The number of Texas hunting accidents in 2010 declined to the lowest since statistical records began in 1966, according to a new report by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The number of people injured in hunting accidents in Texas fell from 29 in 2009 to 25 in 2010, although fatalities increased from three to four during the same period.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is considering closing spring turkey hunting in 15 East Texas counties where turkey populations are believed to have dipped below what biologists believe are sustainable numbers. The recommendation tops a brief slate of proposed hunting regulation changes for 2011 presented to the TPW Commission’s Regulations Committee.

The Texas Wildlife Association has established its legislative priorities for the 82nd Legislature. The list, approved by the TWA Executive Committee, provides the organization direction on the legislative priorities it seeks to accomplish this session.

Since 1995 when Texas’ first spring eastern turkey hunting season was opened in Red River County, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has maintained a conservative approach — a 30-day season, mandatory check stations, one gobbler bag limit — to give the birds ample opportunity to establish themselves in new haunts. As turkey numbers have increased and flocks expand into new areas, the agency has steadily increased hunting opportunity by opening a spring season in 43 East Texas counties.

It has come to my attention that we actually have two female hunters in the membership of SCI Austin who are competing in the "Extreme Huntress Contest".  The fastest growing segment of the hunting world is women.  Our sport and the conservation of our natural resources are all the richer for their participation.