By Morrison H.R. No. 555 77R9837 WMS-D R E S O L U T I O N 1-1 WHEREAS, The State of Texas is home to the largest number of 1-2 emu farms in the country, and this is truly a notable distinction 1-3 for our state; and 1-4 WHEREAS, Native to Australia, the emu is a large flightless 1-5 bird whose hardy nature has allowed it to quickly adapt to the 1-6 Texas climate; and 1-7 WHEREAS, This remarkable fowl is environmentally friendly to 1-8 raise and produces a healthy meat that is lower in fat and higher 1-9 in protein than other red meats, chicken, or turkey; and 1-10 WHEREAS, Other useful emu products include the bird's unique 1-11 and beneficial oil and a soft, supple hide that is popularly used 1-12 in the fashion industry and by master boot makers; and 1-13 WHEREAS, Diversification is essential to promoting 1-14 agricultural growth and prosperity in Texas, and the Texas Emu 1-15 Association is playing a significant role in that regard; and 1-16 WHEREAS, The emu is not only a visually striking addition to 1-17 the Texas landscape, but also a potential boon to the agricultural 1-18 economy of the Lone Star State and it is indeed appropriate that 1-19 its significance be acknowledged at this time; now, therefore, be 1-20 it 1-21 RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 77th Texas 1-22 Legislature hereby recognize April 7-15, 2001, as Emu Awareness 1-23 Week in Texas.