Fifty years ago, Governor John B. Connally launched a campaign to modernize state government. This led to the merger of the Game and Fish Commission with the State Parks Board, creating a new agency dedicated to conservation, parks and outdoor recreation.

This year, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is celebrating its 50th birthday with a special video looking back at what that means for Texans. Texas Parks and Wildlife has set up a 50th anniversary web page at www.lifesbetteroutside.org where people can share stories and photos and inspire others to enjoy nature.

The agency also hopes that Texans will sign up to become a Texas Parks and Wildlife ambassador and pledge to do things like visit state parks, take a kid hunting or fishing, and watch or share a video showcasing what’s made life better outside in Texas.