The mission of Texas Bighorn Society is to restore Desert Bighorn Sheep to all their native ranges in Texas and to insure the viability of their habitat.

As individuals we need to study and learn everything we can about issues affecting wild bighorn sheep. Bighorns serve as an effective indicator species in the Chihuahuan desert landscape. Healthy populations are indicative of a habitat that will support all associated wildlife species. We should become involved with effective conservation organizations involved in protecting this fragile environment, such as The Texas Bighorn Society.

We must also stay informed of political issues that have the potential for adversely affecting bighorn populations, and contact the politicians involved and voice our concern when these issues arise. The vote is a powerful tool for change, both for good, and bad.

As landowners in desert bighorn country, your role in the future of bighorns cannot be overstated! The lack of public land in Texas presents a set of circumstances unique in desert bighorn re-introduction efforts. Knowledge is crucial to making informed decisions with regard to range management. As rugged as this country is, it is also surprisingly fragile. Overgrazing, fencing, monopolization of water resources by domestic livestock, exposure to diseases transmitted from this livestock, and the introduction of exotic species all pose serious threats to the success of the desert bighorn program.

Organizations, both public and private, may well hold the key role in the ultimate success of  re-introduction efforts. The development and dissemination of accurate information crucial to making intelligent decisions should be a primary goal of these groups.  The protection of critical habitat thru outright purchase, and the use of tools such as conservation easements, are really only possible through groups such as Texas Bighorn Society, or a very select number of well-heeled individuals.

Forming effective partnerships among involved organizations, and combining their efforts into a cohesive, ecosystem wide based approach, will insure that we get the most bang for our buck, and minimize conflicts or duplication of efforts.

The common threads here become quite obvious. Increasing Our Knowledge, and Getting Involved!!!  Both are easily accomplished as individuals, and magnified exponentially as we come together!

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