Comment On Aerial Aoudad Gunning & More

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission is considering several important regulatory changes and policy actions at its upcoming meeting. These proposals are required or authorized by recent legislation passed during the 88th Texas Legislature and affect wildlife management practices including aerial aoudad gunning, hunting license structures, personnel policy, and internal oversight. Below is a factual, point-by-point summary of the proposed rules and decisions currently open for public comment.

1. Proposed Amendments to Rules Governing Management of Wildlife and Exotic Animals from Aircraft

(Required/Authorized by Legislation – Senate Bill 1245)

  • Adds “aoudad sheep” to the list of species that may be taken from aircraft under permit.

  • Allows digital authorization of subagents by landowners for aerial take activities.

  • Clarifies that landowners may not charge others for taking wildlife/exotics from aircraft.

  • Prohibits retention of horns from animals taken under aerial management permits.

  • Updates multiple rule sections (31 TAC §§65.151–.152, .154, and .160) to align with federal Airborne Hunting Act compliance.

2. Consolidation of Selected Hunting License Types

(Required/Authorized by Legislation – Senate Bill 1247)

  • Eliminates three nonresident license types:

    • Nonresident Special Hunting License

    • Nonresident Spring Turkey License

    • Nonresident Banded Bird Hunting License

  • Expands privileges of the:

    • Nonresident General Hunting License (now includes alligator, turkey, and banded birds)

    • Nonresident 5-Day Special Hunting License (now includes turkey and banded birds; excludes alligator)

  • Streamlines licensing, improves clarity for hunters, and is projected to increase revenue by ~$1.02 million annually.

3. Executive Director Compensation

(Personnel Matter)

  • Commission will consider changes to the Executive Director’s compensation.

  • May include salary adjustments and performance-based incentives.

  • Intended to maintain market competitiveness with comparable state agency leadership roles.

4. Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Internal Audit Plan

  • Establishes TPWD’s internal audit priorities for FY 2026.

  • Includes planned audits of:

    • Licensing systems and permit compliance

    • Wildlife operations

    • IT and cybersecurity

    • Land acquisition and resource management

    • Personnel and financial controls

  • Based on risk assessment and aligned with oversight and accountability goals.

To review the full proposals and submit a public comment, visit:
https://tpwd.texas.gov/business/feedback/public_comment/

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