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R E S O L U T I O N
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WHEREAS, February 2, 2013, marks 42 years since the adoption |
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of the Convention on Wetlands, and mindful citizens from Texas and |
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around the globe will take part in activities to raise awareness of |
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this vital natural resource; and |
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WHEREAS, The Convention on Wetlands of International |
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Importance, known as the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental |
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treaty that provides the framework for national action and |
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international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of |
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wetlands and their resources; each year since 1997, governments, |
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nongovernmental organizations, and conservationists have |
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celebrated the anniversary to increase understanding about the |
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value of wetlands; and |
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WHEREAS, There are more than 300 miles of coastline and |
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millions of acres of wetlands in Texas; this critical terrain is |
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invaluable to wildlife and humans both, as among its functions are |
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flood control, water filtration, and nutrient cycling, as well as |
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serving as a reproductive environment for birds and fishes; in |
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addition, the shorelines, lakes, swamps, and marshes of the Lone |
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Star State stabilize carbon dioxide levels and provide |
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opportunities for recreation; and |
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WHEREAS, The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has |
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indicated that about half of Texas' historic wetlands acreage has |
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been developed for housing, industry, and other uses; with the |
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observance of World Wetlands Day, Texans affirm the significance of |
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these habitats and commit to protecting them for the benefit of all; |
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now, therefore, be it |
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RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas |
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Legislature hereby recognize February 2, 2013, as World Wetlands |
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Day and encourage residents throughout the state to learn more |
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about these important ecosystems. |