevention department head for Texas Forest Service, said outdoor fires,

Eight graduate from Texas Forest Service leadership program

FRP FRP — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:35:34 GMT

Dec. 22, 2010 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Eight Texas Forest Service employees graduated this week from the agency’s first 18 month Leadership Enrichment Program. Graduates include District Forester Rich Dottellis, Regional Forester Joel Hambright, Program Coordinator Justice Jones, Program Coordinator

State poster contest helps teachers school their students about the benefits of trees

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:20:38 GMT

Jan. 12, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Fourth and fifth grade teachers tasked with educating their students about trees and the benefits they provide have a tool to help liven up their lessons — the 2011 Texas Arbor Day

Firefighters' insurance can be covered by grant funds

FRP FRP — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:12:38 GMT

Jan. 10, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Grant funding is now available through Texas Forest Service to reimburse eligible volunteer fire departments for worker’s compensation, death and or disability insurance purchased from Texas insurance companies. Reimbursement grants are provided through

Texas Forest Service to share resources with TAMU-Central Texas

FRP FRP — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:42:19 GMT

Jan. 18, 2011 — Killeen, TEXAS — Texas Forest Service and Texas A&M University Central Texas signed a shared services agreement Friday, Jan.14, formally recognizing an active commitment to increasing efficiencies, reducing expenses and building partnerships among Texas A&M University System

Free seedling giveaway planned at Lufkin Mall

FRP FRP — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 15:53:48 GMT

Jan. 24, 2011 — LUFKIN, Texas — In an effort to replenish trees lost to storm damage, officials with Texas Forest Service, Angelina Beautiful Clean and Campbell Timberland Management will give away more than 10,000 hardwood tree seedlings on Feb. 3.

Learn how to protect your home at Firewise town hall meeting

FRP FRP — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:03:59 GMT

Jan. 25, 2011 — WIMBERLEY, Texas — Residents in the area around Hays and Comal counties interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting on Feb. 10. The gathering is set for 6

Timber Tax Workshop details tax breaks available to forest landowners

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 20:47:10 GMT

Jan. 31, 2011 — DIBOLL, Texas — Money might just grow on trees for some Texas forest landowners thanks to the 2010 Tax Act, which extended existing tax breaks and added new ones for those growing and harvesting timber. Texas Forest

Texas Forest Service lends a hand at Super Bowl

FRP FRP — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 14:28:19 GMT

Jan. 31, 2011 — ARLINGTON, Texas — As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to take on the Green Bay Packers this weekend, Texas Forest Service is mobilizing an incident management team to support the state’s effort to coordinate and track resources for

Austin community makes strides toward preventing wildfires

FRP FRP — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:14:09 GMT

Feb. 8, 2011 — AUSTIN, Texas — Residents of the northwest Austin community Meadow Mountain on Buzzard Canyon recently teamed up with Texas Forest Service, Austin Fire Department and other agencies to take steps toward preventing dangerous wildfires in their community.

Texas Forest Service scores an agency win with service at Super Bowl

FRP FRP — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:55:48 GMT

A 12 member team of Texas Forest Service employees recently was commended for the professionalism and leadership exhibited while performing incident command duties at Super Bowl XLV. The group worked 16 hour days out of a Department

Texas Forest Service to present new engines to 8 fire departments

FRP FRP — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 14:15:20 GMT

Feb. 10, 2011 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) will deliver on Tuesday, Feb. 15 more than $800,000 worth of equipment to eight fire departments as part of a grant program administered

News Alert: Structural firefighters can get wildfire training at academy

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:00:26 GMT

Feb. 14, 2011 — BROWNWOOD, Texas — Texas Forest Service, in conjunction with Texas Army National Guard and Dam Volunteer Fire Department, is training local firefighters to respond to wildlfires quickly, effectively and safely. The ninth annual Brownwood Wildfire Academy

News Alert: Dangerous wildfire conditions possible throughout the state

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:42:10 GMT

Feb. 15, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With much of the state covered in parched, brown grass and brush, Texas Forest Service is warning residents who live along and west of the I 35 corridor to be prepared for

High-impact wildfire conditions predicted for Sunday

FRP FRP — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:32:45 GMT

Feb. 18, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service is mobilizing resources and preparing to respond to potential wildfires in North and West Texas this weekend – particularly Sunday – due to critical fire weather conditions. During the last

Learn how to protect your home at town hall meeting

FRP FRP — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:36:40 GMT

Feb. 23, 2011 — HUNT, Texas — Residents in Kerr County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting on March 5. The gathering is set for 10 a.m. at Hunt Methodist Church,

Dangerous wildfire conditions predicted for Texas on Sunday

FRP FRP — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:55:20 GMT

Feb. 25, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — On Sunday, high impact fire weather is predicted for the area west of I 35, particularly the West Texas Plains, according to experts with the National Weather Service and Texas Forest Service. In

Current Texas Wildfire Situation

FRP FRP — Fri, 24 May 2013 13:55:04 GMT

Friday, Feb. 25, 2011Texas Forest Service has responded to a request for one new fire as follows Jim Wells County Gus Canalas Fire N 27 19.693 W 98 04.232 The request came at 2 p.m. Estimated size is 300 acres.

Texas Forest Service strategically plans for wildfire response

FRP FRP — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 19:19:14 GMT

Feb. 27, 2011 – College Station, TEXAS – Six single engine air tankers, one heavy air tanker, 25 bulldozers, four wildland fire strike teams, 27 fireline supervisors and a six person fire prevention team are just a fraction of the

Texas Forest Service Predictive Services: At their best when conditions are at their worst

FRD2 FRD2 — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 20:51:57 GMT

Feb. 27, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Every day Predictive Services Department Head Tom Spencer and his team study weather patterns, drought conditions and the status of vegetation across the state. They gather wind speeds and moisture levels from

Use Texas Forest Service resources to assess wildfire risk

FRP FRP — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 23:38:15 GMT

Texas wildfires can be unpredictable, and can turn into wind driven freight trains in the blink of an eye. The state of Texas – particularly the western region – is experiencing unseasonably high winds, high temperatures and low humidity, causing

News Alert: Several Southern Plains communities evacuating as wildfires spread

FRD2 FRD2 — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 00:06:59 GMT

Feb. 27, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service and the Department of Public Safety have received initial reports that several communities in the Southern Plains are evacuating as wildfires rage across the state. Howard CountyPortions of Big Spring

Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System activated in advance of Sunday’s predicted wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 21:08:29 GMT

Feb. 26, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Sixteen fire engines from departments across the state are being stationed throughout West Texas in preparation for potentially devastating wildfire conditions expected Sunday. The engines — brush trucks specifically designed to battle

Texas Forest Service wins statewide award

FRP FRP — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:04:21 GMT

March 2, 2011 – GALVESTON, Texas – Texas Forest Service was honored Wednesday by the Texas Fire Chiefs Association for its efforts in administering and promoting the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS). Through the TIFMAS program, Texas Forest Service

Attention Dallas-Fort Worth Families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 20:46:42 GMT

March 3, 2011 — DALLAS — The statistics are staggering. Kids now spend an average of 45 hours each week — more time than their parents spend at work — in front of a computer or television screen. It’s time to

West Texas could see more dangerous wildfire Tuesday

FRP FRP — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:25:24 GMT

March 7, 2011 – College Station, TEXAS – Just slightly more than a week after devastating wildfire ripped through West Texas, forecasters are predicting similar conditions on Tuesday and encouraging residents in the affected area to be prepared to evacuate. Beginning

Dangerous wildfire conditions predicted near the Texas Panhandle on Thursday

OD OD — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 20:59:32 GMT

March 16, 2011 – College Station, TEXAS – Texas Forest Service officials are predicting that weather conditions on Thursday, March 17, could lead to dangerous wildfire in the Texas Panhandle and north and west of a dry line from Wichita

Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling offers free fun for Southeast Texas families

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:47:12 GMT

March 17, 2011 — CONROE, Texas — Calling all nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, home owners and landowners It’s time for the annual Texas Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling. Expo & Spring Fling is designed to help families

High-impact wildfire conditions expected Tuesday in West Texas, Panhandle

FRP FRP — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 20:15:45 GMT

March 21, 2011 – Beginning around noon Tuesday, extremely critical fire weather conditions are predicted west of Big Bend, San Angelo and Wichita Falls, including major cities such as Lubbock, Childress, Abilene, Midland, Odessa and Amarillo. Texas Forest Service officials

Attention Central Texas families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:56:50 GMT

March 22, 2011 — DALLAS — The statistics are staggering. Kids now spend an average of 45 hours each week — more time than their parents spend at work — in front of a computer or television screen. It’s time

Spring in the Hill Country is prime time for spread of deadly oak wilt disease

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:08:04 GMT

March 23, 2011 — AUSTIN, Texas — The big, beautiful live oaks that line your street and shade your home aren’t indefensible. There’s a silent killer that at this very moment could be creeping down your block, one yard at

Red flag warnings issued

FRP FRP — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:41:08 GMT

March 24, 2011 – Red flag warnings – cautioning conditions ideal for wildland fire ignition – were issued today for North Central Texas, including the cities of Mineral Wells, Comanche, Lampasas and Temple. Areas to the east, including Dallas Fort

Texas Forest Service fire behavior analyst wins Vice Chancellor’s Award

FRP FRP — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 18:34:09 GMT

March 25, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service Fire Behavior Analyst Brad Smith was honored Friday with a Texas A&M University Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence. The award was presented by Mark Hussey, Texas A&M AgriLife and Life

Outdoor burning can spark dangerous wildfires

FRP FRP — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 17:08:32 GMT

March 28, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than 520,000 acres of Texas land have been burned this year by wildfires, many of which started when an outdoor burn got out of control. A burn ban does not have to

Learn Firewise principles at town hall meeting

FRP FRP — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:39:29 GMT

April 4, 2011 – WINK, Texas – Residents in Winkler County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting on April 11. The gathering is set for 6 30 p.m. at Wink Park,

Elevated fire weather concerns this week

FRP FRP — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 19:37:21 GMT

April 5, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Critical fire weather components, extremely dry vegetation and widespread drought are combining across the state this week to create fire danger conditions at least through Sunday, according to officials with Texas Forest Service.

Conditions in place for dangerous wildfire this weekend

FRP FRP — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 18:44:26 GMT

April 11, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A 50,000 acre fire in Stonewall County jumped the Brazos River on Thursday and spread 12 miles in four hours. That’s what Texans can expect throughout the weekend, as critical drought conditions, high temperatures

Wildfire weather imminent for Sunday

OD OD — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 18:05:15 GMT

April 9, 2011 –COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Wildfire weather conditions on Sunday could shape up to be among the worst in Texas history. With the weather in control, local emergency responders and state agencies ready for extremely active wildfire activity

April is Wildfire Awareness Month

FRP FRP — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 17:38:36 GMT

April 12, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than 983,000 acres of Texas land have burned so far this year, a result of dangerous, rapidly spreading wildfire. April is Wildfire Awareness Month, and Texas Forest Service’s prevention and mitigation staff

Governor commends Texas Forest Service response

FRP FRP — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 01:01:46 GMT

April 12, 2011 – MERKEL, Texas – Texas Gov. Rick Perry visited Texas Forest Service’s Incident Command Post in Merkel on Tuesday after taking an aerial tour of West Texas wildfire damage. Joined by Texas Forest Service Incident Commander Gary Bennett,

Large area of Texas at risk Thursday as wildfire conditions are expected to worsen

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:11:30 GMT

April 13, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — In the last week, massive wildfires raging across Texas have charred nearly a half million acres — and that figure is likely to grow as conditions are expected to get even worse Thursday.

Learn how to protect your home from wildfire

FRP FRP — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:37:02 GMT

April 18, 2011 – TULIA, Texas – Residents in Swisher County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting on April 26. The gathering is set for 7 p.m. at the Tulia High

Texas receiving additional aerial support for wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:21:13 GMT

April 18, 2011 – MIDLAND, Texas –Texas Forest Service has ordered additional aerial resources to help battle the wildfires ravaging the Lone Star State. In an effort to slow the spread of the flames, ground crews already have been utilizing some

Attention Houston-area families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:01:28 GMT

April 25, 2011 — HOUSTON — The statistics are staggering. Kids now spend an average of 45 hours each week — more time than their parents spend at work — in front of a computer or television screen. It’s time

Critical wildfire conditions predicted on Tuesday

FRP FRP — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:12:46 GMT

April 25, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Dry, windy conditions today are expected to create ideal conditions for wildfires in the western portions of Texas, a situation expected to worsen on Tuesday. Local emergency responders and state agencies are preparing

Texas Forest Service issues call for famous tree nominees

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:57:23 GMT

April 26, 2011 — BRECKENRIDGE, Texas — Nestled in the midst of the hot, dry, wind swept plains of Stephens County sits an gnarled old oak that has been providing refuge for passing travelers for more than a century. So the

Texas Forest Service to celebrate trees at State Arbor Day celebration in Pearland

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:15:56 GMT

April 26, 2011 — PEARLAND, Texas — As an urban forester, Mickey Merritt is no stranger to trees and the importance of planting them. Newly planted trees will one day provide much needed shade for homes and businesses. They’ll

Critical wildfire conditions expected to occur today

FRP FRP — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:38:23 GMT

April 29, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Critical fire weather conditions are expected this afternoon across an area of Texas west of a line from Wichita Falls to Abilene to Fredericksburg to Del Rio. Unusually high winds already are occurring

Texas Forest Service continues to foster partnership in Galveston

FRD2 FRD2 — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 18:04:31 GMT

April 30, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — When Hurricane Ike ripped through Galveston Island in 2008, Texas Forest Service wasted no time stepping up to assist with recovery efforts. Urban Forestry Partnership Coordinator Pete Smith and Bayou Region

Officials gather in Pearland to celebrate the state’s 122nd Arbor Day

FRD2 FRD2 — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 17:06:29 GMT

April 30, 2011— PEARLAND, Texas — With a firm grasp on their shovels, Texas Forest Service Director Tom Boggus and seven fellow tree aficionados ceremoniously piled mulch around the base of a newly planted tree on Friday, formalizing the celebration

Attention West Texas families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 02 May 2011 17:11:22 GMT

May 2, 2011 — FORT DAVIS, Texas — The statistics are staggering. Kids now spend an average of 45 hours each week — more time than their parents spend at work — in front of a computer or television screen. It’s

Learn to protect your home from wildfire at town hall meeting

FRP FRP — Thu, 05 May 2011 14:56:46 GMT

May 5, 2011 – WEST TEXAS – Residents in Brewster and Presidio counties interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to two town hall meetings next week. Meetings are set for Tuesday, May 10, at the Brewster

Nacogdoches student wins Texas Arbor Day Poster Contest

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 04 May 2011 16:21:06 GMT

April 29, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Fredonia Elementary School student Katherine Simpers has been named the winner of the Texas Arbor Day Poster Contest. Texas Forest Service coordinates the annual poster contest, which is open to fourth and fifth

Fire recovery information meeting scheduled in Fort Davis

FRP FRP — Fri, 06 May 2011 15:59:11 GMT

May 6, 2011 – FORT DAVIS, Texas – As Fort Davis residents recover from a devastating wildfire that burned more than 300,000 acres over the past several weeks, Texas Forest Service officials are planning a meeting to let residents know what

Critical fire weather hampers containment efforts in Northwest Texas

OD OD — Sun, 08 May 2011 18:26:33 GMT

May 8, 2011 – MERKEL, Texas – More than 200 federal, state and local resources are working on the 65,000 acre Dickens County Complex burning approximately 73 miles east of Lubbock. The complex fire began as two separate wildfires Edwards

Workshop scheduled for Possum Kingdom-area residents

FRP FRP — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:52:23 GMT

May10, 2011 – PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas – Landowners in Young, Stephens and Palo Pinto counties affected by recent wildfires are invited to a workshop May 19 to learn how to restore their properties in the aftermath of a devastating disaster.

Critical wildfire conditions expected today in Texas Panhandle

FRP FRP — Wed, 11 May 2011 16:26:23 GMT

May 11, 2011 – WEST TEXAS – The National Weather Service forecast for today shows potential for high impact fire weather over the Panhandle area of Texas. An area of extreme concern is west of a line from Wichita

Firefighters to hone skills at wildfire academy in Lufkin

FRP FRP — Thu, 12 May 2011 13:46:29 GMT

May 12, 2011 — LUFKIN, Texas — Firefighters from across the nation will gather next week for the 14th Annual East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy. Texas Forest Service is joining with the City of Lufkin and Angelina College

Town hall meetings set in Williamson County

FRP FRP — Tue, 17 May 2011 12:55:29 GMT

May 16, 2011 – TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas – Residents in Travis County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to two town hall meetings this month. Meetings are set for 6 30 p.m. Thursday, May 19, at

Attention San Antonio-area families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:56:26 GMT

May 18, 2011 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The statistics are staggering. Kids now spend an average of 45 hours each week — more time than their parents spend at work — in front of a computer or television screen. It’s

Critical wildfire conditions predicted for Tuesday

FRP FRP — Mon, 23 May 2011 18:46:41 GMT

May 23, 2011 – WEST TEXAS – Extremely dry, windy conditions in West Texas and the Panhandle are expected to worsen Tuesday, increasing the potential for wildfires. Unprecedented drought conditions across the state, combined with low humidity

Planning the Urban Forest workshop stresses value of trees

FRP FRP — Wed, 25 May 2011 17:27:23 GMT

May 25, 2011 — WACO, Texas — You know trees are important, but just how much are they really worth to you and your community? You can find out at the Planning the Urban Forest workshop scheduled for Thursday, June 2,

Wildfire academy wraps up in Lufkin

FRP FRP — Fri, 27 May 2011 14:49:40 GMT

May 27, 2011 – LUFKIN, Texas – Over the past few months, more than 2 million acres of Texas land have burned – and volunteer firefighters were the first to respond, risking their lives to save others from harm.

Learn to protect your community from wildfires

FRP FRP — Fri, 27 May 2011 20:03:37 GMT

May 27, 2011 – CEDAR HILL, Texas – A free summit designed to teach civic leaders how to better prepare their communities for potentially devastating wildfires is set for June 7 8. The Wildland Urban Interface Summit will help educate officials

Firewise town hall meetings set in Williamson County

FRP FRP — Mon, 30 May 2011 14:14:35 GMT

May 29, 2011 – WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas – Residents in Williamson County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to two town hall meetings next week. Meetings are set for 6 30 p.m. Wednesday, June 1, at

Texas Forest Service expertise requested in Missouri tragedy

FRP FRP — Mon, 30 May 2011 14:22:13 GMT

May 30, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – At the request of Missouri emergency management officials, Texas Forest Service is sending personnel to the Joplin area to assist with incident management and logistics. Texas Forest Service, a member of the Texas

Longleaf pine workshop planned for Diboll

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:19:18 GMT

June 1, 2011 — DIBOLL, Texas — Texas Forest Service is offering a free workshop next month for landowners interested in growing longleaf pine on their property. Landowners & Longleaf Growing Longleaf for Timber, Wildlife and Aesthetics will focus on

Caldwell County: Learn to protect your home from wildfire

FRP FRP — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:50:40 GMT

June 3, 2011 – CALDWELL COUNTY, Texas – Residents in Caldwell County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a series of town hall meetings this month. Meetings are set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 14,

Firewise Town Hall Meeting next week in Boerne

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 17:41:07 GMT

June 10, 2011 — BOERNE, Texas — Residents interested in learning how to better protect themselves from wildfires are invited to a town hall meeting next week in Boerne. The Firewise Town Hall Meeting is designed to help residents learn

New fire engines to be presented to 8 Texas departments

FRP FRP — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:12:56 GMT

June 14, 2011 – SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) will deliver this week more than $800,000 worth of equipment to eight fire departments as part of a grant program administered through Texas Forest Service.

Fire recovery workshop planned for Amarillo-area residents

FRP FRP — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:06:17 GMT

June 15, 2011 – AMARILLO, Texas – Landowners in Potter and Randall counties who have been affected by recent wildfires are invited to a workshop June 28 to learn how to restore their land in the aftermath of a disaster. Almost

Wildfire prepareness meeting scheduled in San Angelo area

FRP FRP — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:57:36 GMT

June 16, 2011 – SAN ANGELO, Texas – Residents in the San Angelo area interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a Christoval town hall meeting later this month. The meeting is set for 7 p.m.

Texas Forest Service can help with trees damaged by wildfire, drought

FRP FRP — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:04:40 GMT

June 16, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The driest seven month period recorded in Texas history occurred from October 2010 through April 2011 – and it’s taken a toll on the state’s trees and plants. How dry is it? To

Dangerous wildfire chars East Texas

FRP FRP — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 20:09:59 GMT

June 19, 2011 – LIVINGSTON, Texas – Firefighters from at least nine different agencies continued Sunday to battle the massive Bearing Fire in Trinity and Polk counties. The 14,000 acre blaze is the third largest fire in East Texas history. The

Update on Bearing Fire

FRP FRP — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 22:17:07 GMT

June 20, 2011 – GROVETON, Texas – Now on record as the largest fire in East Texas history, the “Bearing Fire” has burned approximately 18,200 acres along the eastern edge of Trinity County, and western boundary of Polk County. The

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Leander

FRP FRP — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:19:45 GMT

June 20, 2011 – LEANDER, Texas – Residents in the Leander area interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting this week. The meeting is set for 7 p.m. Friday, June 24, at

Use caution to protect lives and property from wildfire

FRP FRP — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:24:59 GMT

June 20, 2011 – GRIMES COUNTY, Texas – At least 26 homes were destroyed in the Dyer Mill Fire in Grimes County on Sunday, bringing the total of homes and buildings destroyed by wildfire to nearly 2,000 across the state since

Bearing and Power Line fires combined into 'East Texas Complex'

FRP FRP — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 21:30:36 GMT

June 21, 2011 – GROVETON, Texas – The Bearing Fire in Polk and Trinity counties is now being managed in conjunction with another fire, the Power Line Fire, burning south of Lake Sam Rayburn in Jasper County. As of today, management

Texas Forest Service urges caution over July 4 holiday weekend

FRP FRP — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:37:24 GMT

June 22, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – With extremely dry conditions across the state, Texas Forest Service is urging Texans to use caution when celebrating the upcoming July 4 holiday weekend. It doesn’t take much to ignite a potentially devastating

Update on East Texas complex fires

FRP FRP — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:14:42 GMT

June 22, 2011 –EAST TEXAS – The East Texas Complex now comprises three fires – Dyer Mills in Grimes County, Bearing in Trinity and Polk counties and Power Line in Jasper County. The addition of the Dyer Mills Fire brings the

All evacuation orders lifted on Grimes County fire

FRP FRP — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:53:08 GMT

June 23, 2011 –PLANTERSVILLE, Texas – Local officials and fire managers announced this afternoon that all evacuation orders for the Dyer Mill Fire are lifted as of 2 30 p.m. June 23. Residents are allowed to return home. The fire is

Texas Forest Service releases economic impact estimates on Dyer Mills, Bearing fires

FRP FRP — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 19:12:01 GMT

June 25, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Significant damage to forest land, timber and the environment was reported on two major Texas fires this week, causing estimated losses that total millions of dollars. The Dyer Mill Fire in Grimes County

Fire recovery workshop planned for Hardin and Tyler counties

FRP FRP — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:54:38 GMT

June 27, 2011 – WILDWOOD, Texas – Landowners in Hardin and Tyler counties who have been affected by recent wildfires are invited to a workshop July 7 to learn how to restore their land in the aftermath of a disaster. More

Use caution over holiday weekend

FRP FRP — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:21:38 GMT

June 28, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Most Texas counties are experiencing severe drought, and it’s important to keep in mind this holiday weekend that just a little spark can start a massive wildfire. Texas Forest Service continues to

Texas remains under severe drought conditions

FRP FRP — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 20:10:50 GMT

June 30, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A whopping 97 percent of the Lone Star State is in the midst of a drought, with almost three quarters facing exceptionally bad conditions, according to a national report released Thursday. The National

Landowners: Act fast to salvage fire-damaged timber

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:03:06 GMT

July 1, 2011 — LUFKIN, Texas — Landowners who depend on harvesting timber for a living can feel devastated when a wildfire sweeps through their forest. But all is not lost — fire damaged timber can be salvaged if landowners act

Ag commissioner promotes wildfire prevention

FRP FRP — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 13:40:40 GMT

July 2, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service released a public service announcement this week featuring Commissioner of Agriculture Todd Staples urging citizens to “stand strong for Texas,” and keep our state safe from wildfires. Approximately 90 percent

President signs disaster declaration

FRP FRP — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 21:44:17 GMT

It was announced Friday, July 1, that President Barack Obama signed a disaster declaration covering 45 Texas counties during the period of April 6 to May 3. We’re grateful for the support of both the president and the governor, as

Living green when everything is turning brown: Tips to help your trees survive a drought

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:21:41 GMT

July 6, 2011 — CONROE, Texas — You’ve listened to the experts, taken classes and done everything from mulching to spraying to soaking to standing on your head. You might have even done a rain dance. And still, your tree —

Jasper County fire destroyed more than $2 million worth of timber

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:19:16 GMT

July 8, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — More than $2 million worth of timber was destroyed last month in Jasper County, where thousands of acres were ravaged by just one wildfire. The Powerline Fire burned for more than

Help available for property recovery after a wildfire

OD OD — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 16:02:29 GMT

July 11, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas East Texas timber growers may be in need of assistance after recent wildfires destroyed millions of dollars worth of their timber. Texas Forest Service offers technical assistance to landowners year round. Landowners seeking

Bureau of Land Management firefighter dies while working on Texas blaze

FRP FRP — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:36:11 GMT

July 8, 2011 – PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas – A 24 year old Idaho man died Thursday afternoon while working on the 337 Fire near Mineral Wells, Texas. Caleb Hamm was a member of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Bonneville

Recovery workshop scheduled for those affected by Dyer Mill wildfire

FRP FRP — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 17:21:08 GMT

July 12, 2011 – STONEHAM, Texas – Residents affected by the recent Dyer Mill Fire in Grimes County are invited to a natural resources recovery workshop Friday, July 15, from 6 to 9 p.m. The meeting will be at St.

Caldwell County residents invited to Firewise meeting

FRP FRP — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:58:37 GMT

July 13, 2011 – LOCKHART, Texas – Residents in Caldwell County interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting this month. The gathering is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, July 21, at the

Recovery workshop scheduled for those affected by Bearing wildfire

FRP FRP — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:07:54 GMT

July 13 – APPLE SPRINGS, Texas – Residents affected by the recent Bearing Fire in Trinity and Polk counties are invited to a natural resources recovery workshop Friday, July 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. The meeting will be at Apple

Call 811 before digging near utility lines

FRP FRP — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 21:16:45 GMT

July 25, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service is joining Texas811 to encourage landowners to “know what’s below, call before you dig.” Texas811 is a one call notification service that works to prevent damage to buried utilities. “Landowner

Veteran foresters tapped to help lead Texas Forest Service

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:20:25 GMT

July 22, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents on Friday named two veteran foresters as seconds in command of Texas Forest Service. Bill Oates was named

If you've seen rain, you could still see fire

FRP FRP — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 19:00:42 GMT

July 26, 2011 – LUFKIN, Texas – Although East Texas has seen sporadic rainfall over the past several days, Texas Forest Service officials are cautioning residents that fire danger still exists throughout the state. The National Drought Monitor shows most of

Baseball legend promotes wildfire prevention

FRP FRP — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:06:42 GMT

July 27, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service released a public service announcement this week featuring baseball pitching legend Nolan Ryan urging citizens to take personal responsibility in helping prevent wildfires. Since wildfire season started on Nov.

Vote for Galveston: Island in the running for tree-planting scholarship

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:04:12 GMT

Aug. 5, 2011 — GALVESTON, Texas — The beautiful, green tree canopy that once shaded Galveston Island was nearly wiped out three years ago when devastating Hurricane Ike slammed into the coastline. Since then, civic leaders and community volunteers have worked

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Jarrell

FRP FRP — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:28:32 GMT

Aug. 8, 2011 – JARRELL, Texas – Residents in the Williamson County area interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting later this month. The meeting is set for 7 p.m. Thursday,

Attention Coastal Bend families: It’s time to get outside and connected with nature

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:13:26 GMT

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Smokey hot air balloon to be featured at Highland Village festival

FRP FRP — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:37:50 GMT

Aug. 12, 2011 – HIGHLAND VILLAGE, Texas – The famous Smokey Bear hot air balloon is visiting Texas for the first time. Texas Forest Service, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, is joining the Highland Village Lions Club for the

Don’t depend on Mother Nature to water your drought-stricken trees

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:28:57 GMT

Aug. 12, 2011 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas — With the Lone Star State mired in a record breaking drought, the parched trees that dot the landscape can no longer depend solely on Mother Nature to quench their thirst. Just like people,

West Texas firefighters honored

FRP FRP — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:35:22 GMT

Aug. 15, 2011 – MIDLAND, Texas – In recognition of their heroism, sacrifice and ongoing service to the people of West Texas, volunteer firefighters from 12 Permian Basin communities were honored by Chevron in an event at the Midland

Smokey hot air balloon makes first Texas flight at Highland Village festival

FRP FRP — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:01:41 GMT

Aug. 22, 2011 – HIGHLAND VILLAGE, Texas – The famous Smokey Bear hot air balloon made its first launch in Texas on Sunday, with hundreds of spectators observing the event at the 24th annual Lions Club Balloon Festival and

Northeast Texas wildfire update

FRP FRP — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 17:09:41 GMT

Aug. 23, 2011 – LINDEN, Texas – Wildfire activity is on the rise in Northeast Texas as the state continues to experience critical drought conditions. As of Aug. 18, Texas Forest Service crews in the northeast part of the state have

As hunting season begins, keep fire safety in mind

FRP FRP — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 16:03:15 GMT

Aug. 29, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – With much of Texas still hot and dry and wildfires continuing to ignite across the state, dove hunters should be especially careful when heading out this week for the season opener. Fire activity

Texas football coaches promote wildfire prevention

FRP FRP — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:00:09 GMT

Aug. 30, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service released a public service announcement this week featuring Big 12 Football Coaches Mike Sherman, Mack Brown, Art Briles and Tommy Tuberville reminding Texans that they, too, can help prevent wildfires.

Texans to help New York in aftermath of Hurricane Irene

FRP FRP — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:10:59 GMT

Aug. 31, 2011 — Six members from Texas’ All Hazard Incident Management Teams were deployed Wednesday to Albany, New York, to aid in Hurricane Irene response efforts. Managed by Texas Forest Service, the teams — also called IMTs — are designed

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Bastrop

FRP FRP — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 18:51:16 GMT

BASTROP, Texas – Residents in the Bastrop County area interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting this month. The meeting, part of the Bastrop YMCA’s presentation series “Mondays that Matter,” is

News Alert: New video details best watering methods for drought-stricken trees

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 21:35:50 GMT

Sept. 2, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With a forecast of triple digit temperatures and no rain in sight, the trees in your yard likely need a little TLC, and water is the best way to show the love. Texas

Critical fire weather forecast for Saturday and Sunday

FRP FRP — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 17:51:00 GMT

Sept. 3, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Strong winds and low humidity are forecast in Texas this weekend, combined with critically dry vegetation, prompting Texas Forest Service officials to prepare for potentially dangerous wildfires. Critical fire

Ready, Set, Go: Learn how to protect your home

FRP FRP — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:21:31 GMT

If you live in a wildfire prone area, there are programs — Ready, Set, Go and Firewise Communities — that can help you and your family stay safe should a fire rage through your community. Ready, Set, Go helps you

DC-10 works Riley Road Fire

FRP FRP — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 23:22:37 GMT

Sept. 8, 2011 — AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Forest Service has called in a DC 10 airtanker to help battle the wildfires raging across the state. The tanker can drop more than 11,000 gallons of retardant at a time, spreading a swath three

Re-entry plan established for Bastrop County residents affected by wildfire

FRP FRP — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 21:07:38 GMT

Sunday, September 11, 2011, 3 30 PM Bastrop County Sheriff Pickering announced at a press conference Sunday at the Bastrop Convention Center that a re entry plan has been established that will allow only registered residents with placards re entry

Poster contest helps students fall for trees

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 13:59:13 GMT

Sept. 13, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Fourth and fifth grade teachers tasked with educating their students about trees and the benefits they provide have a tool to help liven up their lessons — the 2011 12 Texas Arbor Day

News Alert: Forest landowners urged to be wary of timber scams

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:53:41 GMT

Sept. 13, 2011 — GILMER, Texas — If the drought doesn’t get you, a scam might. Texas Forest Service is urging East Texas landowners to watch out for scam artists attempting to swindle them out of their trees. Authorities generally see

Lawmakers provide additional funding for volunteer fire departments

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:29:30 GMT

Sept. 15, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Gov. Rick Perry, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Texas House Speaker Joe Straus requested that Texas Forest Service expedite the distribution of $27 million for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program

Bastrop residents encouraged to clear debris around their homes

FRP FRP — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:25:38 GMT

Sept. 20, 2011 – BASTROP, Texas – Bastrop residents who live in the area affected by a recent 34,000 plus acre wildfire are encouraged to clear recently fallen pine needles and other debris from around their property. When pine trees are

Bastrop Fire investigation concluded

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:59:24 GMT

Sept. 20, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service has completed the investigation of the Bastrop County Complex Fire. It has been determined that the cause of the fire was most likely electrical in nature. A copy of

East Texas wildfires destroy $97 million worth of timber

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 20:49:35 GMT

Sept. 21, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — East Texas is deeply rooted in the timber industry — and during the last 10 months, wildfires have wiped out more than $97 million worth of the region’s trees. Since wildfire season

Proper landscaping can help protect your home from wildfire

FRP FRP — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:07:41 GMT

Sept. 23, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than 2,700 homes have been destroyed since Texas wildfire season began last November – but there are steps you can take to help protect your property. Firewise Communities is a program that

News Alert: Extremely critical fire weather conditions predicted Sunday for most of Texas

FRD2 FRD2 — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 18:36:23 GMT

Sept. 24, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A cold front is expected to move into Texas on Sunday afternoon, creating dangerous wildfire conditions for much of the state. Warm temperatures, dry air and gusty winds are expected to push through

Media Advisory: Guidelines for media aircraft flying over wildfires

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:49:49 GMT

Sept. 26, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With scores of firefighting aircraft crisscrossing the state, Texas Forest Service is requesting media helicopters obtain clearance before flying over wildfires to ensure everyone’s safety. Media helicopters often fly over wildfires hoping to

News Alert: Dangerous wildfire conditions expected through the fall

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 18:07:18 GMT

Sept. 27, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Dangerous wildfire conditions that have plagued Texas for nearly a year are expected to continue through the fall and possibly into the winter, according to a recent wildfire risk assessment report. Texas remains mired

Dangerous wildfire conditions predicted for Friday

FRP FRP — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:33:01 GMT

Sept. 29, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Critical fire weather conditions are forecast Friday for a large portion of Texas, east of a line from Childress to Midland to Van Horn. Warm temperatures, dry air and gusty winds are expected.

After the Fire: Assessing pine tree damage in Bastrop County

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 18:57:05 GMT

Oct. 4, 2011 — BASTROP, Texas — Long before wildfire ravaged Bastrop County, drought had already begun to take its toll on the mighty pine trees that dot the landscape. After one of the driest years on record, many broadleaved

Fire safety rules important for hunters and outdoorsmen

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:23:20 GMT

Oct. 6, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With Texas still mired in a record breaking drought and no real relief in sight, hunters and other outdoorsmen must be especially careful when heading out to take part in their favorite

Nearly 1.5 million trees expected to die after wildfire ravages Bastrop County

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:41:41 GMT

Oct. 6, 2011 — BASTROP, Texas — Once known for its vast fields of stately pines, Bastrop County could lose 1.5 million trees as a result of deadly wildfire that ravaged the community last month. The Bastrop County Complex —

Fire Prevention Week serves as a reminder to protect your home from wildfire

FRP FRP — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:13 GMT

Oct. 7, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A wildfire can be a dangerous force of nature that will, at times, destroy anything in its path – but you can take measures to help protect your home. During Wildfire Prevention

Bastrop wildfire academy aims to prepare firefighters

FRP FRP — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:07:16 GMT

Oct. 10, 2011 – BASTROP, Texas – Starting Friday, firefighters will head en masse to Camp Swift in Bastrop, just 3 miles from where one of the state’s most devastating wildfires occurred on Labor Day weekend. This time, though, their assignment will

East Texas timber salvageable after wildfire

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:03:19 GMT

Oct. 12, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — More than one third of the nearly 36 million cubic feet of timber killed earlier this year by wildfires in Grimes, Jasper, Trinity and Polk counties has been salvaged, according to Texas

News conference scheduled in Bastrop on Thursday

FRP FRP — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:15:53 GMT

Texas Parks and Wildlife and Texas Forest Service have scheduled a news conference for 11 a.m. Thursday at Bastrop State Park to make an announcement concerning the wildfire recovery effort and to update the public on damage assessments and park

Meadows Foundation gives $850,000 for Bastrop wildfire recovery

FRP FRP — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:51:20 GMT

Oct. 13, 2011 – BASTROP, Texas – The Dallas based Meadows Foundation is making $850,000 available to help with the recovery effort in the aftermath of the devastating Bastrop County wildfire that burned much of Bastrop State Park. “This gift, which

Wildfires still a potential threat in areas where burn bans are lifted

FRP FRP — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:49:50 GMT

Oct. 13, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Recent rains have prompted county government officials to lift burn bans in 17 Texas counties over the past week, but the risk of wildfire is still a concern, according to Texas Forest

Media Advisory: Bastrop Wildfire Academy hosts media day on Wednesday

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:41:55 GMT

Oct. 17, 2011 – BASTROP, Texas – Less than two months after the most destructive wildfire in state history, firefighters have returned en mass to the community of Bastrop for a wildfire academy and media is invited to a hands

Preventing erosion after a fire

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 21:13:22 GMT

When a wildfire rages across your land, it often burns through the trees, plants and leaf litter covering the ground, sometimes leaving nothing behind but the scorched soil underneath.Trees, vegetation and leaf litter generally serve as a sort of buffer

Reforesting after the fire

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 21:15:24 GMT

With Texas mired in an unrelenting drought and no end in sight, it’s not the most ideal time to plant new trees. But you won’t want to wait until the drought breaks before beginning to reforest your land — especially

U.S. Forest Service director visits Lufkin incident command post

FRP FRP — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:54:37 GMT

Oct. 19, 2011 – LUFKIN, Texas – Tom Harbour, director of fire and aviation management for the USDA Forest Service, visited the Southeast Texas Fire Complex Incident Command Post in Lufkin on Tuesday. Harbour toured the post at Texas Forest

Wildfire Salvage Operations

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:58:12 GMT

Wildfire Salvage Operations The 2011 Texas wildfire season has left a wide swath of destruction in its wake — millions of acres of forest and rangeland have been charred, thousands of homes have been destroyed and several people were even

2011 Texas Tree Conference honors tree lovers from across the state

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:15:57 GMT

Oct. 31, 2011 — WACO, Texas — A longtime arborist from Austin was among several civic leaders and government officials from across the state to be honored for their dedication to trees during the 2011 Texas Tree Conference held earlier

Texas Forest Service honors employees

FRP FRP — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 20:54:20 GMT

Nov. 11, 2011 – CROCKETT, Texas – Hundreds of Texas Forest Service employees gathered Thursday to recognize the past year’s accomplishments at the agency’s annual personnel meeting and awards ceremony. Sponsored by the Texas Farm Bureau, the event provided an

Shell and Motiva donate to volunteer fire departments

FRP FRP — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:58:19 GMT

Nov. 15, 2011 – MAGNOLIA, Texas – Shell Oil Company and Motiva Enterprises will present a $150,000 donation and an additional $10,000 in fuel gift cards on Wednesday to Texas Forest Service’s Volunteer Fire Department assistance fund. A brief donation ceremony

Texas Forest Service honored for wildfire response

FRP FRP — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:20:22 GMT

Nov. 15, 2011 – WASHINGTON, D.C. – Texas Forest Service was honored this week with a Government Excellence Award for its response to the devastating Bastrop wildfire. The award was presented Monday evening at the Government Security News 2011 Homeland

NASA astronaut to make special presentation at Texas Forest Service

FRP FRP — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:28:08 GMT

Nov. 17, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A NASA astronaut will visit Texas Forest Service headquarters next week to thank the group for its work in the recovery effort after the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. NASA astronaut Col. Tim

Land O’Lakes donates to volunteer fire departments

FRP FRP — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:09:16 GMT

Nov. 23, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Land O’Lakes Inc. Foundation presented a $10,000 donation this week to Texas Forest Service’s Volunteer Fire Department assistance fund. A brief donation ceremony was held in the office of Mark Hussey, Texas

Will my tree make it? Assessing pine and shade tree damage from drought

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:40:42 GMT

Nov. 29, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas remains mired in one of the worst droughts in state history and it’s creating disastrous effects on trees and forests across the state.After one of the driest years on record, many

Texas Forest Service headquarters to change locations

FRP FRP — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:57:10 GMT

Dec. 6, 2011 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service employees housed in the John B. Connally Building will relocate this weekend to the agency’s new headquarters office at 200 Technology Way in College Station. The offices will open

Harris County to implement Community Wildfire Protection Plan

FRP FRP — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:25:19 GMT

Dec. 7, 2011 – HOUSTON, Texas – Harris County is poised to become the largest area in Texas to implement a community wildfire protection plan, based on a collaborative effort by local government officials and Texas Forest Service. A brief ceremony

Wildfire responders honored at Fort Hood appreciation event

FRP FRP — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:03:25 GMT

Dec. 14, 2011 – FORT HOOD, Texas – The Fort Hood Fire Department recognized Texas Forest Service and other responders at a luncheon Tuesday for their efforts in suppressing wildfires on the military base this year.

Preliminary estimates show hundreds of millions of trees killed by 2011 drought

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:14:59 GMT

Dec. 19, 2011 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — As many as 500 million trees scattered across the Lone Star State have died this year as a result of the unrelenting drought, according to preliminary estimates from Texas Forest Service.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Prescribed burning to take place at Jones Forest

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:17:43 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 9, 2012 — CONROE, Texas — Texas Forest Service soon will be conducting prescribed burning operations at the Jones State Forest in Conroe. Wildfires can destroy homes, natural resources and wildlife habitats. Controlled fire – also

Symposium to help East Texas landowners recover from drought

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:17:32 GMT

Jan. 12, 2012 — DIBOLL, Texas — Texas Forest Service is holding a symposium for East Texas landowners still reeling from the effects of the relentless, ongoing drought. The Drought Symposium will focus on general impacts from the 2011 drought,

Tax workshop aims to help landowners recoup drought and wildfire losses

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:10:46 GMT

Jan. 17, 2012 — DIBOLL, Texas — New timber tax laws could allow landowners to recoup some of the losses they sustained from the relentless drought and devastating wildfire season that plagued Texas during the last year. The federal

Critical fire weather forecast Sunday and Monday

FRP FRP — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 16:08:42 GMT

Jan. 22, 2012 Critical fire weather is forecast for today, Sunday, January 22. The critical fire weather will dominate the area of the state west of I 35 due to high winds and low relative humidity. Low relative will continue

Lancaster fifth-grader wins state Arbor Day poster contest

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:41:34 GMT

Jan. 24, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Pleasant Run Elementary School fifth grader Tyger Williamson took home top honors this year in the Texas Arbor Day Poster Contest. Texas Forest Service coordinates the annual poster contest, which aims

Texas Forest Service surveying for signs of tree-killing insects

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:40:07 GMT

Jan. 30, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas Forest Service soon will be surveying trees across the state for signs of the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect that kills its host. An exotic wood boring beetle from Asia,

Brownwood wildfire academy aims to prepare firefighters

FRP FRP — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:36:52 GMT

Feb. 1, 2012 – BROWNWOOD, Texas – After an unprecedented 2011 Texas wildfire season, firefighters looking to prepare for the next big blaze are invited to attend the 10th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy on Feb. 17 20. Sponsored by

Free trees for Bastrop residents on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:55:44 GMT

Feb. 7, 2012 — BASTROP, Texas — The City of Bastrop on Saturday is providing free trees to residents in an attempt to help reforest the town that was ravaged by wildfire just five months ago. The City of Bastrop

Drought takes toll on urban forest, millions of shade trees dead

FRP FRP — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:19:26 GMT

Feb. 15, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — An estimated 5.6 million trees that once shaded homes, streets and parks in communities across Texas now are dead as a result of last year’s unrelenting drought. The finding comes from

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Andrews

FRP FRP — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:04:58 GMT

Feb. 23, 2012 – ANDREWS, Texas – Andrews County residents interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a wildfire preparedness workshop next month. The meeting is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 8, at the Andrews Business

Foresters bring Dr. Suess’ The Lorax to school

FRP FRP — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 21:10:02 GMT

Feb. 29, 2012 – DALLAS, Texas – In conjunction with the release of the movie Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax on March 2, foresters will head to the classroom to help tell the tale of a forest creature who shares the

Foresters bring Dr. Suess' The Lorax to Austin schools

FRP FRP — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 21:13:17 GMT

Feb. 29, 2012 – AUSTIN, Texas – In conjunction with the release of the movie Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax on March 2, foresters will head to the classroom to help tell the tale of a forest creature who shares the enduring

Foresters bring Dr. Suess' The Lorax to Houston school

FRP FRP — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 23:00:15 GMT

Feb. 29, 2012 – HOUSTON, Texas – In conjunction with the release of the movie Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax on March 2, foresters will head to the classroom to help tell the tale of a forest creature who shares the enduring

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Bandera

FRP FRP — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:38:59 GMT

March 5, 2012 – BANDERA, Texas – Residents in Bandera and Kendall counties interested in learning how to protect their homes from wildfire are invited to attend a preparedness workshop later this month. The meeting is set to begin

Wildfire preparedness meeting scheduled in Magnolia

FRP FRP — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:41:47 GMT

March 19, 2012 – MAGNOLIA, Texas – Residents in the Montgomery County area interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a town hall meeting next month. The gathering is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, April

Still reeling from drought and wildfire? Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling offers free help

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:41:05 GMT

March 20, 2012 — CONROE, Texas — A relentless drought and unprecedented wildfire season devastated much of the state during the past year. Once vast and beautiful, many Texas landscapes were left nearly barren. And though we’ve seen recent rains,

Volunteer firefighter charged with arson

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:06:53 GMT

March 30, 2012 — ABILENE, Texas — A lieutenant with the Hamby Volunteer Fire Department has been charged with arson in connection with a wildfire set last year near Abilene. Taylor Dupree Partain, 24, of Abilene was charged by

Learn to protect your home from fire threats during Wildfire Awareness Week

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:29:52 GMT

April 3, 2012 – AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Forest Service wants to teach residents how to better protect their homes from wildfires – a message they’re emphasizing during Wildfire Awareness Week, which kicks off Monday. A press conference is scheduled for

Did your tree survive the drought? How to assess your tree this spring

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:43:14 GMT

April 3, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Now that spring has sprung, it’s time to take a look at your trees — and if you don’t see any green, it may be time to make some hard decisions. Trees

Officials to discuss wildfire precautions on eve of Pinnacle Fire anniversary

FRP FRP — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:30:29 GMT

April 12, 2012 – AUSTIN, Texas – April 17, 2012, marks the one year anniversary of the Pinnacle wildfire that ravaged Southwest Austin. Members of the media are invited Monday to find out how Austin, Travis County and Texas Forest Service are working together

Reporting from the fireline: Texas Forest Service offers media safety workshop and field day

FRP FRP — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:41:14 GMT

April 19, 2012 – LUFKIN, Texas – Wildfires can be dangerous and unpredictable. When conditions are right, these massive, unforgiving blazes can race across entire towns in minutes, leaving nothing but smoldering ruins in their wake. Even seasoned firefighters can sometimes

Reforestation assistance available for wildfire-damaged lands

FRP FRP — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:57:37 GMT

March 30, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The Farm Service Agency will begin accepting applications April 9 from landowners seeking funding assistance to restore wildfire damaged lands. Owners of nonindustrial private forestland in 16 Texas counties may be eligible for

Wildfire preparedness seminar scheduled at McDonald Observatory

FRP FRP — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:50:51 GMT

April 23, 2012 – FORT DAVIS, Texas – Jeff Davis County residents interested in learning how to protect themselves from wildfire are invited to a Wildfire Preparedness Seminar next week. The meeting is set at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 3, at

Texas Forest Service to celebrate 123rd Arbor Day in Brownsville

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:17:09 GMT

April 25, 2012 — BROWNSVILLE, Texas — Trees are on the job 24 7. They shade our homes and streets. They clean the air we breathe and the water we drink. They even boost our property values. And they do

Wildfire risk assessment portal now available for public use

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 18:22:06 GMT

April 27, 2012 — AUSTIN, Texas — Officials with Texas Forest Service and The Texas A&M University System gathered with state lawmakers Friday morning to unveil new web applications that will help homeowners and communities determine wildfire risk — and take

Texas Forest Service launches second phase of drought assessment

FAD FAD — Wed, 23 May 2012 21:21:45 GMT

May 14, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Forestry crews will spend the next two months trekking across the Lone Star State counting dead trees to get a better picture of the mortality rate from the 2011 drought. Texas Forest

East Texas wildfire academy kicks off Tuesday

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 14 May 2012 22:24:25 GMT

May 14, 2012 LUFKIN, Texas In the Lone Star State, 80 percent of wildfires occur within two miles of a community, and volunteer firefighters are considered the first line of defense for almost all of them. Those statistics underline

Lago Vista earns 'Firewise' designation

FRP FRP — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:34:51 GMT

May 15, 2012 – LAGO VISTA, Texas – Texas Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are pleased to join homeowners in Lago Vista next week to celebrate their Firewise Communities USA designation. Lago Vista earned the National Fire Protection

Texas Forest Service urges caution over holiday weekend

FRP FRP — Mon, 21 May 2012 13:23:40 GMT

May 21, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texans are urged to use caution while celebrating the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend – and when doing any outdoor activity that can cause a spark. Although many areas have received significant

Texans urged to report suspected arson activity

FRP FRP — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:42:25 GMT

May 22, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Law enforcement officials with Texas Forest Service are asking residents to be aware of the potential for arson activity this summer – and to report any suspicious behavior. Arson can be devastating

Texas Nature Challenge 2012 kicks off over Memorial Day weekend

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 23 May 2012 20:24:05 GMT

May 23, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With the school year wrapping up and the dog days of summer fast approaching, what better time than now to get your family outside and reconnected with nature? Don’t let your kids

The Ranch on Possum Kingdom earns ‘Firewise’ designation

FAD FAD — Wed, 30 May 2012 13:40:17 GMT

May 23, 2012 – PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas – Texas Forest Service representatives are pleased to join homeowners at The Ranch on Possum Kingdom this weekend to celebrate the area’s first Firewise Communities USA designation. The scenic community surrounding Possum Kingdom

Texas Forest Service to assist with recovery effort in New Mexico

FRP FRP — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:13:38 GMT

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Last year more than 16,000 emergency responders from all 50 states lent a hand during the devastating Texas wildfire season. Now, Texas has a chance to return the favor. Fifteen emergency responders – including 11 from

Texas Forest Service honored for outstanding contributions to wildland firefighting

FRP FRP — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:01:12 GMT

June 21, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service was presented last week with the Pulaski Award, a national honor for outstanding service in wildland firefighting. The award, commending the agency for its response during the 2011 wildfire season,

Use caution during Fourth of July holiday

FRP FRP — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:10:45 GMT

June 25, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – With Independence Day celebrations drawing near, Texas Forest Service officials are reminding residents to exercise caution outdoors and remember that just one spark can cause a devastating wildfire. About 90 percent of

Texas Forest Service receives Smokey Bear Award for wildfire prevention efforts

FRP FRP — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 16:06:17 GMT

June 28, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service’s Mitigation and Prevention Department teaches that the best kind of wildfire is the one that never happens. Team members took that message to the streets last year during a

Texas Forest Service to assist with wildfire suppression in Virginia

OD OD — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 12:56:10 GMT

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – An interagency wildland fire handcrew including five firefighters from Texas Forest Service deployed Sunday to assist with suppression efforts on the Neighbor Mountain Wildfire in Virginia. The group is comprised of personnel from the U.S.

Drought-killed trees could become liability issues for landowners

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:07:32 GMT

July 5, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A tree that falls in a lonely forest may not make a sound, but what about the tree that falls on your neighbor’s house? The sound it makes? Cha ching. Texas Forest

Longtime forester tapped to lead East Texas operations

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 18:41:28 GMT

July 12, 2012 — LUFKIN, Texas — Twelve million forested acres spanning three regions, 18 districts, a dozen programs, 42 financial accounts and 130 employees — plus nine vacancies to be filled. And one man in charge of it all

Walker County champions programs to protect homes and families from wildfire

FRP FRP — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:16:24 GMT

July 24, 2012 – WALKER COUNTY, Texas – Want to know how to successfully implement wildfire prevention, mitigation and preparedness programs? Look no further than Walker County, where community officials and homeowners are showing Texas how it’s done. In 2005, community leaders met with Justice Jones, wildland urban interface and prevention coordinator for Texas Forest Service. Concerned about homes in close proximity to the Sam Houston National Forest, the group’s mission was to identify wildfire risks, create mitigation strategies and devise a plan that would empower residents to protect their homes and property. The effort evolved into the first countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan in Texas. The plan guided community leaders as they worked with Texas Forest Service and the U.S. Forest Service to identify high-risk areas and secure grant funding to clear dead vegetation, thus reducing the potential for wildfires to spread. One group of homeowners even pooled $15,000 for a mulching project. Those homeowners – residents of the Elkins Lake community – created their own wildfire risk assessment and action plan, ultimately meeting criteria for the national Firewise Communities USA program, the first in Walker County to do so. Huntsville Assistant Fire Chief John Hobbs made it his personal mission to educate Walker County citizens about the Ready, Set, Go! program, a national effort through which fire departments teach residents how to prepare their homes and families for wildfire, understand current conditions and evacuate early when necessary. “They’ve accomplished so much in a very short amount of time,” said Texas Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. “The bar is set high for the rest of our state.” And Walker County residents put their preparedness strategies to the test last year, as 104 wildfires burned more than 6,700 acres in the area. Eight Walker County homes were destroyed in 2011 but 139 were saved – thanks to the efforts of firefighters and, in some cases, homeowners who planned in advance. Butch Davis, the county’s Emergency Management Coordinator, said he’s proud of what the community has been able to accomplish in a unified effort. “When you’ve got as many risks as we do, this is time well spent,” Davis said. “If we don’t save but one life, it was worth every hour devoted to this project.” Texas Forest Service’s Jones added that Walker County has created a model that other communities can follow. “What we strive for is awareness and empowerment,” he said. “In Walker County, the community has backed our mitigation and prevention strategies. They believe in this. That’s the real success story.” To learn more about how to protect your home or community from wildfire, visit http://texasfirewise.com/. Contacts: Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator 936-546-8042, jjones@tfs.tamu.edu Jared Karns, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist 936-689-9393, jkarns@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Smokey Bear to celebrate 68th birthday at Johnson Space Center

FRP FRP — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 15:24:09 GMT

HOUSTON—Smokey Bear, the United States Forest Service, Texas Forest Service and NASA are teaming up to celebrate Smokey’s 68th birthday Aug. 9 at the Johnson Space Center. He will tour the center, stopping at popular buildings and appearing in a promo spot for NASA Television. Smokey Bear is the U.S. Forest Service’s symbol for wildland fire prevention and represents the Advertising Council Inc.’s longest-running public service announcement campaign in U.S. history. The NASA partnership with the United States Forest Service began when Stuart Roosa, Apollo 14 astronaut and former U.S. Forest Service smokejumper, orbited the moon with a pack of seeds as part of a joint NASA/USFS project in 1971. These “Moon Trees” were planted all over the country (many for the nation’s bicentennial in 1976) and around the world. Today, those trees stand as a tribute to Roosa and the Apollo program. On May 14, 2012, Smokey went where no bear had gone before. A plush Smokey was chosen by NASA astronaut Joe Acaba and the Expedition 31 crew to be the team’s launch mascot, celebrating their trip to the International Space Station. During his tour about 250 miles above Earth, Smokey will turn 68 years old, sparking the celebrations back on the ground next Thursday.

Celebrate Smokey Bear’s birthday by doing your part to prevent wildfires

FRP FRP — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 16:13:19 GMT

Aug. 7, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas Forest Service will celebrate Smokey Bear’s 68th birthday on Thursday by sharing his message that “only you can prevent wildfires.” Smokey’s famous slogan is the Ad Council Inc’s longest-running public service announcement campaign in U.S. history. His birthday offers an opportunity to raise awareness that most wildfires are preventable, said Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator for Texas Forest Service. “We haven’t had the fire activity this year that we saw in 2011, but we want to remind Texans not to become careless or complacent,” Jones said. “We see many wildfires start from debris burning, welding equipment, unattended campfires and hay baling. Keep in mind that it can happen and use caution when doing anything outdoors that can cause a spark.” Events are planned across the state this week to honor the iconic Smokey Bear. A day-long birthday celebration is scheduled Thursday at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where Smokey will tour mission control and visit children at Planet Avenger Day Camp. On Thursday evening, Smokey Bear will make an appearance at the 7 p.m. San Antonio Missions baseball game. For more information about wildfire prevention or to download Smokey Bear products, visit the Prevent Wildfires page at texasfirewise.com. Contacts: Justice Jones, WUI and Prevention Coordinator 936-546-8042, jjones@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

South Texas & Coastal Bend Nature Challenge kicks off Aug. 25

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 14:19:04 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASEAug. 16, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With the dog days of summer waning and the mercury beginning its slow decent back down into the double digits, now is the perfect time to get your family outside and reconnected with nature.Don’t let your kids park themselves on the sofa every weekend. Turn off the TV and power down the laptop. It’s time for Texas Nature Challenge 2012.Like a family nature hike with a little healthy competition thrown in, Texas Nature Challenge encourages families to spend their time together outside, active and learning about their local nature spots – completing challenges along the way.The Coastal Bend and Rio Grande Valley regional competitions kick off Aug. 25 and run through Nov. 10. Similar challenges in North and Central Texas and the Alamo and Bayou regions were held earlier this summer and already have concluded.“With the emphasis today on keeping kids and families on the go and outside, what better way to spend time together is there than to visit our local nature areas and learn about our natural resources in Texas,” said Texas Forest Service Conservation Education Coordinator Leslie Kessner.“With the wide array of partners in the Texas Nature Challenge program, families can find places and challenges that fit their interests. Some may finish all the challenges in their region, but no matter how many they complete, we want them all to have a positive learning experience outside.”Coordinated by Texas Forest Service and Texas AgriLife Extension, the contest calls for families to visit designated nature sites across the region in which they live, completing challenges at each site. Participating families are eligible to win prizes.Coastal Bend mother Martha Buendia and her kids participated in the regional competition last year and described it as one of her family’s most memorable experiences.“Finding the information to respond to each question in each challenge was like trying to put a puzzle together,” Buendia said. “By participating in these activities, we set aside the time to spend together as a family in a safe environment.” Fellow Coastal Bend mom Dee Porter echoed Buendia’s sentiments. “We had a great experience learning about the wildlife and nature in the Coastal Bend. The challenges were fun and easy enough for my 8-year-old, but challenging enough for my 14-year-old,” Porter said. “My husband and I learned a lot, too. We got a chance to see Texas tortoises up close in nature. My children had never seen one so it was a great time.”For more information about Texas Nature Challenge 2012 or details about specific, regional competitions, visit http://naturechallenge.tamu.edu.### State Contacts:Leslie Kessner, Conservation Education Coordinator979-458-6600, lkessner@tfs.tamu.eduHolly Huffman, Communications Specialist979-458-6605 office, 979-324-0708 cell, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas communities empower residents to prepare for wildfires

FRP FRP — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 18:58:30 GMT

Aug. 22, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Following a record-setting 2011 wildfire season, Texans are taking steps to prepare for dangerous blazes. The Lone Star State recently became the first in the nation to register more than 100 communities in the Ready, Set, Go! wildfire preparedness program. In fact, Texas has 125 registered Ready, Set, Go! communities – significantly more than any other state. Ready, Set, Go! was introduced by the International Association of Fire Chiefs in 2010 as a tool that fire departments could use to teach citizens how to prepare for wildfire and be ready to evacuate, should the need arise. Texas was one of nine states selected to assist with the program in its developmental stages. Texas Forest Service Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator Justice Jones worked closely with the Huntsville Fire Department, leading it to become the first Ready, Set, Go! department in Texas. Other communities quickly followed suit, and town hall meetings were scheduled across the state to share wildfire preparedness principles. Lucian Deaton, IAFC’s Ready, Set, Go! program manager, said Texas has produced tremendous results in empowering communities to prepare for wildfire. “Reaching this milestone shows that the fire service in Texas has taken ownership of educating its citizenry using the Ready, Set, Go! program,” Deaton said. “It’s significant because it raises awareness about wildfire danger and could save lives.” The program has a three-pronged approach: Ready addresses what can be done in and around a home before a fire ignites. This includes clearing brush, leaves and firewood away from the home to create an area of “defensible space.” Families also are encouraged to develop an evacuation plan to ensure everyone knows how to get out safely and where to go. Set explains what to do around the house if there is a fire in the area. This could include removing lightweight curtains, moving flammable furniture to the center of the room and shutting off gas and pilot lights. Go refers to how to exit safely and what supplies an evacuating family might need. Bruce Woods, prevention and mitigation department head for Texas Forest Service, said it’s a tremendous accomplishment to have 125 communities working with residents to share the program’s important preparedness messages. “It truly is a testament to their dedication to making communities safer,” Woods said. “We hope that the use of programs like this one will continue to grow and allow Texans to be as prepared as possible for the next wildfire.” For more information about the Ready, Set, Go! program, visit texasforestservice.tamu.edu and click on the Are You Prepared? icon or download Texas Forest Service’s Personal Wildfire Action Plan. Agencies and organizations interested in signing up for the program should visit wildlandfirersg.org. Contacts: Joe Kozlowski, Ready, Set, Go! program liaison 936-827-2094, jkozlowski@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Campaign launched to restore lost pines forest destroyed in Bastrop fire

FRP FRP — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 14:48:58 GMT

Aug. 28, 2012 – BASTROP – Nearing the one-year anniversary of the most destructive wildfire in Texas history, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Arbor Day Foundation and Texas A&M Forest Service today appealed for help by launching the Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign, a multi-year public-private partnership to raise money to plant more than 4 million trees on public and private land. The September 2011 fire destroyed more homes than any other in state history, and it raged through 95 percent of 6,600-acre Bastrop State Park, as well surrounding private forest lands. The forest recovery campaign, expected to cost more than $4 million, aims to plant native loblolly pine seedlings on about 16,000 burned acres. That includes about 2 million trees in the state park, and more than 2 million on surrounding private land. The Lost Pines ecosystem includes more than 75,000 acres of loblolly pines scattered across sections of five Texas counties, an ecological island separated from larger pine forests in East Texas. About 80 percent of the forest lies in Bastrop County, and 32,400 acres of it burned in the fires. Of that total burned acreage, about 20 percent is in the state park. Another 5 percent is on county land, mostly road right-of-way. The remaining 75 percent is controlled by some 3,600 landowners. The Arbor Day Foundation will lead forest recovery fundraising, while the state parks and forest agencies will serve as on-the-ground partners in the five-year forest recovery effort. The foundation has already secured financial commitments from several corporate sponsors, including Mary Kay, Inc., FedEx, Chili’s Grill and Bar, Nokia and Apache Corporation. However, campaign partners emphasized more help is needed to restore the Lost Pines forest to its pre-disaster condition. Anyone can donate online at www.arborday.org/Texas, as well as find links to volunteer opportunities. "The Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign is about bringing life back to Central Texas," said Dan Lambe, Arbor Day Foundation vice president of programs. “These trees are part of the long and important history of the people and land of this state. For just $1 per tree, or about $500 per acre, supporters can make a big difference at any level.” Lambe said the Foundation has experience working with partners on several post-disaster replanting efforts, delivering more than 200,000 trees to families affected by Hurricane Katrina and last year’s tornadoes in northern Alabama and Joplin, Missouri. “In today’s climate, no one entity has the resources to do it all alone, but we’re fortunate that people care deeply about natural treasures like the Lost Pines and Bastrop State Park,” said Carter Smith, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department executive director. “There are many ways to help the Bastrop area rise from the proverbial ashes, but bringing back the trees is an essential step to restore the region’s ecological lifeblood. If we each donate a little, together we can do a great deal.” “It means a great deal to my agency to have been part of the wildfire response in Bastrop,” said Tom Boggus, Texas A&M Forest Service director. “It means even more to be part of the recovery. TFS is providing 100 percent of the genetically-unique seed to be able to restore the Lost Pines. And although the agency has the seed source, it is the support of the Arbor Day Foundation that helps make this all possible.” The forest recovery campaign will support the work of the broader Lost Pines Recovery Team, a consortium of local, state and federal agencies led by Bastrop County.

Agency name change to take effect Sept. 1

FAD FAD — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 20:43:53 GMT

Aug. 31, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Effective Sept. 1, the agency tasked with overseeing the state’s trees, forests and related natural resources will assume a new moniker: Texas A&M Forest Service. The 97-year-old state forestry agency operates under the umbrella of The Texas A&M University System, one of the nation’s largest systems of higher education with a network of 11 universities, seven state agencies and a comprehensive health science center. The name change — which will affect all seven state agencies — was proposed earlier this year by Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp as a way to better align marketing and branding efforts. “We support the Chancellor’s decision, and we’re eager to move forward with our new name and logo. But we want to stress that changing our name will not affect how we do business,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. “Service has always been one of our agency’s core values — and that remains true both in name and philosophy. We have a long, rich history of serving the state of Texas, and we will continue to build upon that.” Agency administrators have completed a logo-use inventory and are in the process of developing a plan to update all references to the previous name and logo. ### Download the new logo and usage guidelines. For more information, contact: Texas Forest Service Communications 979-458-6606, newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service urges caution over holiday weekend

FRP FRP — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 21:15:05 GMT

Aug. 31, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments responded to 516 wildfires that burned more than 166,000 acres over Labor Day weekend in 2011. Although drought conditions have improved considerably since then, there are some areas that have not received recent rainfall and a large part of the state remains in some level of drought, according to The U.S. Drought Monitor. Texas A&M Forest Service officials urge residents to use caution as they celebrate the holiday this weekend. Be careful doing anything outdoors that could cause a spark, and keep the following tips in mind: Check with your county judge for current burn bans. Be aware when grilling on wooden decks or in dry grass. Keep water handy in case of fire. When transporting portable pits, be sure the fire is extinguished. Crush smoking materials flat. Remember your vehicle’s exhaust system can ignite a fire when driving or stopped on dry grass. Report all fires immediately to 911. Contact: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist 936-546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu

High winds could increase chances of wildfire activity this weekend

FRP FRP — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 16:39:59 GMT

Sept. 7, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A cold front is expected to push through South Central Texas Saturday morning, creating high winds, little to no rain and an increased chance for wildfire activity, according to the National Weather Service’s Austin office. A fire weather watch has been issued through Saturday evening for several South Central Texas counties. According to the watch, wind gusts could increase to 35 mph, which will increase fire danger. Critically dry fuels exist in parts of North Texas, Northeast Texas, the Western Pineywoods and the Hill Country – and Texas A&M Forest Service officials are cautioning residents to be careful this weekend when doing anything outdoors that could create a spark. “There will be widespread risk on Saturday for increased wildfire activity,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Behavior Analyst Brad Smith. Due to the high winds Saturday, wildfire could spread rapidly, making ignitions in dry areas difficult to contain, Smith explained. Conditions are expected to improve later in the weekend, Smith added. “Lower wind speeds will significantly reduce the potential for fire activity on Sunday,” he said. You can monitor current wildfire activity through the Texas A&M Forest Service website. Contacts: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist 936-546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service survey shows 301 million trees killed by drought

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 16:04:01 GMT

Sept. 25, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A Texas A&M Forest Service survey of hundreds of forested plots scattered across the state shows 301 million trees were killed as a result of the devastating 2011 drought. The number was determined by a study of both on-the-ground tree health assessments collected during a three-month period earlier this year and satellite imagery from before and after the drought. The findings fall right in the middle of original estimates gathered last fall that indicated roughly 100 million to 500 million trees had died as a result of the drought. “The drought produced traumatic results, especially for individual landowners. But the good news is the forest is resilient. When a dead tree falls over, a young, new tree eventually will grow back in its place,” said Burl Carraway, department head for the Texas A&M Forest Service Sustainable Forestry department. “Tree death is a natural forest process. We just had more last year than previous years.” The findings represent the number of trees in rural, forested areas that died as a direct result of the drought, as well as those that succumbed to insect infestation or disease because they were drought-stressed. The figure does not include trees in cities and towns. Another 5.6 million trees in urban areas — along streets and in yards and parks — also died as a result of the drought, according to a study done earlier this year by the Texas A&M Forest Service Urban Forestry program. The drought assessment of rural, forested areas was done in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis program and the Texas A&M University Ecosystem Science and Management Department. As part of the analysis, the state was divided into 10 sections: Panhandle, Trans Pecos, North, Central, South and the Brazos Valley, as well as four East Texas regions. Some forested areas suffered worse than others. The Brazos Valley region was hit the hardest, losing almost 10 percent of its trees on forested land. North Texas and western Northeast Texas suffered similar fates, losing 8.3 percent and 8.2 percent, respectively. Trees in far East Texas seemed to fare the best with just 1.3 percent of trees succumbing to the drought in eastern Southeast Texas and just 3.9 percent dying in eastern Northeast Texas. “So what’s the fate of these trees? The vast majority are going to stand out there — until they eventually fall to the ground,” Texas A&M Forest Service Analyst Chris Edgar said, stressing that standing, dead trees located near homes or recreation areas should be removed. Edgar estimated that an existing 272 million standing dead trees already littered the landscape before the drought. That number is expected to double now, which will produce both positive and negative effects. The standing, dead trees will provide additional habitats for insects, birds and wildlife. Fallen trees will do the same, while also adding structure to the forest floor which helps prevent soil erosion. Conversely, they’ll also begin to release their stored carbon back into the atmosphere and could become potential hazards during times of high winds and dangerous fire conditions. ### View the Drought Assessment Map Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts: Chris Edgar, Forest Resource Analyst cedgar@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-458-6630 *Available for interviews Tuesday, Sept. 25 through Friday, Sept. 28 Burl Carraway, Sustainable Forestry Department Head bcarraway@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-458-6630 *Available for interviews Tuesday, Sept. 25 & Wednesday, Sept. 26 Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-458-6605

Texas A&M Forest Service to host open house for Heart of Texas Task Force

FRP FRP — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 18:01:02 GMT

KILLEEN, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service is hosting an open house next week to showcase some of its heavy firefighting equipment and the firefighters who work to protect Texans and their homes from wildfire. The public is invited to join agency officials from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 11, at Texas A&M University-Central Texas, 1001 Leadership Place, Killeen. They’ll have an opportunity to meet some of the firefighters who bravely battled the Texas blazes that burned more than 4 million acres last year. A program at 10:30 a.m. will feature Texas State Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock and Texas A&M Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. Editor’s note: A photo opportunity with Texas A&M Forest Service bulldozers and engines and local fire department trucks will be available for members of the media. Contacts: Steven Carter, Regional Fire Coordinator (979) 393-8210, scarter@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service showcases firefighting team

FRP FRP — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 18:42:40 GMT

Oct. 11, 2012 — KILLEEN, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service on Thursday hosted an open house to showcase the Heart of Texas Task Force, one of five wildland firefighting teams strategically stationed across the state. The Heart of Texas team — more commonly referred to as the HOT Task Force — consists of four dozers, one engine and eight wildland firefighters. It was stationed in the Killeen-McGregor area last year to better support local fire departments. The other four task forces are in Smithville, Fredericksburg, Merkel and Fort Stockton. “We are here to protect Texans, but we are also here to help Texans help themselves,” said Tom Boggus, agency director and state forester for Texas A&M Forest Service. Texas A&M Forest Service established task forces in 2009 after receiving approval from the 81st Legislature. The move was designed to create nimble contingents of firefighting resources that would be strategically located for incident response. The agency can shift the teams throughout the state, staging them where dangerous fire weather conditions are predicted. The ability to preposition resources in at-risk areas decreases response times, which leads to fewer homes destroyed and lives lost. “Stationing resources in strategic places enables rapid response and saves lives and property,” said Paul Hannemann, Incident Response department head and chief regional fire coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. Among the state and local dignitaries attending the open house was State Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock, whose district includes Killeen. He heralded the agency for its work both statewide and in his district. “We’ve got to work on participating together, planning carefully and spending wisely,” Aycock said. “TFS does a good job of that.” When not responding to wildfires, members of the HOT Task Force work on prevention and mitigation projects, establishing fire breaks around select structures, removing potentially-dangerous dead vegetation and presenting fire prevention programs to the public. They also work with local fire departments, helping them get grant funding for needed equipment and training. ### Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts: Bryan Collins, Heart of Texas Task Force Coordinator 254-224-2042, bcollins@tfs.tamu.edu Steven Carter, Regional Fire Coordinator 979-393-8210, scarter@tfs.tamu.edu Texas A&M Forest Service Communications 979-458-6606, newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu

Bastrop wildfire academy hosts media day, Friday, Oct. 19

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 21:21:19 GMT

Oct. 15, 2012 — BASTROP, Texas — It’s been little more than a year since hundreds of firefighters converged on this Central Texas community, working day and night to protect it from what would become known as one of the most destructive wildfires in state history. Thirteen months later, the firefighters are back — this time for training that will make them better prepared should another disastrous wildfire ignite. And the media is invited to a hands-on look this Friday. More than 475 firefighters representing 109 agencies from across the country are attending the 15th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire Academy, which is held at Camp Swift just north of Bastrop. Camp Swift served as the command post for the devastating Bastrop County Complex, a 32,000-acre inferno that forced the evacuation of thousands of people, destroyed more than 1,600 homes and killed two people over Labor Day weekend in 2011. Coordinated by Texas A&M Forest Service, the wildfire academy runs from Oct. 12 to 25. Media day is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19. Reservations are requested. While at the academy, reporters and photographers will get the opportunity to don wildland firefighting gear and get an up close and personal look at wildland firefighters and the tools they use to battle wildfires. Academy students and instructors will be available for interviews. Helicopters that will be used in a hands-on training exercise will fly in at 10 a.m. The annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial will begin at 11 a.m. Media can view various field exercises both before and after the memorial service. If you’re interested in attending media day, please call Academy Public Information Officers Jan Amen at 936-546-1004, Holly Huffman at 979-324-0708 or April Saginor at 979-255-0591. Location: Camp Swift is located on Highway 95 halfway between Bastrop and Elgin. (See directions below.) You will need to enter through Gate 5, which is on F.M. 2336, about 3.5 miles east of its intersection with Highway 95. Signs along the road will direct you to parking and the check-in booth. Media must report first to check-in before proceeding to the academy. Editor’s Note: The Wildfire Academy is held on a working military base, but members of the military will not be available for interview nor can their activities be photographed or videotaped. ### Public Information Officers: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist: 936-546-1004 Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist: 979-324-0708, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-255-0591, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu Directions from Austin Take Hwy 71 East toward Bastrop. You will travel approximately 30 miles until you reach Bastrop. At the intersection of Hwy 71 and Hwy 95, turn left. You will travel north on Hwy 95 for about 8 miles until you reach FM 2336 (you will pass a correctional facility on your right, FM 2336 will be a little ways after that). Turn right and travel 3.5 – 4 miles until you see a gate and a rock driveway on your left. There will be signs to help you locate this gate, as it can be difficult to spot from a distance. Follow the rock road toward the community of buildings, and look for the signs directing you to parking and check-in. Directions from Houston Take I-10 West to Hwy 71 W. From there, you will travel on Hwy 71 until your reach Bastrop. Once in Bastrop, at the intersection of Hwy 71 and Hwy 95, turn right. You will travel north on Hwy 95 for about 8 miles until you reach FM 2336 (you will pass a correctional facility on your right, FM 2336 will be a little ways after that). Turn right and travel 3.5 – 4 miles until you see a gate and a rock driveway on your left. There will be signs to help you locate this gate, as it can be difficult to spot from a distance. Follow the rock road toward the community of buildings, and look for the signs directing you to parking and check-in. Directions from Dallas Take I-35 South to Temple. From there, take Hwy 95 South through Taylor and into Elgin. You will continue to take Hwy 95 out of Elgin towards Bastrop until you reach FM 2336 (you will pass the main entrance for Camp Swift on your left). Turn left on FM 2336 and travel 3.5 – 4 miles until you see a gate and a rock driveway on your left. There will be signs to help you locate this gate, as it can be difficult to spot from a distance. Follow the rock road toward the community of buildings, and look for the signs directing you to parking and check-in. Should you have any trouble locating the site, please do not hesitate to call the academy registrar at 936-546-3465 beginning October 13th, or once in the gate, there will be staff to help you navigate your way.

Fire Prevention Month serves as a reminder for Texans to protect their property

FRP FRP — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 13:32:55 GMT

Oct. 22, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service and the State Fire Marshal’s Office are joining forces to remind Texans of simple measures to help protect their homes and families from fire. October is Fire Prevention Month – and a good time to rake leaves, remove dead or dying vegetation and trim tree canopies. Residents are encouraged to relocate wood piles away from the home, remove combustible materials and vegetation from around and under decks, remove or prune vegetation near windows and remove dry leaves and pine needles from the yard, roof and rain gutters. “We saw homes survive the brutal wildfires of 2011 because of actions homeowners took long before ignition occurred,” said Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface and prevention coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. “It doesn’t take long and it doesn’t cost much to do a few things that could end up saving your home.” Residents also should create and practice an evacuation plan and ensure that working smoke alarms are installed on each floor of their home, said Texas State Fire Marshal Chris Connealy. “Homeowners can significantly increase their safety and their home's likelihood of survival by taking a proactive approach to fire prevention and home defense,” he said. “But these measures cannot guarantee personal safety in the face of catastrophic fires, so it's paramount to have an exit strategy.” Fire propelled by strong winds can move as fast as 60 mph, Connealy added. When told to evacuate, residents should leave the area immediately and choose a route that leads away from the fire. Stay alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke. Available fire prevention resources include: Ready, Set, Go! personal wildfire action plan Firewise landscaping Firewise construction Fire safety tips Contacts: Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator, Texas A&M Forest Service (936) 546-8042, jjones@tfs.tamu.edu Rachel Moreno, Programs Specialist, State Fire Marshal’s Office (512) 305-7503, Rachel.moreno@tdi.state.tx.us

Andrews earns ‘Firewise’ designation

FRP FRP — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 21:28:08 GMT

Oct. 23, 2012 – ANDREWS – Texas A&M Forest Service representatives are pleased to join homeowners in Andrews this week to celebrate their Firewise Communities USA designation. The city earned the National Fire Protection Association’s “Firewise” status by obtaining a wildfire risk assessment and using it to create an action plan, conducting a community cleanup event, investing a minimum of $2 per capita in local Firewise actions and submitting an application to their state Firewise liaison. More than 700 sites in 40 states have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. A ceremony is set for 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, at Andrews City Hall, 111 Logsdon St. The award will be presented to Andrews Mayor Bob Zap. “The City of Andrews joins the ranks of Texas communities that have taken responsibility for protecting their residents from the devastation of future wildfires,” said Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities Liaison with Texas A&M Forest Service. “The actions they have taken, including maintaining fuel breaks throughout the community, not only help protect lives and property, but aid the fire department by giving them safer areas to defend the community from approaching wildfires.” For more information about Firewise Communities, visit the Firewise website or contact your local wildland urban interface specialist. Contact: Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities Liaison (979) 204-9648, pallen@tfs.tamu.edu

Allen honored for strides in urban forestry

FRP FRP — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 16:56:20 GMT

Oct. 25, 2012 – ALLEN, Texas – The Dallas suburb of Allen will be honored this weekend for being just one of eight communities in Texas to be designated a “Sterling Tree City USA.” The designation is given to communities that have earned a Tree City USA Growth Award – recognizing environmental improvement and tree care – for 10 consecutive years. Allen received its Tree City USA designation in 2001 and began applying for the Growth Award the following year. The city will be recognized for its efforts at an Arbor Day celebration from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 27, at Bethany Lakes Park. The event will include demonstrations, exhibits and crafts for children. Attendees will get to take home a tree sapling. Tree City USA, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation and administered in Texas by Texas A&M Forest Service, provides direction and recognition for urban and community forestry programs. The minimum standards required for communities to be designated a Tree City USA are having a tree board or forestry department, a public tree care ordinance, a community forestry program and budget and an Arbor Day celebration. The Tree City USA Growth Award is given to communities that go beyond the four standards of Tree City USA and accumulate points from a variety of projects that demonstrate improvement and growth of their urban forestry program. Over the past 10 years, the city’s population has doubled and thousands of trees have been planted. Allen has earned the Growth Award for projects such as a tree identification interpretive trail, an urban tree waste recycling program, wildlife habitat preservation, collaborative tree planting programs and more. “Today with a population of more than 85,000, Allen’s urban forestry program is a model for other communities,” said Gretchen Riley, Tree City USA coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. To learn more about becoming a Tree City USA, visit texasforestservice.tamu.edu. Contact: Gretchen Riley, Tree City USA Coordinator (979) 458-6650, griley@tfs.tamu.edu

Be aware of wildfire threat this hunting season

FRP FRP — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 18:19:52 GMT

Nov. 2, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – With hunting season under way and some areas of the state still recovering from last year’s drought, Texas Forest Service officials are urging caution for those heading outdoors. Hunters should refrain from building campfires and burning debris during windy or dry conditions. More than 90 Texas counties currently are under a burn ban. Keep in mind the following wildfire safety tips: • If there is no burn ban in place and conditions are right, you may safely build a campfire. But keep the fire small, never leave it unattended and remove flammable leaves and other materials from the area surrounding the fire. • Make sure the fire is extinguished and cold to the touch before you leave it. • Clear combustible materials and vegetation away from your camp house to reduce the likelihood of a wildfire to spread. • Keep water nearby when welding on stands. • Drive only on designated trails. Don’t park or idle vehicles in tall, dry grass, which can be ignited by contact with a hot muffler. • Use caution with cigarettes and matches. • Use spark arresters on all power equipment. Contacts: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist 936-546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist 979-458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Oncor offers unique Texas Star bur oaks to customers through Arbor Day program

FRP FRP — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 16:12:11 GMT

Nov. 8, 2012 – DALLAS, Texas – Thousands of unique Texas Star bur oak trees, a product of the Texas A&M Forest Service Urban Tree Improvement Program, soon will be dotting the state’s landscape in an effort to conserve energy, reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve storm water management. Texas Star bur oaks are acorn-bearing trees tailored to Texas, selected from genetic families proven to perform well in the state’s tough climate. They can reach heights of more than 80 feet and have heavy branches that form an open, spreading crown of dark green foliage. Geneticist Tom Byram said the Texas Star bur oaks were hand-picked for an Arbor Day Foundation energy saving program because of their durability. “Initially, native trees growing in urban environments were identified,” he said. “We collected acorns from these trees and planted them in replicated field trials at multiple locations. Outstanding selections from the best families in these field evaluations were grafted into orchards and managed for acorn production.” Oncor, a Texas-based electricity provider, is sponsoring the donation of 12,000 Texas Star bur oaks to its customers through the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees program, which promotes conserving energy and reducing household electricity bills through strategic tree planting. “We’re excited about Oncor’s involvement in this program,” said Gretchen Riley, Tree Line USA coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. “Not only do their customers have the opportunity to receive free trees specifically selected for the urban environment, but Texans as a whole will reap the benefits of trees planted through this program.” Customers can reserve up to two trees per household at arborday.org/oncor. An online tool allows users to find the most strategic location to plant their tree and estimates the resulting energy savings. The 12,000 trees are estimated to yield more than $2 million in energy savings within 20 years as well as other benefits, including cleaner air, reduced carbon dioxide emissions and improved storm water management. Find out more about the Energy-Saving Trees Program by visiting the Arbor Day Foundation website. Contact: Gretchen Riley, Tree Line USA Coordinator (979) 458-6650, griley@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service honors employees

FRP FRP — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 17:15:04 GMT

Nov. 14, 2012 – CROCKETT, Texas – Hundreds of Texas A&M Forest Service employees were recognized Tuesday for outstanding contributions they’ve made over the past year – including wildfire response, recovery efforts, fire department assistance and more. Director Tom Boggus personally thanked the agency’s 400 full-time employees at Texas A&M Forest Service’s annual personnel meeting and awards ceremony in Crockett. “You got tested, and you passed with flying colors,” Boggus said. “Each of you demonstrates servant leadership.” The gathering is an opportunity for employees from across the state to enjoy fellowship, games and a meal served by the agency’s executive team. A moving tribute to Texas A&M Forest Service’s all-hazard incident response was a highlight of the program, recognizing employees who have assisted with hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires and more. Forty-nine employees were recognized for five or more years of service to the agency. One employee – Joe Fox, capacity building department head in College Station – has worked for Texas A&M Forest Service for 40 years. Special awards were issued to teams of employees for the following efforts: Response 2011: A Year Like No Other – Wildfires burned more than 4 million acres of Texas land last year, and every Texas A&M Forest Service employee was involved in some capacity. The wildfire season lasted almost an entire year, and day after day, the agency’s employees worked long hours to ensure that lives and property were protected in the safest manner possible. Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (TxWRAP) Development Team – Five individuals were recognized for their part in developing the Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal. TxWRAP is a free tool that allows users to identify wildfire threats for a particular area based on landscape characteristics, historical fire occurrence, terrain and potential fire behavior. It also routes users to resources that can help them implement wildfire prevention practices. Incident Finance Team – Nine employees were recognized for their work on what was referred to as perhaps the most challenging and most thankless of all the missions during last year’s complex wildfire season. The team was responsible for securing supplies, processing firefighter time sheets and tracking $300 million in expenditures related to 2011 wildfires. Fire Department Emergency Grants Team – Six employees were recognized for their effort in processing more than $5 million in emergency grant requests. The grants provided assistance toward protective gear, equipment repairs and operating expenses for eligible fire departments – dire needs during the unprecedented 2011 wildfire season. Post-Fire Assessment Team – This award recognized 25 individuals who assisted impacted communities and collected data about home and structure loss in the aftermath of wildfires – valuable information used to craft mitigation and prevention strategies for homeowners, community leaders and fire departments. Bastrop Recovery – Forty-four Texas A&M Forest Service employees were honored for their work on the recovery effort after wildfire damaged 32,000 acres in Bastrop, including 96 percent of the state park. The team created a technical program to provide assistance to fire-devastated forest landowners in Bastrop County. Drought Assessment – This award recognized 137 participants who studied the impacts of the 2011 drought, which experts say was one of the worst in state history. Employees who worked on this team measured hundreds of plots, determined how many trees were killed by drought and estimated the value of drought-related losses. A public education campaign offered information on tree removal and replanting. Contact: April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Information about Texas trees and forest now available online

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 17:11:58 GMT

Nov. 15, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Can’t see the forest for the trees? Now you can at www.texasforestinfo.com. Texas A&M Forest Service on Wednesday unveiled a new web portal designed to showcase the benefits that trees and forests provide to the Lone Star State and drive economic development in the timber and wood products industry. The Texas Forest Information Portal — accessible online at www.texasforestinfo.com — lets users identify where different trees and forests are located across the state and see the environmental benefits they provide. Geared for landowners, natural resource managers, local community groups, educators and investors, the interactive website allows users to explore maps, query data and generate summary statistics and printable reports. “Texas forests provide significant economic and ecological benefits to the people of Texas,” said Tom Boggus, director and state forester of Texas A&M Forest Service. “This innovative tool will help inform and educate Texans about our valuable forest resources and help ensure they are available to enjoy now and in the future.” The portal serves as a clearinghouse for readily-available, easily-accessible information about trees and forests in Texas. Currently, the site offers three applications: Timber Supply Analysis, Forest Distribution and Forest Values, all of which can be customized by geographic area using data derived by the Forest Inventory and Analysis Program, as well as other resources. Timber Supply Analysis estimates the timberland area, as well as timber volume, growth and removals. Forest Distribution features tree distribution and biomass. Forest Values estimates the economic value attached to certain environmental benefits that forests and trees provide. Additional applications under development include those related to economic impact, which will summarize estimated economic impacts of the forest sector in Texas, and forest products, which will provide a searchable database of forest products industries. Future applications still in the planning stages include those featuring urban tree canopy and Texas Tree Trails, both of which will be geared to people seeking information about trees in urban and residential areas. The portal was developed by the Texas A&M Forest Service Sustainable Forestry Department. ### Links Texas Forest Information Portal: www.texasforestinfo.com Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts: Brad Barber, GIS Program Manager 979-458-6630, bbarber@tfs.tamu.edu Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist 979-458-6605, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Two decades after collection, seeds to finally become trees in Bastrop

Application Administrator — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 23:03:32 GMT

Nov. 26, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — For five years, the seeds sat — all 1,100 pounds of them — on the top shelf in the very back of a refrigerated Brookshire Bros. warehouse in Lufkin, Texas. The drought-hardy loblolly pine seeds had been a focus of the Texas A&M Forest Service Western Gulf Forest Tree Improvement Program since its inception in 1951. But demand for the seeds declined over the decades, prompting geneticist to shelve the surplus indefinitely. The seeds — 1,100 pounds of drought-hardy loblolly pine and 6,000 more of assorted varieties of the same species — had been stored so long, in fact, that in August 2011 geneticists began making plans to toss them into the landfill. “This was supposed to be a temporary arrangement. We told them, ‘This won’t be forever,’ but it was beginning to look like it might be,” said Tom Byram, a geneticist with the agency’s tree improvement program. “What’s the use of having them if you’re not going to use them?” That plan changed the following month when the most destructive wildfire in Texas history ravaged Bastrop County and its renowned Lost Pines ecosystem. The 32,400-acre inferno laid waste to the community, destroying 1,660 homes and killing 1.5 million trees. “After the fire, it was immediately obvious we were going to be doing a restoration project of one kind or another — and we had the seed,” Byram said. Tree experts in Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma spent the next year nurturing the seeds, growing them into seedlings that could be used to reforest Bastrop State Park and surrounding private lands. On Tuesday, Nov. 27, the first shipment — 200,000 loblolly pine seedlings grown by ArborGen, a commercial nursery based in East Texas — will arrive at Bastrop State Park. Another 200,000 seedlings grown by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry will be delivered Friday, Nov. 30. Texas A&M Forest Service’s West Texas Nursery and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center also grew seedlings — 25,000 and 30,000 respectively — that will be delivered as needed to support various reforestation projects throughout the planting season. The first volunteer planting workday at Bastrop State Park is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1. Planting on private land begins Monday, Dec. 3. A total of 550,000 seedlings will be planted in Bastrop over the next few months. Meanwhile, tree experts are continuing to grow seedlings with plans to plant 1.5 million next year and another million the year after that. Costs will be covered by the Arbor Day Foundation, who joined earlier this year with Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to launch the Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign, a reforestation fundraising effort. Byram said there still was enough seed to produce about 14 million more loblolly pine seedlings, which will be more than enough to finish the project. But he warned that it could be 25 years before the 10-inch seedlings grow into the mighty pine trees that people associate with Bastrop’s Lost Pines. “The function we have in restoration is to put the right genes back out there and then let Mother Nature sift through it. That’s the most anybody can do,” Byram said, explaining that there still was enough seed to produce about 14 million seedlings. “That’s our contribution. Mother Nature has to take the next step.” For more information on the Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign or to donate or volunteer, visit www.arborday.org/texas. ### Resources: Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign: www.arborday.org/texas Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts Tom Byram, Western Gulf Forest Tree Improvement Program Geneticist 979-845-2523, tbyram@tfs.tamu.edu Shane Harrington, Forester & Farm Bill Coordinator 936-546-1470. sharrington@tfs.tamu.edu Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist 979-458-6605, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Trees to be distributed to residents in Grimes, Montgomery and Waller counties on Dec. 8

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:46:04 GMT

Nov. 30, 2012 — CONROE, Texas — Hundreds of Southeast Texas families still recovering from the devastating effects of last year’s drought and wildfires will receive a tangible symbol of hope next week as 500 free trees are distributed through Texas ReLeaf. Funded by a partnership between Texas A&M Forest Service and Anheuser-Busch, the beautification and disaster relief program is providing trees to pre-registered families from Grimes, Montgomery and Waller counties — three areas that were hit particularly hard by the 2011 drought and wildfire season. The trees will be distributed Saturday, Dec. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at three designated locations: · Grimes County: Plantersville Fire Department, 15985 FM 1774, Plantersville, Texas, 77363 · Montgomery County: Magnolia City Hall, 18111 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia, Texas, 77354 · Waller County: San Bernard Electric Co-Op, 29244 FM 1488, Hockley, Texas, 77447 Families must pick up their tree at the designated location within their county. “ReLeaf is much more than a tree giveaway,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Urban District Forester John Warner, who is based is Conroe and developed the program. “Yes, we want to re-green these communities. But more importantly, we hope to use these trees to revive community spirit and inspire hope.” The program launched in October, giving priority to residents living within the burn scars created by the Riley Road and Dyer Mill fires, as well as those living within a surrounding one-mile buffer zone. Registration was later opened to all residents of the three counties. Each participating family will receive one tree, as well as a water bag and tree guard. As part of the program, they agree to plant the tree immediately upon pick up, preferably in their front yard, and participate in a follow-up site survey done by Texas A&M Forest Service. Roughly 1,000 trees will be provided through the program; the first half distributed Dec. 8, 2012, and the second half distributed March 2, 2013. About 10 percent have been set aside for planting on public lands such as schools, libraries and parks. Registration for the first distribution is closed; however, trees still are available for the March distribution. Families who haven’t already signed up can do so online or by phone — www.kmcbtexas.org/releaf or 713-806-3453 — when registration re-opens to the public on Jan. 6, 2013. ### Media Advisory: Reporters and photographers are welcome to attend. Program coordinators will be available for interviews, as well as a Waller County family whose farm was ravaged last fall by the Riley Road Fire. Media can interview the Seger family at 2 p.m. at the Waller County distribution site or follow them to their farm — Blue Heron Farm in the Field Store community — to watch as they plant their tree. Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts: John Warner, Urban District Forester in Conroe 936-273-2261 office, 936-546-3169 cell, jwarner@tfs.tamu.edu Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist 979-458-6605 office, 979-324-0708 cell, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Grant funds available to landowners near national forests in East Texas

FRP FRP — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 22:13:13 GMT

Nov. 19, 2012 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – In an effort to reduce wildfire hazards on private lands, Texas A&M Forest Service is administering U.S. Forest Service Community Fire Protection Grant funding for prescribed burning within three miles of a national forest boundary. In 2011, East Texas experienced the largest-scale timber losses in its history. Because of extreme drought conditions, the majority of the fire that occurred last year had a negative impact on natural resources. However, strategically-planned prescribed wildfire can actually protect homes and communities. Prescribed burning is a tool used by natural resource managers to help maintain healthy ecosystems, improve wildlife habitat and mitigate hazardous vegetation, said Wildland Urban Interface Specialist Jared Karns. “When conducted by trained specialists, prescribed fire can be an effective and cost-efficient mechanism for removing fuel and returning an ecosystem to its natural state,” Karns said. Landowners who wish to apply for grant funds must submit a prescribed burn plan, a map of the area to be burned showing its proximity to national forest land and the physical address of the burn unit. Texas A&M Forest Service will review the applications and notify approved landowners. Those approved for grant funding can be reimbursed up to $30 per acre, pending completion of the prescribed burn and an inspection conducted by TFS personnel. Texas A&M Forest Service will not assist with the burn. The work can be completed by a landowner or contractor. Download an application under the “Protect Your Community” tab at texasfirewise.org. The deadline for submission is Dec. 14, 2012. For more information on prescribed burning, visit goodfires.org or the Prescribed Burning Board page at texasagriculture.gov. Contacts: Jared Karns, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist (936) 689-9393, jkarns@tfs.tamu.edu Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator (936) 546-8042, jjones@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Tree giveaway planned for Possum Kingdom-area communities

FRP FRP — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:40:46 GMT

Dec. 4, 2012 – PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas – In April 2011, the PK Complex wildfire ravaged communities surrounding the scenic Possum Kingdom Lake, burning more than 126,000 acres and destroying 168 homes. The recovery effort continues this month, with an event planned to help restore the area’s landscape. Texas A&M Forest Service is partnering with Texas Garden Clubs on Saturday, Dec. 15, to distribute 100 free trees to residents of The Cliffs and Sportsman’s World communities. The giveaway begins at 11 a.m. at The Cliffs, 160 Cliffs Drive, Graford, and at noon at Sportsman’s World, 6020 Hell’s Gate Loop, Strawn. The trees were purchased with funds donated by Texas Garden Clubs and will be distributed by officials with Texas A&M Forest Service. Volunteers from the Cross Timbers Urban Forestry Council and reTREEt America will be on hand to assist residents who need help planting their trees. “These communities were devastated by the 2011 wildfires,” said Forester Courtney Blevins. “We want to give them some hope and help them re-green the area surrounding their homes.” Strategic landscaping can help reduce the spread of wildfire, so it’s key for residents to consider proximity to the home and spacing between trees when planting on their property, Blevins added. Information about fire-resistant landscaping will be distributed to residents when they pick up their trees. “We chose these species – live oak, lacey oak and cedar elm – to give away because they are drought hardy and not highly flammable,” he said. The trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents are not required to pre-register or provide proof of residence. Contacts: Courtney Blevins, Forester (817) 531-3119, cblevins@tfs.tamu.edu Nick Harrison, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist (817) 894-4761, nharrison@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Local event receives community energy grant

OD OD — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:03:21 GMT

Dec. 21, 2012 – THE WOODLANDS, Texas – The Texas A&M University Forest Service was given a new reason to celebrate this holiday season receiving a grant from Entergy Texas, Inc. for $5,000 towards the 2013 Texas Wildlife & Woodland Expo. The event is scheduled to take place March 23, 2013. Texas Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling is designed to help families learn a little about the land on which they live — and how to best take care of it — through hands-on clinics, live demonstrations and children’s activities. “This is really a great way for families to get outside and have fun together — and learn a little something in the process,” said John Warner, urban district forester with Texas Forest Service and one of the event founders. “Our motto is: Play for a day, learn for a lifetime. If we can make learning fun, then you’re more likely to take that information and apply it when you get back home. That’s our goal.” Texas A&M Forest Service, and partnering agencies have been conducting the expo in the Conroe area for the last five years. Entergy Texas, Inc. has awarded nearly $80,000 to more than 30 organizations in the local area through their micro grant program and charitable foundation grants. “Investing in our communities means more than providing electricity,” Melissa Bochat, customer service manager, Entergy Texas, Inc. “It also means helping our customers accomplish the goals they have for their home towns. It is a privilege to be able to provide funds from our micro grant program to turn dreams into reality.” About Entergy Texas, Inc Entergy Texas, Inc. provides electricity to more than 400,000 customers in 27 counties. It is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations. Entergy owns and operates power plants with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, including more than 10,000 megawatts of nuclear power, making it one of the nation’s leading nuclear generators. Entergy delivers electricity to 2.8 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. For more information on Texas Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling or a detailed schedule of events, go to http://expo.tamu.edu. Contacts: John Warner, Urban District Forester Texas A&M Forest Service, 936-546-3169, jwarner@tfs.tamu.edu Linda Moon, Communications Manager Texas A&M Forest Service, 979-458-6614, lmoon@tfs.tamu.edu Note: Texas A&M Forest Service offices are closed Dec. 24-Jan.1. Reporters seeking assistance should email newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu, and the on-call communications specialist will respond.

Texas A&M Forest Service issues safety tips for holiday season

FRP FRP — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:36:18 GMT

Dec. 18, 2012 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Conditions could line up for an active winter wildfire season in some parts of the state, and Texas A&M Forest Service officials are urging residents to take precautions. The agency has identified an “area of concern” where large wildfires could occur this winter if conditions are right. The area includes everything north of a line from Fort Stockton along I-10 to San Antonio, north to Austin, northeast to Tyler and east along I-20 to the state line. That region didn’t get enough rainfall this year to eliminate drought but did get enough to increase grass growth. Low humidity, dry conditions and high winds can cause fire to spread rapidly, said Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. Although there are particular areas of concern, fires can occur anywhere in the state, and residents should remain cautious. “Any time the state experiences dry periods with strong, gusty winds, the threat of wildfire will increase and extra caution is encouraged to avoid devastating wildfires,” Jones said. Several precautions are suggested for the holiday season: Check for and obey burn bans and fireworks restrictions. When and where outdoor burning is allowed, keep the fire small, never leave it unattended and remove flammable leaves and other materials from the area surrounding the fire. Avoid lighting piles on windy days. Keep water nearby in case a fire starts. A spark or burning ember can ignite dry, fine-textured fuels like grass and weeds. Read and follow label instructions on how to properly discharge fireworks. Use fireworks with close adult supervision and only in areas clear of dry vegetation. Avoid using fireworks, particularly aerial varieties, around buildings. Wind can carry hot fireworks onto roofs where leaves or other flammable debris may have accumulated. Remove your natural Christmas tree soon after the holidays and consider community tree recycling projects. Christmas trees can be ground up for mulch or provide shelter for birds and other wildlife. Dispose of wrapping paper, boxes and other holiday waste by recycling, when practical. Burn paper and cardboard in a burn barrel or other fire-proof receptacle topped by a metal screen or grill, as winds can carry embers over long distances. Contact: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist (936) 546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu Note: Texas A&M Forest Service offices are closed Dec. 24-Jan.1. Reporters seeking assistance should email newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu, and the on-call communications specialist will respond.

Texans continue to assist with recovery efforts in New York

FRP FRP — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 21:50:56 GMT

Dec. 24, 2012 – AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced that a 39-person Incident Management Team (IMT) is being deployed to New York to support continued recovery efforts after Hurricane Sandy. The IMT is tasked with maintaining a field outreach program and commodity distribution system to residents in affected areas of Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island. Team members will ensure that residents have electricity, water and medical attention if needed, as well as access to city and federal assistance programs. The IMT, composed of personnel from Texas A&M Forest Service and local first responders from across the state, also will be responsible for disseminating information about the public’s needs and concerns. This is the third IMT from Texas that has traveled to New York to assist with the Hurricane Sandy recovery effort. "Many weeks of work have helped begin the rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, but much remains to be done,” Gov. Perry said. “I’m proud that Texans continue to offer their skills and expertise to help restore some normalcy to the lives of people affected by this horrific storm, and our state continues to stand ready to offer any assistance required.” Incident Management Teams are composed of personnel who are trained to manage or assist in the management of emergency response operations. An IMT provides a coordination and control infrastructure to manage a wide range of emergencies from human-caused to natural disasters. The size of an IMT is contingent on the severity of the incident and the needs of the affected jurisdiction. Texas currently has 17 IMTs regionally located around the state. Follow the Texas A&M Forest Service blog to keep up with the IMT while they’re on assignment. Contacts: Justice Jones, Lone Star State Incident Management Team Public Information Officer (936) 546-8042, jjones@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Lone Star State Incident Management Team Public Information Officer (979) 255-0591, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Project aims to reduce wildfire risks in Dallas suburb; Media invited to get firsthand look on Jan. 8

FRD2 FRD2 — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 20:14:57 GMT

Jan. 4, 2013 — CEDAR HILL, Texas —Texas A&M Forest Service crews soon will begin removing potentially hazardous vegetation at selected sites in the community of Cedar Hill in an effort to reduce the wildfire risk facing the Dallas suburb. Firefighters will use a Gyro-Track mulching machine, as well as chainsaws, a chipper and other hand tools to create shaded fuel breaks on sites at Northwood University, West Belt Line Road and Valley Ridge Park. Breaks are used to help stop or slow down wildfires by removing the vegetation, which serves as fuel for the fire. A shaded fuel break often is constructed in a forested area, where trees are thinned and pruned but retain some canopy. Such a break can help keep surface fires from spreading into tree tops, which increases fire intensity. The work is scheduled to begin Jan. 7 and will take place over the next three months. “This project will enhance the access and egress for emergency responders,” said Nick Harrison, a wildland urban interface forester with Texas A&M Forest Service. “And if a fire did occur, the fuel break could help keep it out of the adjacent populated areas and reduce the impact on university property.” The fuel mitigation project is one of the initiatives outlined in Cedar Hill’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan, which helps communities identify their risks and develop methods to combat them. Working in conjunction with Texas A&M Forest Service, Cedar Hill began developing its strategic plan in 2008. The community was nestled in the midst of the wildland urban interface, an area where populated development begins to encroach on rural, undeveloped land. Aware of the challenges posed by their location, then-Fire Chief Steve Pollock put an emphasis on developing a protection plan. Pollock now serves chief regional fire coordinator for the Texas A&M Forest Service, but he has continued to work with the department and current Chief John Ballard, helping them continue to carry out the initiatives outlined in the plan. Northwood University President Dr. Kevin Fegan said he was pleased to know the area would be safer thanks to the work being done. "This project not only ensures we are taking steps to protect our campus, but also our community," Fegan said. "Part of our approach as an institution has been to be a good neighbor and a valued partner in our community. We are proud to be a part of this collaborative effort." Media Advisory: A Media Day is scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8 to allow reporters the chance to get a up-close and personal look at the work being done. Officials with Northwood University, Cedar Hill Fire Department and Texas A&M Forest Service will be available for interviews. Northwood University is located at 1114 West FM 1382 in Cedar Hill. Once at the campus, university staff will direct attendees to the project site. Contacts: Nick Harrison, Wildland Urban Interface Forester, Texas A&M Forest Service 817-894-4761, nharrison@tfs.tamu.edu Monica Hurtado, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Northwood University 972-293-5456 office, 214-662-1990 cell, hurtadom@northwood.edu Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist, Texas A&M Forest Service 979-458-6605 office, 979-324-0708 cell, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service employees honored during annual AgriLife conference

Application Administrator — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:45:46 GMT

Jan. 8, 2013 — COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A 20-year veteran forester with Texas A&M Forest Service was honored Tuesday with 2012 Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry. Sustainable Forestry Department Head Burl Carraway III received the award during the annual Texas A&M AgriLife Conference held at Texas A&M University’s flagship campus in College Station. The Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry is one of 17 awards presented each year by the Vice Chancellor for Agriculture and Life Sciences as a way to recognize and celebrate the commitment and contributions made by those working under the umbrella of Texas A&M AgriLife. The forestry award, in particular, is presented each year to someone who consistently goes above and beyond, making exceptional contributions and displaying exceptional commitment to the agency’s mission. “Burl is innovative and willing to take on some of the toughest issues facing the agency and Texas. His entire career can be characterized by someone willing to push the envelope and look for new ways to meet our natural resource challenges,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. “He is a proven leader and has built a very strong team that is the envy of forest agencies across the nation.” Throughout his career, Carraway consistently has taken the lead in coordinating various state projects and programs including environmental forestry, state stewardship and water quality. He also has led projects across the Southern United States as a member of professional organizations such as the Southern Group of State Foresters, the Texas Forestry Association and the Texas Society of American Foresters. Carraway earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Furman University in 1991 and a Master of Forest Resources from Clemson University in 1993. “Service is at the heart of our agency, and it’s an honor to receive an award that is reflective of that,” said Carraway, who is based in College Station. “Everyone who works here does so because they want to make a difference. I’m extremely fortunate to be surrounded by a really great group of folks.” Five other Texas A&M Forest Service employees also were recognized at the conference. State Wildland Urban Interface and Prevention Coordinator Justice Jones of Conroe and East Texas Operations Department Head Wes Moorehead of Lufkin were honored as graduates of the Texas A&M AgriLife Advanced Leadership Program - Cohort I, which ran from May 2010 to January 2012. The 18-month program focuses on the development of leadership skills and a greater understanding of The Texas A&M University System and its land-grant mission. As part of the program, participants interact with administrators, leadership professionals and their peers, gaining experience and tools designed to enhance their effectiveness as leaders. “This was a great growth opportunity for me,” Moorehead said. “It not only offered outstanding leadership tools and training, but gave me a much better understanding of how TFS fits within Agrilife and the Texas A&M System.” Jones echoed his sentiments, saying he felt privileged to have been selected to participate in the programs' first cohort. “It provided me with a clear understanding of the important role that Texas A&M Forest Service plays in helping the Texas A&M University System achieve its land grant mission.” Regional Forester Joel Hambright and Wildland Urban Interface Specialist Karen Stafford were recognized for joining Cohort II, which started last May and will conclude in January 2014. Paul Hannemann, Incident Response department head and chief of fire operations, also was recognized during the conference as a recipient of the 2012 Regents Fellow Service Award, an honor bestowed upon him last fall. ### Contact: Texas A&M Forest Service Communications 979-458-6606, newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu

Point Venture Townhouses earns ‘Firewise’ designation

FRP FRP — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 16:12:49 GMT

Jan. 14, 2013 – POINT VENTURE – Texas A&M Forest Service representatives are pleased to join homeowners in Point Venture Townhouses this week to celebrate their Firewise Communities designation.The city earned the National Fire Protection Association’s Firewise status by obtaining a wildfire risk assessment, creating an action plan for how they will reduce their risk, conducting a community education event, and completing a community project that decreases the threat of wildfire. Fifty-seven communities across the state have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. “Taking ownership of your risks and developing community-based solutions is what Firewise is all about,” said Justice Jones, Wildland Urban Interface coordinator for Texas A&M Forest Service. A ceremony is set for 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at the Point Venture Office Complex, 555 Venture Blvd., Point Venture. The award will be presented to Point Venture Mayor Cristin Cecala. “The next devastating wildfire could be just around the corner,” said Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities liaison with Texas A&M Forest Service. “It’s important for communities to prepare for wildfire by doing simple things like clearing dead vegetation from the area surrounding a home. We’re excited to see the residents of Point Venture Townhouses taking these proactive steps to protect their community from wildfire.” For more information about Firewise Communities, visit texasfirewise.org or contact your local wildland urban interface specialist. Contacts: Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities Liaison (979) 204-9648, pallen@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 255-0591, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Tax law changes to be highlighted in landowner workshop

FRD2 FRD2 — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 19:07:10 GMT

Jan. 22, 2013 — DIBOLL, Texas — With uncertainty looming over the economy and the tax code, forest landowners must stay abreast of new and changing regulations to ensure they’re not paying more than their fair share when tax time rolls around. And they can do just that at the 2013 Texas Timber Income and Property Tax Workshop scheduled for next month in East Texas. Hosted annually by the Texas A&M Forest Service, the all-day tax workshop is designed to give landowners — as well as the professionals that prepare their taxes — a leg up when it comes to forest management planning. “Tax laws aren’t exactly known for their simplicity — and the section devoted to forestry is no different. Sometimes even professionals aren’t well-versed in the laws,” said Chris Edgar, a Forest Resource Analyst for Texas A&M Forest Service. “That’s where our workshop comes in. We’ll help you learn the basics about timber tax and make sure you’re aware of changes that have been made to the laws that affect you.” The workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lottie and Arthur Temple Civic Center, 601 Dennis St., Diboll, Texas. Registration is $70 and includes a workbook, lunch and refreshments. Topics will focus on federal timber income tax issues for private forest landowners with a refresher on local timberland property tax incentives. Landowners also will learn how to recoup losses from drought, wildfire and other disasters. The workshop is designed for forest landowners, consulting foresters, accountants and attorneys, as well as anyone who works with forest landowners in matters relating to timber taxes. For more information or to register, go to http://tfsweb.tamu.edu/timbertaxworkshop. Or, contact Dawn Ferguson at 979-458-6630 or dferguson@tfs.tamu.edu. ### Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts Chris Edgar, Forest Resource Analyst 979-458-6659, cedgar@tfs.tamu.edu Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist 979-458-6605, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service partners with Boy Scouts to reforest popular ranch in Bastrop

Application Administrator — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 19:04:55 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 25, 2013 Texas A&M Forest Service partners with Boy Scouts to reforest popular ranch in Bastrop BASTROP, Texas — The Boy Scouts of America are recruiting volunteers to help reforest a popular campground that was devastated by wildfire over Labor Day weekend in 2011. Nearly half of the 5,000-acre Griffith League Scout Ranch was destroyed by the Bastrop County Complex, a monstrous wildfire that charred 32,400 acres, destroyed 1,660 homes and nearly consumed the Lost Pines Forest in Central Texas. Now, the Scouts are joining forces with Texas A&M Forest Service to reforest the ranch with roughly 300,000 drought-hardy, loblolly pine seedlings over the next two years. The seedlings — 50,000 to be planted this year and 250,000 more next year — are being provided by the state forestry agency. “When you take a look at the community as a whole, the Boy Scout Ranch has been there for a long time. It’s a part of the community. Generations of families have had children go through there,” Texas A&M Forest Service Central Texas Operations Department Head Jim Rooni said, noting that the ranch was the second-largest tract destroyed by the Bastrop wildfire. “That acreage is probably as entwined in that community as Bastrop State Park in terms of peoples’ attachment. One is public, one is private, but they mirror one another in importance.” The Griffith League Scout Ranch is nestled on three square miles northeast of downtown Bastrop. Before the wildfire, the landscape was dotted with pine and hardwood trees and thick with yaupon. But half the ranch — and half of its 20 miles of trails — were destroyed as the massive wildfire ripped through Bastrop, said Rick Denison, director of support services for the Capitol Area Boy Scouts. “It’s just standing, dead timber,” Denison said, explaining that the forest now is virtually devoid of pines — the very trees for which it had come to be known. “All of the oaks are coming back from the roots and yaupon is already starting to take over. We could end up with a big yaupon forest.” Scouts and scout leaders already have planted 9,000 of the 50,000 pine seedlings earmarked for the first year of the project. For now, Denison said, they are focusing on key spots around ponds and in riparian areas that are home to the endangered Houston toad. Volunteers have the opportunity to help plant the remainder of the seedlings on three Saturdays this winter — Jan. 26 and Feb. 9 and 16. Denison said he hopes to get 2,000 to 4,000 trees in the ground on each volunteer work day. “We’ve got a two-prong project: We want to save the habitat for the Houston toad, but at the same time restore the forest so it will be available for future generations to enjoy Scouting activities,” Denison said. “Any and all help is appreciated getting those pine trees in the ground. We’ve sort of got a blank canvas to restore.” Interested in volunteering? Email Rick Denison at rick.denison@scouting.org. ### Contacts: Jim Rooni, Central Texas Operations Department Head, Texas A&M Forest Service jrooni@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-220-0165 Rick Denison, Director of Support Services, Capitol Area Boy Scouts rick.denison@scouting.org, 512-944-7751 Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist, Texas A&M Forest Service hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-458-6605

Project aims to reduce wildfire hazards around West Texas community

FRP FRP — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:31:56 GMT

Jan. 29, 2013 – FORT DAVIS, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service firefighters next week will begin removing potentially hazardous vegetation around the Davis Mountains Resort in an effort to reduce risks facing the wildfire-prone community. Beginning Monday, Feb. 4, state firefighters will use chainsaws and other hand tools to create a shaded fuel break along local roads that are used as evacuation routes during emergencies. Local firefighters will assist with traffic control in the areas where crews are working. Breaks are used to help stop or slow down wildfires by removing the vegetation, which serves as fuel for the fire. A shaded fuel break often is constructed in a forested area, where trees are thinned and pruned but retain some canopy. Such a break can help keep surface fires from spreading into tree tops, which increases fire intensity. “This project will help create a safer working environment for firefighters in the event of a wildfire,” said Phillip Truitt, a wildland urban interface specialist with Texas A&M Forest Service. “And if a fire did occur, the fuel break would provide a means of egress for Davis Mountains Resort residents.” Nestled in far West Texas, the Davis Mountains Resort area is no stranger to wildfire. In April 2011, it was threatened by the Rockhouse Fire, which was deemed one of the largest blazes in state history after it scorched more than 300,000 acres in Jeff Davis and Presidio counties. Less than two months later, the 12,000-acre Tejano Canyon Fire threatened 200 homes in the Davis Mountains Resort. Wildfire threatened the scenic area once again in May 2012 when the Livermore Ranch Complex burned charred more than 23,000 acres. Community residents began working with Texas A&M Forest Service a couple of years ago with a goal of becoming Firewise, a national designation bestowed on communities that actively work to reduce wildfire risks. To earn Firewise status, communities must assess the hazards in their community, form a committee, develop an action plan and hold a community work day. Media Advisory: A Media Day allowing reporters a chance to get an up-close look at the equipment and work being done is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5, at Davis Mountains Retreat Campground off Tomahawk Trail. Officials with Texas A&M Forest Service and Davis Mountains Resort will be available for interviews. Contacts: Phillip Truitt, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist (325) 326-2326, ptruitt@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service employee honored for leadership in incident response

FRP FRP — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:24:01 GMT

Jan. 31, 2013 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – As wildfires raged across Texas in 2011, Texas A&M Forest Service Incident Response Department Head Paul Hannemann directed statewide operations, oversaw the mobilization of thousands of firefighters and managed the suppression of thousands of blazes that burned almost 3 million acres. On Wednesday, Hannemann was recognized for his service with the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Fellow Service Award. The award is designed to recognize employees who have made exemplary contributions to their university or agency and to the people of Texas. As an emergency responder for more than three decades, Hannemann has done just that. During the catastrophic 2011 wildfire season, he was deployed for more than 330 days in a heroic effort to combat challenging wildfires, including six of the 10 largest blazes in state history. ”Paul is truly dedicated to public service,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. “He has a fine-tuned ability to take Incident Command System principles and apply them to the unique features of any hazardous event. He’s the guy you want as your team captain when you’re about to make a big play.” In addition to his career in incident management, Hannemann also is committed to teaching others his craft. He serves as an instructor for the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service Municipal Fire School and helped develop two wildfire academies that Texas A&M Forest Service conducts annually. “He has been at the forefront in innovative and strategic response policy and program development for the first responder community of Texas,” states the nomination letter submitted by Hannemann’s peers to the Board of Regents. Hannemann has trained numerous regional incident management teams from across the country, including responders from Fire Department of New York. Partly due to Hannemann’s reputation as a leader in incident management, the New York Office of Emergency Management recently requested assistance from the Lone Star State Incident Management Team for Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts. With Hannemann serving as incident commander, the team deployed for a three-week assignment, returning Jan. 16. Hannemann, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M in 1974 and a master’s degree in 1981, said he’s honored to receive the Regents Fellow Service Award. “It’s rewarding to be recognized for doing what you love to do, but what’s really an honor is being able to serve Texas A&M and the state of Texas each day and ensure that when a life is saved, a wildfire is contained or power is restored, everyone goes home safe at the end of the day,” Hannemann said. Contacts: Paul Hannemann, Incident Response Department Head (979) 458-7344, phannemann@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

State agency partners with military base to improve wildfire response

FRP FRP — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 15:30:25 GMT

Feb. 5, 2013 – KILLEEN, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service and Fort Hood military base entered an agreement Monday that will provide a faster and more efficient response to wildfires. The agreement allows the state agency and military officials to communicate and assist each other directly, rather than involve numerous entities and follow time-consuming procedures. Prior to the agreement, TFS requested resources through the Texas Division of Emergency Management, which in turn, would apply for assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA then had to request assistance from the U.S. Department of Defense, which would fill the request for Fort Hood. “In emergency response, it’s critical to be swift and efficient,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Director Tom Boggus. “This agreement goes a long way toward helping us better protect lives and property.” Under the terms of the agreement, TFS and Fort Hood can cooperate and collaborate on wildfire suppression, training and prescribed burning. It also allows TFS to house vehicles and heavy firefighting equipment on the military base – standing ready to help Fort Hood in the event of a wildfire on the base. And the area has seen its share of wildfire; almost 19,000 acres burned there during the 2011 wildfire season. State Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock, R-Killeen, said he’s pleased to see the agreement come to fruition. “This is a prime example of how different agencies came to the table, rolled up their sleeves and went to work to find a solution that would best serve the citizens of Texas,” Aycock said. Beyond Fort Hood property, TFS will now be able to directly request firefighting equipment, personnel and resources from Fort Hood Emergency Services Division to any point within a designated response zone. Contacts: III Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs Office 254-287-9993/0106 or 254-449-4023/5298 Steven Carter, Regional Fire Coordinator 979-393-8210, scarter@tfs.tamu.edu Texas A&M Forest Service Communications 979-458-6606, newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu

Wildland fire response courses offered at academy in Brownwood

FRP FRP — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 13:24:13 GMT

Feb. 6, 2013 – BROWNWOOD, Texas – Emergency responders are invited to hone their wildland firefighting skills at the 12th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy, set for Feb. 14-18. The academy in Brownwood, Texas, features wildland firefighting training for paid and volunteer departments and courses on safety and fire operations in the wildland urban interface. Courses were customized to meet the needs of the fire departments in the area. A prescribed burn field exercise – allowing students to actually work on a fire – will be held on Monday, Feb. 18, if weather permits. “The key to ensuring that responders are safe when they’re out on the fire line is making sure they are properly trained and have the tools they need to protect themselves,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Wildland Urban Interface Specialist Joe Kozlowski. “Only then can they do the best and most efficient job of protecting homes and property.” The cost to attend the academy is $60, payable through a voucher system with the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, a grant program funded by the state and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Breakfast and lunch are served for a combined $15 per day. Free lodging in barracks is available on site at Camp Bowie in Brownwood. For more information or to register, go to the Texas Interagency Coordinating Center training page or contact the academy registrar at AcademyRegistrar@tfs.tamu.edu or 979-458-7330. Registration closes on Feb. 10. Members of the media are encouraged to visit and are welcome any day of the academy. To arrange a media tour, contact Kozlowski at (936) 827-2094 or Public Information Officer Jan Amen at (936) 546-1004. The Central Texas Wildfire Academy is sponsored by Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Army National Guard and Dam Volunteer Fire Department. Contacts: Joe Kozlowski, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist (936) 827-2094, jkozlowski@tfs.tamu.edu Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist 936-546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu Meredith McNeil, Academy Registrar 979-458-7330, AcademyRegistrar@tfs.tamu.edu

Hundreds of Aggies to plant thousands of trees at fire-ravaged Bastrop State Park

FRP FRP — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 22:09:06 GMT

Feb. 11, 2013 - BASTROP, Texas - Flash back to Labor Day weekend in 2011 when high winds spawned by a tropical storm in Louisiana combined with epic drought conditions to fuel the most damaging wildfire in Texas history in and around the Central Texas community of Bastrop. Massive help poured in then for the people affected by the fire. Now, fast forward to this weekend when hundreds of Texas A&M University students will partner with the Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS) and Texas Parks and Wildlife to help the Lost Pines ecosystem recover by planting thousands of pine seedlings. The student aspect is being led by Aggie Replant, a student environmental organization. Approximately 800 Texas A&M students will bus over to Bastrop State Park Saturday morning (Feb. 16) to start planting 30,000 seedlings as part of Replant’s community outreach efforts. The students will separate into four groups – one Saturday and another Sunday and repeat the process next weekend—in planting loblolly pine seedlings to replenish the trees lost in the fire. The event kicks off at the picnic/swimming pool area of the park at 10 a.m. Saturday with brief remarks by representatives of the participating entities and invited dignitaries. Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp was instrumental in bringing the key groups together to carry out the initiative, citing the benefits to the state and its citizens. “This a grand example of working together for the common good – Aggies volunteering their weekend time to join teams from the Texas A&M Forest Service and the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department to restore this state treasure – the Lost Pines of Bastrop State Park – for future generations,” Sharp notes. “For our Texas A&M University students, this event demonstrates our core value of selfless service, while also carrying out the land-grant mission of the Forest Service and The Texas A&M University System overall for the benefit of Texas and Texans.” John Han, Aggie Replant director, agrees with Chancellor Sharp, saying, “I am excited for the opportunity that has been given to Texas A&M. We are taking the initiative to assist a community in need and that is truly exemplary. I think that this project does a good job of embodying Texas A&M and its core values.” Katharina Moeller, another Aggie Replant leader, offers more from the student perspective: “The Lost Pines Recovery Campaign is something that Replant is so proud to participate in and plan. We have spent countless hours preparing for this project and cannot wait to see the results. The interest in the project from the students was outstanding and the help we received in marketing the project was phenomenal.” Moeller says Replant has recruited hundreds of Aggies to come together and show the selfless service, leadership and respect – in this case for the environment – that are among the university’s core values. Aggie Replant is believed to be the first student-led university organization to participate in the Bastrop recovery campaign – certainly on the scale being undertaken. “It’s great that Texas A&M students will have a role in restoring Bastrop State Park. I’m sure many have seen the devastation as they drive along Highway 21, maybe on their way home on a break, and these Aggie Replant weekends are a chance to lend a helping hand,” says Pete Smith, TFS urban forestry program manager. “TFS foresters will be there to help train the students on proper planting technique so that the Lost Pines seedlings they plant can survive the long, hot summer ahead. TFS foresters are helping facilitate the Aggie planting events and training the students on proper planting technique, working alongside Bastrop State Park rangers. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Commissioner Bill Jones of Austin said it’s been exciting to see the generosity Texans displayed in the aftermath of the Bastrop wildfire. “I personally visited Bastrop State Park in the days following the fire and, like so many, was stunned and made heartsick by what I saw,” said Jones, a 1981 Texas A&M graduate and former member of The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. “There are many ways to help the Bastrop area rise from the proverbial ashes, but bringing back the trees is an essential step to restore the region’s heart and soul. All of us owe a huge debt of thanks to the Aggie Replant volunteers, and to the many others who have given their time and money so generously to help.” Since wildfire recovery replanting started Dec. 1, 214,089 seedlings have been planted at Bastrop State Park. The park has reopened since the fire, including all campgrounds, cabins and almost all trails. See the Bastrop State Park web page for complete visitor information and the latest on wildfire recovery. Officials say the first priority for TFS was to germinate and grow the seed into seedlings. Nursery partners – including state facilities in Louisiana and Oklahoma, as well as the private seedling nursery, ArborGen, in Bullard, Texas – were asked to grow-out the seedlings. “It means a great deal to my agency to have been part of the wildfire response in Bastrop,” said Tom Boggus, Texas A&M Forest Service director. “But it means even more to be part of the recovery. TFS is providing 100 percent of the genetically-unique seed to be able to restore the Lost Pines. And although the agency has the seed source, it is the support of the Arbor Day Foundation and their corporate partners that helped make this all possible.” Last fall, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Arbor Day Foundation launched the Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign, a public-private partnership to raise money to plant more than 4 million trees. Since then, more than $2 million in donations has been raised to aid Bastrop wildfire recovery. Tree plantings this season are being paid for by the Apache Corporation, Friends of the Lost Pines, Nobelity Project and many other donors. More information regarding the seedling distribution plan and other restoration and recovery efforts is posted on the Lost Pines Recovery Team website. Information on donations and volunteer opportunities can be found here. #### Media contacts: Linda Moon, TFS, at (979) 458-6606 or Lane Stephenson, Division of Marketing & Communications, Texas A&M, at (979) 845-4662 or Urban Forestry Program Manager Pete Smith, at (979) 458-6650 or http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu or Mike Cox, Texas Parks and Wildlife, 512-389-8046.

Firewise workshop planned in Georgetown

FRP FRP — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:14:28 GMT

GEORGETOWN, Texas – Fire personnel, community planners and residents who want to protect their homes from wildfire are invited to a Texas Firewise workshop later this month. “Firewise” is a national concept that empowers communities to do simple things like clear overgrown vegetation from around their homes to protect against wildfire threats. To become Firewise, communities must obtain a wildfire risk assessment, create an action plan for how they will reduce their risks, conduct a community education event and complete a community project that decreases the threat of wildfire. Fifty-seven communities across the state have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. The workshop is set for Feb. 26-27 at the Sun City Worship Place Conference Hall, 811 Sun City Blvd., Georgetown, with registration starting at 7:45 a.m. on the first day. The second day is an opportunity for participants to tour Firewise communities from 9 a.m. to noon. It costs $40 to attend and lunch is included on Feb. 26. Two educational tracks are planned: One for current and prospective Firewise Community representatives and community planners; another for fire departments, emergency management coordinators and Community Emergency Response Teams. "This workshop offers a great lineup of speakers from local fire chiefs to leaders in established Firewise communities,” said Patrick Allen, Firewise liaison with Texas A&M Forest Service. “If you have any questions about Firewise and how it can work in your community, district, region or business, we encourage you to join us for this exciting opportunity." Register online or contact Patrick Allen for more information. To learn more about becoming Firewise, visit texasfirewise.org. Contacts: Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities Liaison (979) 204-9648, pallen@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Lucas earns ‘Firewise’ designation

FRP FRP — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 13:52:13 GMT

Feb. 18, 2013 – LUCAS – Texas A&M Forest Service representatives are pleased to join homeowners in a Collin County community this week to celebrate their Firewise Communities USA designation. The city of Lucas earned the National Fire Protection Association’s “Firewise” status by obtaining a wildfire risk assessment and using it to create an action plan, conducting a community cleanup event, investing a minimum of $2 per capita in local Firewise actions and submitting an application to their state Firewise liaison. More than 870 sites in 40 states have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. Lucas is one of 57 sites in Texas to receive the honor. A presentation is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, at Lucas City Hall, 665 Country Club Road, Lucas. Representatives from Texas A&M Forest Service, Lucas Volunteer Fire Department and the Lucas Firewise Committee will attend. “The City of Lucas joins the ranks of Texas communities that have taken responsibility for protecting their residents from the devastation of wildfires,” said Nick Harrison, a wildland urban interface forester with Texas A&M Forest Service. “As the first recognized Firewise community in Collin County, they’re setting the bar for other cities wanting to take proactive action.” For more information about Firewise Communities, visit the Firewise website or contact your local wildland urban interface specialist. Contacts: Nick Harrison, Texas A&M Forest Service WUI Forester (817) 894-4761, nharrison@tfs.tamu.edu Bobette Mauck, Lucas Firewise Coordinator (972) 727-1242, bmauck@lucasfire.com

Goliad Anacua and Old Baldy designated as Famous Trees of Texas

FRP FRP — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 14:21:44 GMT

Feb. 22, 2013 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Two trees rich in Lone Star State history were added this week to the Famous Trees of Texas registry. A large evergreen Anacua identified during the restoration of the Espiritu Santo church at the Goliad Historic Site near San Antonio and a towering bald cypress in McKinney Falls State Park known as “Old Baldy” join the elite group. Images of the trees can be viewed in an online photo album. Texas A&M Forest Service oversees the Famous Trees of Texas registry, which recognizes trees that have witnessed exciting periods and events in Texas history. The original 81 Famous Trees of Texas were memorialized in a book published by TFS in the 1970s and 1980s. Only 57 of those are still alive. The book, Famous Trees of Texas, is now presented in an online format (http://famoustreesoftexas.tamu.edu) with updates to reflect the status of the trees. As Famous Trees of Texas occasionally succumb to the ravages of time, nature and neglect, Texas A&M Forest Service seeks to augment this distinguished group through nominations of additional Famous Trees, such as the Goliad Anacua and Old Baldy. The general public can make nominations through the website that will be reviewed by a steering committee. The criteria include: Tree is located at or near the site of a significant state, county or community event and must have been alive at the time of the event. Tree is directly connected to the War for Texas Independence, the Republic of Texas or another of the Historical Topics on the Famous Trees of Texas website. Tree is recognized by a Texas Historical Commission marker or is identified in historical records, newspaper accounts or photos. Tree is in reasonably good health and is likely to remain for the foreseeable future. The agency is seeking nominations to bring the total number of Famous Trees to 100 by 2015, the 100th anniversary of Texas A&M Forest Service. For additional information, visit http://tfsweb.tamu.edu. Contact: Gretchen Riley, Tree City USA Coordinator (979) 458-6650, griley@tfs.tamu.edu

Leon Valley earns Tree City USA designation

FRP FRP — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:43:31 GMT

March 5, 2013 – LEON VALLEY, Texas – A Bexar County community recently affirmed its commitment to tree care and urban forestry by completing the steps to become a “Tree City USA.” The designation, bestowed by the Arbor Day Foundation and Texas A&M Forest Service, is designed to bring recognition and assistance to community forestry programs. To earn the title, cities must create a tree board or department, implement a tree care ordinance, support a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita and observe Arbor Day with a proclamation. Leon Valley is one of 73 communities in Texas to receive the honor. “Leon Valley joins the ranks of Texas communities committed to managing and enhancing their urban forest,” said Gretchen Riley, Tree City USA program coordinator with Texas A&M Forest Service. “Texans value their trees not just for aesthetic reasons, but for the significant environmental and economic benefits trees provide to residents.” For more information about Tree City USA, visit www.arborday.org, http://tfsweb.tamu.edu, or contact your regional urban forester. Contacts: Gretchen Riley, Texas A&M Forest Service Tree City USA Program Coordinator (979) 458-6650, griley@tfs.tamu.edu Kristie Flores, Leon Valley Community Development Director (210) 684-1391, kflores@leonvalleytexas.gov

Lake Kiowa earns ‘Firewise’ designation

FRP FRP — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 13:24:27 GMT

March 12, 2013 – LAKE KIOWA, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service representatives proudly joined homeowners in a Cooke County community this week to celebrate their Firewise Communities USA designation. The city of Lake Kiowa earned the National Fire Protection Association’s “Firewise” status by obtaining a wildfire risk assessment and using it to create an action plan, conducting a community cleanup event, investing a minimum of $2 per capita in local Firewise actions and submitting an application to their state Firewise liaison. More than 870 sites in 40 states have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. Lake Kiowa is one of 58 sites in Texas to receive the honor. A presentation was held Saturday, March 10, during the community’s annual property owners’ association meeting. State Rep. Drew Springer, Cooke County Emergency Management Coordinator Ray Fletcher and other dignitaries attended the event, at which Nick Harrison, a wildland urban interface forester with Texas A&M Forest Service, presented the city’s Firewise plaque. “Lake Kiowa joins the ranks of Texas communities that have taken responsibility for protecting their residents from the devastation of wildfires,” Harrison said. For more information about Firewise Communities, visit the Firewise website or contact your local wildland urban interface specialist. Contacts: Nick Harrison, Texas A&M Forest Service WUI Forester (817) 894-4761, nharrison@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service nature expo brings balance to your backyard — and your life

FRD2 FRD2 — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 17:56:50 GMT

March 13, 2013 — CONROE, Texas — Long days at the office. Shrinking paychecks. Exhausted, overcommitted kids. These days, who isn’t stressed out and ready for a break? Shift your life from overdrive into neutral, and come on out to Texas Wildlife and Woodland Expo & Spring Fling, where we can help bring balance to your backyard — and your life. Expo & Spring Fling is designed to help families learn how to nourish and protect the land on which they live through the use of hands-on clinics, live demonstrations and children’s activities. Essentially, we help families reconnect with nature — and each other. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., March 23, 2013, at the Lone Star College-Montgomery Campus, 3200 College Park Dr. in Conroe. It’s free and open to the public. “You’d really be amazed at what we’ve got planned for our families this year,” said John Warner, Texas A&M Forest Service urban district forester and expo founder. “We’ve got more than 40 exhibitors for the adults and roughly 40 hands-on learning stations for the kids. And it’s all set in the middle of this beautiful, forested campus. It’s just a fantastic way to spend a Saturday.” Co-sponsored by Texas A&M Forest Service and Lone Star College-Montgomery, Expo & Spring Fling places an emphasis on education with a heavy dose of family fun. For the adults, we’ll have experts on hand to teach clinics and answer questions about trees, plants, water, wildlife, forests, fish, ponds and green building. For the kids, we’ve got the Family Adventure Zone, where they can climb a rock wall, paddle around in a kayak, practice their aim with a bow and arrow and even have their picture made with Smokey Bear. The Montgomery County Arbor Day Ceremony will be held at the start of Expo & Spring Fling, serving to kick off the event. Free tree seedlings will be handed out throughout the day, while supplies last. For more information or a detailed schedule of events, go to http://expo.tamu.edu. ### Texas A$M Forest Service Contacts: John Warner, Urban District Forester in Conroe jwarner@tfs.tamu.edu, 936-273-2261 office or 936-546-3169 cell Joel Hambright, Regional Forester in Huntsville jhambright@tfs.tamu.edu, 936-295-5688 office or 936-546-3151 cell Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist in College Station hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu, 979-458-6605 office or 979-324-0708 cell

Taylor earns Tree City USA designation

FRP FRP — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:54:30 GMT

April 2, 2013 – TAYLOR, Texas – A Williamson County community recently affirmed its commitment to tree care and urban forestry by completing the steps to become a “Tree City USA.” The designation, presented by the Arbor Day Foundation and Texas A&M Forest Service, is designed to bring recognition and assistance to community forestry programs. To earn the title, cities must create a tree board or department, implement a tree care ordinance, support a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita and observe Arbor Day with a proclamation. “We are very excited to join more than 3,400 communities nationwide as a Tree City USA by demonstrating our commitment to preservation, urban forestry and the environment as a whole,” said Taylor Recreation Superintendent Mike DeVito. Taylor is one of 77 communities in Texas to receive the honor. “Taylor joins the ranks of Texas communities committed to managing and enhancing their urban forest,” said Gretchen Riley, Tree City USA program coordinator with Texas A&M Forest Service. “Texans value their trees not just for aesthetic reasons, but for the significant environmental and economic benefits trees provide to residents.” For more information about the Tree City USA program, visit www.arborday.org, http://tfsweb.tamu.edu or contact your regional urban forester. Contacts: Gretchen Riley, Texas A&M Forest Service Tree City USA program coordinator (979) 458-6650, griley@tfs.tamu.edu Mike DeVito, Taylor recreation superintendent (512) 365-7669, mike.devito@taylortx.gov

Proactive measures can prevent wildfires and help protect your home

FRP FRP — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:30:52 GMT

April 4, 2013 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – As Wildfire Awareness Week kicks off Monday, Texas A&M Forest Service is reminding residents of simple precautions they can take to prevent dangerous blazes. About 90 percent of wildfires in Texas are attributed to preventable causes such as debris burning, outdoor campfires and welding. A little common sense – such as making sure your debris burn site is away from structures and overhanging branches – can prevent a wildfire from igniting. Other tips include: Never burn leaves on a windy day. Monitor local burn bans by contacting your county judge’s office. When barbecuing, never leave a grill unattended. Clear away grass, leaves and other debris within a 10-foot perimeter of any burn pile, campfire or barbecue grill. Keep water nearby when doing anything outdoors that creates a spark. If you see a fire, call 911. Residents also can take precautions to increase their home’s chances of survival if a wildfire ignites, said Bruce Woods, Mitigation and Prevention department head for Texas A&M Forest Service. “What you plant, where you place your plants and how you maintain the landscaping can help protect your home, and simple improvements can significantly decrease a home’s ignitability,” Woods said. Some tips include: Create a break in vegetation with a rock path or other non-flammable material to slow the spread of wildfire. Keep your lawn mowed and leaves raked. Remove leaves and needles from your roof and gutters. Clear vegetation to create at least 30 feet of “defensible space” around your home to allow firefighters to safely protect it. Visit texasfirewise.org for information on fire-resistant construction materials, Firewise landscaping and vegetation management. Contacts: Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist (936) 546-1004, jamen@tfs.tamu.edu April Saginor, Communications Specialist (979) 458-6619, asaginor@tfs.tamu.edu

Texas A&M Forest Service deploys to Central Texas following fertilizer plant explosion

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:06:02 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 18, 2013 Texas A&M Forest Service deploys to Central Texas following fertilizer plant explosion COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A Texas A&M Forest Service Incident Management Team has deployed to Central Texas to aid in response and recovery efforts following a massive explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas. The 18-member team — as well as the agency’s mobile command post and satellite trailer — was requested by the Texas Division of Emergency Management to help emergency management officials track the local, state and federal resources responding to the scene. The bulk of the team – 15 members – is en route to the disaster site, with the remaining three headed to the State Operations Center in Austin. Texas A&M Forest Service is considered one of the state’s lead agencies when it comes to incident management and disaster response. ### For more information, contact the Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Team at 979-458-6606 or newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu.

Regional All-Hazard Incident Management Team members joining state response

FRD2 FRD2 — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 23:09:08 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 18, 2013 Regional All-Hazard Incident Management Team members joining state response COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service has activated members of three regional All-Hazard Incident Management Teams to aid in the response and recovery efforts following the massive explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas. The 10-member interdisciplinary team will join with the Texas A&M Forest Service Incident Management Team, which was deployed early Thursday to help emergency management officials track resources and response activities and provide logistical support. They team also will help compile and track data related to the overall impact of the disaster. Of the 10-person crew, eight members are part of the Hillsboro All-Hazard Incident Management Team. The remaining two are from the Alamo Area All-Hazard Incident Management Team and the Williamson County All-Hazard Incident Management Team. “They’re trained to national standards, just like our own employees,” Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief Mark Stanford said. “They respond with our agency, and we consider them to be part of our team.” Texas A&M Forest Service oversees 18 regional, interdisciplinary teams scattered across the Lone Star State. The groups are made up of trained, local emergency responders including police officers, firefighters and emergency management officials. The regional All-Hazard teams previously responded to Hurricane Ike and the Presidio Flood in 2008. They also responded several times during the devastating 2011 wildfire season. ### Previous Release Texas A&M Forest Service Deploys to Central Texas following fertilizer plant explosion http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/article.aspx?id=17451 For more information, contact the Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Team at newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu.

Firefighters mobilize to cover shifts for West Volunteer Fire Department

FRP FRP — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 14:11:39 GMT

April 20, 2013 – WEST, Texas – Firefighters and apparatus from Waxahachie Fire Rescue, Cedar Hill Fire Department and Red Oak Fire Rescue were mobilized Friday afternoon to assist with emergency response in West, Texas, following the massive fertilizer plant explosion earlier this week. The resources were mobilized through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Texas Gov. Rick Perry announced the activation at a press conference Friday. Twelve firefighters from the three municipal departments arrived in West late Friday afternoon with a command vehicle, two fire engines and a heavy rescue vehicle. They will be tasked with covering shifts for the West Volunteer Fire Department and assisting with rescue operations. The firefighters will supplement numerous other resources already on site in West – including a regional incident management team and a team of personnel from Texas A&M Forest Service. The TIFMAS program was created in the 2009 Legislature and is a collaborative effort of the Texas Fire Chiefs Association, State Firemen’s and Fire Marshal’s Association, Texas State Association of Fire Fighters, Texas Commission on Fire Protection and Texas A&M Forest Service. The program offers training, equipment and vehicle grants, credentialing standards and mobilization systems to make statewide use of local resources. Since its inception, TIFMAS has mobilized both resources and personnel for Hurricanes Ike and Alex and numerous wildfire responses in 2009 and 2011. For more information, contact the Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Team at newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu.

Local, regional and state agencies conduct aviation firefighting training

FRP FRP — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 21:45:51 GMT

April 22, 2013 – BASTROP, Texas – This Saturday, April 27, STAR Flight, the Austin Fire Department, Austin Police Department, Texas Military Forces, Texas A&M Forest Service and Department of Public Safety are conducting joint wildfire aviation training at Camp Swift in Bastrop. This first-of-its-kind training in the state will help Central Texas fire department personnel learn how to work safely and effectively with aircraft. The day-long event is scheduled to include classroom training in the morning and hands-on training in the afternoon with aircraft from multiple agencies participating. Firefighting personnel will receive training on communication between air and ground crews, the logistics of water intake and drop and landing site selection and safety. During the past several months, the participating agencies have worked together on every aspect of joint firefighting with aviation support to prepare for future wildfires. Wildfire knows no boundaries, so coordinated training and planning among local, regional and state agencies helps to ensure a safer and more effective response to wildfires. According to Texas A&M Forest Service, in 2011 more than 30,000 wildfires burned approximately 4 million acres in Texas and destroyed 2,947 homes. With most of Texas still under drought conditions, the threat of wildfire remains, and the importance of joint wildfire fighting capabilities grows. Aircraft play a critical role in supporting firefighters on the ground, and with this training, firefighters will learn crucial skills used to support firefighting aircraft. Media invited to cover training from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Camp Swift. RSVP to Public Information Officer Lisa Block at (512) 854-7954 if you plan to attend.

Texas A&M Forest Service joins with Bastrop to celebrate hope on Arbor Day

FRD2 FRD2 — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:23:17 GMT

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 2013 Texas A&M Forest Service joins with Bastrop to celebrate hope on Arbor Day BASTROP, Texas — A little more than 18 months after the most destructive wildfire in Texas history, this Central Texas community is coming together once again, this time to celebrate resiliency, recovery and hope. Those themes will be the primary focus as Bastrop residents join with state and local dignitaries next Friday to celebrate the 124th Texas Arbor Day. The official state ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, April 26, 2013, at the Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut Street in downtown Bastrop. An Education Fair will immediately follow on the adjoining grounds. “Arbor Day is a special day because it celebrates the bond between Texans and our trees,” said Tom Boggus, director and state forester for the Texas A&M Forest Service and master of ceremonies for the state observance. “Trees can stir strong memories and serve as markers for significant milestones in our lives. They also have the unique ability to bring community members together and provide them with hope for the future, which is exactly what we’re celebrating this year in Bastrop.” First observed in Texas in 1889, Arbor Day celebrates the planting and nurturing of trees, as well as all the ways that trees enrich our lives. The annual state celebration is held in a different city each year. This year, however, the observance is designed to shine a spotlight on the Bastrop community and its resiliency in the wake of a devastating wildfire that charred 32,400 acres, destroyed 1,660 homes and killed roughly 1.5 million trees. Since the September 2011 fire, residents have come together to reforest the community, planting more than a half-million seedlings. Plans call for roughly 3 million to 4 million more to be planted over the next four to five years. The state ceremony will feature Bastrop Mayor Terry Orr, as well as District 17 State Rep. Tim Kleinschmidt and District 14 State Sen. Kirk Watson, both of whom represent Bastrop County. The City of Bastrop also will receive a ‘Tree City USA’ designation from the Arbor Day Foundation, honoring their commitment to urban forestry. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Executive Director Carter Smith will provide the Arbor Day keynote address. The ceremony will conclude with the Education Fair, which is open to the public. It will feature various information booths and hands-on children’s activities, as well as a special appearance by Dozer & Tracker, 5-month-old purebred bloodhound puppies who are in training to become Texas A&M Forest Service’s newest K9 arson investigators. ### Media Note: K9 Arson Investigators Dozer & Tracker — and their human partners, Officers Kevin Pierce and Jarred Lemmon — will be available during the fair for interviews and tracking demonstrations. For more information on the arson dogs program or to set up an interview, contact Communications Specialist Holly Huffman at 979-458-6605 or hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu. Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts For information on Arbor Day: Pete Smith, Urban Forestry Manager in College Station 979-458-6658 office, 979-204-9286 cell, psmith@tfs.tamu.edu For more information on Arbor Day or the K9 Arson Investigator Program: Holly Huffman, Communications Specialist in College Station 979-458-6605 office, 979-324-0708 cell, hhuffman@tfs.tamu.edu City of Bastrop Contact Trey Job, Director of Public Works, Parks & Recreation 512-332-8932 office, 512-848-5716 cell, tjob@cityofbastrop.org

Central Texas trees at risk for deadly oak wilt disease

FRP FRP — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:01:43 GMT

May 1, 2013 — AUSTIN, Texas — The mighty Central Texas oak trees that help shade homes and beautify neighborhoods are falling prey to an incurable and deadly disease. Oak wilt is a fungal disease that has caused tree deaths in 74 Texas counties. Trees infected with oak wilt can spread the disease to surrounding oaks via their interconnected root systems. When that happens, the only way to stop further spread is by digging trenches to break the root connections. The deadly disease also can be spread by insects, which strike primarily from February through June. Sap-feeding beetles are attracted to the sweet-smelling spore mats produced by infected red oaks. The disease is spread when those insects fly off to feed on a healthy red oak or a live oak with a fresh wound. Texas A&M Forest Service Forester Eric Beckers said oak wilt is primarily seen in the central part of the state but confirmed cases of the disease have been reported in the Texas Panhandle and eastern areas. “We’re talking about trees that have been in the landscape for a century or more. We don’t replace those trees overnight,” Beckers said, adding that the death of such majestic trees can lead to drops in property values. “Preventing oak wilt is the key.” A wound is created any time bark is removed and wood is exposed, Beckers said. That can happen with the simplest of tasks — clearing brush, pruning limbs or even pushing a lawn mower over a bare tree root. That bare wood produces sap, which attracts the sap-feeding beetles, Beckers said, stressing the importance of avoiding wounds in the spring, painting tree wounds year-round and destroying diseased red oaks. “You don’t want to have to manage oak wilt. That means you have it. You want to prevent it from happening,” Beckers said. “Oak wilt is a bear. It’s very difficult to stop.” Visit www.texasoakwilt.org for more information or to contact a forester specializing in oak wilt. Contacts: Eric Beckers, Resource Forester in Austin 512-339-3772, ebeckers@tfs.tamu.edu Jim Houser, Regional Forest Health Coordinator in Austin 512-339-4589, jhouser@tfs.tamu.edu

Waterford earns Firewise designation

FRP FRP — Thu, 02 May 2013 16:20:01 GMT

May 2, 2013 – LAGO VISTA, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service representatives are pleased to join homeowners in a Travis County neighborhood this week to celebrate their Firewise Communities USA designation. The Waterford community earned the National Fire Protection Association’s “Firewise” status by obtaining a wildfire risk assessment and using it to create an action plan, conducting a community cleanup event, investing a minimum of $2 per capita in local Firewise actions and submitting an application to their state Firewise liaison. More than 893 sites in 40 states have received the Firewise designation, proving they are committed to taking proactive actions toward preventing wildfires in their area. Waterford is one of 58 sites in Texas to receive the honor. A presentation is set for 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4, at the Waterford Property Owners’ Association meeting at Oak Park near Lohman Ford Road. A barbecue is planned, and new Firewise signs for the community will be unveiled. Texas A&M Forest Service Firewise Communities Liaison Patrick Allen and Wildland Urban Interface Coordinator Justice Jones will attend. “The Waterford community joins the ranks of those that have taken responsibility for protecting their residents from the devastation of wildfires,” Allen said. For more information about Firewise Communities, visit the Firewise website or contact your local wildland urban interface specialist. Contacts: Patrick Allen, Firewise Communities Liaison (979) 204-9648, pallen@tfs.tamu.edu Roger Conway Waterford Fire and Safety Committee 512-917-7670, rconway@austin.rr.com

Bryan Fire Department, Texas A&M Forest Service collaborate on first plan of its kind in Texas

FRP FRP — Thu, 23 May 2013 19:38:26 GMT

May 23, 2013 – BRYAN, Texas – Bryan firefighters helped suppress almost 100 wildfires during the record-breaking 2011 fire season, prompting the chief to ensure his department is trained and prepared for the next big blaze. The Bryan Fire Department joined forces with Texas A&M Forest Service in late 2012 and spent months identifying wildfire risks and strategies to reduce those risks. The resulting product is the department’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), a national model for hazard mitigation. But Bryan Fire Chief Randy McGregor said it was important for his department to expand on the typical CWPP template. The chief felt compelled, he said, to make sure his firefighters were equipped for tactical wildfire response. BFD firefighters typically respond to a high volume of medical calls and single-structure fires, which require different response tactics than a wildfire that can burn hundreds of acres and multiple buildings in a single day. To address those needs, McGregor put his firefighters through a wildland training course and, with Texas A&M Forest Service, began crafting the first collaborative “Wildfire Pre-Attack Plan” in Texas. The pocket guide delves into specific tactics, outlining water sources, home construction materials and vegetation types for individual Bryan neighborhoods, particularly those that present high risks. “We owe it to our residents to ensure that we have the tools we need to protect them and their homes when the next wildfire ignites,” McGregor said. “This process has provided us an excellent resource for our responders as well as mutual aid firefighters who may not be familiar with Bryan.” The working group of Bryan firefighters and Texas A&M Forest Service officials didn’t stop there. During a meeting in March, McGregor tossed out another good idea: “What if we made the Pre-Attack Plan a smartphone app?” he asked. “If responders could download the plan to their phone, they could view maps and get all the information they need, even begin crafting an evacuation plan, before they arrive at the fire.” The rest is history – and available for free download at the iTunes store. For more information on Community Wildfire Protection Plans, visit texasfirewise.org. The media and public are invited to see Bryan Fire Chief Randy McGregor and TFS Regional Fire Coordinator Jared Karns present a brief overview of the CWPP and Bryan Fire Department Wildfire Pre-Attack Plan. A presentation will be held at the Bryan City Council workshop set for 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at Bryan Municipal Building, 300 South Texas Ave., Bryan, Texas. The group will reconvene at a City Council meeting set for 6 p.m. June 11 to sign the CWPP. Contacts: Jared Karns, Regional Fire Coordinator (936) 202-0688, jkarns@tfs.tamu.edu Karen Stafford, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist (936) 545-6991, kstafford@tfs.tamu.edu Randy McGregor, Bryan Fire Chief (979) 209-5960, rmcgregor@bryantx.gov