Task Force

Background

The Interagency Task Force on Economic Growth and Endangered Species was established by Senate Bill 2534 passed by the 81st Texas Legislature. This site is designed to provide information about the activities of the task force and advisory committees as well as share information on programs available to assist communities in working to protect and recover endangered species while continuing economic development efforts.

Purpose of the Task Force

Provide policy and technical assistance regarding compliance with endangered species laws and regulations to local and regional governmental entities and their communities engaged in economic development activities so that compliance with endangered species laws and regulations is as effective and cost efficient as possible.

The Task Force may:

1. Assess the economic impact on the state of federal, state or local regulations relating to endangered species.
2. Assist landowners and other persons in identifying, evaluating and implementing cost-efficient strategies for working with endangered species issues that will promote economic growth and development in the state.
3. Facilitate state and local governmental efforts to effectively implement endangered species regulations in a cost-efficient manner.
4. If requested by a local government or a state official, review state and local governmental efforts to address endangered species issues and provide recommendations to make efforts more cost effective.
5. Provide reports as needed on innovative programs to address endangered species issues while promoting economic growth, the activities of the task force and recommendations for future programs or legislation.

More than 90 species in Texas are listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Many more species are listed as candidate species meaning that there is a need for listing of the species. The task force is currently working on programs to assist several species of interest that could have a significant impact to the economy and communities of the state if programs are not moved forward to assist in recovery or if listing does occur. More information about endangered species in the state and the species of concern to the task force are listed here.

Task Force Activity

As required by Senate Bill 2534, the task force released recommendations in late October 2009 on a specific, coordinated program of work to assist Camp Bullis in accomplishing its training missions in a manner consistent with applicable endangered species regulations. View the recommendations shared with Texas policy makers. (PDF)