The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will host the Coastal Bend White-tailed Deer Symposium on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Richard M. Borchard Fairgrounds, 1213 Terry Shamsie Blvd., Robstown, Texas. Robstown is located about three hours from Austin County.
This event is designed for landowners, hunters, and wildlife managers seeking expert guidance on white-tailed deer management, habitat improvement, and integrated livestock and wildlife practices. White-tailed deer are one of Texasโ most valuable natural resources, not only contributing to the health of local ecosystems but also playing a major role in rural economies through hunting, land value, and recreation. For landowners, proper deer management can improve property value and habitat health. Hunters benefit from learning practices that support sustainable herds, while wildlife managers gain tools to balance deer with other livestock and native species.
ย
ย
Registration & Payment
Organizers are expecting a strong turnout for the symposium, as past events have drawn several hundred participants from across South Texas. This yearโs program is designed to address a wide range of topics, including production management, integration of deer and livestock, and strategies for feral hog and predator control. While preregistration is encouraged to help secure a spot, walk-in registrations will also be accepted at the door.
- Cost: $50 (includes lunch)
- Preregistration encouraged – registration website
- Payment options: Accepted in advance or at the door (cash, check, or credit card)
- Checks payable to: Nueces County Program Council
- Mailing address: 710 E. Main St., Ste. 1, Robstown, TX 78380
- Additional information can be obtained by calling the Nueces County AgriLife Extension office at 361-767-5223
For questions, contact Jaime R. Lopez at 361-960-6549 or Philip Shackelford at 979-203-5633.
Extras at the Event
- Catered lunch included with registration
- Door prizes throughout the day
- Large vendor exhibition featuring products and services for deer and land management
ย
ย
Continuing Education Credits
Three CEUs will be available โ two general and one integrated pest management.
Topics & Expert Speakers Include
- Nutrition โ Karl Harborth, Ph.D.
- Habitat Management โ Stacy Hines, Ph.D.
- Biology & Deer Herd Dynamics โ Matt Reidy
- Food Plots & Supplemental Feeding โ Dustin Windsor
- Pre- & Post-Harvest Data โ Daniel Kunz
- Chronic Wasting Disease โ Ben Olsen
- New World Screwworm Implications โ Blaise Korzekwa
- Feral Hog & Predator Management โ Liz Tidwell & Jay Long
- Wildlife Tax Valuation โ Dusty Alexander
This symposium provides practical, research-based information to help landowners achieve quality herd management, strengthen wildlife habitats, and balance livestock and deer operations. By attending, participants will gain the knowledge needed to make informed decisions that protect Texasโ white-tailed deer population, improve hunting opportunities, and ensure sustainable land use for generations to come.
ย
