Construction Underway!
There's been only a very little bit of internet chatter about the proposed Boquillas border crossing, which will connect Boquillas del Carmen on the Mexican side with the visitors' center on the U.S. side. Now, we bring you the exciting news that the construction of the crossing is underway!
Check out this article from Wall Street Journal for all the wonderful details, including images of workers and patrol officers surveying the part of the border that will serve as the crossing's location. In case you aren't up to speed on the Boquillas crossing, let's look at few facts:
- It will be an unmanned crossing, meaning border patrol officials will monitor who passes by remote surveillance.
- The crossing was once active there (unofficial), but was shut down after 9-11.
- This is the first unmanned crossing like this on the U.S.'s southern border.
- The crossing will promote visitors from both sides of the border, as well as stimulate economic growth, tourism, and scientific studies of the region.
Aside from the Wall Street Journal article above, you can also read this article, announcing basically the same thing. Also, here is an interesting read regarding the U.S. and Mexico's pledge to work together in conservation of the natural wonders both countries share.
Big Bend Book Club
For the next few weeks, we'll be reviewing some books about Big Bend and the surrounding area. For this week, we turn your attention to Enjoying Big Bend National Park. This is much like a tour guide for hikers, campers, swimmers, rafters, or just those that want to drive around and see the wonders of Big Bend.
Written by an experienced naturalist, Gary Clark, Enjoying Big Bend National Park is guaranteed to give you everything you need to plan a trip to the park. And, with beautiful photography by Kathy Adams Clark, you'll almost feel like you're already in the park, just by reading the book!