The stage is set for what could be one of the better waterfowl hunting seasons in recent years and Texas hunters will be able to take full advantage with a 74-day season and six bird daily bag limit. The 2010-11 late season migratory proposal was finalized by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission at its Aug. 26 public meeting.

Migratory birds making their way to the Gulf of Mexico this winter will find sanctuary with ample habitat and food on Clay Wiatrek’s farm in Calhoun County. Wiatrek will be able to provide this refuge with the help of the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) new Migratory Bird Habitat Initiative.

The impacts of the growing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has still not fully become evident, but the potential implications to the region known for its abundant and diverse fish and wildlife could be devastating, reports the Wildlife Management Institute. 

If water equaled waterfowl, duck and goose hunters looking forward to Saturday's opening day across most of Texas would have plenty to celebrate.  As it stands going into this season, water promises to prove a short-term mixed blessing to waterfowl and waterfowlers. Long-term, it's a great thing.