In mid-April Texas game wardens were busy responding to devastating floods that inundated a dozen southeast Texas counties over the last few days, conducting over 170 water rescues of individuals and families who were caught in the quickly rising waters.

“The Texas game wardens’ knowledge of the waterways and back country areas have allowed them to quickly locate and rescue those who have been trapped by the floods ,” said Texas Game Warden Maj. William Skeen. “Conditions out there have been difficult, but I’m very proud of the efforts by our game wardens, they have saved many lives. Regardless of how dangerous it is, our men and women will stay engaged with local communities and state response efforts until this event is over.”

Wardens were dispatched in all affected counties, including: Palo Pinto, Parker, Johnson, Harris, Waller, Austin, Montgomery, Grimes, Fayette, Colorado, Falls and Milam. In addition to water rescues, wardens conducted 78 evacuations, rescued 27 pets, 240 welfare checks and assisted in the recovery of one fatality in Waller County.

For over 100 years, Texas Game Wardens have provided professional law enforcement, search and rescue and water safety while working to conserve and protect our natural resources. Texas Game Wardens respond locally to natural disasters and also operate a statewide search and rescue team. Game wardens also work closely with the Texas Division of Emergency Management during large-scale disasters.