Podcasts about m forest service

On March 5, 2025, Texas A&M Forest Service, through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) Assistance Program, has awarded 94 grants totaling .1 million. Grants proposed at this meeting will assist VFDs across Texas in purchasing equipment such as dry hydrants, fire and rescue equipment, personal protective equipment, and training aids. District 2 Emergency Services Inc. in Wilson County is among the recipients; the agency has been awarded ,000 for personal protective equipment. District 2 Emergency Services provides fire-protection and emergency medical services to a 39-square-mile area in northcentral Wilson County. Part of the department's funding comes from property taxes...Article Link

DFW's Morning News speaks with the Texas A&M Forest Service about the fire risk this week, and current response to wildfires in Texas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Fourth of July bringing a possible four-day weekend for lucky Texans, the Texas A&M Forest Service urges outdoor enthusiasts to exercise fire safety outdoors, especially when using fireworks or starting campfires to roast hot dogs and toast marshmallows. Approximately 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans and their activities, and the Fourth of July is one of the top days for reported wildfires, according to the forest service. Large wildfires generally are not expected, and none are prevalent currently, but north and northeast Texas has received little to no rainfall since early June. That reduces moisture content...Article Link

*Spring planting is on schedule for most crops in Texas.  *The Texas Parks & Wildlife Commission has approved a trap check standard on mountain lions.  *USDA has proposed allowing dairy farmers to bulk test milk for H5N1 before they can ship cattle across state lines.  *The Texas A&M Forest Service is encouraging Texans to prepare for summer wildfires.*Another La Nina is headed our way.*A provision to prevent future legislation like California's Proposition 12 has been included in the House version of the Farm Bill.  *Hurricane season is officially underway.  *Hay is an expensive crop to produce.  *This is the time of year that most ewes are lambing.  

Two wildfires that burned more than 1 million acres in the Panhandle were caused by downed power lines, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. Juan Rodriguez, with the service, told the Texas Standard that its law enforcement investigators had concluded their probe into the source of the Smokehouse Creek and Windy Deuce fires. “In this case, we saw winds that were over 60 and 70 miles an hour. And so, when the winds are doing that, driving down the roadways, you can just see power lines just bouncing up and down,” Rodriguez said. “It's bound to cause one of...Article Link

EPISODE 175 DETAILS Shopping for new livestock handling equipment can be an enjoyable task or it can be daunting.  It is simple with world-class chutes and livestock handling equipment from Arrowquip.  To learn more click HERE! We have updates on the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas, which is now the largest fire in Texas history!  Prayers to all.  We have the latest markets from Kirk Donsbach with Stone X Financial, INC.    ARROWQUIP It's A New Era In Cattle Handling Arrowquip has been creating best-in-class livestock equipment since 1988 through an extensive research and development process that is unmatched in the cattle industry. We employ the only team of engineers specifically dedicated to cattle handling and are constantly improving our equipment to adhere to the latest recommendations from key researchers and cattle-handling experts to make ranching families safe. Every piece of equipment we design is intended to make managing your cattle faster, easier, and safer every step of the way. Why does that matter? Easier. Working cattle is hard enough. Why make it harder on yourself with equipment that is difficult to use and requires frustrating adjustments? Our equipment is designed with ease of use for the operator in mind, with ergonomic handles and far less adjustments, to make working your cattle easier than ever before. You don't need to be 6' tall to use our equipment, either! Faster. Too many cattle handling systems are designed without consideration for natural cattle behavior, which results in stubborn cattle that refuse to move effectively. Arrowquip equipment works with animal science to get cattle to move through the handling system without delays, thanks to unique features like our patented 3E System that uses light to draw cattle from tub to chute. Safer. Good help is hard to find, and getting harder every day. When you're out in the field with your kids, your brother, or your wife, you need equipment you can trust every step of the way. There is no room for error. Our equipment is designed with safety for handlers and cattle in mind and undergoes extensive testing to ensure the equipment is reliable for your ranch. From chutes for cattle to custom cattle working systems and pens, Arrowquip has a solution for all your cattle handling needs. For added security, our equipment is backed by an industry-leading warranty. Let our generations of ranching experience and knowledge of cattle behavior help you develop a more efficient and profitable operation today, tomorrow, and for years to come.   COW COUNTRY NEWS Texas Panhandle Wildfires Have Burned Nearly 1.3 Million Acres In A Week The Texas Panhandle wildfires killed at least two people and burned nearly 1.3 million acres in their first week — and the situation isn't over. There are five active wildfires across the region, according to Texas A&M Forest Service. The largest of those is the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Hutchinson County, which alone has burned nearly 1.1 million acres and is the largest wildfire ever recorded in the state. Weather conditions across the state have made battling the blazes difficult. For days, the area has seen favorable fire weather – warmer temperatures, dry air, and strong winds – however cold fronts did pass through the area, bringing cooler temperatures that helped minimize wildfire impact. Texas Governor Greg Abbott said the fires have left exceptional damage, saying much of the affected areas are "completely gone" with "nothing left but ashes on the ground."  Governor Abbott went on to say early assessments show that up to 500 structures have been destroyed adding that they will not know the true extent until later.   Farmers and ranchers have suffered major losses. Officials said the fires have left "dead animals everywhere," with estimates that thousands of cattle – a vital industry in the region – will have died by the end of the disaster. Many in the agricultural community have rushed to help, offering land and free medication and labor to try and save animals.    Researchers have already found that Texas' fire season has already grown by two months, and the season is only expected to undergo "lengthening and intensifying" as temperatures rise and extreme weather conditions such as drought and strong winds worsen.   Many organizations have established themselves as collection points for funds from those who wish to help aid producers.  If you want to donate, reach out to the Working Ranch Cowboys Association, The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and the Texas Farm Bureau just to name a few.    Industry Blasts USDA's Final PSA Rule The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the finalization of Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act. The final rule will be effective 60 days following publication in the Federal Register.   The final rule Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act establishes clearer, more effective standards under the Packers and Stockyards Act for prohibited practices relating to discrimination, retaliation, and deception in contracting. This will help producers and growers who have suffered from increasingly consolidated markets over the last 30 years by enhancing market integrity and ensuring fair access to economic opportunities.  For a more detailed explanation of this finalization, head to our show notes for this episode at ranch it up show dot com.   Detailed Planning Necessary To Weather Fluctuations In Interest Rates Agriculture banker Lance Vilhauer says interest rates are at the top of everyone's mind. He says they are at the highest they've been since 2006-2007. The needs of each ag operation are different as we deal with those who are beginning farmers to the well-established. The higher interest rates are affecting the short-term money or operating loans the most, but it's not only the interest that has gone up. A big question is what will the interest rate be when signing those loan papers. The change in a percentage point can have a big impact when dealing with the sums of money needed to plant crops or purchase and raise cattle. He went on to say remember back to 2014-2016 when there was a 50 percent retracement or drop in feeder cattle prices?  It can happen again, and that's why bankers urge caution. With so much more capital involved, swings in the market can quickly impact an operation. USDA's Livestock Risk Protection Insurance or LRP and Weaned Calf Risk Protection Insurance help shield producers from potential losses. Producers should be aware these two programs are not FDIC insured products.  Vilhauer said the key to success in any operation when dealing with your financial professionals is communication.   UPCOMING BULL SALES ANGUS CHAROLAIS HEREFORD GELBVIEH BALANCER RED ANGUS SIMMENTAL SIMANGUS Fast - Dohrmann - Strommen:  March 9, 2024, Mandan, North Dakota RBM Livestock: March 10, 2024, Florence, South Dakota Weber Land & Cattle:  March 12, 2024, Lake Benton, Minnesota Sundsbak Farms: March 16, 2024, Des Lacs, North Dakota Hidden Angus: March 17, 2024, Sebeka, Minnesota L 83 Ranch: March 26, 2024, Mandan, ND Vollmer Angus Ranch: April 2, 2024, Wing, North Dakota   BULL SALE REPORT & RESULTS Churchill Cattle Company Van Newkirk Herefords Gardiner Angus Ranch Cow Camp Ranch Jungels Shorthorn Farms Ellingson Angus Edgar Brothers Angus Schaff Angus Valley Prairie Hills Gelbvieh Clear Springs Cattle Company CK Cattle Mrnak Hereford Ranch Frey Angus Ranch Hoffmann Angus Farms Topp Herefords River Creek Farms Upstream Ranch Gustin's Diamond D Gelbvieh Schiefelbein Farms Wasem Red Angus Raven Angus Krebs Ranch Yon Family Farms Chestnut Angus Eichacker Simmentals & JK Angus Windy Creek Cattle Company Pedersen Broken Heart Ranch Mar Mac Farms Warner Beef Genetics Arda Farms & Freeway Angus Leland Red Angus & Koester Red Angus Fast - Dohrmann - Strommen RBM Livestock FEATURING Joel Wicker Arrowquip https://arrowquip.com/ @arrowquip https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/ @merckanimalhealth   Kirk Donsbach: Stone X Financial https://www.stonex.com/   @StoneXGroupInc      Mark Van Zee  Livestock Market, Equine Market, Auction Time https://www.auctiontime.com/ https://www.livestockmarket.com/ https://www.equinemarket.com/ @LivestockMkt @EquineMkt @AuctionTime   Shaye Koester Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ @cattleconvos Questions & Concerns From The Field? Call or Text your questions, or comments to 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Or email RanchItUpShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow SUBSCRIBE to the Ranch It Up YouTube Channel: @ranchitup Website: RanchItUpShow.com https://ranchitupshow.com/ The Ranch It Up Podcast available on ALL podcasting apps. Rural America is center-stage on this outfit. AND how is that? Because of Tigger & BEC... Live This Western Lifestyle. Tigger & BEC represent the Working Ranch world by providing the cowboys, cowgirls, beef cattle producers & successful farmers the knowledge and education needed to bring high-quality beef & meat to your table for dinner. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/ #RanchItUp #StayRanchy #TiggerApproved #tiggerandbec #rodeo #ranching #farming References https://www.stonex.com/ https://www.livestockmarket.com/ https://www.equinemarket.com/ https://www.auctiontime.com/ https://gelbvieh.org/ https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ https://alliedgeneticresources.com/ https://westwayfeed.com/ https://medoraboot.com/ http://www.gostockmens.com/ https://ranchchannel.com/ https://arrowquip.com/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/texas-panhandle-wildfires-smokehouse-creek-windy-deuce-magenta-roughneck-acres-burned/ https://www.meatingplace.com/Industry/News/Details/113675 https://www.drovers.com/news/ag-policy/usda-issues-final-rule-clarify-standards-under-psa#:~:text=The%20rule%3A&text=Prohibits%20the%20adverse%20treatment%20of,%2C%20marital%20status%2C%20or%20age. https://www.cattlebusinessweekly.com/articles/detailed-planning-necessary-to-weather-fluctuations-in-interest-rates/ https://wrca.org/ https://tscra.org/ https://texasfarmbureau.org/

A Texas electricity company acknowledges its role in the largest wildfire in state history, a Panhandle blaze still only partially contained. We’ll hear more from the Texas A&M Forest Service.Despite objections from Brownsville and Rio Grande Valley residents, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department voted to move forward with a plan to swap land within […] The post State approves Boca Chica State Park land swap with SpaceX appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A wildfire in the Texas Panhandle has consumed more than 1 million acres and as of Sunday was just 15 percent contained, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. It is the largest wildfire in Texas history. The Smokehouse Creek Fire is by far the most extensive of several blazes, which also include the Grape Vine Creek Fire in Gray County, covering 30,000 acres and 60 percent contained, and the Windy Deuce Fire in Moore County, which covers 142,000 acres and was 60 percent contained. Two deaths have been reported thus far, with hundreds of homes and other structures destroyed...Article Link

It's Friday, March 1st, A.D. 2024.  This is The Worldview heard at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus.  (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Afghan refugees find Christ amidst uncertainty In the aftermath of the Islamic Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan, Afghan Christians seeking refuge in neighboring Pakistan have few choices, reports International Christian Concern. Many Afghans fled to Pakistan without visas, passports, or other identification. Sardar and his Christian family initially had difficulty getting into Pakistan after the Taliban takeover. He was abducted by the Taliban en route to the border and held until his family could pay a ransom. They managed to scrape the money together, devastating them financially. Once in Pakistan, Sardar and his family were not well received. Like the thousands of other Afghan refugees, they faced hunger and poor living conditions. With no means of work, they were at the mercy of Pakistan's refugee system. More than two years later, International Christian Concern has been caring for more 30 Christian families that fled Afghanistan for Pakistan. Plus, they've also been sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with Islamic Afghan refugees in Pakistan who are spiritually open. One Christian leader said, “I started talking about the generosity of God and His sacrifice for all of humanity. These families were surprised that even God sacrificed His son for us. … I taught them about the unconditional love of Lord Jesus. They were all fascinated by this idea and His story.” In Romans 10:14-15, the Apostle Paul asked, “How, then, can they call on the One they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring Good News!'” Within the last year, this Christian leader has baptized 22 Afghan refugees who recently professed faith in Christ. Christian school counselor, opposed to perversion, gets right to appeal A British school employee, fired for social media posts opposing homosexual and transgender materials in class, has won the right to take her dismissal to the United Kingdom Court of Appeal, reports Christian Daily International. Kristie Higgs, a 47-year-old Christian mother of two, won the right in a ruling late last month by Judge Elisabeth Laing of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales. Higgs' attorneys had argued that her case should not be sent back to the same employment tribunal that had made serious errors. Higgs worked for seven years as a student counseling assistant at Farmor's School in Fairford, Gloucestershire, before her dismissal in 2019. In a video interview with the Christian Legal Centre, which is supporting her defense, she said, “It's shocking to think I've lost my job because of one parent who complained to the school because they didn't agree with what I shared on my Facebook page, and for the school to take sides with that parent is hard to believe.” HIGGS: “I was discriminated for my Christian beliefs. I was just sharing my concerns of what's coming into the schools and what was coming into my son's school.” Higgs shared and posted the disputed messages on her personal Facebook page after receiving an invitation on October 5, 2018, from the Church of England primary school that her younger son attended.  Entitled “Teaching the Equality Act in Schools,” the invitation read, “This year, we are using several story books to help our school community promote diversity and celebrate difference.” The letter invited parents to see the books and lesson plans at a school event. Higgs said only she, another parent, and a grandparent attended the viewing.   She saw books such as Jacob's New Dress by Sarah Hoffman, about a boy who likes to wear dresses. She said, “To me, it didn't seem to be that it was just about anti-bullying. There seemed to be something more underlying, with the Jacob's New Dress, how children could choose their own gender. I thought it was very confusing for my child because of our Christian beliefs.” That's why Higgs uploaded the Citizens Go petition link on October 24, 2018, which was headlined, “Uphold the right of parents to have children educated in line with their religious beliefs. Stop supporting LGBT indoctrination.” The petition was directed to then-U.K. Education Secretary Damian Hinds. In Psalm 56:3-4, David wrote, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, Whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?” HIGGS: “As parents, who are also standing up, especially [in] America, they're reading what's actually in the books. It's very concerning, very alarming, very harmful and it's got to stop!” When she was sent home, she said her school superiors “thought the posts I was sharing were homophobic and very negative, [saying], ‘Did you realize other parents would see these?'” First, she was suspended, then she endured a disciplinary hearing for six hours on December 19, 2018, and finally fired by letter on January 7, 2019, without warning, for “gross misconduct.” Kristie Higgs explained that not too long ago the Church of England school taught “my child God's way, and now they are changing it.” Democrats upset with Biden to vote “uncommitted” in primaries Organizers are pushing for Democratic voters to select or write in “uncommitted” on their ballots in upcoming primaries, spurred on by the success of a campaign in Michigan protesting President Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas war, reports TheHill.com. More than 100,000 Michiganders cast a protest vote against Biden for an “uncommitted” ballot option in Tuesday's primary, underscoring the frustration many Americans feel toward the administration amid growing calls for a cease-fire. Now, activists are pushing for similar protest votes in states including Pennsylvania, Minnesota and Washington as they seek to dial up pressure on Biden to heed their calls or risk losing their votes. Wildfire in Texas Panhandle largest in state history On Thursday, a dusting of snow covered a desolate landscape of scorched prairie, dead cattle, and burned out homes in the Texas Panhandle, giving firefighters  brief relief in their desperate efforts to corral a blaze that has grown into the largest in state history, reports the Associated Press. The Smokehouse Creek fire grew to nearly 1,700 square miles. It merged with another fire and is just 3% contained, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. Gray skies loomed over huge scars of blackened earth in a rural area dotted with scrub brush, ranchland, rocky canyons, and oil rigs. In Stinnett, a town of about 1,600, Dylan Phillips, age 24, said he hardly recognized his neighborhood, which was littered with melted street signs and the charred frames of cars and trucks.  While his family's home survived, at least a half a dozen others were smoking rubble. Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties and plans to visit the Panhandle today. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, March 1st in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

It's the Ranch It Up Radio Show Herd It Here Weekly Report!  A 3-minute look at cattle markets, reports, news info, or anything that has to do with those of us who live at the end of dirt roads.  Join Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt, the Boss Lady Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' by subscribing on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. EPISODE 18 DETAILS What to know about the Texas wildfires The wildfire at Smokehouse Creek is only 3% contained and has covered an estimated 1,075,000 acres — making it bigger than Rhode Island — becoming the largest blaze in Texas history, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. The state's fire preparedness level was raised to a three, meaning outside help from other agencies, regions or states may be required to battle the blazes. Wildfires, having moved east from the Texas Panhandle, were spreading in Oklahoma. At least 12 fires were burning in the state, covering more than 115,000 acres.     WHERE TO DONATE A number of organizations are working very hard to help manage the donations that are coming in across the country.  Here are a few places to look into should you want to donate and assist.   Working Ranch Cowboys Association https://wrca.org/ @wrcarodeo   Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association https://tscra.org/ @tscra   Texas Farm Bureau https://texasfarmbureau.org/ @TexasFarmBureau   Fire & Smoke Map https://fire.airnow.gov/   SPONSORS American Gelbvieh Association https://gelbvieh.org/ @AmericanGelbvieh   Ranch Channel https://ranchchannel.com/ @RanchChannel   Questions & Concerns From The Field? Call or Text your questions, or comments to 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Or email RanchItUpShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow SUBSCRIBE to the Ranch It Up YouTube Channel: @ranchitup Website: RanchItUpShow.com https://ranchitupshow.com/   The Ranch It Up Podcast is available on ALL podcasting apps. https://ranchitup.podbean.com/ Rural America is center-stage on this outfit. AND how is that? Because of Tigger & BEC... Live This Western Lifestyle. Tigger & BEC represent the Working Ranch world by providing the cowboys, cowgirls, beef cattle producers & successful farmers the knowledge and education needed to bring high-quality beef & meat to your table for dinner. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/ #RanchItUp #StayRanchy #TiggerApproved #tiggerandbec #rodeo #ranching #farming REFERENCES https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/28/us/texas-wildfires-smokehouse-creek-panhandle.html https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/02/29/wildfires-texas-map/72786427007/ https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/live-blog/texas-wildfires-live-updates-rcna141087

The Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Panhandle, already the second biggest wildfire in Texas history, is so far 0% contained. We’ll talk with an evacuee and officials with the Texas A&M Forest Service to get the latest.With increasingly unpredictable rainfall and extended droughts, you may be thinking about what to plant to survive our new […] The post The latest on the Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Panhandle appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Sean Dugan, from The Texas A&M Forest Service, joined The WBAP Morning News. There is a big wildfire in the Texas Panhandle. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Choosing the right wheat variety can make the difference between a good crop and a crop failure thanks to Hessian Fly populations in Central Texas.   *The Texas A&M Forest Service has funds available to help with prescribed burns.  *Deep Southeast Texas is currently one of the driest spots in the entire state.*Trying to buy high priced replacement cattle is a challenge when rebuilding a herd.  *The peak of tropical season is near.  *The just concluded August recess was a great time to reach out to our Senators and member of Congress about the condition of Texas agriculture.  *Beef producers need their veterinarian more during a drought.   *Texas anglers could have the opportunity to land the fish of a lifetime.  

A wildfire burns in Bastrop County. The Texas A&M Forest Service says the Powder Keg Pine Fire has burned 100 acres and is 50% contained as of Wednesday morning. Increased wildfire concerns prompt Red Flag Warnings locally. The University of Texas Longhorns training camp for the 2023-24 season starts today. Wake up with KXAN's first newscast of the day. Monday-Friday from 4:30-5:00 a.m.

The risk for wildfires across the state has risen along with the hot and dry conditions, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. “With the recent uptick in wildfire activity, Texas A&M Forest Service has mobilized additional personnel and equipment to assist with response,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “State and local firefighters are prepared to respond quickly but we need Texans to be careful and prevent wildfire ignitions while conditions remain hot and dry.” Nine out of 10 wildfires across the state are both human-caused and preventable. The most common causes of wildfires during summer...Article Link

Wildfires in the Austin area remain a threat: the Hermosa fire near Wimberley is 35% contained, and the much larger Big Sky fire near Dripping Springs has reached 60% containment. Meanwhile data from the Texas A&M Forest Service shows that 90% of wildfires are caused by human activity, not natural causes. LoneStar, the operator of ABIA's South Terminal, has sued the city over its move to reclaim the facility via eminent domain. Redevelopment plans for a stretch of the East 6th Street bar district are a go, despite lingering concerns about historical preservation. A group of Texas cities, including Austin, have sued Disney, Netflix and Hulu, claiming millions in overdue franchise fees tied to the use of public communication lines for their streaming services. A modest production boost by OPEC sustains a continued, now-51-day-long drop in gas prices - the statewide average is now $4.33 per gallon, Austin's average is $3.68, and the cheapest gas in Central Austin this morning is $3.45. New studies show that for renters, the Austin/Round Rock metro is the most expensive rental market in Texas, requiring a full-time worker to make at least $27.90 per hour to afford a two-bedroom home. 41% of Austinites are renters. Acclaimed BBQ joint la Barbecue has been burglarized for a fifth recent time, losing 20 briskets with thousands of dollars in market value. Austin will host the Red Bull BC One championship breakdancing qualifier this weekend.

Wildfires have become increasingly more common as North Texas has not received measurable rainfall in recent months. With temperatures consistently reaching triple digits and a lack of moisture in the air, wildfires are happening more frequently. Host Baylee Friday talks to Heather Gonzales, a program specialist with the Texas A&M Forest Service, about how wildfires happen and what you can do to prevent them. She also talks to KRLD chief meteorologist Dan Brounoff on how drought conditions affect the likelihood of wildfires and gets insight from master landscaper Ian MacLean on how lawn maintenance can be beneficial under hot and dry conditions.

[Video below] Wilson County Emergency Services District 2 is working its way through a prioritized list of urgently needed equipment purchases and upgrades, with the purchase of an extractor. (See “Wilson County ESD 2 weighs equipment needs,” March 9 Wilson County News.) Board commissioners voted unanimously to approve the ,500 purchase at their May 16 meeting, noting that grant funds from the Texas A&M Forest Service will be used for the purchase. The extractor, used for cleaning firefighter gear, is one of the top five items of a prioritized list of immediate equipment needs presented by board President Glenn Cunningham....Article Link

Today on the show:We learn about some of the emerging technologies and situational awareness gathering tools being used to gather intel, detect new fire starts, and potentially save lives and property from Peter Vidmar...Peter is a former helitack crew member, turned captain and aircraft manager for the Colorado DFPC, with 10 years of fire experience under his belt.Here is a little more about Pete:"I started in fire in 2011, working 2 seasons in fire mitigation before joining a suppression module with Rocky Mountain Fire District in 2013. In 2014, I joined DFPC as a firefighter out of Fort Collins, primarily staffing engines. I then took a year-round job with Texas A&M Forest Service as a Regional Fire Coordinator (FMO) in west Texas for 2015 and part of 2016, managing fire response and grant programs for 13 counties. In the Spring of 2016, I rejoined DFPC as a senior firefighter on Cañon Helitack. I was promoted to Captain and transferred to the Multi-Mission Aircraft program as a manager in 2017, where I first became intimately familiar with fire intelligence programs. Beginning in 2020, I was given the additional responsibility of being the program lead for the program that is now called FireGuard. I directed the State-led pilot program in 2020, and currently serve as senior liaison and member of the leadership team for the national effort." One of those tools that we talk about today is: "Fireguard"Fireguard is a data analysis program comprised of military resources, NIFC, and the "boots on the ground" to identify new fire starts and to monitor ongoing fires. Not only does it detect new starts, but the program will also automate and push out notifications based on your area of operations with the most up to date info with info such as rate of spread, direction, and critical values at risk (such as wildland urban interface)...Its a pretty valuable program with a lot of situational awareness gathering tools at your disposal To learn more about the program, check out these links:How will notification be made of a new fire?· Instead of a phone call to a GACC or Dispatch Center followed by an email with a PDF Spot Report including a map, users at all levels will be able to draw custom areas of interest (AOI) for receiving alerts. By navigating to this form (https://bit.ly/2PWU130), users can draw a polygon that defines AOI for automated initial notifications on fires, and for urgent updates when analysts see extreme fire behavior that is imminently threatening values at risk. How can I access the data?· The data will be available on an NIFC org Dashboard (https://iaa-nifc.hub.arcgis.com/) and EGP. The polygons associated with the new detections will be viewable on the Situation Analyst in the Intelligence and Resources (IR) view state.  How can I give feedback?· Feedback should be sent to sean.triplett@usda.gov or peter.vidmar@state.co.usAlso - be sure to check out the DFPC Multi-Mission Aircraft Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/dfpc_mma/Stay safe, stay savage...Enjoy!..........................Updates!EXCLUSIVE MERCH AVAILABLE!https://anchorpointpodcast.com/store..........................Sponsors:The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks...Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.comHotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.comThe Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.orgNot a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization:The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has partnered with the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB), Association of Texas Soil & Water Conservation Districts, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Wildlife Association and Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to highlight Soil and Water Stewardship Week. The week is centered on the importance of voluntary land stewardship in Texas. The statewide campaign runs April 25 through May 2 and the focus this year is “Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities”. Forest landowners are an important part of Texas agriculture and the stewards of this resource. They work closely with their local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS) district office to implement conservation practices that promote the health and sustainability of forests and forest ecosystems. These privately-owned forests contribute significantly to the Texas economy and provide numerous environmental and social benefits. To truly have a healthy forest, proper management and conservation is needed. Thankfully, many forest landowners in Texas are implementing beneficial conservation practices such as strategic tree plantings, prescribed burning, brush management to remove diseased trees and invasive species, native grass management, wildlife management and even bee propagation to stimulate pollination. In certain instances, livestock can be included as part of a prescribed grazing plan to strategically manage the leaf litter, soil, and underbrush in a forested area, which can ultimately assist in preventing wildfires. Without these sustainable management practices, problems such as soil erosion, insect and disease outbreaks, invasive species encroachment, declines in biodiversity and even catastrophic wildfires can occur. Trees filter air, reduce ambient temperatures, absorb carbon dioxide, and produce oxygen. They help conserve energy by casting summer shade and blocking winter winds. Tree roots hold the soil in place and fight erosion. Trees absorb and store rainwater, reducing runoff and sediments after storms, which also helps recharge groundwater supply and prevent flooding. Essential products made from trees include paper products and lumber. Trees also offer habitat and food to birds, insects, lichen, fungi, mammals, and reptiles. Finally, trees increase our quality of life through a relaxing effect, reducing stress. Partnering organizations in the “Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities” public awareness campaign includes Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas, Ag Workers Insurance, Ducks Unlimited, Earthmoving Contractors Association of Texas, Exotic Wildlife Association, Independent Cattlemen's Association of Texas, Plains Cotton Growers, Project Learning Tree, San Antonio River Authority, South Texans' Property Rights Association, Texan by Nature, Texas A&M AgriLife Blacklands Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, Texas Agricultural Cooperative Council, Texas Agricultural Land Trust, Texas Association of Dairymen, Texas Cattle Feeders Association, Texas Conservation Association for Water and Soil, Texas Farm Bureau, Texas Forestry Association, Texas Grain and Feed Association, Texas Grazing Land Coalition, Texas Hemp Growers Association, Texas Independent Ginners Association, Texas Land Trust Council, Texas Logging Council, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas Poultry Federation, Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, Texas Water Resources Institute, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Trees. Trees are the best thing. I've always been a huge tree nerd and I get super excited about the opportunity to talk with other tree nerds. Jon Motsinger is the Department Head of Central Texas Operations with the Texas A&M Forest Service and one of the most knowledgable arborists I've had the plasure of knowing. He's witty, funny, and really cares about trees and the environment. Join us as we chat about trees in the envrionment, the effects they have on human health, how important education and voting are, and about the Big Tree Registry. Tree folks are the most passionate plant people you could meet and you're really going to love this episode! Also, we have a new partner as of this week! Go look up Local LBK if you're a Lubbock-dwelling human and find out how you can support the community and get some rad discounts while you're at it! Jon MotsingerTwitter: @JonMotsingerCentral Texas Forest Service Twitter: @CTXWoodlandsTexas A&M Forest Service Twitter: @TXForestServiceCheck out our Podcast Partners (Podners?):Pecan Ridge Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepecanridge/Website: https://pecanridge.com/ Use the promo code "plantpeople" at check out for %10 off your order!Local LBKFacebook: @LocalLBKInstagram: @LocalLBKTwitter: @Local_LBKTikTok: @LocalLBKWebsite: www.locallbk.comFollow the link below to sign up to be a member of Local LBK for just $5/month and get access to dozens of great deals and discounts from businesses around Lubbock, TX!Sign-up for Local LBK Rewards!As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It really helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! Also, check out Planthropology on our website and various social media pages, all listed below. As an added bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome "Plant People are Cool" sticker!Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.Website: www.planthropologypod.comPodchaser: www.podchaser.com/PlanthropologyFacebook: PlanthropologyFacebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant PeopleInstagram: @PlanthropologyPodTwitter: @Planthropology_Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/planthropology)

Texas A&M Forest Service's Kari Hines talks about the Texas FIRE-WISE program

#TreesAreKey Welcome to episode 185. Last week we talked about how “Wounding is Key” and this week we will go over how “Stewardship is Key.” Stewardship is caring for our land and trees in Texas. Trees are a renewable resource that can be harvested and replaced but not always within our lifetime. Working together, Texas A&M Forest Service has programs to help land and forest owners increase productivity while enhancing forest ecosystems. Our Species Spotlight for this week is on the Loblolly Pine. One of the fastest growing southern pines, it is used in many landscapes and can reach up to 125-feet in height.

Sean Thompson – Shakespeare Festival www.experiencedowntownconroe.com/news.html Caroline Cruz & John Warner – Texas A&M Forest Service txforestservice.tamu.edu/ Get to know Conroe, visit the Conroe CVB online: www.visitconroe.com/default.aspx Visit the Conroe CVB on Facebook: www.facebook.com/VisitConroe Follow the Conroe CVB [...]

In this week’s episode of Trees Are Key we have guest Kari Hines a wildland urban interface specialist with Texas A&M Forest Service. Wildfire can be disruptive and devastating. This week find out what you can do to be more Firewise® and protect your home and family from wildfire. What is WUI? Do you live in a WUI area? What is your risk of damage from wildfire? Join us this week as Hines helps get you started on the path to being Firewise®.

Arbor Day is the annual celebration of trees. This week we have a special guest, Tom Boggus, Texas State Forester and director of Texas A&M Forest Service joining us to talk about the importance of Arbor Day. This year, our Texas Arbor Day is being celebrated in College Station at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum on Friday, Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. Visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/content/article.aspx?id=22497 to learn more!