A Threatened National Treasure -- FM 170, Big Bend Ranch State Park, Presidio Co TX - Flora and Fauna Information Signs on Waymarking.com

This sign is located at a scenic highway pull-out in Big Bend Ranch State Park in Presidio County.

The sign reads as follows:

"A THREATENED NATURAL TREASURE

One of Texas’ greatest natural treasures, the Rio Grande (Rio Bravo del Norte) is also one of the most endangered rivers on the planet

Sustaining Life

Looked down at the green ribbon of vegetation that borders the Rio Grande beyond this panel. Do you see how the slush cord or contrast sharply with the surrounding area landscape? You are witnessing the power water to transform the desert.

The life-giving waters of the Rio Grande sustain one of the most diverse communities of birds, mammals, and amphibians in Big Bend Ranch State Park. However, although it’s hard to believe, this river is actually now one of Texas most threatened natural resources.

A River in Peril
with some of the highest population growth rates in the entire United States, demand for water along the Rio Grande steadily increasing. Water diversions from municipal and agricultural use down claim 95% of the river’s average annual flow, and at times demand for water exceeds the available supply.

Conserving water will be the key to protecting the Rio Grande for both humans and wildlife in the years to come. Think about your own water use. What could you do to cut back?

[photo]

This 2004 aerial photo of El Paso/Ciudad Juarez shows the extent of urban expansion along the Rio Grande. Sometimes known as the “forgotten river”, the Rio Grande is greatly diminished and actually channeled through concrete culvert at this point on its journey to the Gulf of Mexico."

Visit Instructions:
Take a photo of yourself (and others) at the waymark and feel free to share any additional information or that is not contained on the sign or your experience generally.

Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   12/23/2016 Benchmark Blasterz visited it