Texoma Connect

Texas Parks and Wildlife | Austin Texas

With duck hunting season getting underway in most of the state in early November, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is reminding waterfowl hunters to clean, drain and dry boats and equipment before traveling from lake to lake to help avoid spreading invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels.

“Invasive species like giant salvinia can quickly grow to cover expanses of fresh water, which can block access for hunters to prime waterfowl hunting areas,” said John Findeisen, TPWD aquatic invasive species team lead. “By properly cleaning, draining and drying equipment and reporting sightings of invasive species, waterfowl hunters can make a big difference in the fight to protect our lakes and waterways from aquatic invaders.”

Findeisen noted all equipment that comes into contact with the water is capable of harboring invasive species – including waders, boats, trailers and decoys – and can quickly spread them to new places and destroy aquatic habitats.

“Any gear that has been in the water can carry invasives and must also go through a thorough clean, drain and dry process,” Findeisen said. “This includes decoys, waders and marsh sleds.”

In Texas it is unlawful to possess or transport prohibited aquatic invasive species, dead or alive, anywhere in the state. TPWD regulations also require boaters to drain all water from their boat and onboard receptacles before leaving or approaching a public body of fresh water in order to prevent the transfer of invasive species. This regulation applies to all types and sizes of boats whether powered or not: personal watercraft, sailboats, kayaks/canoes or any other vessel used on public waters.

These three steps can prevent further spread of invasive species in Texas:

CLEAN: Before leaving the ramp area, do a walkaround inspection. Remove any plants, mud and debris from the boat, trailer and gear. Be sure to check your boots, dogs, decoys, and anything else that was in the water.

DRAIN: Drain your boat, motor and other water-retaining compartments. Keep your drain plugs out until you are home.

DRY: Let your boat and gear dry completely before entering another waterbody. If it can’t dry for at least a week, then wash everything thoroughly with high-pressure, soapy water.

A new video intended to help hunters properly clean, drain and dry boats and equipment can be found at https://youtu.be/f-CQW9n0t4c.

Because early detection is an important part of reducing or eliminating the presence of invasive species, TPWD encourages hunters to help be the eyes open in their hunting areas. To report giant salvinia call (409) 384- 9965 or use the online report form. If you find zebra mussels on your boat or gear, call TPWD at (512) 389-4848 before moving it to another waterbody. To report zebra mussels in a new waterway, use our online report form.

Text TPWD GS or TPWD ZM to GOV311 for updates on giant salvinia (GS) or zebra mussels (ZM).

Texas Parks and Wildlife | Austin Texas

In honor of both active and retired military, daily entrance fees at Texas State Parks will be waived for all visitors Sunday, Nov. 12.

“We give thanks to the service that veterans and active military personnel have dedicated to our country,” said Brent Leisure, director of state parks for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “We hope that Texans everywhere will make Texas State Parks part of their celebration this Veteran’s Day.”

Parks will be hosting guided hikes, bird walks and other programs throughout the day. Camping and special activity fees will still apply.

For a full list of events, visit the Texas State Parks calendar page. A map of all Texas State Parks is available on the TPWD website.

In addition to showing support at Texas State Parks, hunting and fishing license buyers can also honor veterans by making a voluntary contribution to the Fund for Veterans. Contributions can be made in increments of $1, $5, $10, or $20, and 100 percent of the donation goes to the Fund for Veterans. Please note, donation must be in conjunction with the purchase of a license, stamp endorsement or drawing entry and cannot be made as a standalone item in a transaction.

The Fund for Veterans Assistance, administered by the Texas Veterans Commission, helps support government agencies and veterans service organizations that provide direct services to Texas veterans and their families. Since 2009, the Fund for Veterans Assistance has awarded over $90 million to organizations across Texas to help over 250,000 Veterans and their families. Last year, license buyers contributed close to $200,000 to the Fund for Veterans.