The following are the key findings from the TPW planning report, “Texas Parks and Wildlife for the 21st Century,” by David J. Schmidly, Nick C. Parker, and Robert J. Baker of Texas Tech University, published in November 2001.
The increasing need for outdoor recreation opportunities and for conserving natural resources in Texas calls for a comprehensive solution.
Texans have strong opinions about recreation and conservation issues, based on their love of the outdoors and their belief in protecting natural resources.
There is strong support among Texas citizens for the mission of Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Local and state parks are in short supply, given the size and population of Texas.
Private landowners must be an integral part of conservation efforts in Texas, but they can’t meet the state’s total outdoor recreation needs.
The differences in interests and opinions among ethnic and gender groups with regard to conservation and recreation issues indicate the need for diversity in planning programs.
Habitat conservation and restoration efforts have not been conducted in a scale large enough to preserve biologically sustainable habitats in all of the eco-regions of Texas.
Conservation and heritage education, particularly for young Texans, is vital to the future.
The information from this project provides the foundation for a long-term master plan for Texas Parks and Wildlife.
This article appears in February 8 • 2002.