Nature-based fun abounds for Texas families, from diverse and outstanding state parks to programs and workshops that teach fishing, camping, paddling and much more. But alongside this good news, a growing body of books and studies reveals a serious issue: today’s kids are losing touch with nature and that’s taking a toll.

As an added incentive to teams participating in multiple divisions - and teams planning to do so - the IFA Redfish Tour announces the "Ultra 6" Award, a $5,000 cash prize awarded to the qualifying team with the highest finish in the IFA Redfish Tour Championship.

When you catch that fish of a lifetime this summer, don't forget to enter it into Stormy Kromer's first-ever BIG Fish contest. The legendary maker of Stormy Kromer caps and rugged outdoor apparel will award American-made Stormy Kromer caps and other gear to anglers of all ages who enter a photo of their big fish

The TPWD News and Information Branch is seeking freelance writers and editors for special media communication projects to be undertaken by the end of the current fiscal year, August 31.

Proceeds from sales of the Federal Duck Stamp are used to purchase and protect waterfowl habitat across the country. Since its inception in 1934, sales from the stamp have topped $700 million and have conserved more than 5.2 million acres of habitat.

TPWD is inviting journalists to cover the Big Bend Ranch State Park Fiesta on May 2, when the park is waiving entrance fees for the public, there will be a free BBQ lunch and free tours, mountain bike and horse rides, live music and other activities.

The National Rifle Association selected Donna Vandermolen of Conroe, Texas, to receive the 2009 Marion P. Hammer Woman of Distinction Award. This award recognizes exceptional contributions to the preservation of the Second Amendment and the shooting sports through education, advocacy, volunteerism, and legislative activism in support of the goals of the NRA.

Nature-based fun abounds for Texas families, from diverse and outstanding state parks to programs and workshops that teach fishing, camping, paddling and much more. But alongside this good news, a growing body of books and studies reveals a serious issue: today's kids are losing touch with nature and that's taking a toll.

Lone Star Outdoor News, Texas' premier outdoor newspaper, has successfully completed its first circulation audit with Verified Audit Circulation.