Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: An Inventory of Parks and Wildlife Department Records at the Texas State Archives, 1905-2004, bulk 1963-2004


Overview
	Creator:	Texas. Parks and Wildlife Dept.
	Title:	Parks and Wildlife Department records
	Dates:	1905-2004
	Dates:	bulk 1963-2004
	Abstract:	Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is responsible for the management and conservation of the state's natural and cultural resources, provision of outdoor recreational opportunities, conservation education and outreach, and interpretation of cultural and historical resources. Types of records present include minutes, agenda, meeting transcripts, meeting supporting documents, correspondence, memoranda, executive orders, legislative bill analysis reports, bill files, legal materials, appraisal reports, copies of land title abstracts, deeds, surveyors' field notes, survey and subdivision maps, project files, environmental assessments, reports, studies, planning records, maps, proclamations, photographs, newsletters and other publications, papers, clippings, Attorney General opinions, and civil engineering and architectural structural and mechanical plans and specifications for various types of repairs and improvements to two former Air Force bases in Texas. Dates covered are 1905-2004, bulk dating 1963-2004.
	Quantity:	169.16 cubic ft. and
	Quantity:	32 reels of microfilm (processed)
	Quantity:	and about 99 cubic ft. (unprocessed)
	Language:	These materials are written in English.
	Repository:	Texas State Archives

Agency History

The State of Texas has given the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) the responsibility for the management and conservation of the state's wildlife and fish resources; provision of outdoor recreational opportunities to the public; acquisition, development, and operation of wildlife management areas, fish hatcheries, state parks, historic sites, and other public lands; conservation education and outreach; cultural and historical interpretation; and the regulation of fishing, hunting, and boating activities. The Department is composed of ten major divisions which carry out the functions and duties of the agency: Wildlife, State Parks, Coastal Fisheries, Inland Fisheries, Communications, Law Enforcement, Infrastructure, Administrative Resources, Legal, Information Technology, and Human Resources. The Parks and Wildlife Commission selects an executive director to administer the department. In 2005 the agency employed the full-time equivalent of 3,038 people.

The Parks and Wildlife Commission governs the agency. It was initially composed of three members, increased to six members in 1972, and as of 1983, contains nine members, appointed by the Governor with approval of the Senate. Members serve six-year overlapping terms. The Governor appoints the chair. The Commission meets quarterly or more often as needed, primarily to adopt policies and rules to carry out the programs of the Parks and Wildlife Department.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) had its beginnings in 1879. The 16th Texas Legislature authorized the Governor to appoint a fish commissioner to ensure compliance with an Act for the preservation of fish and to build fish ways and fish ladders (Chapter 92, 16th Legislature, Regular Session). In 1881 the Office of the Fish Commissioner was established (Chapter 78, 17th Legislature, Regular Session). It was created for the "propagation and preservation of fish and to build fish-ways and fish-ladders…," and existed through 1885. The commissioner was appointed to a two-year term by the Governor, with the approval of the Senate.

In 1895 the 24th Legislature created the Office of the Fish and Oyster Commissioner (House Bill 55, Regular Session) with the commissioner appointed by the Governor as before. The duties included the protection of fish, turtles and terrapin of the bays and coastal waters of the state, protection of natural oyster beds and reefs, and the protection of the location of private beds. The Commissioner had the authority to appoint Deputy Commissioners to assist in carrying out the duties of the office. In 1907 protection of wild birds and wild game was added to the responsibilities of that office, which became the Office of the Game, Fish and Oyster Commissioner (House Bill 379, 30th Legislature, Regular Session). This Commissioner appointed Deputy Game Commissioners to assist in carrying out the duties of the office.

A six-member commission replaced the single commissioner in 1929 and the agency became the Texas Game, Fish, and Oyster Commission (Senate Bill 83, 41st Legislature, Regular Session). The commissioners were appointed to six year terms by the Governor with the approval of the Senate and were selected from different sections of the state. The chair was appointed by the Governor. Duties of the commission included administering the state's laws relating to game and fish; preventing pollution of streams; issuing hunting, trapping, and fishing licenses; collecting fees, taxes, and fines; conducting research; and proclaiming and enforcing open seasons and bag limits on game and fish. The commission also operated fish hatcheries and sanctuaries, administered game and hunting preserves, supervised oyster beds in the state, controlled and exterminated predatory animals and fish, and educated the public in the preservation of wildlife and fish and game resources of the state. It had the authority to create rules and regulations as necessary to carry out its duties. The name was changed to the Texas Game and Fish Commission in 1951 and the size of the board was increased to nine members (Senate Bill 463, 52nd Legislature, Regular Session).

The state created the Texas State Parks Board in 1923 (Senate Bill 73, 38th Legislature, First Called Session) to investigate prospective park sites in the state and report to the Legislature with recommendations, and to solicit and accept donations of land for state park purposes. The State Parks Board was initially composed of five members, appointed by the Governor with the approval of the Senate to six year terms, and they were to be state officers. The number of board members increased to six in 1937 (Senate Bill 484, 45th Legislature, Regular Session). This board was to begin locating sites for the establishment of the state parks system. It directed and managed state parks, except the historical parks which were managed by the Board of Control and/or several separate commissions. The Parks Board was charged with locating, designating, and marking historic grounds, battlegrounds, and other historic sites in the state, and erecting markers and monuments at such sites. The board also had the authority to create rules and regulations as necessary to carry out its duties. The primary function of the board between 1923 and 1933 was to acquire lands for parks through donations. In 1933, federal funds became available for state park development and the board worked with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the National Park Service for the development of better park sites for a state parks system. The CCC provided labor during the 1930s to improve state park lands and facilities. The state transferred control of historical parks to the State Parks Board in 1949, except for the San Jacinto Battlefield, the Battleship Texas, and the Fannin Battlefield, which were still controlled by their respective commissions--the San Jacinto Battlefield Commission, the Battleship Texas Commission, and the Fannin Battlefield Commission (House Bill 120, 51st Legislature, Regular Session). Jurisdiction over the Fannin and San Jacinto Battlefields was transferred to TPWD in 1965 (House Bill 102, 59th Legislature, Regular Session). Battleship Texas was transferred to TPWD in 1983 (House Bill 586, 68th Legislature, Regular Session).

The State Parks Board and the Game and Fish Commission were merged in 1963 to form the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (House Bill 21, 58th Legislature, Regular Session). The Historic Structures and Sites Act was passed by the 60th Legislature (House Bill 58, Regular Session) in 1967 charging the Parks and Wildlife Department with stewardship of the state's cultural heritage sites. In 1983 the 68th Legislature passed the Wildlife Conservation Act (Senate Bill 94, Regular Session), giving the agency the authority to manage fish and wildlife resources in all Texas counties. Prior to this act county commissioner courts set game and fish laws in many counties, and other counties had veto power over Department regulations. In 1985 the 69th Legislature granted the agency authority over shrimp and oysters (Senate Bill 609, Regular Session).

The State Parks Division protects, interprets, and manages cultural and natural resources and provides recreational opportunities to the public on land owned or leased by TPWD, which includes 119 state parks, historic sites, and natural areas. The division also provides planning assistance and administers matching grants to local communities and counties for park acquisition and development, public boat ramps and other facilities, and outreach. In the early years of TPWD the State Parks Division also investigated potential land acquisitions for state parks and historic sites, negotiated and prepared contracts for the donation or purchase of land, researched title information, constructed new park facilities and did renovations and repairs in existing facilities. In 1963 the Parks Division developed a statewide comprehensive outdoor recreation plan - the Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan. This plan was updated every five years. Master plans for state parks were begun in 1965. During a brief period in the 1990s, the State Parks Division was known as the Public Lands Division, whose duties included the management of some wildlife areas in addition to state parks, historic sites, and natural areas. Today, land acquisition activities are handled through the executive office and the Infrastructure Division handles design and construction of new facilities, repairs of existing facilities, and development of TPWD lands. Wildlife areas are managed by the Wildlife Division. The Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan has been incorporated into the more comprehensive Land and Water Resources Conservation and Recreation Plan prepared by the agency. The 77th Texas Legislature (Senate Bill 305, Regular Session) required that Texas Parks and Wildlife Department prepare (be adopted by the Commission) the Land and Water Resources Conservation and Recreation Plan by October 15, 2002. The plan was adopted and the latest version (2005) is on the website of the TPWD (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_pl_e0100_0867/).

The Wildlife Division manages and conserves all the state's wildlife resources. Its responsibilities include wildlife planning, research, inventorying wildlife resources, monitoring population dynamics, regulating game seasons and bag limits, conserving non-game and rare species, habitat conservation and acquisition, providing technical assistance to land owners, operating and managing 52 wildlife management areas, and assisting with the management of 123 state parks. The division also uses state-owned and operated lands to conduct wildlife research, field tours, seminars, wildlife management operations, and offers public access to these lands for public hunting and other recreational and education uses. Most of the work done by the division is eligible for reimbursement under the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, also known as the Pittman-Robertson Act.

The Coastal Fisheries Division manages the marine fishery resources of Texas' four million acres of saltwater, including the bays and estuaries and out to nine nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico. Management strategies are designed to sustain fisheries harvest at levels necessary to ensure replenishable stocks of important species and provide balanced food webs within the marine ecosystems. The division conducts monitoring programs year round to gather technical data to assess population levels and develop fishing regulations. The division operates three hatchery facilities to enhance populations of several species of game fish, through increasing abundance of the fish and offsetting impacts of natural catastrophes. The Coastal Fisheries division is advised and guided by the recommendations of the Artificial Reef Advisory Committee, the Oyster Advisory Committee, and the Shrimp Advisory Committee. Over the years committee members consisted of representatives from various groups, including the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Gulf Coast Fisherman's Environmental Defense Fund, the Attorney General's Office, the Texas Shrimp Association, the Texas General Land Office, and the West Gulf Maritime Association.

The Coastal Fisheries Division also operates the Artificial Reef Program. In 1989, the Texas Legislature directed the TPWD to develop the artificial reef potential of Texas (Senate Bill 5, 71st Legislature, Regular Session). The Texas Artificial Reef Plan was adopted in 1990, creating the Artificial Reef Program. The basic activity of the program is to acquire surplus ships, barges, oil rigs, and other material that is then deposited on the sea floor to form artificial reefs. These reefs increase the diversity of marine organisms at those locations. The program oversees the development of three types of artificial reefs: Rigs-to-Reefs, Near-Shore/Shallow Reefs, and Ships-to-Reefs, which are funded by the Texas Artificial Reef Fund. An advisory committee was formed in 1990 to aid the program in fulfilling its obligations to the state in building reefs that are in the best interest of the citizens of Texas. The Artificial Reef Program Advisory Committee is a 10 member panel appointed by the TPW Commissioners. According to the Parks and Wildlife Code (Section 89.021), the committee members represent the interests of the following groups: salt water sport fishing, offshore oil and gas producers, Texas tourism industry, the General Land Office, the Texas university system, environmental groups, a shrimp organization, a diving club, and the Attorney General's Office. The Artificial Reed Program is guided by both the Texas Artificial Reef Plan and the Artificial Reef Advisory committee's recommendations.

The Inland Fisheries Division manages the freshwater fishery resources of the state, which consist of 626 public impoundments and 80,000 miles of rivers and streams covering 1.7 million acres. The division activities include fisheries management and research, fish production, angler education and information, fishing access projects, and aquatic habitat management. The division also operates six fish hatchery facilities to enhance populations of several species of fish.

The Infrastructure Division administers TPWD's Capital Program, which includes all new construction, restoration, renovation, maintenance, and repair projects. It is responsible for all design and construction contracts for the department, and it provides professional design, construction, and project management services to state parks, wildlife management areas, hatcheries, and other department facilities. In particular, the Construction Design Management (CDM) Branch's mission is "to manage the planning, design, and construction of TPWD facilities in a creative manner that complements and preserves the natural and cultural resources of Texas for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations." The division is also TPWD's liaison with the Texas Department of Transportation, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

The functions of the Resource Protection Division were absorbed by other program divisions following an agency-wide reorganization in 2004. While the division was active its duties included protecting fish, wildlife, plant and mineral resources from degradation or depletion; investigating environmental contamination that might cause the loss of fish or wildlife; providing information and recommendations to other government agencies; and participating in administrative and judicial proceedings concerning pollution incidents, development projects, and other actions that might affect fish and wildlife. It reviewed permits proposed for wastewater discharge and hazardous waste disposal by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission and the Railroad Commission. The division also investigated fish kills, attempting to determine responsibility for the kill and recovering the economic value of the fish and other lost aquatic life from the polluter. It also assessed injury to fish and wildlife resources from oil and hazardous chemical releases and sought restoration from the responsible party. The division represented the department in the Interagency Council for Oil Spill Response Planning and the Coastal Coordinating Council, a multi-agency body that reviews and coordinates state and federal laws and actions affecting the Texas coast. The division worked to protect sensitive ecological habitats and rare, threatened, or endangered plants and animals and it worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to protect wetland areas and to dispose of dredge material from Texas navigable waters. The divisions's Resource Conservation Branch worked with the Governor's Texas Review and Comment System (TRACS) by reviewing and commenting on various projects that may have an environmental impact on state resources. It also supported the Geographic Information Systems Laboratory. The GIS lab is operated by the Executive Office and provides specialized training and spatial analysis as part of its support of agency-wide efforts to develop, manage, and maintain digital maps and natural and cultural databases which allow biologists and resource managers to more effectively manage state resources.

The Communications Division manages internal and external communication and marketing for the agency. External products include the Texas Parks and Wildlife magazine, a PBS television series, and the Passport to Texas radio series. The division also produces print and video news releases, hunting and boating safety education programs, and employee newsletters; and continues to develop and enhance the agency's web site. The division also operates the Texas Conservation Passport program and its consumer research group, which produce information about the state's natural and cultural resources.

The Law Enforcement Division provides a comprehensive statewide law enforcement program to protect the state's natural resources and environment. It provides safe boating and recreational water safety on public waters by ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. The game wardens of the division are responsible for the enforcement of the Parks and Wildlife Code, all TPW regulations, the Texas Penal Code, and selected statutes and regulations applicable to clean air, water, and hazardous materials. To fulfill these duties, the wardens educate the public about the laws and regulations, conduct high-visibility patrols to prevent violations, and apprehend and arrest violators.

The Executive Office is headed by an Executive Director who is responsible for the administration, operation, and planning functions of the Department. He keeps the Commissioners, legislators, and Governor informed of upcoming meetings, hearings, topics of importance, and routine matters. Inquiries sent to these individuals regarding Parks and Wildlife projects and areas of concern are often referred to the executive director for a response. The Land Conservation section of this office is currently responsible for all land appraisal and acquisition activities for the agency, a function formerly handled largely by the State Parks Division (Public Lands Division).

The Administrative Resources Division is responsible for the financial services of the agency, the agency's information systems, print shop, maintenance, and security for the headquarters building. The division also issues hunting, fishing, and other licenses; and handles the registration and titling of boats and outboard motors. The Human Resources Division handles the personnel needs of the agency. The Information Technology Division supplies employees in the agency with the necessary technology resources.

(Sources: Enabling legislation, numerous years; V.T.C.A., Parks and Wildlife Code, Title 2; Guide to Texas State Agencies, various editions; and information found in Texas Parks and Wildlife records.)

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Scope and Contents of the Records

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is responsible for the management and conservation of the state's natural and cultural resources, provision of outdoor recreational opportunities, conservation education and outreach, and interpretation of cultural and historical resources. Types of records present include minutes, agenda, meeting transcripts, meeting supporting documents, correspondence, memoranda, executive orders, legislative bill analysis reports, bill files, legal materials, appraisal reports, copies of land title abstracts, deeds, surveyors' field notes, survey and subdivision maps, project files, environmental assessments, reports, studies, planning records, maps, proclamations, photographs (standard sizes and aerial), newsletters and other publications, papers, clippings, Attorney General opinions, and civil engineering and architectural structural and mechanical plans and specifications for various types of repairs and improvements to two Air Force bases located in Texas - mostly Matagorda Island Air Force Base, but a few plans are present for Port O'Connor Air Force Base. Dates covered are 1905-2004, bulk dating 1963-2004. Records document a number of TPWD functions, including the appraisal and acquisition of land for park sites, recreation in state parks, wildlife management and conservation, game laws, management and studies of inland and coastal fish resources, environment assessments, analysis of proposed legislation affecting the department, and the transfer of Mission San Jose to the National Park Service in 1978; files are also present that document an internal history of the agency.

To prepare this inventory, the described materials were cursorily reviewed to delineate series, to confirm the accuracy of contents lists, to provide an estimate of dates covered, and to determine record types.

This finding aid serves as an overview for the records of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department records. All processed series have their own detailed finding aids. As of May 2007, 11 such finding aids exist, others will be made available as the records are processed.

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Organization of the Records
	The records are organized into 16 series and 38 subseries:

		Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting files, 1963-2004, 22 cubic ft. and 32 reels of microfilm
		Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Office records, 1972-1984, 1987-1999, 15.24 cubic ft. [plus about 45 cubic ft. unprocessed] Administrative correspondence, 1972-1984, 1995-1996, 6.75 cubic ft. [plus 5 cubic ft. unprocessed] Executive orders, 1987-1999, 0.24 cubic ft. Legislative bill analysis files, 1990-1995, 8 cubic ft. [plus 1 cubic ft. unprocessed] Equal Employment Opportunity Commission hearing files, [about 1978], 0.25 cubic ft. Potential park files, 1960-1994, 35 cubic ft. [unprocessed] Reports and studies, 4 cubic ft. [unprocessed]

		Parks and Wildlife Department administrative records and other material, 1909, 1929, 1934-2004, bulk 1963-1999, 10.25 cubic ft. Administrative files, 1909, 1935, 1944-1975, bulk 1963-1975, 2 cubic ft. Departmental history project research files, 1929, 1934-1980, bulk 1966-1973, 2.25 cubic ft. News releases and publications, about 1960-1999, bulk 1975-1998, 6 cubic ft. Organization charts, 1991-2004, fractional
		Parks and Wildlife Department State Parks Division records, 1905-1990, bulk 1927-1986, 30.88 cubic ft. [plus about 4 cubic ft. unprocessed] Administrative correspondence, 1 cubic ft. [unprocessed] Land acquisition appraisal and abstract files, 1905-1986, bulk 1927-1986, 18 cubic ft. Plans and specifications of military bases, 1940-1974, 3 cubic ft. Mission San Jose project files, 1968-1983, bulk 1976-1981, 2 cubic ft. Reports and studies, 1940-1980, bulk 1971-1978, 3 cubic ft. [plus 3 cubic ft. unprocessed] Plans and planning records, 1965, 1975-1985, bulk 1975-1980, 3.74 cubic ft. Maps and brochures of state parks and recreational areas, 1974-1990, 0.94 cubic ft. Videocassette and publication, 1996, fractional
		Parks and Wildlife Department executive director's files as a member of the Texas Antiquities Committee, 1963-1964, 1969-1980, bulk 1969-1980, 2 cubic ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department Wildlife Division records, 1980s-1990s, about 5 cubic ft. [unprocessed] Administrative correspondence, fractional [unprocessed] Project files, about 3 cubic ft. [unprocessed] Reports and studies, about 2 cubic ft. [unprocessed]
		Parks and Wildlife Department Infrastructure Division records, 1938, 1942, 1944, 1950-1995, bulk 1970-1995, 24.54 cubic ft. Policy and procedure manual, 1993-1994, bulk 1994, 0.25 cubic ft. Parks aerial photographs and support documentation, 1938, 1942, 1944, 1950-1994, bulk 1970-1979, 20 cubic ft. Building plans and drawings, 1975, 1977, 1980-1981, 1983, 1985, 1995, bulk 1980-1985, 2.14 cubic ft. Maps, 1973-1974, 1977, 1995, bulk 1977, 1995, 0.15 ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department Resource Protection Division records, 1962, about 1970-1999, 2001, bulk 1988-1997, 21.25 cubic ft. Division director administrative correspondence and subject files, 1989-1999, bulk 1994-1997, 2.25 cubic ft. TRACS (Texas Review and Comment System) project files, 1991-1996, 2.5 cubic ft. Corps of Engineers environmental assessment project files, 1962, about 1970-1997, bulk 1988-1995, 13 cubic ft. Wetland Conservation Program project files, 1972-1999, bulk 1988-1994, 1.75 cubic ft. Coastal Coordination Council files, 1992-1999, 2001, bulk 1997-1998, 1.25 cubic ft. Environmental policy guide, 1992-1997, 0.5 cubic ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries Division records, 1937-1995, bulk 1953-1986, 7 cubic ft. Lake information project files, 1941-1993, bulk 1953-1986, 4 cubic ft. State fish hatcheries files, 1937-1995, bulk 1960-1990, 3 cubic ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department Coastal Fisheries Division records, 1951-1999, bulk 1980-1999, 2 cubic ft. and 3 reels of microfilm Advisory committees minutes, 1990-1993, 1997, bulk 1990-1992, 1 cubic ft. and 3 reels of microfilm. Advisory committees support documentation, 1951-1999, bulk 1980-1992, 0.75 cubic ft. Artificial Reef Program administrative correspondence, 1992-1999, 0.25 cubic ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department Law Enforcement Division records, about 1969-1990, about 2.5 cubic ft.[unprocessed] Program files, 0.5 cubic ft. [unprocessed] Operation Game Thief Committee files, about 2 cubic ft. [unprocessed]
		Parks and Wildlife Department Library holdings of project reports, 1938-1999, 33 cubic ft. Fisheries research reports, 1953-1988, 13 cubic ft. Wildlife research reports, 1938-1999, 20 cubic ft.
		Parks and Wildlife Department litigation files, about 1981-1992, 7 cubic ft. [unprocessed]
		Parks and Wildlife Department aerial photographs, surveys and drawings, about 1940-1977, about 27 cubic ft. [unprocessed]
		San Jacinto Sesquicentennial Celebration project files, about 1986, about 8 cubic ft. [unprocessed]
		Parks and Wildlife Department Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee records, 1949-1952, bulk 1950-1951, 1 cubic ft.

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Restrictions

Restrictions on Access

Because of the possibility that portions of these records fall under Public Information Act exceptions including, but not limited to, home addresses or telephone numbers of advisory committee members or agency staff (V.T.C.A., Government Code, Section 552.117 or Section 552.1175); and email addresses (V.T.C.A., Government Code, Section 552.137); an archivist must review the administrative correspondence of the Artificial Reef Program before the records can be accessed for research. The records may be requested for research under the provisions of the Public Information Act (V.T.C.A., Government Code, Chapter 552). The researcher may request an interview with an archivist or submit a request by mail (Texas State Library and Archives Commission, P. O. Box 12927, Austin, TX 78711), fax (512-463-5436), email (Dir_Lib@tsl.state.tx.us), or see our web page (http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/agency/customer/pia.html). Include enough description and detail about the information requested to enable the archivist to accurately identify and locate the information. If our review reveals information that may be excepted by the Public Information Act, we are obligated to seek an open records decision from the Attorney General on whether the records can be released. The Public Information Act allows the Archives ten working days after receiving a request to make this determination. The Attorney General has 45 working days to render a decision. Alternately, the Archives can inform you of the nature of the potentially excepted information and if you agree, that information can be redacted or removed and you can access the remainder of the records. This restriction applies to the Coastal Fisheries Division records.

Materials do not circulate, but may be used in the State Archives search room (Room 100). Materials will be retrieved from and returned to storage areas by staff members.

Restrictions on Use

Most records created by Texas state agencies are not copyrighted and may be freely used in any way. State records also include materials received by, not created by, state agencies. Copyright remains with the creator. The researcher is responsible for complying with U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17 U.S.C.).

Technical Requirements

Researchers are required to use gloves provided by the Archives when reviewing photographic materials.

Microfilm readers are available for use in Room 110 or Room 300 of the Library and Archives building. Monday through Friday, 8-5.

Most of the maps and all of the plans and specifications are too large to photocopy.

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Index Terms
	The terms listed here were used to catalog the records. The terms can be used to find similar or related records.
	Corporate Names:
		Texas. Game and Fish Commission.
		Texas. Game, Fish and Oyster Commission.
		Texas. State Parks Board.
	Subjects:
		Game laws--Texas.
		Artificial reefs--Texas.
		Fisheries--Texas.
		Wildlife management--Texas.
		Fishery law and legislation--Texas.
		Parks--Texas--Management.
		Recreation areas--Public use--Texas.
		Wildlife conservation--Texas.
		Conservation of natural resources--Texas.
		Hunting--Texas.
		Parks--Law and legislation--Texas.
		Habitat conservation--Texas.
		Shrimp industry--Texas.
		Oysters--Texas.
		Wetland conservation--Texas.
	Document Types:
		Minutes--Texas--1963-2004.
		Memoranda--Texas--1941-2004.
		Agenda--Texas--1963-2004.
		Transcripts--Texas--1950-2004.
		Manuals (instructional materials)--Texas--1950-2004.
		Aerial photographs--Texas--1950-1994.
		Maps--Texas--1973-1995.
		Reports--Texas--1940-2004.
		Photographs--Texas--1967-1991.
		Correspondence--Texas--1905-2004.
		Clippings--Texas--1940-2004.
		Plans (reports)--Texas--1967-2004.
		Proposals--Texas--1967-2004.
		Publications--Texas--1963-1999.
		Organization charts--Texas--1991-2004.
		Specifications--Matagorda Island (Tex.)--Air bases--1940-1974.
		Plans (drawings)--Matagorda Island (Tex.)--Air bases--1940-1974.
	Functions:
		Management of wildlife resources.
		Management of fisheries.
		Management of parks.

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Related Material


	The following materials are offered as possible sources of further information on the agencies and subjects covered by the records. The listing is not exhaustive.
	Texas State Archives

		Texas Game and Fish Commission, Game and Fish Commission records, 1896, 1899-1969, 1976, bulk 1928-1963, 21 cubic ft.
		Texas State Parks Board records, 1901-1902, 1905, 1908, 1917, 1925-1962, bulk 1933-1949, 25 cubic ft.
		Texas State Parks Board Big Bend National Park files, 1881-1883, 1895, 1897, 1904, 1909-1957, bulk 1941-1942, 20.25 cubic ft.
		Texas State Parks Board, Civilian Conservation Corps plans and drawings, about 1935-1950, over 3600 drawings. [These records are unprocessed, see staff for assistance.]
		Texas Secretary of State, Statutory Documents Section deed files, 1848-1994, undated (not inclusive), bulk 1928-1963, 9.12 cubic ft.

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Administrative Information

Preferred Citation

(Identify the item and cite the series), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department records. Archives and Information Services Division, Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

Accession Information

Accession numbers: 1989/037, 1996/019, 1996/052, 1996/060, 1996/065, 1996/081, 1996/102, 1997/015, 1998/169, 2000/100, 2000/150, 2001/068, 2002/114, 2002/131, 2002/158, 2002/212, 2003/027, 2003/039, 2003/086, 2003/157, 2004/090, 2004/185, 2005/087, 2005/187, 2006/006, 2006/019, 2006/056, 2006/061, 2006/103, 2006/125, 2006/283, 2006/366, 2006/376, 2006/394, 2007/030, 2007/118

These records were transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department on November 29, 1988; October 30, 1995; February 1 and 20, March 21, May 3 and September 20, 1996; June 11, 1998; January 28 and May 10, 2000; March 27, April 22, July 30, August 27, October 10 and December 10, 2002; May 14, 2003; February 17 and July 2, 2004; January 12, August 31, September 12 and 20, and November 8, 2005; January 25, June 19, August 24, and October 4, 2006; and March 13, 2007. Records were transferred by the Texas Legislative Reference Library on October 18, 2002; November 8, 2005 and January 6 and 11, 2006; and by the Texas Documents Collection of the Texas State Library on February 27, 1996. One accession was transferred by an unknown entity in the 1970s and was assigned an accession number for control purposes on May 16, 2006.

Processing Information

Laura K. Saegert, June 2006, May 2007

Appraisal Information

Selected records series of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department were appraised by the State Archives staff as archival on October 18, 1999 as part of an agency-wide appraisal of TPWD's records. The number of series reviewed and appraised as archival is quite extensive. For a list of archival series and more information about the appraisal of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's records, see the appraisal report done by State Archives staff on file in the search room of the Archives and Information Services Division or online at http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/arc/appraisal/parks.html.

Accruals

Minutes, administrative correspondence, organization charts, and several other series are transferred to the Archives on a yearly basis.

Other Formats for the Records

Transcripts from Commission meetings and hearings from 2000-present are posted on the TPWD's website; meeting agenda are posted from fiscal year 1998-present ( http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/feedback/meetings/index.phtml).

News releases are posted on the agency's website (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/) for 2004 and 2005. The 2005 agency organization chart is posted on the agency's website (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/about/organization_chart/).

Location of Originals

The original minutes are on file at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

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Detailed Description of the Records

Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting files, 1963-2004,
22 cubic ft. and 32 reels of microfilm

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is responsible for the management and conservation of the state's natural and cultural resources, provision of outdoor recreational opportunities, conservation education and outreach, and interpretation of cultural and historical resources. These records include copies of minutes, agenda, transcripts, and supporting documents of meetings and public hearings held by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, dating 1963-2004. Foldered minutes and supporting documents are present for 1963-1972 (mostly 1963-1964, 1972), 1979, 1983-1995, 1998. Bound volumes of minutes (with materials sent out as agenda packets) are present for 1972-1978. There are also microfilm copies of minutes with supporting documents for 1963-mid July 1983, November 1987-2004. The bound meeting materials include verbatim transcripts of the commission meetings, agenda items, lists of attendants, reports, background information on individuals, memos, letters, park and budget proposals, recommendations on the proposals, summaries of public hearings held, clippings, photographs, maps, charts, tables, etc. The non-bound meeting files contain summaries of agenda items and supporting documents, including operational plans, proposed budgets, master plans for parks, resolutions, memos, letters, contracts, deeds, reports, photographs, maps, proposals, etc. The microfilm contains minutes, summaries of agenda items, transcripts from hearings and meetings, supporting documents, and vouchers. The film largely duplicates the paper files, but large reports, proposals or some other items were not always filmed, just noted on the film that the item would be handed out at the meeting. The State Archives has decided to keep the paper files to provide copies of the items not filmed. Beginning in 1995, the film includes either transcripts or minute summaries of standing or ad hoc commission committees (generally the Public Lands Committee, Finance Committee, Regulations Committee, Conservation Committee, Ad Hoc Committee on Infrastructure, Outreach and Education Committee, and the Public Hearing Committee). There is a small amount of loose meeting materials (resolutions, proposals, correspondence, planning documents) and a few loose hearing transcripts. Topics discussed at the meetings include division activities, changes in or addition to TPWD laws and regulations, orders issued by the commission, etc.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting files. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Office records, 1972-1984, 1987-1999,
15.24 cubic ft.

These files consist of administrative correspondence, memos, executive orders, legislative bill analysis reports, bill files, deeds, maps, publications, and legal materials covering the period 1972-1984, 1987-1999. These are records from the Executive Office of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and include administrative correspondence of the executive director (1995-1996), correspondence with TPWD commissioners (1972-1977), and correspondence with legislators (1972-1984). Also present are executive orders (1987-1999), legislative bill analysis files (1991-1995), and files from an EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) complaint filed against the State of Texas and several state agencies, including Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, by the federal government (about 1978). Topics covered include conservation and protection of natural resources in the parks and wildlife management areas, the federal Endangered Species Act, renovation projects at various state parks, licensing fees for hunting and fishing, fee increases at state parks, regulations, management of state park facilities, operating and proposed TPWD projects, legislation, and regulations.

The office is headed by the Executive Director, who is responsible for the administration, operation, and planning functions of the Department. He keeps the Commissioners, legislators, and Governor informed of upcoming meetings, hearings, topics of importance, and routine matters. Inquiries sent to these individuals regarding Parks and Wildlife projects and areas of concern are often referred to the executive director for a response.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Executive Office records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department administrative records and other material,
Dates: 1909, 1929, 1934-2004, bulk 1963-1999,
Quantity: 10.25 cubic ft.

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Parks and Wildlife Department State Parks Division records, 1905-1990, bulk 1927-1986,
Quantity: 30.88 cubic ft.

The State Parks Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) protects, interprets, and manages cultural and natural resources and provides recreational opportunities to the public on land owned or leased by TPWD. Types of records present include correspondence, memoranda, reports, project files, plans, appraisal reports, copies of land title abstracts, deeds, surveyors' field notes, survey and subdivision maps, photographs, maps and brochures, and civil engineering and architectural structural and mechanical plans and specifications for various types of repairs and improvements to two Air Force bases located in Texas. Dates covered are 1905-1990, bulk 1927-1986.

The appraisal and abstract records were accumulated during the course of land acquisition activities for the state by the TPWD and its predecessor, the Texas State Parks Board, for many of the Texas state parks, natural areas, and historic sites. The great majority of the plans and specifications are for Matagorda Island Air Force Base, but a few plans are present for Port O'Connor Air Force Base. These records are plans and specifications of federal military facilities that were transferred to the state of Texas. Project files are present for studies and work done to add the San Jose Mission to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which was accomplished in 1978. Conceptual and feasibility studies are present for several park sites including San Jose, Goliad, and Washington-on-the Brazos, and other existing or potential state park sites, including the Dallas area and Toledo Bend Reservoir. Planning records document work on the Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan in the 1970s and 1980s. Also present are maps and brochures of state parks for the 1970s and a videocassette and publication produced by TPWD to illustrate how the (then) Public Lands Division (now the State Parks Division) acquired, restored, preserved and operated historic properties in accordance with the 1967 legislative mandate to assume stewardship of important elements of Texas' heritage.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, State Parks Division's records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department executive director's files as a member of the Texas Antiquities Committee,
Dates: 1963-1964, 1969-1980, bulk 1969-1980,
2 cubic ft.

The Texas Antiquities Committee (TAC) was the legal custodian of all state archaeological resources and it adopted rules to protect and preserve these resources. The executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) was a statutory member of the Antiquities Committee. These records reflect the involvement of the TPWD executive director or his "proxy" with the Antiquities Committee. Types of records present include minutes, agenda, meeting files, correspondence, memoranda, rules and regulations, reports, papers, notes, legislation, press releases, and clippings, dating 1963-1964, 1969-1980, bulk dating 1969-1980. Topics covered include the formation of the Texas Antiquities Committee, requests for and status of antiquities permits, changes in or additions to antiquities laws, budget and financial status of the committee, underwater archaeology rules and regulations and projects, shipwreck salvage, field work and/or research undertaken by TAC staff, significant archaeological discoveries, nominations for state archeological landmark status, requests to remove archeological landmark status, a litigation case against TAC over its denial of a destruction permit for buildings at El Centro College in Dallas, and the Governor's Conference on Antiquities. Correspondents include TPWD staff, TAC chairmen and staff, the governor's office, state and federal agencies, legislators, and others. Most of the materials in the files are copies of items sent to TAC members. There is some original correspondence with the TPWD members, most during the era that J.R. Singleton or James Cross served on the committee. TPWD executive directors serving on this committee (during the period covered by these records) were J.R. (Bob) Singleton (1969-1971), James Cross (1971-1972), Clayton T. Garrison (1973-1977), Henry Burkett (1977-1978), and Charles Travis (1979-1990). Beginning in the early 1970s, the TPWD executive directors at times used a proxy to handle their TAC business, generally Orion Knox, Director of the Historic Sites and Restoration Branch.

There is a small amount of material in the correspondence files (letters, memos, reports) for 1971-1972 that do not appear to be TAC files, but are interfiled with the TAC materials. James Cross, during this period, served on the Planning Committee for the Colorado River Basin Water Quality Management Study and some files reflect his involvement with that committee. Other files concern waste control orders of the Texas Water Development Board, fisheries research, TPWD projects with the U.S. Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, and an interagency contract with the Texas Highway Department to build a bridge across the bay between Corpus Christi and Mustang Island.

There are also archeology-related files from 1963 to 1964 concerning the attempt by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and other groups to gain national monument status for the Alibates Flint Quarries and Pueblo cultural sites in the Texas Panhandle. Correspondence is present with the Potter County Historical Society, the U.S. Department of the Interior, the Smithsonian, and others and is accompanied by clippings and reports. The Alibates Flint Quarries and Pueblo sites were given national monument status by the U.S. Congress in 1965 and are managed by the National Park Service. The quarries and cultural sites are located in the Lake Meredith Recreation Area.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Parks and Wildlife Department's executive director's files as a member of the Texas Antiquities Committee. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Wildlife Division records, 1980s-1990s,
about 5 cubic ft.

This series is unprocessed. Records present include administrative correspondence, reports and studies, wildlife environmental reviews, and wildlife diversity files.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Infrastructure Division records, 1938, 1942, 1944, 1950-1995, bulk 1970-1995,
24.54 cubic ft.

The Infrastructure Division administers Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Capital Program, which includes all new construction, restoration, renovation, maintenance, and repair projects. It is responsible for all design and construction contracts for the department, and it provides professional design, construction, and project management services to state parks, wildlife management areas, hatcheries, and other department facilities. Types of records present include manuals, project files, correspondence, office memorandum, contracts and invoices, research notes, topographical plans, maps, and black and white aerial photographs of state parks. The records cover the Division's administrative, financial, and operational activities, topographical research and land surveys, and special projects. Records date 1938, 1942, 1944, 1950-1995, bulk 1970-1995.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Infrastruction Division records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Resource Protection Division records, 1962, about 1970-1999, 2001, bulk 1988-1997,
21.25 cubic ft.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Resource Protection Division's duties included protecting fish, wildlife, plant and mineral resources from degradation or depletion, investigating environmental contamination that might cause the loss of fish or wildlife, providing information and recommendations to other government agencies, and participating in administrative and judicial proceedings concerning pollution incidents, development projects, and other actions that might affect fish and wildlife. These files consist of correspondence, memos, fax cover sheets, reports, planning documents, comments to plans, agendas, meeting packets, papers, presentations, agreements, certificates, proposals, project construction tasks, project summaries, permit application summary sheets, proposed action public notices, environmental assessments or environmental impact statements, statements of findings, reviews and comments on projects that may have an adverse environmental impact on the fish and wildlife habitat, an environmental policy guide, and mailing lists. Also present are meeting files of the Coastal Coordination Council. Dates covered are 1962, about 1970-1999, 2001, bulk dating 1988-1997.

Topics covered include endangered species and impacts to fish and wildlife environments due to construction or other projects, dredging and fill operations in the state's navigable waters and wetlands, habitat loss for wildlife, regulation of aquaculture wastewater discharge, mineral recovery operations, natural recovery of damaged areas, flood control projects, environmental education of the public, regional water planning, mitigation policies, cleaning up oil spills, preservation of coastal barriers, ground water protection, animal waste utilization, improvements to water quality, mosquito control, hunting programs, management of grasslands and national forests, wetlands protection, the Galveston Bay National Estuary Program, the federal Clean Water Act and Section 404 Corps of Engineers permits, and revisions to the state's water quality certification rules. Correspondents include state officials, other state agencies, federal agencies and officials, local officials, legislators, congressmen, contractors, environmental groups, private companies, and the general public.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries Division records, 1937-1995, bulk 1953-1986,
7 cubic ft.

The Inland Fisheries Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) manages the freshwater fishery resources of the state. This series contains correspondence, memoranda, reports, creel surveys, work plans on watershed development and flood prevention measures, site surveys and maps, development plans, federal aid reports, reports by TPWD biologists and other staff, reports by other entities (state agencies, university staff, etc.), surveys of fish populations, vegetation surveys, fisheries surveys, fisheries management plans, publications, clippings, monthly bulletins, fisheries investigations, studies, operating procedures, manuals, hatchery plans and budgets, maps, specifications, culture plans and production guidelines for several species, photographs, slides, negatives and a 3.5 inch floppy disk. The files document activities at particular lakes, reservoirs, a few freshwater tributaries, and state fish hatcheries, dating 1937-1995, bulk dating 1953-1986.

The bulk of the records consist of progress or performance reports and job completion reports prepared using federal grant money provided under the Dingell-Johnson Act. The project reports are created by TPWD staff and sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The report topics vary, but generally concern the management and study of fish in a particular lake or region. A few files concern a particular river or tributary, such as the Brazos River. Report objectives were largely to determine the need for changes in fish harvest regulations, stocking, population control, vegetation control, pollution control, contract fishing, and facility development.

The state fish hatchery files document a variety of functions at the fish hatcheries, with the bulk focusing on operations at the Tyler State Fish Hatchery including construction of additions, fish propagation, fish distribution, culture planning for several game fish species, record fish catches, and some information on the overall operation of the fish hatchery. Photographic media includes views of the buildings, grounds, ponds, breeding pens, and work activities at several state fish hatcheries; shots of fish catches; a few images of staff; and construction of the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in 1994-1995.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries Division records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Coastal Fisheries Division records, 1951-1999, bulk 1980-1999,
2 cubic ft. and 3 reels of microfilm

The Coastal Fisheries Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department manages the marine fishery resources of Texas' four million acres of saltwater, including the bays and estuaries and out to nine nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico. The Coastal Fisheries Division also operates the Artificial Reef Program, which began in 1990 and is responsible for acquiring materials for and overseeing the building of Texas' artificial reefs to help increase the diversity of marine organisms. The Coastal Fisheries Division is advised and guided by the recommendations of the Artificial Reef Advisory Committee, the Oyster Advisory Committee, and the Shrimp Advisory Committee. Over the years committee members consisted of representatives from various groups, including the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Gulf Coast Fisherman's Environmental Defense Fund, the Attorney General's Office, the Texas Shrimp Association, the Texas General Land Office, and the West Gulf Maritime Association. These records cover the committees' administrative and organizational activities and operations, discussions about the Coastal Fisheries Division's research and findings, and their recommendations. Types of records include committee minutes, committee meeting support documentation in the forms of reports and studies, legal deeds of donation and permits, legislative information pertaining to government bills, attorney general opinions, accounts of public hearings, a few publications, and administrative correspondence of the Artificial Reef Program. The records date 1951-1999, bulk 1980-1999.

The minutes cover financial, legal, and environmental issues the committees faced in regards to Texas marine and fishery regulations and the Texas Artificial Reef Plan. Some of the minutes are also available on microfilm. The Advisory committee support documentation series covers the Coastal Fisheries Division's and other wildlife and marine organizations' research and findings, and contains information that supported and informed committees' recommendations. Topics discussed in these records include: open seasons for shrimp, marine and fishing regulations, pollution and safety concerns, licenses, biological and environmental assessments, public response to Texas fishing and saltwater regulations, and the planning and cost of artificial reef sites and materials. Types of records include reports and studies, maps, research notes, questionnaires, legal deeds of donation and permits, legislative information pertaining to government bills, attorney general opinions, accounts of public hearings, and a few publications. The Artificial Reef Program administrative correspondence includes correspondence and print outs of emails and faxes relating to the Artificial Reef Program. The correspondence, primarily to Artificial Reef Advisory Committee members, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, and the Texas Shrimp Association from the Artificial Reef Coordinator, covers donations from oil companies of rigs, public hearings and public input regarding proposed artificial reefs, and committee members' responses and concerns over administrative and operational matters in constructing and managing Texas' artificial reefs.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Coastal Fisheries Division records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Law Enforcement Division records, about 1969-1990,
about 2.5 cubic ft.

This series is unprocessed. Records present include program files of the division and meeting files of the Operation Game Thief Committee.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Library holdings of project reports, 1938-1999,
33 cubic ft.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is responsible for the management and conservation of the state's natural and cultural resources, provision of outdoor recreational opportunities, conservation education and outreach, and interpretation of cultural and historical resources. These files are reports maintained for many years by the now-defunct library of the agency. Shortly after the agency closed its library, the project reports were transferred to the State Archives. Most of the reports are progress or performance reports and job completion reports of projects that used federal grant money provided under the Pittman-Robertson Act (Wildlife Restoration Act), the Dingell-Johnson Act (Sport Fish Restoration Act), and the Commercial Fisheries Research and Development Act. These are annual reports on progress of work completed on various grant projects or jobs through the year. In many cases, one job will be done over a multi-year period and work completed will be reported yearly. The reports are arranged by project number then annually. A series of annual project reports of the Coastal Fisheries Division projects were done with only state funds. The reports generally contain an objective, background data/history, procedures, results of the studies, recommendations, statistical compilations, requirements, and proclamations or regulations concerning the studies if applicable. When applicable, a section discussing the proclamations is present and will include an introduction, justification for the rules, how the rules will function, summary of comments from public hearings, why the agency may disagree with the comments, and rules. Proclamations are regulations and rules issued by the TPW Commission. Dates covered are 1938-1999.

Topics of the research performed include: wildlife investigations (includes game harvest regulations, game harvest estimates, surplus game availability, distribution and movements of migratory birds and waterfowl, predatory non-game animal studies, and studies of specific species, such as deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, quail, wild turkeys, javelinas, bobcats, lesser prairie chickens, and doves); regional wildlife development; development of wildlife management areas; changes in fish harvest regulations; fish stocking in lakes and reservoirs; population control of fish species; vegetation control in lakes; pollution control in lakes and coastal water bodies; contract fishing; facility development; shrimp fishing; oysters; management of coastal fisheries; chemical analysis of waste water from industrial plants; and game fish of the coastal waters. Also present are a few hand written indexes, maps, and lists of grant reports - both state and federal - maintained by staff of the former TPWD library.

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Parks and Wildlife Department litigation files, about 1981-1992,
about 7 cubic ft.

This series is unprocessed. Records present are litigation files of suits involving the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

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Parks and Wildlife Department aerial photographs, surveys and drawings, about 1940-1977,
about 27 cubic ft.

This series is unprocessed. Records present are oversized aerial photographs, surveys and drawings of TPWD properties.

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San Jacinto Sesquicentennial Celebration project files, about 1986,
about 8 cubic ft.

This series is unprocessed. Records are correspondence, memoranda, reports, programs, and other files.

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Parks and Wildlife Department Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee records, 1950-1952,
1 cubic ft.

The Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee was created in 1950 at the request of the President of the United States. Legislative basis for this committee was contained in the Flood Control Act of 1950, Public Law 516, 81st Congress. The Committee was made up of representatives from federal agencies concerned with water and related resource development and governors of the states involved. Each state had a work group composed of representatives from state agencies or similar bodies involved in the process. The Committee conducted water and resource development studies. Records consist of meeting minutes, procedure guides, weekly meeting logs, correspondence, public hearing transcripts, and reports on water and other resources in the Arkansas, White, and Red River Basins, dating 1950-1952, bulk 1949-1951. The river basins cover areas in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Missouri, and Texas. Minutes from the following subcommittees and workgroups are present for some meetings: Technical Conference, Recreation Work Group, Hydrologic Subcommittee, and the Drainage Work Group. A few Census Bureau reports from 1949 are also present. Topics covered include water resources planning, economic analysis of the river basin project, recreation development, navigation economic studies, drainage and flood control works, irrigation, reclamation, water quality, and hydroelectric power.

Correspondents include the United States Department of the Interior, U.S. Corps of Engineers, U.S. Department of Commerce, the Interstate Compact Commissioner, and the Executive Secretary/Director of the Texas State Parks Board, Gordon Sheares. Although the Texas Game and Fish Commission also had a representative on this committee, no correspondence or similar original documentation of that agency's involvement has been found in these specific records.

Preliminary reports not present in these files along with final reports of the Committee can be found in the Federal Documents Collection of the Library and Archives Commission or in the library at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Titles of all the reports produced by the Inter-Agency Committee are unknown. Minutes of the Inter-Agency Committee are present for 1950-1952; minutes from 1955 to 1959 can be found in the Federal Documents Collection. Transcripts of public hearings of the committee in 1950 are present in these records, some can also be found in the library at TCEQ.

If you are reading this electronically, click on the link to go the full finding aid - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee records. If you are reading this in paper, the series finding aid is found in a separate divider within the binder.

History of the Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee

The Arkansas-White-Red Basins Inter-Agency Committee was created in 1950 at the request of the President of the United States. Legislative basis for this committee was contained in the Flood Control Act of 1950, Public Law 516, 81st Congress. The Committee was made up of representatives from federal agencies concerned with water and related resource development and governors of the states involved. Each state had a work group composed of representatives from state agencies or similar bodies involved in the process. The Texas work group members were: Chief Engineer, Railroad Commission; Chairman, Texas Board of Water Development; Executive Secretary, Game and Fish Commission; State Health Officer; Director, Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas; Director, State Parks Board; Executive Director, State Soil Conservation Board; Director, Bureau of Business Research, University of Texas; and Vice Chancellor, Texas A&M University. Public hearings were held in several cities in the region to gather comments and feedback from the public. The Committee conducted water and resource development studies. It produced an initial set of reports that were sent to the various federal and state work groups to solicit comments to accompany the report before it was submitted to Congress and the President. The comprehensive reports were published in 1955.

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