The CCA Texas Executive Board recently approved two requests, valued over $35,000, to support the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Law Enforcement Division.
The first request was for $17,549 to purchase night vision optics and a side scan sonar. A total of four monocular systems will be used for game wardens to detect and observe violators during low light operations on the Gulf of Mexico, Texas coastal bays and surrounding tributaries. Each multi-purpose night vision monocular features the most advanced U.S. made imaging technology and can be hand-held, helmet or weapon mounted. The side scan sonar is a Garmin product that produces the clearest images on the water, which is a critical factor in recovery of drowning and boating accident victims. “The equipment is to be used in middle and upper coastal counties for conservation enforcement and TPWD efforts to ensure that the coastal resources of Texas, its sportsmen and all who enjoy it, are effectively safeguarded,” said Region IV Major Game Warden Edward Tanuz.
The second request was for $18,240 to make necessary repairs to the Lower Coast Boat House in Baffin Bay. The 20-yr old cabin is in much needed replacement of the structure’s roof, flotation deck and plywood flooring. The cabin will also be updated with a new generator, power inverter, stove, mattresses and window unit air conditioner. The modest investment in this structure provides significant benefits to TPWD operations and budget. “The strategic location of the cabin provides game wardens with overnight shelter while patrolling the upper Laguna Madre and Baffin Bay complexes,” stated Captain Chuck Ford. “Having this facility allows the department to significantly reduce man hours required to travel to and from a boat storage facility in order to conduct fisheries enforcement. Without this facility, travel time would likely double for game warden staff, significantly reducing the amount of time available to conduct patrols during a standard 40-hr work week.”
“The cabin serves as a staging area when Game Wardens are working multiple overnight fisheries enforcement patrols,” stated Robby Byers, CCA Texas Executive Director. “Upgrading this cabin is going to help our wardens conduct their conservation activities in a safe and efficient manner, ultimately providing budget savings for the Law Enforcement Division.”
“CCA Texas proudly supports the fine work that our Texas game wardens do on a daily basis,” said Mark Ray, CCA Texas Chairman. “The requested equipment and cabin upgrades will certainly help game wardens protect our marine resources. Any chance we get to do that is considered a win for conservation.”
