89R11609 CW-D
By: Guillen H.C.R. No. 71
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The State of Texas is renowned for the diversity of
its animal population, and select species have become iconic
symbols for certain locations in the state; La Salle County, a
renowned destination for hunting in South Texas, has become
associated with one of its most challenging quarries, the wild hog;
and
WHEREAS, These hardy animals are descended from pigs that
escaped into the wild as well as Eurasian wild boars that were
imported as exotic game in the early 1900s; feral hogs thrive in
many parts of the U.S. and have expanded throughout Texas; while
their adaptability is impressive, they are recognized as an
invasive species that poses serious problems for landowners and
other animals; wild hogs forage for food by rooting, and Texas'
estimated population of more than three million inflicts
substantial damage to crops, pastures, and wildlife habitat each
year; and
WHEREAS, Hunting has been an important part of efforts to
control the numbers of wild hogs, and that is especially true in La
Salle County; residents and hunting enthusiasts from across the
state and beyond are drawn to the area to pursue the elusive game,
and the sport has a sizable impact on the local economy; the county
is home to numerous ranches that offer opportunities to hunt feral
hogs in addition to other game; and
WHEREAS, Building on the popularity of feral hog hunting, the
La Salle County Fair hosted the first Wild Hog Cook-Off competition
in 1981; the event proved immensely popular and grew rapidly,
adding a range of categories, including the much-anticipated
artistic presentation contest, in which teams are judged on the
elaborate trays they use to serve their food; today, the fair and
cook-off take place every March in Cotulla, and the family-friendly
event features live music, entertainment, carnival rides, and
vendors in addition to the wild hog cooking contest; and
WHEREAS, The feral hog hunting industry and the Wild Hog
Cook-Off festivities are sources of pride and prosperity for the
residents of La Salle County, and the importance of these
attractions is indeed deserving of special recognition; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 89th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate La Salle County as the official Wild Hog Capital of
Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section
391.003(e), Government Code, this designation remain in effect
until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally
passed by the legislature.