It seems that in our modern world there is very few issues that people from all walks of life — as well as all political persuasions — seem to be able to agree on.

We have a topic no one can make a reasonable argument against — it’s hot out there. It seems as if each new day brings with it a new record high temperature. And here is another: The Texas Hill Country is in the grips of an extremely serious drought. The level on Lake Travis hasn’t been this low since the early 1980s — and it could get worse before it gets better.
Since it appears we now have more commonality than the U.S. Congress, let us join together and make a pact and play it safe this summer. The long drought has created plenty of fuel (dry grasses and vegetation) just waiting for an errant spark to ignite a wildfire. While some areas have seen a smattering of rain, it hasn’t been enough to make much of a difference. For residents along the western edge of Lake Travis in the Pedernales Fire Department coverage area — they haven’t seen a drop of rain.
But what they have seen is fire. First, 45 acres went up in smoke. Then, last Sunday, a family lost their home.
Simply put, the entire Texas Hill Country is ripe, ready and primed for wildfire.
Yet little things can make a difference. If you smoke, use your ash tray. Don’t flip your little fire stick out the window. Avoid parking your car on grassy areas. A hot engine can easily spark a serious fire. And any fire under these conditions would have the ability to quickly get out of hand with the potential to burn thousands of acres, as well hundreds of homes. Don’t say it can’t happen, because it has before.
Common sense can go a long way when it comes to averting a disaster. The county has declared a burn ban. Observe it. If you go camping, don’t even think about building a fire on the ground. Save marsh mellow roasting for another time.
We are a fortunate people to live in such a beautiful area. So we have an obligation to do all we can to keep it that way. Be a good neighbor and a good citizen and practice caution at every turn. In the end, we may not only save property, but more importantly — we may also save lives.
— Charles McClure
Editor