LOCKNEY, TX – Floyd County officials and the Texas A&M Forest Service are reminding hunters to take precautions as dove season opens and dry vegetation raises wildfire concerns across the region.
Although Floyd County is not officially included in the Drought Map, the risk of grassfires remains, as much of the county has turned dry. Recent rainfall has helped, but isolated dry pockets still exist, and hunting activity can spark fires in vulnerable areas. Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief Jared Karns says even a small spark can lead to wildfire danger under the right conditions.
Hunters are urged to avoid parking on tall grass, check for local burn bans, and never leave campfires unattended. Trailers should be inspected to ensure chains don’t drag, and water or fire extinguishers should be kept nearby. Since 2020, equipment-related sparks have caused over 4,500 wildfires statewide.
The 2025–2026 dove season in Floyd County opened on Monday and continues through November 9, then resumes on December 19 and runs through January 7. As part of the North Dove Zone, hunters must carry a valid Texas hunting license, migratory bird stamp, and HIP certification. The daily bag limit is 15 doves, including no more than two white-tipped.
Dove season draws thousands of hunters to rural counties like Floyd, and local authorities are asking the public to be vigilant and prepared. A complete list of wildfire safety tips is available at www.tfsweb.tamu.edu/HuntingFireSafety.
