Legacy Outfitters is out to save the bears. Black bears that is, crossing into Southeast Texas from neighboring Louisiana and slowly reclaiming their former territory in the pine forests and swamplands of the region.

"As a Christian-based men's outdoors group, we want to be good stewards of our natural resources and stay on the forefront of conservation by getting involved with projects that aid wildlife and the sportsmen of the region. So, when we heard about the Texas Fish & Game (TF&G) Black Bear Education Initiative, we jumped right on board," said Chris Parr, Legacy's Southeast Texas Regional Director.

TF&G magazine has been covering the black bear's return for nearly a decade and last year launched a project to educate people that shooting a black bear in Texas is illegal. At a distance, black bears can look similar to feral hogs, which can cause problems.

"Bears are attracted to deer feeders and at a distance a black bear can look like a feral hog especially to the untrained eye. We have created posters that show side-by-side comparisons of black bears and feral hogs and in bold letters says ‘Don't Shoot!"" said TF&G Executive Editor Chester Moore.

"The other side of the issue is poaching and unfortunately there is still a fair amount of that in this corner of the state. By letting people know shooting a black bear can get them a fine of $10,000 or more we hope to get the attention of those with bad intentions as well."

Parr said such a project is perfect for the members of Legacy who are willing to work hard for a good cause.

"We're going to be putting out these posters in strategic locations like gun shops, gas stations and other areas hunters frequent in the counties where bear sightings have occurred. This is great because it lets us aid hunters who might accidentally shoot a bear and also to help bears naturally reclaim Southeast Texas."

Ted Price who heads Legacy's Woodlands Chapter said men looking to get involved with the project and a group that focuses on family-friendly outdoors adventures should consider joining Legacy.

"Whether we are helping with something like this bear project, holding a fishing tournament or just planning a hunting trip, we are always involved with something in the great outdoors. For men searching for something bigger than they are we can point them in the right direction and introduce them to other men who have a similar vision."

For more information on Legacy Outfitters, go to http:/www.legacyoutfitters.org.