Friday, November 11, 2011

November 2011

Next Meeting: Wednesday, November 16, 2011

MEETING LOCATION: Our meeting will be held at The Garden Center, Memorial Park, 3105 Grant St. from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Map:



CASTNER RANGE

~ Richard Teschner, Vice President, The Frontera Land Alliance and Member, 4-C’s


Mike Gaglio, Frontera President and judy Ackerman, FMWC Secretary, present a copy of the Castner Report to Congressman Reyes.

Conservation Conveyance Report for Castner Range Now Available: The Castner Report is now available! This 104-page study was prepared for the Castner Conservation Conveyance Committee (“4-C’s”) by CALIBRE Systems, Inc. of Alexandria, VA with funding from a $300,000 Office of Economic Adjustment/Department of Defense grant obtained through the offices of El Paso’s Congressman Silvestre Reyes. The 4-C’s, an ongoing entity consisting of members of the boards of directors of The Frontera Land Alliance (Mike Gaglio, Richard Teschner, Doug Echlin, Kevin von Finger, John Moses, Scott Cutler) and the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition (Judy Ackerman, Pat White and, again, Scott Cutler), were led in their activities by Project Manager Steve Bonner of the SONRI Corp. (Boerne, TX). Work on this project by the 4-C’s, CALIBRE and SONRI began in the fall of 2010. The project is a major component in the ongoing effort to deploy a conservation conveyance on the 7,081-acre/eleven-square-mile Castner Range property located on El Paso’s Northeast Side between the Franklin Mountains State Park (FMSP) and the U.S. 54 Patriot Freeway. Since the late 1960’s, Castner (a live artillery/ordnance firing site inaugurated in 1923) has been a “closed” range and thus not considered a part of the Fort Bliss Training Complex. Governmental bodies at all levels—the El Paso City Council, the County Commissioners’ Court, the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate—have gone on record in favor of applying a conservation conveyance to Castner as an intermediate stage in the transfer of the property from Department of Defense ownership to ownership by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as part of the FMSP.

The report itself—accompanied by a CD—consists of a one-page Executive Summary plus four chapters: Background (including Demographics, Environmental Conditions, Ecological Information, Cultural Resources, Future Land Use, and Munitions and Explosives of Concern), Real Estate Options (among them Conveyance of Surplus Real Property for Natural Resource Conservation, Cooperative Research and Development Agreements, Conveyance of Property at Military Installations to Limit Encroachment, Disposals to Public Agencies under Public Benefit Statues, Enhanced Use Lease, and Early Transfer), Liability concerns, and Recommendations. Among the topics dealt with in the Appendices are the exact legal status of Castner Range, previous deployment of conservation conveyances at two other military properties, unexploded ordnance remediation, contacts with local, state and national officials, liability issues, Texas and federal law, Army contingent funding, Army-retained conditions, and the specifics of a draft Conservation Conveyance Cooperative Agreement with the Army, including a likely time line that sets forth the various stages any Agreement would go through. Maps, photos and a glossary conclude the appendices.

The 4-C’s goals for the immediate future include continued contact with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to plan what a conservation-conveyed Castner Range would look like if it became part of the FMSP. In addition, contacts established between the 4-C’s and military officials have been firmed up and will be expanded upon.

For copies of the Castner Report, contact Frontera’s new Executive Director, Janaé Reneaud Field, 915.351.8352 in Frontera’s new offices at 1201 N. Mesa, Suite D-3, El Paso, TX 79902.


TRANSMOUNTAIN CORRIDOR
~ Jim Tolbert, El Paso Naturally

Best environmental updates in town from Jim Tolbert at his blog El Paso Naturally. Bookmark, sign up for email notifications. You can catch up on Transmountain Scenic Corridor NW and many other issues on his blog. Strongly recommend subscribing.

Please visit and bookmark http://www.elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/.

Some updates from Jim’s blog, reprinted with permission:

October 21: Again this past Tuesday City Council took up a resolution authorizing the City Manager to sign a an amendment to the agreement with Dover Kohl updating the Northwest Master Plan to smart code and preserving land (the “Scenic Corridor”) in perpetuity. Unlike the Tuesday before, all hands were on deck and the vote at the end of the debate was unanimous in favor of the resolution. For petitioners, this is a huge victory as it puts the City on target to preserve land permanently. For City planners, the PSB and the business community, it can also be seen as a “win” for it fits preserved land into an updated plan. An holistic solution is sought and not a hodgepodge. It’s not so much trying to put a square peg in a round hole, but working out the jigsaw puzzle in a way that fits all interests.

See http://elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/2011/10/beginprocess.html  that includes the Dover Kohl proposal and two agreed-upon amendments to the proposal.

September 21: Please check out http://elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/2011/09/petitioners-council-and-others-will.html for a few more details including my remarks and what I’m calling the McElroy Process for coming to an overarching plan for re-doing the Westside Master Plan and preserving the land in the corridor.

The bottom line is that Council voted to postpone action on the petition ordinance for 90 days while the process is pursued. What is a huge positive is that agreeing to process means agreeing to preserving the view shed of the Scenic Corridor. I can report that I saw unanimous consent from Council members to find a win/win solution and to pursue a Smart Code plan that most certainly will mean more natural open space and a hard look at Paseo del Norte. We didn’t exactly hold hands and sing “Kumbaya” – but it was close.

Of course, petitioners have the option to begin collecting signatures now for a ballot referendum. Keep in mind though that, even if Council had passed everything in the proposed ordinance (and there weren’t the votes), there still would have had to have been time to determine the mechanisms for preservation, etc., etc.

Looming is the Sierra Club lawsuit against TxDOT and a meeting about that lawsuit is happening imminently. The petition ordinance doesn’t address the widening of Transmountain and is a separate issue except for how Paseo del Norte may or may not connect with the TxDOT overpass/interchange.

Editor: Thank you, Jim Tolbert, for your continuing efforts on behalf of the natural glories of El Paso!


RIO BOSQUE UPDATE

Rio Bosque still facing some very tough times. Please see this article for an update.

http://elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/2011/10/options-and-obstacles-for-water-at-rio.html




23 Oct Clean-up Success

FMWC Transmountain Clean-Up On 23 Oct 2011: Great success! Many thanks to those who were able to participate. 8 volunteers: Scott Cutler, Robin Ricart, Pat White, Cinda Cotham, Kathy Barton, Nicolas Havlik, John Nunez, Judy Ackerman. In 3 hrs, we collected 22 bags of trash, 3 tires and some big pieces of wood, 8 bags of recyclables that Robin took home. Of the 2 mile stretch, we cleaned MAYBE 1 mile. Let’s do it again soon. Be cool to see more volunteers next time!



PARK NEWS

7th Annual Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta Message from Cesar Mendez, Ph.D., Park Superintendent:

On Saturday September 17, 2011, we successfully had our 7th Annual Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta in conjunction with the 4th Annual Chili Cook Off at Franklin Mountains State Park - Tom Mays Unit. The Fiesta featured fun, educational, and interpretive activities for the public. Some highlights included great food, interactive exhibits from El Paso Water Utilities; horseback rides and hayride shuttle provided by the Serna Ranch; Van Shuttle provided by Southwest Expeditions, birding activities by Texas Parks and Wildlife Urban Biologist Program; exhibits on conservation efforts by Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition, among many others that provided valuable information on the natural history and culture of the Chihuahuan Desert. The Fiesta was the result of numerous hours that many individuals invested during the pre-event meetings and the day of the event. Once again, the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition (CDEC) members played a key role in the logistics and organization of the Fiesta. Many other park staff and volunteers were also critical for the completion of both events. Even though I would like to mention all persons that helped during the events, I will not because it would be very difficult for me not to accidentally omit names. I am confident to say that in Franklin Mountains State Park we arenot only surrounded by beautiful desert mountains but by great staff, volunteers, and partners. In general, we received positive comments from visitors, volunteers, and exhibitors during and after the events. Over 25 organized groups contributed to both events. We all witnessed how the events were carried over smoothly and with no major incidents. This is a clear example on how strong partnerships, commitment, and organization result in things that enhance our community. Although we did not exceed last year's attendance, I am pleased to say that we had over 600 participants in both events. But most important many participants were new to the area, thus being exposed for their first time to the wonders of the Chihuahuan Desert. On behalf of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Franklin Mountains State Park I want to thank all of you for the outstanding team work that all of you demonstrated on Saturday's events. Your help and efforts substantially contribute to our mission in Texas Parks and Wildlife. Please extend my thanks to every person in your team. At Franklin Mountains State Park we feel honored and privileged to count with collaborators as you all. We will continue our commitment to joint conservation and educational efforts for enriching the lives of the people of El Paso through outdoors experiences.


Greetings All! from John Nunez, FMSP:

Business as usual at the park, with so many events and a few changes, all of us have been busy with all that is happening on the mountain. First, we welcome two new employees to Franklin Mountains State Park. We welcome Steve Taylor, Maintenance Specialist II. Steve was originally stationed at the Wyler Aerial Tramway State Park. However, due to the major cuts at the Tramway, Steve was transferred over to Franklin back in August. We are glad to have Steve with us as he has many years of experience with maintenance, construction and mechanics as well as an extensive knowledge of the park and the mountains as a whole. We also welcome Adrianna Weickhardt, who has filled the position of Park Ranger II/ Interpreter. Adrianna has been at Franklin now since the middle of October. We are glad to have Adrianna join our team as well. Adrianna has so much experience with working at other parks across the nation and as well as trail work. Adrianna has many new creative ideas for increasing the interpretive programs at Franklin Mountains State Park. All of us are very grateful for the addition of these two highly experienced individuals that have already made huge contributions to all the hard work that goes on at the park.

Many special events have been happening at the park. In anticipation of the Texas Outdoor Family event, all park staff were busy preparing the park grounds. All 15 campsites were polished up for the event. The event was held on October 8 and 9. We had six families, 25 people in total, participate in this event. This was an opportunity to introduce the wonders of outdoors and camping to folks that have never had the experience of camping. Park volunteers Richard Love, Heath Shawhart and George Murray helped with the event, including guided tours of the Nature Trail and West Cottonwood Mine Shaft.

On October 10, the Wyler Aerial State Park was vandalized extensively. There was a great deal of damage done to the park, but thankfully the Tramway itself was not damaged. Unfortunately, no suspects have been found as of yet.

On October 11, Park Police Officer Fernie Rincon witnessed a robbery at the Radio Shack on Trans Mountain Road while he was making the park bank deposit. Officer Rincon pursued the vehicle which had three suspects. Two suspects managed to flee on foot as the vehicle proceeded to drive off. However, Officer Rincon pulled over the vehicle and arrested the driver. El Paso Police Dept., Department of Public Safety and Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice police dogs assisted in the search for the two other suspects. One suspect later turned himself in to EPPD.

Park staff, have been working on the Lower Sunset trail with the help of the TDCJ work crew. Also, park staff has been working ongoing field and grounds maintenance throughout the park. A major part of our daily duties include patrolling the outer reaches of the park. Park staff welded a new chain and installed a lock on the gate on the Pipeline Rd. in far Northeast El Paso. The gate at the Texas/ New Mexico boundary had been vandalized and the lock had been shot off.

Park Maintenance IV Robert Pichardo travelled to Bastrop State Park to assist with the clean-up efforts after the devastating fires. Robert came back on October 15 from the trip.

Park volunteer Robert Newman has recently completed the first half of the new Sotol Forest hike/ mountain bike trail in the Northeast end of the park. This new route will continue from Sotol Canyon north towards Hitt Canyon and will intersect with the Hitt Canyon hike/ mountain bike trail. On Sunday, November 6, the Borderland Mountain Bike Association sponsored a trail day workshop and assisted Robert Newman with trail construction. It was a great day for trail building as the weather was ideal! BMBA members Dave Wilson, Brent Sanders and local rider Pablo, along with Maintenance II John Nunez, were part of this fantastic event. It was a great deal of intense work since there were quite a bit of large boulders that needed to be removed. Approximately a quarter mile of trail was built.

So many exciting events and occurrences at the park, as we all feel there is never a dull moment with all that happens in the Franklins. All of us have so much to offer to get the job done and all of us come home after a hard day’s work feeling a sense of fulfillment and pride in all the hard work we do. We are a family of unique individuals that are all behind the park 100%, including all park volunteers and employees. Some days are harder than others, but in the end, we are all a team that manages to get the job done!


MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Poppies 2012

Planning already underway for Poppies Celebration 2012: The Franklin Mountain Wilderness Coalition, in collaboration with several local organizations is excited to announce the date of the sixth annual poppies celebration next spring. The 2012 Franklin Mountains Poppies Fest on Castner Range will take place on Saturday, March 31 at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology at 4301 Transmountain Road. Join us for a full program of nature talks, wildlife displays, educational exhibits, demonstrations, music and refreshments. Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and the poppies during this free educational family fun event.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteering for this event please contact Naima Montacer (email: naimamontacer@yahoo.com  cell: (806) 683-2242)

Castner Range is a former artillery range known for its cultural, geologic and unique biology. If the rain and weather cooperate, it is most known for its beautiful and vast display of Mexican Poppies in the spring.


Borderland Mountain Bike Association

Check out http://bmba.wordpress.com/  for the latest.


El Paso Museum of Archaeology

November Calendar

Exhibits:

Ancient Mexico
October 13, 2011 through January 15, 2012

Free Admission: In collaboration with the El Paso Museum of History’s new exhibit “Mystery of the Mayan Medallion,” the Museum of Archaeology will emphasize its collections from early Mesoamerica. Artifacts representing the Maya, Aztecs, and lesser known great civilizations from Mexico will be on display. Vintage and recent photographs will be added to the gallery to link the artifacts with the great artistic accomplishments and monumental architecture of these past civilizations. The exhibit includes five featured Maya ceramic vessels which were graciously loaned by the University Museum of New Mexico State University.

November 19, 2:00 pm
Curator’s Tour of the Diorama Gallery, open to all ages, groups or individuals, free admission:

During this tour our Curator, Dr. Matt Taylor, takes visitors on a journey through 14,000 years of El Paso’s Indian heritage in our diorama gallery exhibits. Those attending will learn about Paleoindians who lived here 14,000 years ago continuing through time to the Mescalero Apache people of today. Reservations are not necessary but contact the museum if you plan to attend, 915-755-4332; guidamr@elpasotexas.gov.

November 20, 2:00 pm
Elizabeth Ann Owen, speaks on research at Gila Cliff Dwellings for the El Paso Archaeological Society, Free Admission

December 3, 2:00 pm
Dr. Rani Alexander, NMSU Archaeologist, speaks on the Maya collapse in the 16th Century, Free Admission

December 10, 11:00 am
Cesar Mendez, Superintendent of Franklin Mountains State Park, speaks to the Master Gardeners/Master Naturalists meeting, open to the public, free admission, for information on the topic, call the museum at 915-755-4332

El Paso Museum of Archaeology,4301 Transmountain Road, El Paso Texas 79924; 915-755-4332;
guidamr@elpasotexs.gov ; www.elpasotexas.gov/arch_museum/


Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm; Sunday, 12 to 5 pm , Closed Mondays and City Holidays


Southwest Environmental Center
~Kevin Bixby, Executive Director

A Native Returns:
On October 11, five Mexican grey wolves (“lobos”) were released in the San Luis Mountains of northeastern Sonora, near the New Mexico border. It is the first reintroduction of lobos into Mexico since they disappeared from their historic range in that country more than 30 years ago. The release was coordinated by the federal SEMARNAT agency, and Naturalia, a non-governmental conservation organization.

Reintroducing wolves into their historic range in Mexico is an important and long-overdue step towards recovery of the highly endangered Mexican wolf. It is absolutely critical that wolves be allowed to move freely between the U.S. and Mexico to establish a genetic connection needed for healthy populations and long-term survival. SWEC is working to make sure the U.S. does not construct additional border fencing that prevents the movement of wildlife.

How endangered are Mexican wolves?

Here’s how the number of lobos in the wild compares with some other animals considered endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN):

Mexican wolf   ~50
Ethiopian wolf   ~210
Red wolf   ~150
Javan rhino   50-70
Asiatic cheetah   60-100
Giant panda   ~1600
Amur tiger   ~500
Vaquita   <500

Mexican wolves still on the brink of extinction

More wolves needed in New Mexico--now!

With only 50-60 Mexican wolves in the wild, it is time to pick up the pace of wolf recovery in the Southwest.

The Southwest Environmental Center has joined with biologists and other groups in urging the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to jettison an obsolete and politically-motivated rule that prevents the direct release of captive-bred wolves into New Mexico, where the best unoccupied wolf habitat occurs. The rule was a concession aimed at gaining New Mexico’s cooperation before the Mexican wolf reintroduction program began in 1998. At the time, the state’s Governor and Game Commission opposed the wolf reintroduction.

The rule stipulates that direct releases of wolves can only take place in the Arizona portion of the Mexican wolf recovery area, despite the fact that 75 percent of the recovery area is in New Mexico. Arizona wolves can subsequently be moved into New Mexico for management purposes, and they are allowed to move there on their own.

Wolf experts have long criticized this rule. In 2001, a review team lead by the University of Calgary’s Paul Paquet concluded that modifying the rule to allow direct releases into New Mexico “is by far the most important and simplest change” that could be made to improve the reintroduction effort.

Wolf activist Jean Ossorio, a Las Cruces resident and former SWEC board member, agrees. “Much of the good lobo habitat in Arizona is already occupied by existing packs. In the wake of the Wallow Fire, it’s even harder to find good release sites. Meanwhile, the number of wolves that have already been in the wild in Arizona and are eligible for re-release into New Mexico is limited,” she said.

Although FWS claims to support this rule change, it has yet to take the first step needed to make it happen; namely, publishing the proposed change in the federal register and preparing an environmental assessment.

What you can do:

Please contact FWS Regional Director Benjamin Tuggle and let him know that you want to see a rule change that would allow for the release of Mexican wolves directly into New Mexico as soon as possible. If you are a New Mexico resident, please also contact Senators Bingaman and Udall and tell them the same thing.

DR. BENJAMIN N. TUGGLE
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
P.O. Box 1306
Albuquerque, NM 87103-1306
(505) 248-6911 RDTuggle@fws.gov

US SENATOR JEFF BINGAMAN (NM)
703 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(800) 443-8658
http://bingaman.senate.gov/ (email at site)

US SENATOR TOM UDALL (NM)
B40D Dirksen Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-6621
http://udall.senate.gov/ (email at site)

For more information about what you can do, visit http://www.wildmesquite.org/  or contact Jason Burke at (575) 522-5552 or jason@wildmesquite.org .


FMWC In Cyberspace

This is the blog version of the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition newsletter. It is also available by e-mail and by US Post . If you would like to receive another version, please contact: judy Ackerman at j.p.ackerman@sbcglobal.net.


FMWC BOARD

President: Scott Cutler

Vice President: Jane Fowler

Secretary: Judy Ackerman

Treasurer: Pat White

At Large Members:

Raul Amaya and Nick Havlik


LONE STAR LEGACY

You can make a lasting contribution to the future of Franklin Mountains State Park with your tax-deductible donation to the Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund. Checks, payable to “Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation”, can be sent to: Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund, c/o Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, P.O. Box 191207, Dallas, TX, 75219. Mark your donation to the endowment fund for Franklin Mountains State Park.

Friday, September 16, 2011

September 2011

FRANKLIN MOUNTAINS WILDERNESS COALITION
http://www.franklinmountains.org/


NEWSLETTER
September 2011

CONTENTS:
Meeting Info
Message From Our President
I am the Franklin Mountains, by Raul F. Amaya
7th Annual Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta
Program of Events for Fiesta
   Bird Blind
   Horseback rides
   Presentations
   Rummage Sale
   Chili Cook Off
Celebration of Our Mountains
Blog El Paso Naturally
Castner Range
Burrowing Owl Conservation
Borderland Mountain Bike Association
El Paso Museum of Archaeology Events
   Exhibits
   Zip Tours
   Family Workshop: Beginning Pottery-Making
   17th Biennial Jornada Mogollon Archaeology Conference
   Tom Lea Month Programs
   The Mystery of Our Mountains
Lone Star Legacy
FMWC Board



Next Meeting:
WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

MEETING LOCATION: Our meeting will be held at The Garden Center, Memorial Park, 3105 Grant St. from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Map:
http://www.cichlidpress.com/elpasocactusclub/graphics/gardencenter.jpg


MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT, SCOTT CUTLER:
YOUR Actions can make the difference in saving the Transmountain Scenic Corridor in NW El Paso. Here’s what to do:

1. Call and e-mail ALL City Officials listed below.

2. Attend City Council on Tue 20 Sep.

3. Participate in the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta (details attached) where you can see, firsthand, the land that the current NW Master Plan will convert to commercial and residential development.

NOW is the time to preserve the Transmountain Scenic Corridor. No more stalling that leaves our mountains vulnerable. Urge our city officials to support the petition, without modifications. Your actions today determine the course of El Paso’s future.

City Officials:  Name, Title, Phone, E-mail

Ann Morgan Lilly, City Rep Dist 1, 541-4151, district#1@elpasotexas.gov

Susie Byrd, City Rep Dist 2, 541-4416, district#2@elpasotexas.gov

Emma Acosta, City Rep Dist 3, 541-4515, district#3@elpasotexas.gov

Carl Robinson, City Rep Dist 4,541-4140, district#4@elpasotexas.gov

Dr. Michiel Noe, City Rep Dist 5, 541-4701, district#5@elpasotexas.gov

Eddie Holguin, Jr., City Rep Dist 6, 541-4182, district#6@elpasotexas.gov

Steve Ortega, City Rep Dist 7, 541-4108, district#7@elpasotexas.gov

Cortney Niland, City Rep Dist 8, 541-4123, district#8@elpasotexas.gov

John Cook, Mayor, 541-4145, mayor@elpasotexas.gov

Joyce Wilson, City Manager, 541-4000, citymanager@elpasotexas.gov.

(Editor’s Note: NW Corridor update below.)


I am the Franklin Mountains, by Raul F. Amaya 8/9/11

I am the Franklin Mountains called by the conquistadors Las Sierras de los Mansos or Las Sierras de los Organos.

I am the outstanding geological feature in the town then city that I tower over & that grew up around me.

I was born about 50 to 70 million years ago from geologic & volcanic activity & have been growing & changing since then.

I am the Franklin Mountains.

I’ve seen many creatures come & go over my life span like dinosaurs as they migrated from Northern Mexico to Colorado, millions of years later Mammoths & giant sloths.

About 50,000 years ago I saw the formation of the Rio Grande below me, and eventually it cut a path, named by the Spaniards who came thousands of years later, El Paso del Norte, between me the Sierras de Juárez forming the Rio Grande Valley.

I am the Franklin Mountains.

Many kinds of plants & animals make their homes in me; plants like barrel cactus & Mexican poppies, & trees like cottonwood, hackberry, oak, and juniper; and animals like rodents, deer, mountain lions, foxes, lizards, snakes, hawks, & many other kids of birds.

About 10,000 to 7,000 BC the Paleo-Indians arrived although it wasn’t until four thousand years ago that I saw the first humans, the Manso, Suma, and Jumano tribes make their homes at my foothills in Keystone Park & up and down the Rio Grand Valley.

I am the Franklin Mountains.


TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE TO HOST
7TH ANNUAL CHIHUAHUAN DESERT FIESTA AT FRANKLIN MOUNTAINS STATE PARK

El Paso, Texas—Many people living in El Paso are not very familiar with the natural and cultural history of the Chihuahuan Desert including the Franklin Mountains in the heart of the city. At almost 26,000 acres, Franklin Mountains State Park protects prime Chihuahuan Desert habitats within an urban setting. The park is home to numerous species of plants and animals. On September 17, 2011, the park will host the 7th Annual Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta at the Tom Mays Unit, located 3.5 miles east of I-10 on Trans Mountain Road. The main objective of this Fiesta is to get people outdoors and to help increase awareness of the uniqueness of our desert. This event will not only showcase the natural and cultural resources of the Chihuahuan Desert, but also the recreational and educational opportunities that exist within Franklin Mountains State Parks and other state parks within the region.

The FREE COMMUNITY event will run from 9AM-3PM and will offer various activities, presentations, and exhibits throughout the day. During this event park staff, members of the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition, and other environmental education groups will be on hand to offer free demonstrations, guided tours, guest speakers, and informational booths designed to introduce the curious to the wonders of our fascinating southwest desert. Drive thru the park where you will find different activities and groups providing information about their conservation efforts in our area. Vendors will be on site to sell food, snacks, and drinks. Visitors can check out the Wildlife Viewing Area and enjoy interpretive programs on plants and animals while spending time watching birds coming back and forth for water and food. Hay and horseback riding will also be available. Franklin Mountains State Park is also hosting a Chili Cook-off sanctioned by the Chili Appreciation Society International. Public tasting will be available around noon. Live music by local group Slackabilly. The entrance fee to the park is waived due to the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta joining the celebration of the Franklin Mountains State Park Lone Star Legacy. Donations to Franklin Mountains State Park are accepted. So come and join us for a fun, exciting, and enjoyable outdoors experience and discover more about the Chihuahuan Desert.

Program of Events for the 7th Annual Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta Sponsored by Franklin Mountains State Park, Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition & the El Paso Zoo

9 am to Noon - Audubon Society Members will host the Bird Blind at the nature walk trailhead. 9:30 am - Short guided 20-30 minute walks. Meet at Site 39 (end of loop).

Horseback rides by Serna Ranch Youth Leadership Program (all day)

Special Chihuahuan Desert Fifteen-Minute Presentations at the picnic area 41-42 on the left, right before the end of the loop road:

11:00 Mexican Wolves, Jason Burke, Southwest Environmental Center 11:15 Conservation Efforts on Trans Mountain, Jim Tolbert, El Paso Naturally

11:30 My Top Ten Plants of the Chihuahuan Desert, John White, UTEP Centennial Museum and Gardens

11:45 Cacti of the Franklin Mountains, Dr. Gertrud Konings, El Paso Community College

Noon Takota the Golden Eagle and Heather Rivera, El Paso Zoo

12:05 Chili Cookoff Public Tasting, See Schedule Below

12:30 Snakes of the Desert, Rick LoBello, El Paso Zoo

12:45 Preservation of our Poppy Fields, Judy Ackerman, Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition

1:00 EPCC Transmountain Arid Garden and Sculpture Park, Lisa Miller and Dr. Naomi Waissman, El Paso Community College

1:15 Chihuahaun Desert wildlife and geology at Pancho Villa State Park in Columbus, John Read, Heritage Educator Pancho Villa State Park


Fiesta Rummage Sale The El Paso Sunrise Hikers, Franklin Mountains State Park Volunteers, the El Paso Ridgewalkers and the El Paso Hiking Group are having a rummage sale at this year’s fiesta to benefit the Franklin Mountains State Park.


Chili Cook Off Schedule 9:30 till 12:00pm People’s choice chili cooks preparation. 12:00 Public tasting begins. 12:00 Salsa judges report to judging area.


Exhibitors and Event Partners: Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens (UTEP), Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition, Chihuahuan Desert Wildlife Rescue, Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI), El Paso Audubon Society, El Paso Cactus and Rocks Club, El Paso Native Plant Society, El Paso Museum of Archaeology, El Paso Community College, Office of El Paso County Attorney, El Paso Water Utilities, El Paso Zoo, Franklin Mountains State Park, Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition, Friends of the Rio Bosque, International Boundary and Water Commission, League of Women Voters, New Mexico State Parks Mesilla Valley Bosque and Pancho Villa State Park, Reintroduction of Mexican Wolves, Rio Grande Council of Governments, Serna Ranch Youth Leadership Program, Southwest Expeditions/Eco Tourism, Texas AgriLife Extension El Paso Master Gardeners, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas Master Naturalist-Trans Pecos, Texas Parks & Wildlife /Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, UTEP Environmental Advocates.


Learn more about our Chihuahuan Desert and get involved with others by joining the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition. Info: http://www.chihuahuandesert.org/  or call 915-217-4233.


Jim Tolbert: Celebration of Our Mountains
Sept. 17- Nov. 19, 2011

Hike the ridge of Mount Franklin, see dinosaur tracks, go deep inside an old tin mine, visit volcanoes . . . The 18th annual fall Celebration of Our Mountains festival hosts numerous events each week and weekend during a period of mild temperatures in the El Paso Southwest. You can also enjoy year-round educational and recreational opportunities. Just visit www.celebmtns.org for more information. New hikes and events are posted throughout the fall festival as well as throughout the year. Activities include hiking, biking, birding, an art show, climbing, photographing, sketching, studying and exploring the natural wonders and history of the Borderland. Theme hikes will include trips to old mining operations, sites of historic plane crashes, geological wonders, plants and wildlife of our region and family and beginners’ hikes.

Best environmental updates in town from Jim Tolbert at his blog El Paso Naturally. Bookmark, sign up for email notifications. You can catch up on the petitions for Transmountain Scenic Corridor NW and many other issues on his blog. Strongly recommend subscribing.

Please visit and bookmark http://www.elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/ .

Just for starters: Richarda Duffy Momsen, Municipal Clerk of the City of El Paso, Texas, has certified our petition to save the Scenic Transmountain Corridor! El Paso Times published predictable articles and editorials. Here’s Jim’s response:

http://elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/2011/08/dont-ease-up.html

September update:
http://elpasonaturally.blogspot.com/2011/09/where-we-are-on-petition-ordinance.html


REMEMBER: CITY COUNCIL, TUESDAY, SEPT. 20TH!



CASTNER RANGE CONSERVATION KEEPS A ROLLING ALONG!

Richard Teschner’s recent report to Castner Conservation Conveyance Committee, concerning his education efforts on the Hill and at the Pentagon, Aug. 1-2, 2011, in Washington DC, is full of positive news and feedback. Please attend the FMWC Meeting Wednesday, Sept. 21st, for updates on exciting developments on Castner Range.


WANTED!
Burrowing Owl Conservation
Have you seen any burrowing owls in El Paso County?

Texas Parks and Wildlife is conducting a long-term research project starting Sept. 2011 to examine the survival of adult and juvenile burrowing owls, determine their residency status, site fidelity, and compare breeding success of burrowing owls between natural and artificial burrows.

Please report all owl sightings and locations to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Urban Wildlife Biologist at
915-774-9603 or lois.balin@tpwd.state.tx.us Thanks,

Lois Balin, Urban Wildlife Biologist


Borderland Mountain Bike Association
Check out http://bmba.wordpress.com/  for the latest.



El Paso Museum of Archaeology
Sept/Oct Calendar

Settlement Legacy: Native Americans of the Pass of the North: Through October 9, 2011, Free Admission
The exhibit tells the dramatic story of the Manso, Suma, Piro, and Tigua Indians who, over four centuries ago, founded the missions and pueblos that evolved into today’s sister cities, El Paso-Ciudad Juárez.

We hope you’ll take some time to explore this accurate account of what happened to the Indians who were living here when the Spanish arrived (the Manso and Suma) along with what happened to the Indians who were brought here (the Tigua, Piro, and Tompiro) as a result of the Pueblo Revolt.

The exhibit was created by Guest Curator Nicholas P. Houser, who has conducted historical research for the Tigua Indians, created exhibits for museums and cultural centers, and has worked with over 36 Native American communities in the American Southwest and Latin America.

Nick Houser will give the final lecture for this exhibit in conjunction with Tom Lea Month on Sunday, October 9, at 2:00 pm, Free Admission, details below.

Zip Tour of the exhibit: Settlement Legacy: Native Americans of the Pass of the North September 24, 2011, 2:00 pm, Free Admission

This tour introduces the exhibit about the historic Indian occupation of the El Paso-Ciudad Juárez region to the public through a casual conversation during which those attending may ask questions and share their knowledge.

Family Workshop: Beginning Pottery-Making, Dates to be Announced. Enrollment limited, advance registration required, call the museum for dates, times, ages, materials, and fees: 915-755-4332; guidamr@elpasotexas.gov


The 17th Biennial Jornada Mogollon Archaeology Conference Friday, October 7 and Saturday, October 8, 2011 9:00 am – 5:00 pm each day

El Paso is at the geographic center of the prehistoric culture area archaeologists call the Jornada Mogollon. The public is welcome to hear archaeologists working in this area present their recent research during this conference being held at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology. The conference is jointly hosted by the museum and the El Paso Archaeological Society; it is held in conjunction with Texas Archaeology Month

Cost: $30 Pre-registration - paid before September 16th
$40 Registration from Sept. 16 to Oct. 8
You can also register at the door, one or both days
$25 Student registration, with valid ID

The registration form is on the museum’s website www.elpasotexas.gov/arch_museum  or call (915) 755-4332 for a copy.

Geographically, the Jornada Mogollon extends from Carrizozo, New Mexico in the north to just south of Villa

Ahumada, Chihuahua, México in the south, and from east of Deming, New Mexico in the west to the Pecos River in the east.


TOM LEA MONTH PROGRAMS
Free Admission for All Programs

Sunday, October 2, 2011, 2:00 pm
Desert Plants in the Art of Tom Lea
by Artist and Master Gardener Jan Dreher

Tom Lea had a reverence for the world around him and used his skills as an artist to capture the “Almighty’s majestic handiwork” in “portrait likeness.” Jan Dreher will share slides of Lea’s paintings with details of a variety of high Chihuahuan Desert plants before taking visitors onto the slopes of Mount Franklin to discover them for themselves.

Sunday, October 9, 2011, 2:00 pm
Tom Lea and the Indian People of the Southwest
by Nick Houser, Anthropologist and Guest Curator

When Tom Lea first visited the Grand Canyon as a little boy, he was most fascinated with the Hopi House on its rim. Throughout his life, Lea studied the ways of Southwest Indians, resulting in paintings like Snake Dancers in the Santa Fe Museum of Fine Arts, Ghost at Noon Came Riding at the El Paso Museum of Art, Comancheros in the Seymour Texas Post Office and Sitting Bull in the Texas Capitol. While showing slides of Tom Lea’s work, Nick Houser will analyze their details and what they tell viewers about of the lives of Native Americans in the Southwest.


Saturday, October 15, 2011, 3:00 pm
The Mystery of Our Mountains:
How the Franklin and Sierra de Juarez Were Formed by Phil Goodell, Ph.D., UTEP Geologist

The Franklin Mountains and Sierra de Juarez stand silent and majestic against the sky. Our knowledge has developed from mystery to a reasonable understanding of a sequence of evolutionary events, from the catastrophic to the monotonous. Observations and interpretations of events will be discussed by UTEP professor and native El Pasoan Dr. Phil Goodell who has loved rocks from the time he was a little boy.


Sunday, October 16, 2011, 1:30 to 4:30 pm
Student Artists: In the Footsteps of Tom Lea
Chapin High School Student Presentations and Reception

Just as Tom Lea loved exploring the world around him, Chapin High School Student Artists do, too. Advanced art, studio advanced placement, and art history students will study the work of Tom Lea under the direction of art teacher Elisa Barton, creating works of their own. At a public reception, these students will present their winning creations at the El Paso Museum of Archaeology.


Sunday, October 23, 1:00 to 4:00 pm
Family Workshop: Tom Lea Landscapes
Free Admission with Pre-Registration
Attendance Limited


Families will be inspired to create their own landscapes just as Tom Lea did. The Franklin Mountains, with their dramatic canyons, jagged peaks, and ever-changing light are a stunning backdrop to the Museum of Archaeology. Participants can imagine the landscape as it was in prehistoric times - and how the ancients lived. With professional staff to help, participants will learn how to observe elements in the landscape - the place, time of day, and weather. They will also learn placement of figures in the foreground, middle ground and background, describing the expanse of space. Families will work as a group using a variety of materials to create a landscape collage populated with Chihuahuan Desert plants, animals and people. Families will share their landscapes with each other at the end. Maximum number of participants: 25

Ages: mixed, children and adults

Día de los Muertos Ofrenda/Display
By Artist Lizzie Ochoa

Zip Tours

Sunday, October 30, 2:00 pm, Free Admission

Sunday, November 6, 2:00 pm, Free Admission

Call the museum – 915-755-4332 – for dates of the display

~~~El Paso Museum of Archaeology
4301 Transmountain Road, El Paso Texas 79924;
915-755-4332; guidamr@elpasotexs.gov; www.elpasotexas.gov/arch_museum/
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm; Sunday, 12 to 5 pm
Closed Mondays and City Holiday


LONE STAR LEGACY

You can make a lasting contribution to the future of Franklin Mountains State Park with your tax-deductible donation to the Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund. Checks, payable to “Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation”, can be sent to: Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund, c/o Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, P.O. Box 191207, Dallas, TX, 75219. Mark your donation to the endowment fund for Franklin Mountains State Park.


FMWC BOARD

President: Scott Cutler
Vice President: Jane Fowler
Secretary: Judy Ackerman
Treasurer: Pat White
At Large Members: Raul Amaya and Nick Havlik

Monday, July 11, 2011

July 2011

FRANKLIN MOUNTAINS WILDERNESS COALITION

http://www.franklinmountains.org/


NEWSLETTER


July 2011


CONTENTS:
Meeting Info
Message From Our President
Genevieve Coonly
Castner Range
     Retention Dam
     Photo Op, Aug 16th
NEWS
     Golden Eagle at the Zoo
     Eco-Tourism
     Franklin Mountains State Park
     Child Activist Stands Up to Orogrande Mine
Mark Your Calendars
     N.E. El Paso Civic Association Meeting
     El Paso Museum Of Archaeology
     Master Gardeners/Master Naturalist
Lone Star Legacy
FMWC Board
FMWC In Cyberspace


NO JULY MEETING
Next Meeting: WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011
Meeting Place and Time To Be Announced in September Newsletter.


Message From Our President, Scott Cutler

Within this edition you will find a number of issues that the Coalition is working on, some of them of great concern such as the idea of a new retention dam and ponding area on Castner Range. Your input on these and participation in talking to officials about these is critical to protecting our mountains. Please consider becoming actively involved in one form or another.

As we are in the summer hiking season I thought I would pass on to all of you a website I came across that describes a number of great hikes in the Franklin Mountains as well as other locations. It was assembled by Mr. Michael Olbrisch and can be accessed on the web at the following address (all one line):

http://www.localhikes.com/getHikes.asp?Search=1&getreporter=Desert_Warrior&getHikebyReporter=Yes

I hope you will be able to enjoy some of these either this summer or in the cool of the fall and winter.

Have a great summer. And as always your interest and support of the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition is very much appreciated.


Genevieve Coonly

Genevieve Coonly was a long-time supporter of our organization and made many generous donations to FMWC through the years. She passed away on June 1, 2011. In remembrance of Mrs. Coonly's love of the Franklin Mountains, her family has asked that donations in her memory be made to the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition among other organizations.

Support for the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition comes in many forms, from volunteer hours to financial support. Genevieve Coonly's financial gifts have strengthened the Coalition's ability to support conservation efforts related to the Franklin Mountains, especially Castner Range. Some donations (including one that totaled $1,000) have already been made in her memory. Any amount you give will go towards protecting the Franklin Mountains which Mrs. Coonly cherished, and all of us strive to preserve. Your gift in Genevieve Coonly's name can be mailed to the Coalition's Treasurer: Pat White, 10525 Texwood, El Paso, Texas, 79925.


CASTNER RANGE

Proposed Sun Valley Water Retention Dam on Castner Range:

You have probably already heard about initial scoping efforts by the Corps of Engineers to investigate the feasibility of (and public concern about) a water impoundment structure on Castner Range just west of Sun Valley Drive and Highway 54. The Corps of Engineers is actively seeking input from the Coalition as well as any other interested individuals and organizations. The Coalition is getting ideas for alternatives from a number of different sources and will be providing input to the Corps by the end of July as well as at the meeting of the RAB (Restoration Advisory Board) in the BLM’s conference room, 1800 Marquess Street, Las Cruces, 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 13. We encourage you to attend the meeting.

If you can’t attend the meeting, please DO comment. Your participation demonstrates the importance of Castner Range to this community. Please emphasize the need to minimize impact on the native ecosystem and the scenic view shed of the Castner Range while ensuring public safety. Send your comments to Dana Price at dana.m.price@usace.army.mil.


Photo Op to Mark El Paso Delegation’s Support of Castner Range Resolutions:

The unanimous April 2011 vote by the Texas Senate and the Texas House of Representatives in favor of resolutions strongly supporting the conservation of Castner Range will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 16th at 9 a.m. in the parking lot of the Museum of Archaeology on East Transmountain Road with a rescheduled "photo op" in honor of El Paso's delegation to Austin--State Senator José Rodríguez and State Representative Marisa Márquez (who both sponsored the resolutions) along with Representatives Naomi González, Dee Margo, Joe Pickett and Chente Quintanilla, who spoke and voted in favor of it. Also invited to participate in the photo opportunity are Congressman Silvestre Reyes, Mayor John Cook, and District Four City Representative Carl Robinson, along with Dr. Julia Bussinger, director of the museum. Members of the Castner Conservation Conveyance Committee ("4-C's") Judy Ackerman, Scott Cutler, Doug Echlin, Mike Gaglio, John Moses, Richard Teschner, Kevin von Finger, Charlie Wakeem and Pat White will be present, along with other members of the boards of directors of the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition and the Frontera Land Alliance. All persons active in El Paso-area conservation are also invited to attend the photo op, at which the guests of honor will be asked to say a few words to the media. The event is being organized by the 4-C's and the offices of Senator Rodríguez and Representative Márquez. (Richard Teschner, For the 4-C's)


NEWS

EL PASO ZOO: Golden Eagle at the Zoo is an “Ambassador for Conservation”

In March 2010, Takota began visiting with guests during public programs and since then has made appearances at regularly scheduled El Paso Zoo programs as well as several off grounds programs. Some notable appearances have been at the Franklin Mountains Poppy Celebration, Music Under the Stars and at An Evening with Jack Hanna at the Plaza Theater where he was one of the featured animals on stage.

Takota is a nearly 6 year-old Golden Eagle who was found in the Organ Mountains near Las Cruces in November 2007. After examination by veterinarians, Takota was found to have West Nile Virus, as well as, gunshot wounds which had already healed. He was given housing at the El Paso Zoo during his long recovery. Unfortunately, Takota's eyesight was permanently damaged due to the virus and it was decided that he would never have the ability to see well enough to live on his own. Several people at the El Paso Zoo took an interest in the eagle, seeing his potential as an ambassador for his wild counterparts through educational programs. A raptor consultant came to the El Paso Zoo in November 2009 to evaluate the eagle and he was so positive of Takota's potential that training with the eagle began immediately. Just a few months later in March 2010, Takota made his public debut. Since then he has helped represent Chihuahuan Desert Wildlife by encountering thousands of El Paso area residents both at the El Paso Zoo and around the city at special events. To date, over 34,000 people have seen Takota.

Takota is at the El Paso Zoo under permit from US Fish and Wildlife. The zoo was also awarded a grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife to hire a raptor consultant, a raptor presenter to show Takota to the public and have a new aviary built in an area behind the scenes.

Takota can be seen at the El Paso Zoo at scheduled appearances. For more information on Takota programs at the El Paso Zoo, please visit www.elpasozoo.org. To follow Takota on Twitter got to twitter.com/takotagolden.

The El Paso Zoo opens daily at 9:30 am and the ticket booth closes at 4:00pm. For more information call (915) 521-1850. (Rick LoBello, Education Curator)


Eco-Tourism In El Paso:

One of the main goals for our Eco-tourism committee was to provide our community and eco-enthusiasts everywhere a website that would allow for a more comprehensive overview of outdoor activities in El Paso County. I’m happy to report back that after months of work with the CVB and a generous financial donation by Dr. Richard Teschner, our idea has become a reality. The website was recently unveiled at the Convention and Visitors Bureau Spirit of Amigo Travel Luncheon.

You can now view this website by going to www.outdoorelpaso.com. The page hosts an interactive map which provides the locations for various activities, attractions and businesses which sell/rent the equipment needed to partake in the wealth of outdoor activities. You can click on certain tabs to isolate your search of activities on the map or by utilizing the menu of activities on the left hand side of the site.

For example, if you wanted information on the 1953 B-36D Crash Site Hike, you can locate it on the interactive map and click “More info” or by clicking “Hiking, Walking & Running Trails” on the left hand column to have a list of the various hikes. Once there you can click on the “1953 B-36D Crash Site Hike” which will then take you to detailed information such as hike time, trail condition, difficulty, etc and a trail map.

This is an evolving website and can be made better with your input. Any suggestions you might have would be greatly appreciated. (Ruben John Vogt, Director of Public Policy)


Franklin Mountains State Park:

First, we would like to mention that Park Ranger II Alvaro Garcia has accepted a Park Police Officer position at Big Bend Ranch State Park. Alvaro began his work at Big Bend in June. We wish him well with his new job!

This summer has been a busy one here at Franklin Mountain State Park. Park staff and volunteers have been leading guided tours throughout the park. School groups, summer camps and military youth groups have been out to the park to take advantage of the many tours we have to offer. For many of our guests, it is their first time visiting the park. All of us here use this as a way to encourage first time visitors to come back and enjoy all that the park has to offer.

Park volunteer Robert Newman has been given the green light to begin work on the extension of the Sotol Forest Trail from Sotol Canyon north to Hitt Canyon. We appreciate all of Robert’s hard work since he has been out there almost every day since the beginning of June. Due to shortage of staff, we have not had much of an opportunity to work alongside with Robert.

Park staff have been busy with several work projects throughout the park involving the Texas Department of Criminal Justice trustees. Some of the projects include working on the interpretive panels located at the park headquarters and at the Ron Coleman Trailheads. Work was completed as of July 7, 2011. We have used the help of the TDCJ work crew in up-grading the grills at the group picnic site # 39. We will continue to use their help with re-painting all the picnic and camp sites as well as with all the other daily maintenance at the park.

TxDOT will begin working on painting the stripes on the park roadways this month. Work will begin within the next several days.

Park volunteers Richard Love and George Murray have been keeping up with the daily maintenance of our wildlife viewing area. Lately, Richard installed a stealth camera to photograph overnight activity at the viewing area. Park staff and volunteers have noticed that some of the wildlife have been rummaging through the vegetation and causing quite a mess. Through the use of the stealth camera, Richard determined that the culprit was a coyote, which he later spotted on the Nature Trail.

Hot, Hot, Hot! With the severe heat, all park staff continues to encourage all park visitors to hike safely and be as prepared as possible for hiking in this heat. We encourage at least a gallon of water per person and double that per dog. Unfortunately, some hikers have not followed our recommendations. Just a few weeks ago, a hiker on the Directissimo trail encountered some problems due to lack of preparedness. Unfortunately his dog did not survive the hike. All park staff can do is continue to encourage hikers to be prepared.
Speaking of heat, park volunteer George Murray was driving up Trans Mountain Road one Saturday afternoon when he noticed a brush fire alongside the roadway. Thankfully George stopped and did all he could to help put out the fire. Three motorists also stopped and assisted George with dousing the fire with whatever tools they had. George used his fire extinguisher and floor mats from his truck and the three motorists used their floor mats as well. Luckily, El Paso Fire Department Pumper 2 arrived on the scene and successfully finished putting out the fire. If it wasn’t for George and the three good Samaritans, that fire could have easily spread and could have been disastrous! Thank you George for your quick action! It is speculated that the fire was caused by some inconsiderate motorist who threw out a lit cigarette butt.

In summary, we encourage all visitors to be safe when out and about in the park during this dry, hot summer. Remember the basics, plenty of water, sun-screen, wide brimmed hat, long sleeves and pants, and sturdy shoes when out hiking in the summer. Also, it is advisable to take advantage of the park’s early hours of operation on the weekend and hike early to avoid the heat. (John Nunez, FMSP)


Child Activist Stands Up to Orogrande Mine:

When 10-year-old Caitlyn Larson and her family heard there was activity and large equipment moving near the old Cinco de Mayo mine in the Jarilla Mountains, they became concerned.

"(People) told us someone tore a big hole into the Cinco de Mayo," Caitlyn said.

As the family drove out to see it for themselves and take a hike in the area, the Larsons saw the landscape they knew had changed. Roads had been widened and pathways expanded, leaving many plants torn up and burms in the way of regular roadways.

Large-scale mine-related equipment sat at the bottom of the mountain containing the Cinco de Mayo, Iron Duke, Barbara and Virginia mining claims.

The Larsons found, according to a press release issued by the Iron Mining Group, the company is purchasing 180,000 metric tons of iron ore from OroGrande Iron Ore Co., LLC. The first delivery of 60,000 metric tons is to be made to IMG by July 31.

According to the press release, the group also plans to take 5.98 million metric tons of iron ore from the area over the next three years.

The release also says the low-grade iron ore, once extracted, will be taken by train to Sonora, Mexico, where it will then be shipped to China.

Caitlyn, seeing the machines and the changes in the landscape, became concerned for the plants, wildlife and history of the area. Not only have many varieties of plants, including rare cactus, been disturbed by the activity at the mine, but a couple of golden eagle nests are situated in the area.

"Eagles, owl, bighorn sheep and mountain lions have been seen in this area," said Guy Larson, Caitlyn's father. "It's amazing what's up here."

The Larsons are a mining family and want to make it clear they are not against mining, Guy said.

"We just want to see everything considered," Guy said. "What about the history? What are they going to do about the eagles?"

At the very least, Guy said, the mining company is required to have its permit posted at the site.

Orogrande was a bustling mining community in 1915 when the mines in question were active, Guy said. There were three bustling towns in the area at the time

Orogrande, Brice and Oyasi.

Caitlyn's concern about the wildlife and history turned her into an activist. She created a press release and sent letters to the Bureau of Land Management, President Barack Obama, Gov. Susana Martinez and others.

"If the destruction created in the last seven days is any indication of the work they plan to do in the next 90 days (and possibly the next three years, as reported by IMG), there will be no mountains left," Caitlyn wrote June 6 in her release. "They will have been completely destroyed, pulverized and sent to China." (Elva K. Osterreich, Alamogordo Daily News, 6/20/11)

Update: The mining company is under a "cease and desist" order from BLM. The company does not have a mining permit from the State of New Mexico and they have not conducted an environmental assessment. Most importantly they did not have permission from BLM to conduct mining operations on BLM land. Talk about arrogance! The mining company stated they were unaware they needed permits. Per BLM, it will take about a year to conduct an "evaluation".


MARK YOUR CALENDARS

JULY 14th: N.E. El Paso Civic Association Meeting with guest speakers, Texas State Representatives Dee Margo and Joe Pickett. 7 – 9 pm at Community Center, Transmountain Apartments, 5317 Transmountain Rd.


El Paso Museum Of Archaeology:

Enrollment Still Open for Archaeology Summer Day Camps
Spaces are still available in the following camps:

July 12 through 15, 2011, 9 am to Noon, for children ages 10 to 12 years, entering 5th through 7th grade

July 26 through 29, 2011, 9 am to Noon, for children 7 to 9 years, entering 2nd through 4th grade

August 9 through 12, 2011, 9 am to Noon, for children ages 10 to 12 years, entering 5th through 7th grade

The camp registration fee is $55 for El Paso Museum of Archaeology members and $70 for non-members. Registration is accepted on a first-come first-served basis as attendance is limited to twelve students per camp. For information and the camp registration form contact the museum at 915-755-4332 or guidamr@elpasotexas.gov.

Archaeology Summer Day Camp is an interactive, hands-on course held on the museum’s grounds and in the galleries with a field trip. The program is designed to educate participants about the science of archaeology, its tools, and American Indians of the El Paso-Juárez region from prehistory to today. Campers will learn respect and appreciation for prehistoric, historic and contemporary Indian people.

Continuing Exhibit extended through October 9, 2011: Settlement Legacy: Native Americans of the Pass of the North
Free Admission

Guest Curator Nicholas P. Houser, local anthropologist and historian, tells the dramatic story of the Manso, Suma, Piro, and Tigua Indians who, over four centuries ago, founded the missions and pueblos that evolved into today’s sister cities, El Paso-Ciudad Juárez.

War, Women, and Religion: The Spread of Salado Polychrome in the North American Southwest by Todd VanPool, Ph.D.
July 23, 2011, 2:00 to 3:30 pm
Free Admission

During the 13th and 14th centuries, the Salado religion spread across the US Southwest. It was associated with distinctive pottery, also found in El Paso, that was part of a new religious system developed during massive migration into the area. Many of the immigrants were female war refugees and their children fleeing intense violence to the north. The influx of refugees into pre-existing communities created intense competition among females for economic resources and mates. In this presentation, Dr VanPool suggests that the Salado religion reflects religious innovation by females aimed at mitigating this conflict.

Todd L. VanPool is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Missouri--Columbia. He earned his BA at Eastern New Mexico University and his Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico. He has conducted archaeological field work throughout New Mexico and northern Chihuahua, and is currently leading the excavation of the 76 Draw site near Deming with his colleagues, Christine S. VanPool and Gordon F.M. Rakita.

Exploring the Music of the Americas: A Family Workshop by the musical group Ceiba
August 13, 2011, 2:00 to 4:00 pm,
Free Admission

Families with children age six years and up are invited to participate in a creative, interactive exploration of music and art inspired by ancient and modern Latin America from México to the Andes led by the El Paso musical group Ceiba.

Adults and children will listen and respond to music and create together, speaking and writing in small groups and making art in response to the music they hear. Ceiba will play a variety of musical pieces and ask participants to respond to questions such as what did you hear, where did you go in your mind while listening, what did you feel, and how would you draw that music. Children will take home the art they make. Both English and Spanish will be spoken during this workshop.

Ceiba musicians perform on a variety of instruments from indigenous cultures of Latin America such as the charango, rain stick, various flutes of wood, ceramic, and bamboo, percussion instruments made of turtle shell and gourd, as well as well as a variety of other percussion and stringed instruments such as the jarana, guitarra de golpe, vihuela, tiple, cuatro, and guitar. Information: Marilyn Guida, 915-755-4332, guidamr@elpasotexas.gov


AUGUST 13, 10:00 AM:
Master Gardeners/Master Naturalist Speaker Dr. Corral, Fort Bliss Plant Biologist
Free Admission

AUGUST 21, 2:00 PM: Sue Sitton, Fort Bliss Archaeologist
Free Admission


Lone Star Legacy

You can make a lasting contribution to the future of Franklin Mountains State Park with your tax-deductible donation to the Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund. Checks, payable to “Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation”, can be sent to: Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund, c/o Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, P.O. Box 191207, Dallas, TX, 75219. Mark your donation to the endowment fund for Franklin Mountains State Park.



FMWC In Cyberspace

This is the electronic version of the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition newsletter. To be added to or removed from the distribution list, contact: j.p.ackerman@sbcglobal.net.

Many of you also receive the paper version of this newsletter. If you wish to help us save paper and postage by receiving the e-newsletter only, contact: j.p.ackerman@sbcglobal.net.


FMWC Board

President: Scott Cutler

Vice President: Jane Fowler

Secretary: Judy Ackerman

Treasurer: Pat White

At Large Members:

Raul Amaya and Nick Havelick

Friday, May 20, 2011

May 2011

Contents:
FMWC Next Meeting
NEWS
Transmountain Corridor
Petitions
Castner Range
FMSP NEWS
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Ardovino’s Dessert Crossing Farmers’ Market
El Paso Museum of Archaeology
Free Tours of the Museum
2011 Summer Archaeology Day Camps
New Mexico Wilderness Alliance:
Track Your Wild Path:
Organ Mountains Plein Air Painting Workshop:
LONE STAR LEGACY
FMWC IN CYBERSPACE
FMWC BOARD

Next Meeting: WEDNESDAY, May 18, 2011

MEETING LOCATION: Our meeting will be held at The Garden Center, Memorial Park, 3105 Grant St. from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Map:
http://www.cichlidpress.com/elpasocactusclub/graphics/gardencenter.jpg


NEWS

Transmountain Corridor:

Austin law firm of Loweree, Frederick, Perales, Allmon & Rockwell submitted comments on behalf of the El Paso Regional Group (Rio Grande Chapter) of the Sierra Club on April 1, 2011, to TxDOT regarding TxDOT’s recently submitted Environmental Assessment (EA) of the proposed Transmountain Freeway Project. The law firm noted that the EA failed to adequately analyze the noise, visual, vegetation, wildlife, and cumulative urbanization-inducing impacts of the proposed Project. The EA also did not take a “hard look” at the impacts to Franklin Mountain State Park which “Section 4(f)” of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regarding “parkland” requires. These failings, viewed individually or, especially, in sum, result in an EA that cannot justify the “will not impact” conclusion the TxDOT EA reaches and cannot be accepted because it is unsupported. A full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) must be prepared.

The law firm comments were prepared in collaboration with David Simon, who served as the Director of the New Mexico State Park System from 2003 through 2010 and is a recognized authority on the impacts of urbanization on high-desert terrains and, especially, on parks in those terrains.

Word from Jim Tolbert on the petitions to preserve land in the Transmountain Corridor: “Keep collecting and asking others to collect. We are over 1548 – but those have not been checked and we can bet that many are not valid. Please get me petitions as you can so we can check them and not have to rush through them all at once. “ Petitions are available for downloading at our website.

Castner Range (Richard Teschner, Castner Conservation Conveyance Committee):
Texas House, Senate Pass FMWC/Frontera “4-C’s”-Sponsored Resolution Supporting Conservation of Castner Range

Thursday, May 5, 2011. Austin, Texas. Today the Texas State Senate unanimously passed a resolution which expressed its support for the conservation of El Paso’s eleven-square-mile/7,000-plus-acre Castner Range, a “closed” U.S. Army property between the eastern boundary of the Franklin Mountain State Park and the U.S. 54 Patriot Freeway. And two days earlier the Texas House of Representatives passed—also unanimously—an identical resolution supporting the conservation of Castner Range.

The resolution was written and promoted by the members of the joint Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition/Frontera Land Alliance “Castner Conservation Conveyance Committee” (aka “the 4-C’s”)—members Judy Ackerman, Steve Bonner (SONRI Corporation), Scott Cutler, Doug Echlin, Mike Gaglio, John Moses, Richard Teschner, Kevin Von Finger and Pat White. In the House, the resolution was sponsored by District 77 Representative Marisa Márquez (D-El Paso, ably assisted by her Chief of Staff Haley Greer); in the Senate the resolution was moved forward by State Senator José Rodríguez (D-El Paso), his Chief of Staff Corinne Chacón and his office’s Communications Director Emily Amps Mora. The 4-C’s greatly appreciate the support and hard work of Representative Márquez and Senator Rodríguez and their staffs. Ongoing efforts toward our common goals are being aided by a $300,000 Office of Economic Adjustment/Department of Defense grant to collect data concerning the application of a conservation conveyance onto the area. The grant was obtained for the 4-C’s in 2009 by U.S. Congressman Silvestre Reyes (D-El Paso), who was honored with Frontera’s “Rock Solid” award at its annual “Taste of Frontera” celebration in February 2010.

The joint resolution runs to over two pages and makes points that the readers of this newsletter have long been familiar with: that under the stewardship of the U.S. Army, Castner has been allowed to rest in its natural state since 1971, when munitions operations ceased; that since 1995 (and in particular recently) the Army has been clearing old artillery rounds from Castner’s surface; that the range contains “some of the most geologically complex and visually striking parts of the Franklins and is prized for its Mexican gold poppy”; that Castner is “the only known site in Texas where several rare plants can be found” as well as “the greatest concentration of springs in the Franklins”; that the El Paso City Council and the El Paso County

Commissioners Court have unanimously passed resolutions in recent years advocating that Castner be left undeveloped and conserved for recreational use; and that “the Franklin Mountains State Park management plan takes the range into account, envisioning a network of trails in the canyons and lower elevations.”

The joint resolution stipulated that the chief clerk of the House and of the Senate “forward official copies of this resolution to the president of the United States, to the commanding general of Fort Bliss, to the secretary of the U.S. Department of Defense, to the president of the [U.S.] Senate and the speaker of the House of Representatives … and to all the members of the Texas delegation to Congress.”



FRANKLIN MOUNTAINS STATE PARK NEWS (John Nunez)

Greetings all from the crown jewel of El Paso: Franklin Mtns. State Park!


The latest news obviously at the park and all state parks is the issue regarding the state budget crisis. All park staff are waiting to hear how each park will be affected by the budget crisis. There have been rumours of park closures, but there will be no speculation till the park managers get the official word by June 1st to see how exactly the parks will be affected. We are hoping for the best.

Business as usual at the park. Park staff have been kept busy with the steady flow of people coming out to enjoy all the wonders the park has to offer. With increased visitation, however, there can be some negative consequences. After the crowd left on Easter, there was a great deal of trash that needed to be cleaned and picked up. Park Ranger Felipe Camacho was busy doing cleanup all day after Easter.

A major problem we are facing is the destruction of the Ron Coleman trail and the overall destruction of Smuggler's
Canyon. Unfortunately, when people hike the Ron Coleman trail they rarely stay on the trail causing several offshoot trails that are extremely dangerous. Another set back is after all the hard work we have done to repair the switchbacks and erosion barriers, they have been destroyed by people trying to make shortcuts. Some damage is the result of people being absolutely irresponsible with the mindset of "let’s go out and destroy everything we see in sight." The enclosed pictures* will show exactly what we are dealing with. Signs have been ripped out, some have been tagged with graffiti and some have been kicked and broken to pieces. As the pictures show, "graffiti artists" have left their mark. Another major problem we are experiencing is when military training occurs on the Coleman trail. Some soldiers have been disrespectful to park staff and park volunteers when they are approached about not staying on trail or for not paying the park use fee. Some have been caught hiking off trail and leaving empty US Govt. sand bags. We are not specifically targeting any group of people, but these are just some of the examples of the destruction that has been continuously occurring on the Coleman trail.

Another target area is the newly opened trailhead at North Hills. Park staff and volunteers have witnessed first hand people coming through parts of the fence that have been cut. Others have been seen walking right past the kiosk and pay station making rude comments about paying. What people don't realize is that area was set to be developed. The majority of the park's funding comes from the entrance fees.

All of us at Franklin have been working with each other to help improve the signage all around the park. Park rangers have been finishing up the trailhead kiosks and are near completion. Also new park trail signage will be installed in the Northeast side and all the signs at Tom Mays are currently being repaired.

It is that time of the year where all of us are busy with tours. Lately there have been large school groups attending the tours that we offer at Franklin. Tours are an excellent opportunity to teach people of all ages the many benefits that await them when they come out and hike in the Franklin Mountains. For many, it is the first time they have ever hiked in the Franklins. All park staff take pride in teaching people all that they can do to enjoy nature in their backyard.

With so much going on at the park and across the state, we are always busy and rarely is there ever a dull moment. Every day is different with many challenges ahead, but all of us at Franklin Mtn. State Park will continue working hard and take advantage of the fact that we leave the at the end of the day feeling a sense of great accomplishment.

*Photos available in our e-newsletter.


More FRANKLIN MOUNTAINS STATE PARK NEWS

All the latest news and information about upcoming events at the Park are available at the Park’s great website. Check it out!!


MARK YOUR CALENDARS


Starting 28 May, Every Saturday, 7am - Noon

Ardovino’s Dessert Crossing Farmers’ Market

Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition has had great success with our booth at Ardovino’s Dessert Crossing Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings from 7am to noon. This year we will team with The Frontera Land Alliance to share the booth. You can join in the fun by helping to staff the booth. FMWC President Scott Cutler is working with Richard Teschner of the Frontera Board to coordinate volunteering activities. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Richard at teschner@utep.edu. He will send you the sign-up sheet which indicates the dates that are still open.


El Paso Museum of Archaeology

Exhibit, Programs, Tours

May – August 2011

El Paso Museum of Archaeology Continuing Exhibit extended through October 9, 2011:

Settlement Legacy: Native Americans of the Pass of the North

Free Admission

Guest Curator Nicholas P. Houser, local anthropologist and historian, tells the dramatic story of the Manso, Suma, Piro, and Tigua Indians who, over four centuries ago, founded the missions and pueblos that evolved into today’s sister cities, El Paso-Ciudad Juárez.


Sunday, May 15, 2011

Dr. Mario Garza speaking on the Coahuiltecans: The Struggle for Legitimacy in a Hispanic World

This lecture is presented by the El Paso Archaeological Society in partnership with the El Paso Museum of Archaeology and is made possible in part by a grant from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Specifically, the award has been drawn from a federal grant made available through We the People, an initiative designed by the National Endowment for the Humanities to strengthen the teaching, study, and understanding of American history and culture.


Free Tours of the Museum

Saturday, May 14, 2011, 1:00 pm

Museum Tour for Adults

Saturday, May 21, 2011, 1:00 pm

Museum Tour for Families with Elementary-School Age Children

Sunday, May 22, 2011, 2:00 pm, Free Admission

Zip Tour of the Settlement Legacy exhibit

Free Lecture with Sign Language interpreters for the hearing impaired at 2:00 pm in conjunction with the exhibit:

2011 Summer Archaeology Day Camps

9 am to 12 pm, Tuesday through Friday

For ages 7 to 9 years/Grades 2-4 (must have completed first grade)


June 28 to July 1 or July 26 to 29

For ages 10 to 12 years/Grades 5-7, July 12-15 or August 9-12

An interactive, hands-on course about the science of archaeology and the prehistory of the Americas held on the museum’s grounds and in the galleries with a field trip (to be announced). Cost $70 for non-members, $55 for museum members per child. Space is limited to 12 students per camp. Registration taken on a first come, first served basis. For information and registration form: 915-755-4332 or guidamr@elpasotexas.gov.


June 11, 10:00 am

Master Gardeners/Master Naturalists Speaker To Be Announced, Free Admission.


June 19, 2:00 pm

El Paso Archaeological Society, speaker, Dr. Arthur Harris, Professor of Biology, UTEP, Free Admission


August 13, 10:00 am,

Master Gardeners/Master Naturalists, speaker Dr. Corral, Free Admission

August 13, 2:00 pm,

Family Workshop with Ceiba, Exploring the Music of the Americas, Free Admission


August 21, 2:00 pm,

El Paso Archaeological Society, speaker to be announced

Year Round:

Teachers and Group Leaders: Schedule a Free Tour of the museum for your School or Group with two weeks advance reservation, call 915-755-4332


New Mexico Wilderness Alliance:

If you haven't already picked up a copy of the 2011 Wild Guide, now's the time. Don't miss out on any more action! Order your guide online or contact craig@nmwild.org because just a few of these fun-packed, beautifully designed books are left!


Track Your Wild Path:

May 22 in Santa Fe - This free family event at Santa Fe's Museum Hill features interactive art projects with local artist Daniel Richmond. Get to know the endangered animals that inhabit our state's wild lands. Plus get free admission to Santa Fe museums! Learn more online or contact demis@nmwild.org


Organ Mountains Plein Air Painting Workshop:

May 20-21

Student art show to follow May 22 -

Let yourself be inspired by the stunning backdrop of the Organ Mountains at this outdoor painting workshop taught by critically acclaimed local artists Bonnie Mandoe and Nancy Begin. Beginning to intermediate painters of all ages encouraged to attend. The class will be held at beautiful Aguirre Springs Recreation Area outside Las Cruces; lunch will be provided Friday and Saturday.

Learn more & get registration info online or email Bonnie at bdmandoe@gmail.com


LONE STAR LEGACY

You can make a lasting contribution to the future of Franklin Mountains State Park with your tax-deductible donation to the Lone Star Legacy Endowment Fund. Checks, payable to "Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation" can be sent to: Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, Attention: Lone Star Legacy, P.O. Box 191207, Dallas, TX, 75219. Mark your donation to the endowment fund for Franklin Mountains State Park.


FMWC IN CYBERSPACE

This is the electronic version of the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition newsletter. To be added to or removed from the distribution list, contact: j.p.ackerman@sbcglobal.net.

Many of you also receive the paper version of this newsletter. If you wish to help us save paper and postage by receiving the e-newsletter only, contact: j.p.ackerman@sbcglobal.net.


FMWC BOARD

President: Scott Cutler
Vice President: Jane Fowler
Secretary: Judy Ackerman
Treasurer: Pat White
At Large Members:
Raul Amaya
Nick Havlik