[DoubleJ]

The TPWD Commission met in committee today to consider the proposals put forth at the November meeting. These included the expansion of youth rifle season for the entire month of October, opening a rifle season in Grayson County, and limiting the number of Alligator Gar to 1 per day. The LSBA with support from TBoT and bowhunters/bowfishers across the state rallied in opposition to these proposals. We were heard!!

Today the commission recommended the following proposals:

1. Youth Season will be extended into January with no intrusion into the Archery Season at all.

2. Grayson County will stay Archery Only with an increased bag limit to 2 bucks but with antler restrictions.

3. No limits or restrictions on taking Alligator Gar except on Lake Texoma where it will be limited to 1 fish per day.

These proposals will be published in the Texas Register for consideration to made law at the Commissioner's meeting in March. There will be several public hearings before then to gather data regarding these and several other proposals.

It was obvious from listening to commissioner's comments that bowhunters had made their feelings known. The leadership of the LSBA has agreed to work with TPWD to explore new opportunities to get the youth in the field and I believe we will be able to make positive contributions to that effort. The next time you talk to one of the folks from TPW or one of the commissioners please take the time to thank him/her for supporting bowhunting. I want to thank each of you for your hard work in supporting the LSBA and bowhunters of Texas.

I will be preparing a statement of thanks to send out in a mass e-mail to the membership.

Thanks again to all and congratulations your efforts have paid off.