Dove season is kicking off across Texas, and for many guys out there, it's that time of year when the fields call, the shotguns come out of the safe, and weekends turn into adventures chasing those fast-flying birds. But with the excitement comes a real heads-up from the folks at Texas A&M Forest Service: hunters need to stay sharp on wildfire risks. It's not just about bagging limits; it's about making sure a simple mistake doesn't turn a great day outdoors into a disaster that scorches the land we all love to hunt on.
Picture this – you're out in the Rolling Plains or maybe down in South Texas, where the grass is still bone-dry in spots despite some recent rains. Those areas, along with the Eastern Hill Country and the Lower Gulf Coast, haven't gotten enough moisture to fully green up. Come late August or early September, when dove season really heats up, a small fire could pop up and spread if conditions line up just right. The good news is that experts aren't seeing the kind of extreme fire weather that leads to massive blazes hard to wrangle. Still, the Texas A&M Forest Service is keeping a close eye on things, urging everyone hitting the fields to play it smart with anything that could start a spark.
Jared Karns, the fire chief over at Texas A&M Forest Service, puts it plain: even something as tiny as a stray spark can light up a wildfire if the setup is there. He encourages all Texans, especially those gearing up for the hunt, to keep their eyes open for potential hazards. It's a reminder that being out there isn't just about the thrill – it's about respecting the land and coming back safe.
Here's the stark truth: people cause about 90 percent of wildfires in Texas. The biggest culprits? Burning trash or debris, and mishaps with equipment. Since 2020 alone, vehicles and gear have sparked more than 4,500 fires across the state. That's a number that hits home for anyone who's spent time towing a trailer or firing up a campfire after a long day in the blind. Hunters aren't out to cause trouble, but in the rush of the season, it's easy to overlook the little things that add up to big problems.
So, how do you keep things under control while enjoying the season? The Forest Service lays out some straightforward steps that every hunter should build into their routine. First off, think about where you park that truck or ATV. Steering clear of tall, dry grass is key because the exhaust system or undercarriage can get hot enough to set it ablaze. It's happened plenty of times – a guy pulls off the road, hops out to scout, and next thing you know, smoke's rising from under the wheels. Stick to cleared spots or dirt paths, and you'll avoid turning your vehicle into an accidental fire starter.
Next, always double-check for burn bans before you light anything up. Texas doesn't have a one-size-fits-all rule; each county handles its own restrictions based on local conditions. You might be fine in one spot but breaking the law just a few miles over. The Forest Service has an up-to-date map online that's easy to pull up on your phone – no excuses for not knowing. Ignoring a ban isn't just risky; it could land you in hot water with fines or worse if a fire gets away.
Campfires and cooking fires are part of the ritual for a lot of hunters – nothing beats swapping stories over flames as the sun sets. But the rule is ironclad: never walk away from one unattended. When it's time to pack up or call it a night, drown it thoroughly with water, stir the ashes to make sure everything's soaked, and then feel around with your hand to confirm it's cold to the touch. A gust of wind on a half-dead ember could reignite things in seconds, and suddenly you're dealing with a runaway fire that threatens the whole area.
If you're hauling gear, pay attention to that trailer. Make sure the tires are aired up right to prevent blowouts or dragging, and check those safety chains so they're not scraping the pavement. Sparks from metal on asphalt are a common ignition source, especially on bumpy backroads leading to prime hunting grounds. It's a simple inspection that takes a minute but could save acres of habitat – and your setup from going up in flames.
Finally, gear up like you mean it. Toss a shovel, a bucket of water, and a fire extinguisher into your kit when you head out to camp. If something does spark, you'll be ready to stomp it out fast before it grows. Being prepared isn't about being paranoid; it's about being the kind of outdoorsman who handles his business and protects the spots he'll want to return to year after year.
Texas dove season is more than just shooting birds – it's a tradition that connects guys to the land, to their buddies, and to memories that last. But with dry patches lingering in key regions, taking these precautions ensures the focus stays on the good times, not on fighting fires. The Texas A&M Forest Service has even put together more details on their site at tfsweb.tamu.edu/HuntingFireSafety, where you can dig deeper into staying safe. Bottom line: hunt smart, stay vigilant, and let's keep Texas wild and wildfire-free this season.
