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Mammology Training
April 20, 2017 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Black bear, taken by Mike Bender, USFW
** Initial Training for New Trainees **
Subject: Mammology (Bears) and Change Management
Assignment: Unit 16, pp. 517-543, Texas Master Naturalist State Curriculum
Presenter: Ranger Mary Kay Manning, National Parks Service
The future of the Black Bear, a native of the Big Thicket area, depends on protection of vital habitat and public education and awareness programs. No bears have been introduced into East Texas, and none are believed to live here year-round; however, as their populations grow in surrounding states, it is anticipated that some may migrate into this region, particularly into bottomland hardwood forests. Big Thicket National Preserve protects a great amount of preferred bear habitat along numerous waterways which provide natural travel corridors for bears. It is anticipated that if bears did return to this area, they would most likely be found in these hardwood forests near water. Black bears are listed as a threatened species in Texas, and killing one may result in a $10,000 fine.
A Chapter Business Meeting will follow.