Passport to Texas

Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife

In a society that seems driven by money, technology, and material objects, a Valentine’s Day spent reconnecting with the one you love, in a natural setting, can put everything into perspective.

If a long road trip or camp out at a state park isn’t in the cards this year, consider a cozy confab in your own backyard. Weather permitting, instead of eating dinner inside, spread a big comfortable blanket on the lawn and enjoy dining alfresco. If you are feeling adventurous, pitch a tent under the stars and sleep outdoors—and see what the neighbors say the next morning.

If you’re able to get away, how about packing your bags, throwing away the itinerary, and hitting the road with the one you love for an extended weekend. Don’t hurry and don’t worry where you’re going. Remember—it’s all about the journey. Stop along the side of the road when the spirit moves you, and appreciate the Texas landscape and the wildlife that may cross your path.

If you’re not comfortable going with the flow, and feel a little more structure is in order, consider reserving a campsite at a nearby state park and explore what nature has to offer. As the sun begins to set and stars light the night sky, build a fire and warm yourselves while contemplating how life, and love, really is better outside.

That’s our show…with research and writing help from Alanna Jones… For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

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Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife and the Wildlife Restoration Program

From virtual sinkholes to setting fires with a purpose: The Texas Parks and Wildlife TV series offers a wide range of fascinating fare in February. Writer Producer Ron Kabele:

Don Cash worked on a really cool story. Devil’s Sinkhole is this sinkhole that’s out in Central Texas. The problem is, it’s relatively dangerous. So a bunch of people got together and they decided what they wanted to do is create this 3-D, virtual tour of the sinkhole—and they did it through this really new age-y thing called Lydar.

So, the objective of what we’re doing is we’re shooting a laser model to recreate this space digitally where we can show people what it’s like to be at the bottom of this hole without having drop down 150 foot on a piece of rope (laughs).

And finally, Prescription to Burn is all about prescribed burns.

Most of the ecosystems did evolve with fire. The plants are adapted to fire. In the absence of fire, the ecosystem gets out of balance.

I heard a biologist here say one time, that one of the worst things that ever happened to forests was the program started by Smokey the Bear.

Thanks, Ron.

That’s our show… with support from the Wildlife Restoration Program…providing funding for the Private Lands and Habitat Enhancement Program.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.
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To find a PBS station near you that air the Texas Parks and Wildlife Television Series, click here.

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Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife

Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, about 40 miles west of Del Rio, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of our ancient ancestors.

Seminole Canyon, and in fact, in this regions of Texas, here, we have some of the finest archeology in the state.

Jack Johnson is an archaeologist and educator. He’s organizing the first ever Archaeolympics at Seminole Canyon State park and Historic Site, where individuals and teams will test their skills using replicas of ancient weapons.

When you use these weapons, you’re like, ‘you know, I could do this. I could make a living doing this. I could feed myself.’ Or you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh. I would starve.’

To participate in the February 9th event, you’ll need to register—and there’s still time. Find out how at passporttotexas.org. The competition is open to individuals and teams.

The team would be perfect for families or any group that would want to compete in teams of up to five people. We’re going to have a number of targets set up along a nature trail at Seminole Canyon SP. Walk along the trail, and take shots at different targets from different ranges, different angles, and that kind of stuff. And it’s going to be scored.

Spectators are welcome. Visit Seminole Canyon SP & Historic site anytime and get in touch with your inner cave dweller.

That’s our show… For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.
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For general information about archaeological sites, click here.

February 9, 2008 — Seminole Canyon SP&HS — Seminole Canyon Archaeolympics — Test your ancient hunting and survival skills at this first-ever event. Individual contestants and teams will compete throwing atlatl darts, rabbit sticks and race to be the fastest to start a friction fire using a hand drill. 1-4 p.m.; e-mail jjohnson at shumla dot org for more information, competition rules and registration or call (432) 292-4848, or (432) 292-4464.

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