TFA Weekly News

By Editor | June 13, 2026 |

June 12, 2026

Join us for an evening of connection and conversation with local landowners and forestry professionals on Thursday, July 23, at El Cerrito Lodge, located at 6819 FM 726, Diana, Texas.

Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner.

Bring a friend — nonmembers are welcome at this free event, but all must register to attend at txforestry.org/north-regional26.

We hope to see you there!

Local Forest Landowners Association awards forestry scholarships

The Tyler County Forest Landowner Association recently awarded two $1,500 scholarships to students pursuing forestry degrees at Stephen F. Austin State University. Nicholas Rogers, a graduate of Orangefield High School, plans to begin forestry studies at SFA this fall, while Andrew Craig is continuing his forestry education at the university.

The scholarship program highlights the important role local Forest Landowners Associations play in supporting forestry education and encouraging future forestry professionals. Many local FLAs across Texas provide scholarships and other educational opportunities to help develop the next generation of forestry leaders.

Funding available for wildfire mitigation projects

Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications through July 14 for Mechanical Fuel Reduction and Prescribed Fire grants designed to help landowners and municipalities reduce wildfire risk. Funding is available for activities such as vegetation management, fuel reduction treatments and prescribed burning to create defensible space and improve community resilience.

Eligible landowners are encouraged to review program requirements and apply before the deadline.

USDA announces $65 million for conservation innovation projects

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is accepting applications through July 27 for Conservation Innovation Grants that support new tools, technologies and approaches to natural resource conservation on private lands. Funding will support projects focused on priorities such as water management, soil health, habitat improvement and other conservation outcomes.

NRCS to host State Technical Committee meeting

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service will host a Texas State Technical Committee meeting on June 24 in Temple. The committee advises NRCS and other USDA agencies on conservation programs and natural resource priorities, bringing together representatives from agricultural, environmental and natural resource organizations. The meeting is open to the public.

New World screwworm confirmed in Texas

Source: Texas A&M AgriLife

The New World screwworm has been confirmed in a calf near La Pryor, Texas, prompting increased monitoring and response efforts by state and federal agencies. Livestock owners, wildlife managers and veterinarians are encouraged to remain vigilant for signs of infestation, particularly in animals with open wounds or recent injuries.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has developed educational resources to help Texans identify, prevent and respond to potential cases.

House committee advances H-2B workforce provision

Source: Forest Resources Association

The House Appropriations Committee has approved legislation that includes a provision aimed at providing greater certainty for seasonal employers that rely on the H-2B visa program. The measure would exempt certain returning workers from annual visa caps based on previous certified employment levels, helping employers meet seasonal workforce needs, including those related to reforestation and other forestry activities. The proposal must still be considered by the Senate as the appropriations process moves forward.

CAUGHT OUR EYE

Pilotless Blackhawks could transform wildfire response

The Texas A&M University System is developing and testing AI-powered Black Hawk helicopters designed to assist with wildfire suppression.

The $59.8 million project will explore how autonomous aircraft can perform complex firefighting missions, helping reduce risks to pilots while expanding wildfire response capabilities.