November 2023 is designated as the first Texas Wildlife and Conservation Month.
And the idea originated here in Seguin.

“In his role as Whole Child Coordinator, Pete Silvius facilitates a tremendous outdoor education program for Seguin ISD students, as he has done for many years. A couple of years ago we were brainstorming about how we could get more students involved in outdoor activities and create awareness. During our discussion it occurred to me that despite the variety of wildlife resources and ecological regions that are home to wildlife in Texas, and the millions of dollars that are generated annually through wildlife and outdoor pursuits, we did not have an official designation in Texas. It was then that I thought, ‘we need to make this happen,’” said Sean Hoffmann, Seguin ISD chief communications officer.

Hoffmann drafted a proposal to designate November as Texas Wildlife and Conservation Month and forwarded it to Rep. John Kuempel in January 2023. Kuempel filed House Concurrent Resolution (H.C.R.) 77 which was co-sponsored by Sen. Judith Zaffirini.

“Every couple of days I would check the status of H.C.R. 77 online as it made its way through the 88th Legislature. Lo and behold, in May it was approved by the House, then the Senate, and ultimately signed by Gov. Abbott. I really appreciate Rep. Kuempel and Sen. Zaffirini for getting behind this effort and wholeheartedly supporting it,” Hoffmann said.

Hoffmann chose November because the month lends itself to getting outside. Temperatures have usually moderated to the point where it is comfortable to recreate outdoors to hike, pedal, camp and birdwatch. Plus, hunting seasons for some of Texas’ most popular game animals begin in November.

As urbanization increases across Texas, it is important for our children to experience and have knowledge of the natural resources that are available to them. Seguin ISD creates opportunities for students to experience the outdoors through a variety of programming such as hiking, kayaking, archery and mountain biking. And many of our families enjoy hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities. November is dedicated to them, he said.
The H.C.R. 77 designation is in effect for each November for the next 10 years.