Shoot Safe Texas

Saw this on The Independent group.

❓Did you know?

Texas Game Wardens enforce laws to protect threatened and endangered species at the state level.

One of those species is the black bear (which is considered a threatened species). It is unlawful to hunt, possess, or kill a black bear in Texas. The civil restitution value of black bear in Texas is $12,407.50.

Black bear facts in Texas:
▪️ Historically ranged across much of the state
▪️ Extirpated by the 1950s
▪️ Listed as endangered in Texas and Mexico in the mid-1980s
▪️ Recolonization began in late 1980s but remains slow
▪️ Female range: up to 40+ square miles
▪️ Male range: up to 300+ square miles

Additional black bear info: tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/resources/bear_safety/

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👉 You Spot It. We Stop It. 👈
Report violations, 24/7, to Operation Game Thief (OGT) via Tip411. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.
💬 Text TXOGT and your tip to 847411
📲 Download the iOS or Android Texas OGT App
💻 tpwd.texas.gov/warden/connect/ogt
📞 1-800-792-GAME (4263)

If there is anyone out there that is thinking about or wants to promote gun safety and hunting in Texas, TPWD is always looking for volunteers to become Hunter Education Instructors.

TPWD works in conjuction with Texas Hunter Education Instructor Association (TXHEIA) to recruite and train volunteers to become instructors as well as keeping instructors updated on current events such as CWD and New World Screwworms. TxHEIA has annual conferences that presents additional learning opportunities (such as the decline of bobwhites and what TPWD is doing to try and restore the population).

This is another avenue to promote our 2nd amendment rights, teach the next generation about gun safety, and help to keep hunting going for future generations.

If you would like to know more, please check out the following links.

http://tpwd.texas.gov/education/hunter-education/instructor

https://txheia.org/

Home - Texas Hunter Education Instructors Association Welcome to THEIA, we are still working on the website, but it's fully usable at this time. Are you looking to request a grant for your next event? See our grant application

A new study highlighted in today's The Washington Post reinforces something Scouting has long understood through experience - time outdoors changes people in meaningful ways.

Researchers found that regular contact with nature is linked to higher self-compassion, improved body image, and greater overall life satisfaction. In a large global study of more than 50,000 people, those who spent time in natural settings consistently reported better mental well-being, less stress, and a stronger sense of purpose.

Experts explain that nature provides something modern life often lacks. It creates space to slow down, step away from constant comparison, and reset mentally. Even short, simple moments outdoors can make a difference, especially when people are present and engaged rather than distracted.

These findings closely reflect what happens every day in Scouting America. Whether it is a first campout, a hike, a service project outdoors, or simply learning to be comfortable outside, young people gain more than skills. They gain confidence, resilience, and perspective.

Scouting does not require remote wilderness or long expeditions. It starts with small, consistent experiences outdoors that build into something lasting. A walk in the woods, a campsite under the stars, a moment of teamwork in nature, these experiences shape how young people see themselves and the world around them.

The science is catching up to what Scouts have always known. Time outdoors matters, and it helps build stronger, healthier, more grounded individuals.

Help spread the word. Share this message with someone who needs a reminder of why getting outside still matters. And invite them to head outside with a local Scout unit.

Read the full story here:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2026/06/05/surprising-science-backed-reason-being-nature-makes-you-feel-good/

From TPWD:

Free Fishing Day 2026

The countdown is on. In just 48 hours, you can fish anywhere in Texas for free!

Forget the forms and skip the license fees this Saturday, June 6. This is your final reminder to dust off your tackle box, grab some bait, and head to the water.

The Essentials:

When: This Saturday, June 6 (All Day).

Where: Any public body of water in Texas.

The Rule: No license or endorsement needed!

Quick Tips:

Bring a friend: Make memories on the water together! Free Fishing Day is a great chance to introduce someone to fishing or enjoy a new experience side by side.
Where to Fish: Find the best spot for you here!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or picking up a rod for the first time, this is your day. Let’s make it a big one.

Happy fishing

First confirmed U.S. case of New World Screwworm found today in a calf in Zavala County, about 100 miles southwest of San Antonio.

We are working with the Texas Animal Health Commission, U.S. Department of Agriculture and partners statewide to respond.

Early detection is critical and it is important to report suspected infestation in live animals

Get details on this case, how to report potential infestations, and what to watch for at screwworm.gov

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Hoy se confirmó el primer caso en los Estados Unidos del gusano barrenador del Nuevo Mundo, hallado en un becerro en el condado de Zavala, a unas 100 millas al suroeste de San Antonio.

Estamos trabajando en colaboración con la Comisión de Salud Animal de Texas, el USDA y socios en todo el estado para dar respuesta a la situación.

La detección temprana es fundamental, y es importante reportar cualquier sospecha de infestación en animales vivos.

Obtenga detalles sobre este caso, cómo reportar posibles infestaciones y qué señales buscar en screwworm.gov

https://www.nrafamily.org/content/10-ways-to-instill-safe-gun-handling/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASLpmxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xNzM4NDc2NDI2NzAzNzAAAR6p7r4TZ5AUoc7mBp5CmmdjFw0ciRaY1rVOFtzeJH2Dijza_begYN7KU5bM-w_aem_6w5nNX-R3Zs4-8G-LiN6Mw

NRA Family | 10 Ways to Instill Safe Gun Handling Mentoring someone who is brand-new to fi****ms can be one of the great joys in life.

Anyone interested in taking the classroom version of TPWD Hunter Education, I just published one for Sunday, August 2nd at Eagle Gun Range from 11am to 6pm. This is just a classroom course, no shooting skill involved. $15 per student cash or check.

Anyone born after September 1st, 1971 must take a Hunter Education course before starting to hunt. Youth ages 9 - 16 must take the in person classes Those 17 and older can choose to do the in person class or the online version.

Hunter Education Classroom Course – EDUCATION REGISTRATION SYSTEM

Today Longhorn Council in Scouting America put on the 5th annual Top Shot event out a Camp Sid Richardson. 200+ youth from elementary through high school came out for a Saturday full of age appropriate shooting and archery activities.

It was my privilege to run the rifle range and thankful for my fellow volunteers who’s skills and attitude made for a great safe and fun filled day.