Approximately 14.4 million acres of forested lands in Texas are suitable for the production of timber. Forest operations associated with management, harvest and regeneration can potentially degrade water quality if done improperly. Forestry Best Management Practices are the principal means of protecting water resources during forestry activities.

This photo shows a good example of Streamside Management Zones (PDF, 144KB). The green stringers throughout the cleared area are trees left along a stream.

Best management practices in Texas

In Texas, forestry BMPs are voluntary conservation practices that protect soil and water resources, two key elements necessary for growing a healthy, sustainable and productive forest. BMPs can include methods such as leaving a buffer zone of trees next to a stream, installing a culvert to cross a waterway or establishing grass on forest roads to prevent erosion.

Texas A&M Forest Service, in cooperation with the forest sector and numerous other partners, develops and periodically updates BMP guidelines, provides education, outreach and training on their application, and monitors their implementation on randomly selected forest operations. Over the years, BMPs have become standard throughout the forest sector.

BMP guidelines

Texas forestry BMPs were developed through a cooperative, stakeholder process in 1989. Since that time, the guidelines have been revised four times based on new research, technology, operations and monitoring results to ensure water resources are protected during forest operations.

Texas Forestry Best Management Practices Handbook

Best Management Practices Pictorial Directory