100% correct that "helicopters don't work cheap". = For such a major reintroduction project, the TXARNG & TANG aviators/helicopters could/would probably be used for that task. - In the past, the ANG & ARNG assets have done LESS important things for the TX environment.
Some of the oil & gas companies would likely provide air support (for the GOOD publicity) if asked. = FYI, I once, long ago got involved (in a small way, doing manual labor in loading/unloading the trucks) with feeding the starving ducks/geese in VA/MD during an extended/severe ice storm. - I was one of many "sportsmen"/DU members/"ordinary people", who helped pay for, hauled & helped load "bird food" (mostly "cracked corn") for the ducks/geese, that were "delivered by air".
