Texas red snapper fishing to halt from Nov 2023 till Jan 2024, testifying to the robust state-managed fisherys success.

Climate change may triple Austins 100-degree days by 2100, with 2023 marking the citys second-hottest summer.

Celebrate the holidays in Austin with events like Austin Trail of Lights, Peppermint Parkway, and Mozarts Holiday Light Show.

A young boy named Lucas was joyfully reunited with his lost stuffed toy, Kopus, at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, thanks to the airport staff's efforts.

Austin's airport now allows travelers to reserve parking spots online, through ABIAParking.com, to streamline the parking experience and support airport revenue.

Rain threatens parking availability at Austin's Trail of Lights, with closures at Zilker Park and limited alternatives. Organizers advise using shuttle services amid logistical concerns.

The TPWD invites public comment on proposed 2024-2025 hunting season changes, including modifications to bird and big game regulations, with opportunities for feedback online, by phone, email, or at a public meeting.

Reservations are now mandatory for day-use at three Travis County Parks during the April 8 solar eclipse, with cash-only fees and one reservation per vehicle rule in effect.

Austin's historic Treaty Oak was recently vandalized with hacking wounds, with city arborists working to minimize further stress. Authorities say the damage is not fatal.

An 18-foot troll sculpture, Malin, created by artist Thomas Dambo from recycled materials, has been unveiled at Austin's Pease Park, featuring a bowl for park wildlife to drink from.

Texas bluebonnets are blooming alongside highways, with a peak in early to mid-April, thanks to TxDOT's wildflower program initiated in 1917. While the flowers make for popular photo ops, the public is advised to be cautious of snakes and insects.

The Duncan Neighborhood Park in Austin is celebrating its renovation with a ribbon-cutting event on April 13, featuring new amenities and a connection to the Shoal Creek Trail.

Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin identified a new crocodile ancestor, Garzapelta muelleri, from the Triassic period with extensive body armor.

Fredericksburg, Texas, is named the top family-friendly travel destination in the U.S. by Yelp, beating Napa Valley and showcasing the town's charming blend of leisure, heritage, and vineyards.

Williamson County's Learn to Fish Day invites aspiring anglers to a hands-on fishing event on April 20 at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, with gear provided and no fees required.

A study by Texas State University finds that the number of dry springs in Texas has nearly tripled in the last 50 years due to overpumping and increased population.

The City of Austin promotes London as a spring/summer travel destination, highlighting its dining, historical sites, shopping, and direct flights for Austinites.

Whole Earth Provision Co. initiates its annual fundraiser in April for Texas State Parks, offering special rewards for donations and coordinating with the Banff Film Festival to enhance park facilities and programs.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the East Foundation have partnered to recover the endangered ocelot population in South Texas through a collaborative conservation agreement.

Austin's newest Earl J. Pomerleau Pocket Park is set to open on April 10 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, offering green space and recreation facilities to the local community.

A live stream camera at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center features a Great Horned Owl named Athena and her owlets, allowing viewers to observe their daily life.

Three Texas dog parks were named to Technobark's Top 120 Hidden Gem Dog Parks in the U.S., featuring spots in Houston, Austin, and Dallas for their quality and charm.

Two emus caused a stir in Zilker Park, Austin, leading to a response from the Austin Animal Center and police, who safely captured the birds and later transferred them to the Austin Zoo.

A deadly outbreak of Trichomoniasis is affecting doves and other bird species in Texas, prompting advice on hygiene for bird feeders and baths to prevent further spread.

The O. Henry Museum in Austin, Texas, prepares for the 47th Annual Pun-Off World Championships, a free event featuring verbal wordplay, pun contests, live music, and a fundraiser for the museum.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is seeking public feedback on proposed bans on canned hunting of mountain lions and the implementation of trap check standards.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is running a Fishing for Conservation course to show journalists the societal impacts of fishing, including conservation efforts.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported the first cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Edwards County, with two deer from a breeding facility testing positive.

Two Austin anglers, Callie White and Cassady Douglas, caught record-setting fish in Lady Bird Lake, with White reeling in a 30-pound koi and Douglas a 64-pound smallmouth buffalo.

San Marcos introduces an ordinance to ban single-use beverage containers near the river and in select parks starting May 1, encouraging reusable drinkware to protect the environment.

Jacob's Well suspends 2024 summer swimming due to low water levels, though other activities remain open. This follows previous closures and concerns for the site's ecological and economic future.

TPWD invites Texas hunters to comment on proposed deer carcass disposal regulations to combat Chronic Wasting Disease, with suggestions to simplify current processes and encourage voluntary testing.

Shrimping will be temporarily closed off the Texas coast and in federal Gulf waters from sunset on May 15, with plans to reopen in July to allow shrimp populations to grow.

Austin's free Zilker Park shuttle service returns on May 25, operating weekends and holidays through Labor Day, with free parking at One Texas Center.

The Travis County Parks Foundation held its second "For the Love of Parks" event in Austin, emphasizing conservation and the upcoming 70-mile greenway network. Over 1,000 attendees enjoyed music, food trucks, and outdoor activities.

The Austin City Limits Music Festival has contributed $499.9 million to the local economy, including $8.1 million to city parks in 2023, supporting over 3,700 jobs.

The Elisabet Ney Museum in Austin is hosting its 10th Annual Ney Day on May 25, with art, music, and family-friendly activities to celebrate the legacy of artist Elisabet Ney and women in the arts and sciences.

The Play for All Park in Round Rock, Texas, has installed new communication boards to support children who struggle with verbal communication, thanks to a project initiated by Caroline Osborn and funded by the Play for All Foundation.

Travis County acquires nearly 2,000 acres for new public parkland, including the 1,500-acre RGK Ranch and a 475-acre tract near Reimers Ranch Park, preserving natural spaces from urban development.

Austin officials emphasize water safety and drowning prevention in response to a striking number of drowning deaths, sharing tips and resources to ensure a safe summer for swimmers.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is funding $4.5 million for 16 trail projects across the state, including new greenways and upgrades, using federal and state funds.

The nearly finished Rainey Street Trailhead project in Austin will offer a two-acre park with native plants and a nature play area, focusing on safety with lighting and pedestrian improvements.

A new RV resort, Camp Landa, has opened in New Braunfels, Texas, offering a mix of 60s nostalgia and modern amenities, targeting both vintage fans and luxury seekers.

Austin has installed a new pedestrian bridge over Waller Creek as part of the Waterloo Greenway project, enhancing connectivity and sustainability downtown.

Commons Ford Metropolitan Park in Austin was heavily littered after Memorial Day celebrations, prompting clean-up by locals and officials who advocate for 'Leave No Trace' practices.

Austin continues its battle against algae blooms in Lady Bird Lake using lanthanum-modified clay to reduce phosphorus, starting June 3, to keep waterways safe for summer recreation.

Austin is treating Lady Bird Lake with lanthanum-based clay to combat toxic algae, with a focus on multiple sites including Red Bud Isle. This is part of a five-year effort to address the algae that poses risks to pets and humans.

Allegiant Air has launched a new seasonal nonstop service from Austin to Eugene, offering twice-weekly flights for those looking to enjoy the Pacific Northwest's cooler climate and outdoor activities.

Austin is currently experiencing tarantula mating season, with Texas Brown Tarantulas emerging to mate. While their appearance may be alarming, their bites are not harmful to humans, and they are generally non-aggressive.

Bailey Middle School in Austin received a $3,000 grant to enhance their Garden to Café program with new wicking garden beds made from repurposed IBC totes, fostering sustainability and hands-on learning.

The emerald ash borer, a destructive beetle, is spreading through Texas, now present in 24 counties and threatening ash trees, with human transportation of infested wood accelerating its reach.

Texas biologists report White-Nose Syndrome in local bats, including the first-ever cases in tri-colored bats, and three previously unaffected species, marking a significant southern spread of the P. destructans fungus.

Texas bans canned mountain lion hunts and sets new trapping standards, including a 36-hour check rule, updating regulations for the first time in 50 years.

Texas reduces mandatory CWD zones to voluntary testing areas, shifting strategy in combating deer disease. Mandatory checks end in several zones, with focused measures on high-risk areas.

Austin's Parks and Recreation Department has introduced a free swim pilot program at Walnut Creek Pool and selected other pools to enhance community access to swimming facilities.

WorldSprings is opening the largest outdoor mineral springs resort in Texas on June 28, with eco-friendly water policies and a future location planned for Cedar Park.

Governor Greg Abbott renews Texas's wildfire disaster proclamation, adding more counties to the list and authorizing the use of state resources for a coordinated response.

Texas confirms a second case of Chronic Waning Disease (CWD) in a Sutton County deer breeding facility, detected in a two-year-old female white-tailed deer.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department urges boaters to prevent the spread of invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels by cleaning, draining, and drying their equipment.

Austin Parks and Recreation Department introduces a new parking policy at Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park during the Fourth of July holiday to improve safety and manage heavy usage.

Steiner Ranch now has a new emergency evacuation route, Route B, in response to past wildfire issues, along with updated plans from the Austin Fire Department for better handling future evacuations.

The Texas Birding Classic raised $52,000 for bird conservation, drawing 1,250 participants who observed 420 species. Funds will support several habitat projects.

The article describes the spectacle of Purple Martins in Round Rock, Texas, details their migration, birdwatchers' experiences, and events to observe them.

A petition with over 1,400 supporters aims to ban aerosol sunscreens at Austin's Barton Springs Pool due to environmental concerns.

Round Rock celebrated the reopening of Memorial Park and the debut of Big Boy Hester Family Field, a nod to its heritage and part of the Heritage Trail West project.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirms a case of Chronic Wasting Disease at a Medina County deer breeding facility, urging adherence to monitoring guidelines.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department hosts the second annual Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck Hike with diverse activities across 16 state parks for National Suicide Prevention Month.

Austin Energy plans to upgrade Decker Dam at Lake Walter E. Long between spring 2025 and 2027, meeting safety regulations and ensuring longevity. Changes will cause lower water levels and temporary boat ramp closures.

Austin Councilmembers Ellis and Alter propose a $2.23 million budget boost to hire more staff for the Parks and Recreation Department to improve park maintenance.

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department will release an updated app for hunters and anglers on Aug. 15, offering mandatory reporting, digital tagging, and offline use.

Austin ranks fifth for wildfire risk among U.S. metropolitan areas, with over 94,000 homes at moderate or higher risk, according to CoreLogic's 2024 Wildfire Risk Report.

Pflugerville solicits volunteers for a tree-planting initiative to replenish urban canopies and combat heat island effect, with funding from a $150,000 federal grant.

Two Texas game wardens, James Adcock and Allison Hatten, were honored by the TPWD for their exceptional service in boating and wildlife law enforcement.

The Red Snapper season in federal waters closes on September 6, but Texas state waters remain open for red snapper fishing up to nine nautical miles offshore.

Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park in Austin is limiting vehicle capacity over Labor Day weekend to ensure visitor safety, with no parking outside the gated entrance.

Barton Springs Pool in Austin is closed due to a leak from a deteriorating bypass pipe. Officials are working on repairs with no set timeline for reopening, affecting Labor Day weekend plans.

The article highlights popular Texas state parks for fall visits, with activities like camping, hiking, and historical explorations detailed by KXAN and Statesman.

The Brushy Creek North Fork Trail is nearing completion in Cedar Park, adding a flood-resilient multi-use path but disrupting existing trails, with local advocates planning to rebuild affected areas.

Austin Parks and Recreation Department invites the public to a ribbon-cutting for Bull Creek Park's new improvements on September 17 at 10 a.m. at 6701 Lakewood Dr.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's HAAP is calling for proposals to improve freshwater fishing and access in Texas, with a funding deadline from Sept 16 to Mar 31.

Repairs at Barton Springs Pool are underway after leaks were found, with no reopening date set as the city focuses on safety and environmental concerns.

The TPWD anticipates a promising archery season for white-tailed deer in Texas, with good conditions leading to healthy deer and new regulations for CWD management.

Barton Springs Pool in Austin reopens after urgent repairs to a hazardous pipe are completed, ensuring safety for swimmers and minimal disruption to the habitat of endangered salamanders.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department upgraded its paddling trails website, enhancing the digital experience for exploring Texas' 81 paddle trails, ahead of World Rivers Day.

Texas celebrates National Hunting and Fishing Day, with TPWD emphasizing the contributions of hunters and anglers to conservation and the state's economy.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Texas grows by 630 acres, now totaling 1,980 acres, thanks to a 2019 voter-approved sales tax allocation for state parks.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife TV series is entering its 40th season, featuring a wide variety of stories on Texas' outdoors, conservation efforts, and natural heritage. The Emmy-winning show reaches audiences across multiple platforms.

The Texas waterfowl hunting season is looking favorable, with a 5% rise in duck numbers and an exceptional 55% increase for the American wigeon. Despite a delay due to warm weather, the season starts with special dates for certain groups.

Austin closes Lake Walter E. Long boat ramps indefinitely due to low water levels, affecting boaters but not canoe or kayak enthusiasts. The lake's water usage by the Decker Power Plant and infrastructure upgrades are factors in the closure.

Texas oyster season starts November 1 with limits due to low populations from environmental impacts; TPWD to open 10 of 28 areas to ensure sustainability.

Tyler State Park in Texas opened a new headquarters that promises improved visitor services, including a streamlined check-in process and better park accessibility. The project was funded by the Sporting Goods Sales Tax.

Texas State Parks will offer free admission on November 3 to celebrate Texas State Parks Day, offering activities like wildlife watching and hiking, with reservation advice and a veterans' "Parkland Passports" initiative.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's survey shows increased quail populations, promising a good hunting season starting October 26, due to improved habitats and weather.

The Oakwood Legacy Project in Austin digitizes the history of communities of color, creating a 3D cemetery model, auditing burial records, and developing interactive exhibits.

Austin's Oakwood Cemetery offers a virtual tour online, providing historical insights and stories, while also hosting in-person haunted tours for Halloween.

The article discusses Texas's promising deer hunting season, with plentiful deer due to favorable weather conditions, and highlights new carcass disposal regulations as well as the importance of testing for Chronic Wasting Disease.

Austin Energy is setting up the Zilker Holiday Tree in Zilker Park, aiming to illuminate the 155-foot structure with LEDs for a lighting event on November 27th.

Old Settlers Park in Round Rock is being renovated with a new pavilion, amenities, and sports courts. Parts of Harrell Parkway are closed, but maps for alternate access to facilities are available.

Austin celebrates the opening of Oertli Neighborhood Park, featuring trails, play areas, and historical markers, with a ribbon-cutting event on November 22.

Austin's Parks and Recreation Department director race updates with a new finalist, and a community event is planned for locals to meet the candidates.

The Documentary "Haskell House and the Story of Clarksville" highlights the history of one of Austin's oldest structures and the Clarksville community, now available on YouTube.

Jesús Aguirre has been appointed as the new director of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department, bringing over two decades of experience from similar roles in cities like Washington, D.C. and Seattle.

Austin is exploring options to fund park expansion and maintenance due to increased demand and state cuts to park fees. Strategies like park districts, partnerships, user fees, and tax financing are being considered.

The Givens Recreation Center hosts its first Deaf Social Night on Dec 23 for the deaf community and those interested in ASL, featuring games, refreshments, and no entry fee.

Jesús Aguirre was appointed as Austin's Parks and Recreation Department Director, bringing over two decades of public service experience, including leadership roles in Seattle and Washington, D.C.'s parks systems.

Austin's "Our Parks, Our Future" is a 10-year strategic plan by PARD to enhance green spaces through land acquisition, facility improvements, and new amenities until 2030, with public involvement in its development.

The article highlights lesser-known parks in Austin, Texas, which provide tranquility and various recreational activities, detailing amenities and encouraging responsible enjoyment of these green spaces.

Kyle, Texas, is actively addressing its increasing feral hog issue that is causing damage to parks and trails by hiring trappers, warning residents to take precautions, and monitoring the environmental impacts.

Austin is launching diverse summer camps for youth aged 5-15, with inclusive programs including specialized offerings for therapeutic recreation and cultural arts. Registration starts in February with financial aid available for eligible families.

An injured Egyptian Goose named Steven was successfully rescued and treated after being found with an arrow in its plumage at Mueller Lake Park, Austin.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission granted over $30.9 million for park projects, with $4 million targeted for Central Texas to enhance public recreational spaces.

Brownie Neighborhood Park in Austin celebrates its first phase of enhancements with a ribbon-cutting event, featuring new amenities like a picnic pavilion and an updated playground.

Austin's urban forest is handled by the Parks and Recreation Department's Forestry Team, focusing on environmental, economic, and social benefits provided by over 300,000 trees in parklands. They aim for a diverse and sustainable canopy by 2034.

Austin Parks Foundation organized a citywide park cleanup, with volunteers participating in various environmental maintenance activities, supported by local businesses, and encouraging community spirit and physical activity.

Jesús Aguirre, the new head of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department, is conducting a Community Listening Session to gather public input on local parks and recreation.

The Walsh Boat Landing in Austin honors William Walsh, a significant influencer on the city’s architecture, celebrating his legacy on March 23 at the landing site.

Austin's Parks and Recreation Director, Jesús Aguirre, will hold a Community Listening Session on April 26 at the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center.

Texas is developing a new state park in Central Texas, merging 1,100 newly acquired acres with an adjacent 2,000 acres, providing access to the Colorado River and outdoor activities.

The Austin Parks and Recreation's PARKnerships program has raised over $5.8 million for park improvements, hosted 707 free events, added public art, and engaged in ecological restoration, as shown in the 2024 Impact Report.

The Givens District Park Pool in Austin is set to reopen on June 7 with new features catering to all ages, while significant upgrades are also planned for the Givens Recreation Center.

Champion Park in Cedar Park has fixed its water leak and reopened restrooms, restoring full park amenities for visitors.

Austin announces the observation of National Park and Recreation Month in July, with events and programs celebrating green spaces for community well-being and economic growth.

Austin Parks and Recreation lifted the ban on recreational fires in city parklands due to "Moderate" fire danger levels, though residents are urged to remain cautious.

Austin announces a ribbon-cutting for Metz Neighborhood Park's new playscape on August 1, highlighting community-driven upgrades including a splash pad and basketball court.

Austin celebrates the opening of Scenic Brook Pocket Park, a new green oasis featuring an accessible walkway, seating, trails, a playscape, and environmental benefits. The event takes place on September 23.

Austin Parks and Recreation has imposed a burn ban in all city parks due to high fire risk, prohibiting wood or charcoal fires but allowing propane stoves in designated areas. Violators face fines.

Texas Game Wardens highlight enforcement of shark‑fin bans and a 2023 rule requiring fins be denatured and disposed to curb an illegal market.

Round Rock's City Council approved a sustainability-themed play pod for Play for All Park, funded by a grant and bonds. The park's expansion includes eco-friendly features and is set for a 2026 opening.

Champion Park restrooms at 3830 Brushy Creek Road in Cedar Park will temporarily close for maintenance on December 10, with a planned reopening on December 11.

Hays County is allocating $17 million to build a Hillside Campus and an elevated “Warbler’s Nest” at Sentinel Peak Preserve, with reservation-only access and most acreage kept as habitat. The work could open the preserve in some form in 2027.

Southwest Williamson County Regional Park in Leander has installed electric gates to improve park access and security, operational from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Post Oak Ridge State Park — a 3,000-plus-acre Hill Country tract east of Lampasas — was unveiled by Gov. Abbott. TPWD has scheduled public meetings as it moves into planning.

Austin Parks Foundation and the City of Austin made significant park improvements in 2025, enhancing playgrounds and trails, preserving historical elements, and controlling erosion.

Austin Parks plans prescribed burns on the east side of Lake Walter E. Long to reduce wildfire risk and restore prairie. Expect visible smoke near SH 130 and FM 973.

A new Joanne Land Playground is under construction at Old Settlers Park. The custom, twice‑larger playscape is funded by the 2023 bond and due to open this spring.

A new 164-foot bridge and $28.5M in creek work at Roy G. Guerrero Park restore a route lost to 2015 floods and add flood‑resilient features and plantings.

The Texas horned lizard hasn't been reliably recorded in Louisiana for decades. State documents, historical records and Texas recovery work explain why.

BEA data show Texas' outdoor recreation economy generated $59.4B in 2024, led by boating, RVing and tourism. The totals underline parks, marinas and campgrounds as economic drivers.

A city panel approved the second phase of long-delayed Brackenridge Park repairs, clearing the way for pumphouse, trail and landscape work while legal fights continue.

Crews have finished key infrastructure and framed multiple softball fields at Buda Sportsplex, moving the city's tournament‑ready plan closer to reality.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved new 2026–27 hunting rules that move the South Zone dove opener to Sept. 1, close two county turkey seasons and expand doe days.

River otters are turning up across Central Texas rivers, from San Marcos to San Antonio — a sign of cleaner water and more fish. Local managers are planning repairs to help wildlife move freely.

After about a year and roughly $11 million in upgrades, Fritz Park will reopen in May with a splash pad, pump track, new playgrounds and expanded trails.

City Council approved a $13.44M purchase to add about 49.2 acres along Onion Creek, citing water‑quality, drainage and flood‑mitigation goals as it expands parkland in south Austin.

San Marcos will charge non-resident visitors $5 to enter Rio Vista Park on busy summer weekends and holidays. Residents and many local-area participants remain exempt with a park pass.

Texas Parks and Wildlife bought 188 acres that nearly doubled Lockhart State Park, adding blackland prairie and creekside woodland. Officials say surveys and public meetings will guide possible new trails and camping.

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country announced roughly $14.07M in grants to rebuild Kerrville’s riverfront parks and plant 50,000 native trees after last summer’s floods.

ACL Fest organizers say roughly $8.5M from festival proceeds will fund playgrounds, trails and Austin’s first all‑abilities playground across all 10 council districts.

Cedar Park approved a Phase 2 master plan for Lakeline Park that maps out new trails, an elevated canopy walk and lakefront gathering spaces as the city moves to design and engineering.

Phase II of the Waterloo Greenway — The Confluence — opens June 6 with a 13‑acre stretch of trails, nearly 1,600 trees and an 800‑foot boardwalk in downtown Austin.

Comal County approved backing for a federal design bid tied to the Texas Bicentennial Trail, a regional project planners say could deliver millions in conservation and visitor dollars. Local officials approved design support while flagging safety and funding questions.

A 54,000‑acre Hill Country ranch will become Silver Lake State Park after the Moody Foundation donated most of the land and TPWD bought the remainder.

Rock'N River has reopened after a $19.3M, bond-funded expansion at Old Settlers Park that adds an action river, VIP cabanas and more parking.

City staff found thick mats of potentially toxic blue‑green algae at Red Bud Isle and Walsh Boat Landing; samples are being tested and residents are urged to keep pets away.

A renovated bathhouse at East Austin's Parque Zaragoza reopened Wednesday, adding accessible restrooms, a lifeguard office and a new pavilion while honoring the park's long community legacy.