Caldwell-Travis SWCD

It is the first day of summer! What better time to announce Caldwell-Travis SWCD's Summer 2026 Photo Contest? Your Caldwell-Travis SWCD is committed to natural resource conservation and we want you to express what agriculture and conservation looks like through your lens! The Photo Contest is open for submissions through July 31, 2026. Winners notified in August. Click through to our website for details including this year's theme and how to enter.
https://bit.ly/CTSWCD30

🦅🌱 Farmers and ranchers are helping conserve some of North America's most important grassland habitats. A new initiative will expand bird-friendly grazing and habitat management practices across more than 500,000 acres of working lands.

These efforts demonstrate how conservation-minded ranching can support wildlife while maintaining productive agricultural operations and healthy grasslands. The initiative will help producers implement regenerative grazing and habitat management practices that benefit both grassland birds and ranch productivity. Learn more:

Audubon to Expand Rancher-Powered Conservation for Birds Across 500,000 Grassland Acres NFWF investment will scale regenerative grazing practices to the benefit of grassland birds

🐄⚠️ Early detection is critical when it comes to protecting livestock from the New World screwworm. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is encouraging producers to regularly inspect animals for unusual wounds and be aware of the signs of infestation, which can spread quickly and cause serious harm to livestock and wildlife.

By monitoring herds, treating wounds promptly, and reporting suspected cases to animal health officials, producers can play an important role in protecting Texas agriculture and helping prevent the spread of this destructive pest. Vigilance and preparedness are key to safeguarding herd health. Learn more:

What to Do if You Suspect New World Screwworm in Your Herd - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service If you suspect New World screwworm (NWS) in your livestock, immediate action is critical to prevent further spread and protect animal health.

🌾🌱 The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced new conservation priorities focused on keeping working lands in working hands. The updated approach emphasizes protecting agricultural land, supporting farmer- and rancher-led conservation, strengthening technical assistance, improving wildlife habitat, and delivering measurable conservation outcomes on working farms and ranches.

The priorities reinforce NRCS's commitment to voluntary, locally led conservation that helps producers protect soil, water, and wildlife resources while maintaining productive agricultural operations. By focusing on practical solutions and strong partnerships, NRCS aims to support the long-term sustainability of America's working lands. Learn more: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/our-agency/news/usdas-natural-resources-conservation-service-unveils-new-conservation-priorities-to

🌲🦃 Conservation and forestry stewardship are helping restore wildlife habitat in East Texas. Through reforestation, prescribed burning, and invasive species control, Pine Island is becoming healthier and more resilient while supporting species like wild turkey, deer, and native longleaf pine ecosystems.

This inspiring story highlights how working lands and conservation partnerships can protect natural resources while preserving a family legacy for future generations. Read more: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/state-offices/texas/news/reclaiming-pine-island-through-reforestation-and-wildlife-efforts

🌾👕 The USDA has announced the Great American Cotton Plan, a new initiative designed to strengthen the U.S. cotton industry, support cotton producers, and increase demand for products made with American-grown cotton.

Cotton remains one of America's most important crops, supporting rural communities and generating significant economic activity throughout the supply chain. For Texas producers, the initiative represents a renewed focus on one of the state's signature agricultural commodities. Learn more: https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2026/05/28/usda-launches-great-american-cotton-plan-revitalize-cotton-farm-economy

Free feral hog trap program - traps available now - no waitlist!

🌱 Healthy soil takes time and cover crops continue to prove their value. A new long-term study found that cover crops consistently delivered some of the strongest improvements in soil health across research sites nationwide.

From reducing erosion to improving water infiltration and building organic matter, cover crops remain an important conservation tool for resilient farms and ranches. Learn more: https://phys.org/news/2026-03-crops-clearest-gains-soil-health.html

🦅🌾 A Texas Panhandle ranch is showing how cattle production and wildlife conservation can work together. Through Audubon’s Conservation Ranching program, Nantz Land & Cattle earned Bird-Friendly Land Certification for management practices that support healthy grasslands and habitat for declining bird species.

By focusing on grazing management and biodiversity, the ranch is helping protect native ecosystems while maintaining productive working lands providing a great example of conservation in action on Texas ranches. Read more:

Newly Audubon Certified, Nantz Land & Cattle Helping Grassland Birds Gain Ground in Texas Cattle catalyze bird-friendly grasslands at Rolling Plains region ranch

The Caldwell-Travis Soil and Water Conservation District will meet in a regular session on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Visit our website to view the meeting notice and location information.
https://bit.ly/CTSWCD304