Erin Freiboth from Texas Parks and Wildlife gave us a presentation about Texas state parks. She told us it was best to reserve a time to visit a park in advance as the parks are running at less than full capacity due to the pandemic. Also face coverings are required inside all state park buildings, six-foot social distancing is required, and no groups larger than ten people are allowed, except for families or people living in the same household. Erin told that there may be budget cuts in the next legislative session. All state agencies have already been requested to reduce their budgets by 10%. The parks suffered revenue loss in the Spring and Summer due to the pandemic and are understaffed because of turnover and past hiring freezes. Erin said that community support strengthens the parks and they are always looking for partners, sponsorships, and volunteers. Most importantly, support parks by going to the parks! Erin gave us a summary of the various education programs put on by Parks and Wildlife including one that introduces people to the outdoors through a 2-day workshop. Erin finished her presentation by describing a number of different parks out of the 89 state parks, including McKinney Falls State Park in southeast Austin, Enchanted Rock near Fredericksburg, Old Tunnel State Park, which is home to 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats, Colorado Bend State Park, which has wonderful falls, Inks Lake, Longhorn Cavern, Palo Duro Canyon, Tyler State Park, Seminole Canyon State Historic Site, and Kickapoo Cavern, southwest of San Antonio – on way to Del Rio, which is her favorite park. Please consider visiting one our fabulous state parks in the future!!