Statement on S.B. 1964, relating to Jones State Forest

March 29, 2017

College Station, TX — The Texas A&M University System asked State Senator Brandon Creighton to file a bill to allow a public conversation at the Legislature about how, in the future, Texas A&M University System could further fulfill the mission as a land grant institution by potentially using a small percentage of Jones State Forest in Montgomery County for new educational purposes beyond its current use.  Senator Creighton agreed and filed Senate Bill 1964.

In order to start a discussion about proposing any future concepts for new educational opportunities at Jones State Forest, legislation was determined the appropriate pathway.  Absolutely no development plan has been decided for Jones State Forest.  Furthermore, absolutely zero funding is currently dedicated for any construction at Jones State Forest.

As introduced, S.B. 1964 would simply authorize the A&M System board of regents to consider approving some of Jones State Forest land in the future for “multipurpose uses, including academic, research and private commercial use.”

If passed, then S.B. 1964 just provides the A&M System board with an option in the future to consider possibly establishing an advantageous venue at Jones State Forest to serve a unique community of scholars, students, researchers, and entrepreneurs.  This setting could offer advanced-level academic credit or workforce training to a densely populated area from any A&M System entity, including agriculture and engineering.

Typically, comparable facilities include classrooms, conference space, collaborative workspaces, incubators, research laboratories and offices, as well as independently operated food vendors, coffee shops and other services for students, faculty and visitors.  That is why the “private commercial use” phrase was included as part of S.B. 1964.

However, to eliminate public opposition registered in fear of Jones State Forest becoming a massive corporate development, A&M System fully supports Sen. Creighton’s decision to eliminate the words “private commercial use” from S.B. 1964.  Thus independently operated vendors would not be permitted.

While not explicit in S.B. 1964, only 178 acres, or approximately 10 percent of the entire property, was ever intended to potentially be considered for new educational purposes.  This area is in the southern-most part of Jones State Forest and was particularly identified because it is located outside any ecologically sensitive areas and immediately adjacent to already developed properties (see map below).

The A&M System also supports Sen. Creighton’s decision to add a comprehensive conservation easement to protect in perpetuity the remaining 90 percent of the entire property, a total of 1544 acres.  This decision would ensure Jones State Forest continues to be managed as it has been historically, with a commitment to preserve the natural landscape and ecology of the region.

An urban forest learning center could also be considered on the Jones State Forest property in the future.  If approved in the future, then such a center would be constructed as a sustainable and eco-supportive facility to educate the public about forestry, wildlife and natural resources.  Other improvements for the property could include upgrades to existing horse/hike trails and fishing areas throughout Jones State Forest.

About Jones State Forest.  In 1926, the Forestry Department of Texas A&M University, now called the Texas A&M Forest Service, acquired what was originally named “State Forest No. 2” with funds appropriated by the Legislature.  In 1949, State Forest No. 2 was formally dedicated as W. Goodrich Jones State Forest.  Today, the Texas A&M University System still owns this treasured asset, and the Texas A&M Forest Service continues to operate Jones State Forest. The Texas A&M Forest Service is a member of the Texas A&M University System.

Public input is invited by sending an email to comments@tamus.edu