SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 276

	WHEREAS, On March 18, 2003, the Texas Forestry Association 
is sponsoring a hardwood seedling giveaway near the south steps 
of the State Capitol in order to promote public awareness of 
forestry and the importance of the state's timber resources; and

	WHEREAS, Every year, to meet their goal of maintaining 
sustainable forests for future Texans, the forest industry and 
nonindustrial, private landowners replenish the state's forest 
lands by planting more than 100 million seedlings; and

	WHEREAS, Forests cover more than 12 million acres of 
Texas land and provide more than 91,000 jobs, a payroll of more 
than $2.3 billion, and a total economic impact of more than 
$22 billion, making timber the third most valuable agricultural 
crop statewide; in East Texas, where 43 counties compose the 
forest heartland of the state, timber is the number-one-ranking 
agricultural commodity; and

	WHEREAS, The Texas Forestry Association strives to ensure 
that abundant forests will continue to be a dependable resource 
for the citizens of Texas, and its work has contributed 
immeasurably to the economic vitality of the Lone Star State; 
now, therefore, be it

	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 
78th Legislature, hereby recognize the Texas Forestry Association 
on the occasion of its March 18, 2003, seedling giveaway at the 
State Capitol and commend the members of the association for 
their excellent stewardship of one of the state's greatest 
natural resources; and, be it further

	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be 
prepared for the Texas Forestry Association as an expression 
of high regard from the Texas Senate.
                                                                         Staples




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on March 3, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate