The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is honored to announce a significant contribution to wildlife conservation in Texas through a generous partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). As authorized by Section 61.205 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, TPWD has donated one desert bighorn sheep hunting permit to be auctioned during the 2026 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention, taking place January 23–25, 2026 in The Woodlands, Texas.

This exceptional permit grants one hunter the rare opportunity to pursue a desert bighorn ram on one of three iconic Texas Wildlife Management Areas: Elephant Mountain, Sierra Diablo, or Black Gap. The hunt will last up to ten days or until a ram is harvested, whichever comes first, and will be scheduled between November 15, 2026, and September 30, 2027.

“The accomplishments of the Houston Safari Club Foundation are extensive and impressive—not the least of which is their commitment to strengthening partnerships to benefit wild sheep,” stated David Yoskowitz, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “We truly appreciate HSCF’s offer to contribute even more to wildlife conservation in Texas, including this significant fundraising effort through the auction of a desert bighorn sheep permit.”

Proceeds from the auction will directly benefit the TPWD Desert Bighorn Sheep Program. Ninety percent of the funds raised will be returned to the TPWD Wildlife Division to support restoration, management, and research efforts for Texas’ desert bighorn sheep populations. These vital funds allow TPWD to reintroduce bighorn sheep into unoccupied ranges and strengthen existing herds across the state.

“This is one of the most meaningful conservation opportunities we’ve ever been a part of,” said Joe Betar, Executive Director of Houston Safari Club Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to TPWD for entrusting HSCF with this opportunity. The auction of this permit is a powerful testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and shared dedication to the future of wildlife in Texas.”

The desert bighorn sheep is one of Texas’ most iconic and challenging game species. Conservation efforts led by TPWD and its partners have been instrumental in bringing these majestic animals back from the brink of extinction.

For more information on the 2026 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention and the auction of the desert bighorn sheep permit, please visit hscfdn.org/convention-attendees.

About Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)

TPWD manages and conserves the natural and cultural resources of Texas and provides hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

About Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF)

Houston Safari Club Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the protection of hunting heritage. HSCF provides scholarships, supports youth outdoor education programs, and funds critical conservation initiatives.