Tx A&M Forest Service

Record Number of Acres Treated with Prescribed Fire in Texas

January 28, 2020 - Texans are using prescribed fire more than ever to manage land and mitigate wildfires. Now there is data to support this. A recent statewide survey found that 402,017 acres were treated with prescribed fire in Texas during 2018.

That’s up by nearly 50,000 acres from the previous year for two reasons - Texans are using prescribed fire to manage their land in one of the most successful and cost-effective ways, and they are also doing a better job at reporting that use.

Take Steps to Prevent the Spread of Oak Wilt Disease

October 7, 2019 – Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the United States, and it has been known to kill oak trees in Central Texas at epidemic proportions. This time of year, oak wilt is primarily spread by moving firewood from one geographic region to another. Texas A&M Forest Service urges Texans, hunters in particular, to take preventative measures and be cautious when collecting and purchasing firewood at this time of year to stop the spread of oak wilt.

Texas Scenic Views Leads Texans to Fall Foliage

September 23, 2019 — Texas A&M Forest Service launched Texas Scenic Views in celebration of the first day of fall. This new online application helps Texans find the most impressive views of fall foliage and spring wildflowers throughout state.

Users can preview routes, view photos, read reviews and download directions to their mobile device while browsing scenic points and drives. The crowdsourced application displays a map that shows the current rating of each route to help users find the best displays of fall foliage.

Funds May be Available for Landowners Who Help Prevent Southern Pine Beetle by Thinning Their Forests

September 9, 2019 — Eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance by helping reduce the threat of Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) infestations and outbreaks.

Landowners in 21 East Texas counties conducting first-thin operations in overly dense, pulpwood-sized pine stands may now apply for the 2019 Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program Thinning Cost Share.

This funding opportunity is available thanks to a cost-share grant through the USDA Forest Service Forest Health Protection Program and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.

Increased Wildfire Potential Across West, Central Texas This Weekend

September 6, 2019 - This weekend significant wildfire potential will increase across West and Central Texas as temperatures remain near 100 degrees and wind speeds increase to 10 to 15 mph. Due to the emerging drought, hot temperatures and limited rainfall this week, cured grasses and brush are highly receptive to ignitions and burning.

Texas A&M Forest Service is monitoring the situation and forecasts probable wildfire activity from Saturday through Monday. The greatest potential is likely to occur Sunday when winds speeds are highest.

Dove Season Opening Brings New Fire Danger to Texas Wildlands

September 5, 2019 — With hunting season upon us, many Texans are headed to hunting leases and other open areas across the state.

This influx of people into natural environments means a greater potential for human-caused wildfires.

“We know that 90% of wildfires in Texas are human caused,” said Melanie Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service Hazard Mitigation Coordinator. “And this time of year brings more people outdoors which can increase fire starts from escaped campfires, parking on dry grass and chains dragging the road.” 

$543,478 in Grant Funds Available for Prescribed Burning

September 4, 2019 – Some Texas landowners may be eligible for funding to help with prescribed burning costs on private lands. 

Now through September 30, 2019, Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting grant applications to reimburse landowners for the costs of having a prescribed burn conducted on their property by certified and insured prescribed burn mangers. Last year the programs were utilized for over 13,500 acres of treatments.

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