86R8726 CJM-D
 
  By: Ashby H.R. No. 170
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, The Texas Forestry Association is sponsoring a
  seedling giveaway on February 20, 2019, in an effort to promote
  public awareness of working forests and the importance of our
  state's timber resources; and
         WHEREAS, Each year, family forest owners and corporate
  landowners plant 75 million seedlings to help maintain sustainable
  forests for future generations of Texans; and
         WHEREAS, The forest sector in East Texas covers 12.1 million
  acres and generates more than 144,500 jobs, $8.4 billion in annual
  labor income, and a total economic impact of over $32.5 billion,
  making timber a valuable agricultural commodity statewide; and
         WHEREAS, Founded in 1914 by a group of dedicated
  conservationists, the Texas Forestry Association is a nonprofit
  organization of some 3,000 landowners, business leaders, and other
  professionals united by a common goal to advance forestry, promote
  conservation practices, and support and protect the interests of
  the working forests of Texas; TFA offers programs such as the
  Sustainable Forestry Initiative and Tree Farm certifications to
  educate the public and encourage reforestation, with the
  understanding that best management practices are essential for
  productive forests; and
         WHEREAS, The Texas Forestry Association has tirelessly
  worked to ensure that abundant forests remain a dependable resource
  for the citizens of Texas, providing clean water, supporting
  healthy living, and helping to maintain a robust economy, and under
  the able leadership of current president Mike Bird, TFA will
  undoubtedly continue to contribute to the economic vitality and
  beauty of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
  Legislature hereby recognize the Texas Forestry Association on the
  occasion of its seedling giveaway and commend the association's
  members for their exemplary conservation efforts and advocacy; and,
  be it further
         RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
  prepared for the association as an expression of high regard by the
  Texas House of Representatives.