Wildscape, xeriscape, desertscape, water-wise, smartscape: whatever term you use, it's all Texan for resource conservation. As residents seek ways to conserve water, native plant wildscaping can be an important part of the mix, since studies show lawn care accounts for over 50 percent of a household's water usage.

The increasingly popular Texas Outdoor Family program is branching out to deliver adventurous programs for families who are looking for something more than an introductory how-to camping experience.

Camping in Texas can be a fun family outing, but it can also be an intimidating and daunting task for those who have never been. Thanks to the Texas Outdoor Family program, families have the chance to learn the basics of camping and enjoy the great outdoors.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has completed a major revision of its Land and Water Resources Conservation and Recreation Plan, which is now available to the public. The year-long process created 12 regional forums based on river watersheds to promote dialogue and joint planning with outside stakeholders and field staff.

State and local parks will be the beneficiaries of outdoor service projects thanks to grants recently awarded to organizations around the state.

Spring in Texas, with its pleasant temperatures, budding trees and riot of wildflowers, reigns as the most popular season for camping. So, there's no better time than the coming months to participate in Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's increasingly popular program that introduces reluctant campers to the joys of pitching a tent under the stars.