July 2009
Nature
Menu of this month's listings, stories and columns Celebration of Our Mountains -- Organizations are invited to submit events to be listed in the 2009 Celebration of Our Mountains schedule of events. Events must be held between Sept. 20 and Nov. 8, 2008, must be open to the public and related to area geology, geography or other environmental/nature topic. Events should be free or have no more than a nominal fee to cover costs. Send event information by July 7 to randy@epscene.com or fax to 542-4292.
An event form and last year’s listings are available at celebrationofourmountains.org.
The 16th annual Celebration of Our Mountains is a six-week-long festival of events to encourage appreciation of the El Paso region’s environment. The celebration includes hikes, field trips, driving tours, nature walks, bicycle rides and other activities. Information: celebrationofourmountains.org.
El Paso Cactus and Rock Club -- The club meets at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at El Paso Garden Center, 3105 Grant, in Memorial Park. Cactus enthusiast Virginia Morris will discuss “Cactus in the Landscape.” Information: 240-7414 or 585-2149.
Parks and Rec Memorial Tree Program -- The City Parks and Recreation Department offers its Memorial Tree Program to honor a loved one as well as celebrate a special occasion, group or event. Trees will be planted in a public park or other public area. Donation levels range from $75 for seedlings to $600 for a grove. Information: 541-4331. Forms available at the Parks and Recreation Office, 6th floor El Paso City Hall, 2 Civic Center Plaza or elpasotexas.gov/parks.
An acknowledgement letter is sent to those that purchase a tree, and a certificate is sent to the honoree and family and is posted on the Parks and Recreation web site.
Garden Talks at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing -- Ardovino’s Desert Crossing, One Ardovino Drive in Sunland Park, will host free talks on various aspects of gardening with Texas AgriLife Extension Service Master Gardeners 8 to 8:30 to 9 a.m. on the patio during their weekly farmers’ market. Information: 566-1276.
-- July 4 -- “Emitters Demystified” with Jim Hastings
-- July 11 -- “Hummingbird and Butterfly Habitat” with Virginia Morris.
-- July 18 -- “Composting – Black Gold in Your Back Yard” with Ed Dominguez
-- July 25 -- “Herbs in the Garden and on the Table” with Linda Doughtie.
Friends of the Mesilla Valley Bosque Park -- The group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 6, at Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, on Calle del Norte in Mesilla, N.M. Anyone interested in becoming a member is invited to attend to meet the park staff, current Friends officers and board of directors, and learn about the newly-formed group. Park fee waived for those attending meeting. Information: (575) 523-8009.
The nonprofit group seeks to support the Park in its mission, operations, outreach, marketing, conservation, evolution and enjoyment, and will work closely with the Park staff.
El Paso/Trans-Pecos Audubon Society -- The society will host several field trips during the summer months. Appropriate shoes/clothes, and binoculars recommended. Admission is free. Non-members welcome. Information: Ursula Sherrill, 526-7725 or usherrill@miners.utep.edu.
-- Join Rio Bosque Wetlands Park’s monthly birding tour at 8 a.m. Saturday, July 11, at the bridge at Riverside Canal (off Pan American Drive from Americas Ave Loop 375). Led by park manager John Sproul of UTEP’s Center for Environmental Resource Management.
-- A weekend trip to Cave Swallow Banding at Carlsbad Caverns, N.M. is Friday through Sunday, July 24-26. Sightings may include wild turkeys, yellow-billed cuckoo, vermilion flycatchers, summer tanagers, Bell’s vireo and more. In addition to viewing the cave swallow banding, participants will also view the caverns’ bat flight.
-- A view of migratory shorebirds starts at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, in the Lowe’s parking lot (south end), 4531 Transmountain Road. Visit watery areas in the Northeast to see these visiting birds, with a possible trip to Hawk Alley to look for fledglings in their nests.
Gardening Lecture Series – Daphne Richards, County Extension Agent for Horticulture will host a free gardening lecture 9 to 11 a.m. the second Saturday of the month, at the El Paso Garden Center, 3105 Grant, hosted by the Texas AgriLive Extension Service.
The July 11 lecture is “Summer Care of Roses” with Texas AgriLife Extension Service Master Gardener Bill Hooten. Hooten will discuss with tips on getting roses through the heat of July and August before the fall bloom begins. Lectures are free and no reservations are required. Information: 566-1276 or elp.tamu.edu.
The Garden Center at Memorial Park 3105 Grant, is open under a partnership between Texas Cooperative Extension and the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department.
Summer Splash Climbing Social -- The Climbers of Hueco Tanks Coalition will host a meet and greet for all interested area rock climbers 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Hueco Tanks State Historical Site. Meet on the front side of North Mountain, top ropes set up for beginners and a mini Hueco 100 set up for boulders. A cook-out and pool party follows at 1 p.m. at Hueco Rock Ranch. Park entry: $5. Information: 855-0142, 667-2205 or huecoclimbers.org.
Rio Bosque Wetlands Park -- UTEP’s Center for Environmental Resource Management offers free guided walking tours and other activities at Rio Bosque Wetlands Park in El Paso’s Mission Valley. Tours last about two hours. Information: 747-8663 or riobosque.org. Upcoming events:
-- Bird Tour, 8 a.m. Saturday, July 11.
-- Community Workday, 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 18.
-- Introductory Tour, 8 a.m. Sunday, July 19.
-- Faunal Monitoring, 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 25.
Meeting place is a bridge crossing Riverside Canal. Take Americas Ave. (Loop 375) to Pan American Drive, turn left and travel 1.5 miles.
Jornada Symposium -- The 18th annual symposium, hosted by New Mexico State University scientists, is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16, in the Jornada Experimental Range Building (Wooten Hall Conference Room 105), 2995 Knox, Las Cruces. The symposium features talks on various research projects in the Chihuahuan Desert region. Speakers include Dara Parker, Field Representative for U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman; Linda Rundell, Bureau of Land Management New Mexico State Director; Dave Gori of The Nature Conservancy; and others.
A social and barbecue follows 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Jornada Experimental Range Headquarters.
Registration: $10; $5 for each additional guest at BBQ. Information: (575) 646-4842 or bgamboa@nmsu.edu.
‘The Sharp End’ - NMSU Outdoor Recreation presents a benefit showing of the adrenaline-soaked journey up the world’s most challenging walls is at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 16, at the Rio Grande Theatre, downtown Las Cruces. Tickets are $10. Proceeds help fund the continuing search for the body of one three American climbers lost in an avalanche in an isolated part of Southwest China in June 2009. After several days of search and rescue, two bodies were recovered while the third remains unfound. Information: (575) 646-4746 or AdventureFilm.org.
Hummingbird Festival -- The 4th bi-annual festival is Saturday and Sunday, July 25-26, at Lake Roberts, behind the Sapillo Creek Fire and Rescue Department on Hwy 35 near Silver City, N.M. The event includes banding demonstrations, educational programs, arts and crafts, guided walks and more, all celebrating the hummingbird. Participants are encouraged to bring layered clothing, comfortable shoes, binoculars, a comfortable chair, hat, sun screen and a camera. Hosted by Hummingbirds of New Mexico. Information: (575) 536-3866 or hbnm.org.
Lincoln National Forest hike -- Michael Romero will lead cloud-climbing rail trail hike in the Lincoln National Forest Saturday, July 25. The trip departs at 8 a.m. Saturday from the Northwest corner of the Transmountain Wal-Mart, with a two-hour caravan to Cloudcroft, N.M.
The moderate/difficult hike includes the 8.2 mile scenic Greater Trestle Loop Trail near the old railroad trestle. There is no fee, but participants must provide their own transportation, supplies and a full tank of gas.
Bring hiking boots, plenty of water, food, poncho, hat and walking stick. Optional: camera and binoculars. Trip limited to 30 participants; reservations required. Reservations/information: 497-5883 or mromero2@elp.rr.com.
Bugfest! 2009 -- The El Paso Zoo, 4001 E. Paisano, hosts its annual weekend expo Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1-2, with close-up bug encounters, games and activities for the whole family. Admission: $5 ($3 for ages 3-12 and $4 for ages 62 and older and active military with ID; free for zoological society members and ages 2 and younger). Information: 532-8156 or elpasozoo.org.
Native Plant Walk -- Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, 500 Calle del Norte in Mesilla, N.M. will host a native plant walk 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, presented by Ray Bowers with the Native Plant Society of New Mexico. Walk is free with regular park admission. Information: (575) 523-4398 or kabalos@state.nm.us.
Family Camp Out Adventure -- El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host the family overnight event 4 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14-15, at Memorial Park Reserve area, 3251 Copper. Information: 240-3310 or elpasotexas.gov/parks.
El Paso Zoo -- 4001 E. Paisano. Zoo summer entrance hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:30 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission: $5 ($3 for ages 3-12 and $4 for ages 62 and older and active duty military with ID; free for zoological society members and ages 2 and younger). Information: 532-8156, 521-1850 or elpasozoo.org.
Saturday and Sunday shows include Animal Encounter presentations at 11:15 a.m.; Sun Bear Enrichment talk at 12:30 p.m. and Take Action! events in the Paraje Learning Center at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.
Military, Fire and Law Day is Sunday, July 5. All military, firefighters and law enforcement personal admitted for half price. All visitors can see a Customs & Border Protection helicopter, El Paso Fire Department firetruck and other displays.
The Zoo Society’s Members’ Appreciation after hours party is Friday, July 24. Members admitted free, but non-members may attend if joining the zoo society that evening.
Bugfest 2009 is Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1-2, with up-close bug encounters, games, activities, informational booths and more.
Live educational shows and feedings are presented at the El Paso Electric Sea Lion Exhibit at 10:45 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Presentations are free; visitors are encouraged to find a seat early. Elephant training program demonstration is at noon.
The zoo displays more than 700 animals. Several endangered cat species are featured at the zoo, including Amur leopards and tigers as well as two aquariums featuring butterfly fish, hawk fish and eels.
The zoo’s “Zoo Adventure Program” features educational programs for all ages. Online registration available at elpasozoo.org.
Summer Zoo Camp is offered through August. This year’s theme is “Scales and Tails.”
El Paso Zoo Adventure Programs -- El Paso Zoo, 4001 E. Paisano, hosts a series of educational programs for various age groups from toddler to adult, ranging from environmental issues to animal encounters. Reservations required for most programs. Information: 532-8156, 521-1850. Online registration available at elpasozoo.org.
-- Asia Sleepover -- The overnight adventure for ages 7 and older is Sunday, July 5 and Fridays, Aug. 7 and Sept. 4. Bring pillow, toothbrush and sleeping bag. Cost: $80 (includes snack and breakfast).
-- Adaptations Teacher’s Workshop -- Saturday, July 18.
The program also offers several “on demand” group events that may be arranged with advance notice, including “Behind the Scenes Elephant Encounter,” “Asia Sleepover Adventure,” “Night Prowl” and “Super Deluxe Elephant Experience.” Call for details.
Keystone Heritage Park and El Paso Desert Botanical Garden -- 4200 Doniphan (across from Frontera). Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: $2 ($1 children, seniors and military). Information: 584-0563, keystonepark.org or elpasobotanicalgardens.org.
The park’s 2-acre Botanical Garden, funded by the Rotary Club of El Paso and the Junior League, features native plants, amphitheater, butterfly garden, wedding garden, children’s maze, and a new Butterfly House.
Keystone Heritage Park has 189 species of migratory and local birds, and a 4,500-year-old archaeological site.
The site is open for bird watching 7:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday and 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 25-26. Thousands of birds flock to the area to roost overnight. Bring binoculars. Admission is free. Information: 751-0125 or wildbirderbob@sbcglobal.net.
Municipal Rose Garden -- The garden at 3418 Aurora (at Copia) is now open to the public 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 30. The Garden, which opened in 1958, has many types of roses at the sprawling park area with a water fall, shade canopy and many other amenities. Admission is free. Information/rentals: El Paso Parks and Recreation, 541-4331.
El Paso Astronomy Club -- The club meets 7 to 9 p.m. the third Friday of every month at EPISD’s Gene Roddenberry Planetarium, 6531 Boeing. Meetings include guest speakers and workshops to aid beginners in the use of telescopes and identifying objects in the night sky. Everyone is welcome. Admission is free. Information: 779-4317 or elpasoastronomy.org.
El Paso Ridge Walkers -- The hiking club offers hikes every weekend, choosing from two dozen hikes around the region, including hikes in the Franklin and Organ Mountains, Guadalupe Mountains, as well as flatter hikes along the Rio Grande and Stahmann’s Pecan Orchard. Day trips range from White Sands to Albuquerque. Hikes range from 6 to 10 miles. Information: Charlie Topp, 755-7789 or elpasoridgewalkers.com.
Senior hiking trips -- City of Las Cruces Senior Programs Recreation hosts monthly hiking trips (weather permitting) departing at 8:30 a.m. from the Munson Senior Center, 975 S. Mesquite, in Las Cruces. Participants should bring their own water, snacks or lunch, sunscreen, walking shoes and appropriate clothing. Future destinations include Dripping Springs, Soledad Canyon, Achenbach Canyon and other Organ Mountain and surrounding areas. Cost varies; includes transportation. Advance sign-up required through the city’s Recreation Office. Information/sign-up: Shauna, (575) 528-3000.
Sierra Club hikes -- The El Paso Regional Group of the Sierra Club offers field trips almost every weekend; open to non-members. Most outings have a limit of 12 persons. The club encourages donations of at least $2 or $3 per person per event to help with publicity and administrative expenses. Web: texas.sierraclub.org/elpaso/.
The general meeting is at 7:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of every month at the Centennial Museum, University and Wiggins, UTEP. For program or schedule changes, call 594-7342.
Armchair Explorer Series -- Chamizal National Memorial, 800 S. San Marcial, hosts an “armchair tour” of a different national park site the third Wednesday of each month 10:30 a.m. to noon in the theater. The July 15 tour is of Independence National Historical Park. Admission is free. Information: 532-7273.
Franklin Mountains State Park -- The 24,000-acre park extends north from the heart of El Paso to the New Mexico state line. The highest point is North Mt. Franklin, 7,192 feet above sea level.
Most hiking and mountain-biking trails begin in the Tom Mays area, off Transmountain Road on the west side of the park (east of I-10).
Entry fees are $4 per person, free for age 12 and under (with family). Group rates available. Summer hours (through Sept. 19) are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Information: 566-6441.
Park rangers give interpretive tours on the first and third weekends of the month, beginning at the Tom Mays entrance. Rubber-soled shoes, water, hat, sunscreen and a light snack are recommended. Park entry fee required plus $3 activity fee. Reservations required: 566-6441, ext. 24 or kelly.serio@tpwd.state.tx.us.
-- Guided hikes to Mundy’s Gap, Schaeffer Shuffle, West Cottonwood Spring, Aztec Caves, Smuggler’s Pass, West Cottonwood Spring and Mineshaft begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 4-5 and July 18-19.
-- An Independence Day Sunset Hike is 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Reservations required. Cost: $4 ($1 age 5-12).
-- Early bird sunrise hikes are 6 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through August. Cost: $1 age 13 and older.
-- Mountain biking, with special trails and race course.
-- Camping in the Tom Mays Area of the park, with both traditional tent sites and RV areas (no hookups). Site fee is $8 (limit of four campers), plus the park entrance fee.
-- Picnicking in the Tom Mays Area, with picnic tables and restrooms that are accessible to the handicapped.
No ground fires are permitted.
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site -- The site is famed for many Native American rock paintings and unique geology. Summer hours (May 1-Sept. 30), are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Admission: $5 (free for children 12 and younger). Information: 857-1135.
Pictograph tours are available at 9 and 11 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday, by prior arrangement. Call 849-6684.
Bouldering and hiking tours are available at 9 and 11 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday, by prior arrangement. Call 849-6684.
The monthly birding tour is offered 7 to 9 a.m. on the third Saturday of the month (July 18).
An “Archeoastronomy in the Mogollon Region,” evening program is 8 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 25, with presenters Ann Owen and Bob Dragon. Reservations required; regular entrance fee applies.
Volunteer campground hosts are needed for Spring-Fall. Free campsite provided, flexible schedule. Call 857-1135 for information.
To get there: Take Montana Avenue (U.S. Highway 62-180) all the way into the Hueco Mountains then turn left on Ranch Road 2775. It’s about 32 miles from downtown El Paso.
North Mountain is available for self-guided day use, for up to 70 people at a time. There is an annual orientation program for visitors. Guided access is offered to the rest of the site. Picnicking allowed at ten tables closest to headquarters. Wood and charcoal fires are not permitted. Camping is available. Bicycles permitted only on designated paved areas. Pets allowed only in camping or picnic areas. Call for reservations and other information: 857-1135.
Feather Lake Wildlife Sanctuary -- 9500 North Loop, near Loop 375. The 43.5-acre site is managed by El Paso’s Audubon Society. A variety of migratory birds, as well as some year-round species, can be seen there. The sanctuary is open to the public 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays and 2 p.m. to dusk Sundays. Admission is free. Information: 545-5157 or 747-8663.
Directions: Take I-10 East to Americas (Loop 375), go south 1.2 miles to North Loop, turn right and go 0.4 miles to the sanctuary entrance, on the left at 9500 North Loop at Bordeaux.
The sanctuary will host its next bimonthly public workday session beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1.
White Sands National Monument -- The glistening gypsum dunes are about 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo, N.M., on U.S. 70. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the visitor center and 7 a.m. to sunset for the Dunes Drive. All visitors must exit the park by one hour after sunset.
Entrance fee: $3 age 17 and older. Free for children. Information: (575) 479-6124, ext. 236 or (575) 679-2599, ext. 232; or go to nps.gov/whsa.
Entrance fees waived the weekends of July 18-19, and Aug. 15-16, as part of National Park Services “fee free weekends” summer program.
Full Moon Night is Tuesday, July 7. The park will stay open late for visitors to view the white sands under the light of the full moon. Visitors may enter the park until 10 p.m. and must exit by 11 p.m. A special presentation will be give in the amphitheater.
Ranger-guided Sunset Stroll Nature Walks begin one hour before sunset daily. Experience a sunset over the white sands and observe the plants, animals and geology of the dune field. Walks last about one hour.
Free evening program are 8:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday in the amphitheatre on topics such as plant adaptations; geology of the White Sands; the Tularosa Basin at the Turn of the 20th Century; White Sands wildlife and more. Call for schedule.
Lake Lucero tours are offered monthly. This month’s tour begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 25. Participants drive their own vehicles 17 miles beginning at the Small Missile Range gate on U.S. 70, 25 miles west of the White Sands Visitor Center, then hike 3/4 mile to the source of the white sands. Reservations are required. Cost is $3 per adult; $1.50 age 16 and under.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park -- The park is about 160 miles east of El Paso, off the Carlsbad Highway (U.S. 62-180). Information: (575) 785-2232 or nps.gov/cave.
The 52nd annual Bat Flight Breakfast is 5 to 7 a.m. Saturday, July 18. Self-guided tour fees are waived for all Bat Flight Breakfast participants. Breakfast plate cost to be announced.
A Star Party is 9 to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 25. Bring a blanket or pillow.
Caverns are open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last elevator down leaves at 5 p.m. Visitors can also walk to the main caverns through the natural entrance -- last walk-in is 3:30 p.m.
Plan 3-1/2 hours for a walk-in tour and 1-1/2 hours for Big Room tour. Cost is $6 ($3 for ages 6-15 or seniors with discount card). The park’s audio self-guided tour is $3 extra (also available in Spanish).
The “bat season” generally lasts from late May through mid-October. Daily bat flight talks (about 15 minutes long) are offered just before sunset at the amphitheatre outside the natural entrance. Then -- bats willing -- visitors are treated to the sunset spectacle of clouds of bats flying out of the cave entrance.
For an extra fee ($8 adults, $4 youth and seniors with card), visitors can go on a ranger-guided tour of the King’s Palace, Papoose Room, Queen’s Chamber and Green Lake Room; reservations are required.
Guided tours also are available for Slaughter Canyon Cave, an undeveloped cave 23 miles from the main cavern. Call for reservations. Cost is $15 ($7.50 ages 6-15, seniors with card). The 1-1/4-mile tour lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Flashlight with fresh batteries required. Wear good walking shoes and bring water.
Other special guided tours are available, including “Wild Cave Tours.”
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument -- 44 miles north of Silver City on NM Highway 15, the dwellings are in the middle of the majestic Gila Wilderness, the first and one of the largest wilderness areas. The slow, winding mountain road between Silver City and the dwellings takes about 1-1/2 hours to drive. Long trailers are advised to come up the back way via NM 152 and 35 through the Mimbres Valley. Entrance fee: $3 per person; $10 per family. Information: (575) 536-9461 or nps.gov/gicl.
Admission is free Saturday and Sunday, July 18-19 and Aug. 15-16.
Daily summer hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Gila Visitor Center and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the Cliff Dwellings. Visitors must be off the trail by 7 p.m. Tours offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, early arrival requested (allow 20 to 30 minutes to hike to dwellings where tour begins).
Guadalupe Mountains National Park -- 110 miles east of El Paso on the way to Carlsbad, the 86,416-acre park includes the highest point in Texas: Guadalupe Peak, 8,749 feet. Entry fee: $5 for ages 16 and older, good for one week and all trails. Camping is $8 per site per night. Information: (915) 828-3251.
The park’s headquarters, visitors’ center and museum are at Pine Springs, off of U.S. 62-180. Camping for tents and RVs, a nature trail, and ruins of the Butterfield Overland Mail Station are nearby. McKittrick Canyon Visitors’ Center is seven miles east of Pine Springs, and offers nature, canyon and geology trails. Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day.
On the north side of the park, accessible by a 110-mile drive around Carlsbad Caverns, is Dog Canyon Visitor Center and Campground.
One of the best examples of a Permian Period fossil reef, the national park offers camping and more than 80 miles of trails. Hikes range from easy, wheelchair-accessible nature trails to moderate (level, but rocky) canyon hikes to strenuous mountain hikes.
New Mexico State Parks -- Day-use fee is $5 when visiting any state park. Camping fees: $8 for primitive site; $10 for developed site (electrical hookup $4 extra). All programs are free with park entrance, unless otherwise listed. Information: (575) 744-5998 or nmparks.com.
-- Mesilla Valley Bosque Park -- 5000 Calle del Norte in Mesilla. Guided Bird tours are 7:15 to 8:45 a.m. the first Saturday of every month, hosted by Mesilla Valley Audubon Society. Information: (575) 523-4398.
Park ranger Alex Mares presents “Ethnobotany and Traditional Apache Uses” 8 to 9 a.m. Saturday, July 11.
-- Oliver Lee State Park -- Highway 54 south of Alamogordo at the Dog Canyon turnoff. Information: (575) 437-8284.
A viewing of Saturn and the moon at sunset is 8 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at the group shelter hosted by the Amateur Astronomers Group of the New Mexico Museum of Space History.
-- City of Rocks State Park, north of Deming off U.S. 180. Information: (575) 536-2800. A “Rattlesnake Myths” presentation is 3 to 4 p.m. every Saturday.
-- Rockhound State Park, five miles south of Deming on State Road 11 and then east on Rockhound Road (State Road 141) for nine miles. Day use hours: 7:30 a.m. to sunset. Information: (575) 546-6182 or (575) 744-5998.
The Music in the Park summer music concert series is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 18. The monthly series runs the third Saturday of the month through August. Admission is free.
-- Elephant Butte Lake State Park -- Information: (575) 744-5998.
The annual Independence Day Fireworks Display is 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Park fees waived during the event. In case of rain, display held Sunday, July 5 at the same time.
Boating safety classes are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 11 and 25.
-- Leasburg Dam State Park, Radium Springs, two miles off Interstate 25 at Exit 19. Information: (575) 524–4068. Day use hours: 7 a.m. to sunset.
-- Caballo Lake State Park, 60 miles north of Las Cruces on Interstate 25. Information: (575) 527-8386.
-- Percha Dam State Park, 60 miles north of Las Cruces on Interstate 25. Information: (575) 744-5998.
-- Pancho Villa State Park, Columbus, N.M., State Roads 11 and 9. Information: (575) 531-2711. Day use hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
-- Brantley Lake State Park -- 12 miles north of Carlsbad, N.M., on US 285. Includes 51 sites with water and RV hookups, visitors’ center, fishing dock and boat ramps. Information: (575) 457-2384.
-- Bottomless Lake State Park, 13 miles east of Roswell, (via U.S. Hwy 380 and NM Hwy 409). Information: (575) 624-6058.
Enchanted Evenings interpretive series are 8 to 9 p.m. Saturdays, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, featuring nature-oriented presentations. July presentations are “Raptors and Birds of Prey” with park superintendent Steve Patterson (July 4), “Mammals of the Southwest” with Mark Madsen of NM Game and Fish Department (July 11), Star gazing with Roswell Astronomy Club (July 18) and “Animal Environmental Enrichment” with Holly Payne of Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (July 25)
The Bottomless Triathlon is 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 11, the first in two summer “Bottomless Series” events. Day use fees waived for athletes and spectators during event.
A sand sculpture contest is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Lea Lake beach, for both individual and team entries.
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park -- The park, part of Asombro Institute for Science Education, is northeast of Las Cruces, off Jornada Road. Admission is free; donation box at trailhead. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Information: (575) 524-3334 or asombro.org.
To get there: Take I-25 in Las Cruces and head east on U.S. 70. Take the Mesa Grande Road exit (at Oñate High School). Make a U-turn under the highway to head west, and stay in the right lane. Turn right (north) on Jornada Road. Follow Jornada Road for 6.5 miles and turn left at the park sign. Follow the entrance road to the parking area and trailhead.
Asombro Institute for Science Education is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing scientific literacy by fostering an understanding of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Dripping Springs Natural Area -- The recreational area is at the base of the Organ Mountains at the end of Dripping Springs Road (the eastern extension of University Avenue), about 10 miles east of Las Cruces. The area, run by the federal Bureau of Land Management in cooperation with the Nature Conservancy, includes the A.B. Cox Visitors’ Center, several hiking trails, and La Cueva Picnic Area. The visitor center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Access to the main trail to Dripping Springs is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the park is closed promptly at 7 p.m.
Admission is $3 per vehicle. No pets allowed (except for assistance animals). Information: (575) 522-1219.
Aguirre Spring Campground -- The Organ Mountain recreational area, run by the federal Bureau of Land Management, is off U.S. 70 about 15 miles east of Las Cruces. Fifty-five family camping and picnic sites, plus two group areas. Day-use fee is $3 per vehicle.
The Baylor Pass (hiking and horseback riding) and Pine Tree (hiking) trails begin at the campground.
Information, group reservations: (575) 525-4300.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park -- Carlsbad, N.M. Admission: $5 ($3 ages 7-12; free for 6 and under). Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last entry at 3:30 p.m.). Information: (575) 887-5516.
To get there: Take U.S. 285 north of Carlsbad; follow signs to the park.
The annual Carlsbad Area Art Association Living Desert Art Show runs through July 5. The desert-themed artwork includes pottery, jewelry, sculpture, paintings and more.
A Full Moon Walk is 8 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, July 6, preceded with music by Carlsbad Wind Symphony at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
While most zoos feature exotic animals from faraway countries, Living Desert offers visitors an up-close look at the mammals, reptiles and birds that inhabit the Chihuahuan Desert.
A large greenhouse devoted to succulents and cactus from around the world. The headquarters building includes exhibits on minerals, history, archaeology and other subjects.
Summer Zoo Camp’s “Invertebrates of the Chihuahuan Desert” is 8:15 a.m. to noon July 20-24 for age 7 to 9 and July 27-31 for age 10-12.
Sitting Bull Falls -- The scenic area in the Lincoln National Forest is seven miles southwest of NM 137 on Forest Route 276. The 130-foot falls is one of the highest in New Mexico. Features a picnic area and wheelchair-accessible trails. Entry fee: $5 per car (day use only). Information: (575) 885-4181.
Chihuahuan Desert Resource Institute -- The CDRI center and botanical gardens are four miles south of Fort Davis on Hwy 118. Admission: $5 ($4 seniors 65 and older; free children 12 and younger, members). Information: (432) 364-2499 or cdri.org.
-- Joann Karges presents “A World of Milkweed” at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 2, at Sul Ross State University (room to be announced) in Alpine as part of the institute’s Robert Conant Distinguished Lecturer Series. Admission is free.
-- The Fort Davis Summer Butterfly Count begins at 10 a.m. Friday, July 3. All ages are encouraged to participate. Cost: $3 per person.
-- “Desert After Dark” guided walks and special evening hours begin at sunset on Saturdays, July 11-25. Dress appropriately, bring hiking shoes and flashlight. Cost: $5.
-- Summer Day Camp for elementary-age children is 9:30 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, July 13-17. Pre-registration required. Cost: $100 ($80 members).
-- Kelly Bryan presents “Hummingbirds of West Texas” at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at Sul Ross State University (room to be announced) in Alpine. Admission is free.
Davis Mountains Preserve -- The Nature Conservancy’s preserve’s use is free and open to the public. No pets allowed. All visitors must sign in at McIvor Conservation Center near the preserve’s entrance. Reservations not required for day use, but strongly encouraged for overnight stays: (432) 426-2390, ext. 1 or dsouth@tnc.org.
To get there: Take Hwy 118 from Fort Davis to the Lawrence E. Wood picnic area. The preserve gate is about one-quarter mile north of picnic area on left (look for sign).
Alameda Park Zoo -- Alameda Park, 1321 North White Sands Blvd. (U.S. 54/70), Alamogordo. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $2.50 ($1.50 ages 3-11 and 60 and older; free for ages 2 and younger). Annual memberships available. Information: (575) 439-4290.
The oldest zoo in the Southwest (established in 1898) is part of the park that lines Alamogordo’s main highway. The zoo, covering about 12 acres, features about 250 exotic and indigenous animals.
Chihuahuan Desert Wildlife Rescue -- The nonprofit organization that serves West Texas and Southern New Mexico offers resources for those who find a wild bird or mammal in need of help. Information: 772-6011, (575) 882-2910 or whc.net/cdwr.
Uninjured baby birds may be returned to their nest; the mother will not reject them if they have been touched by humans. If the nest cannot be found, create one with a basket or container with good drainage that can be attached to the tree so the parent bird may find it. If the bird is injured, contact the rescue immediately.
Community Tool Sheds -- Keep El Paso Beautiful, in partnership with Paso del Norte Health Foundation, Home Depot and El Paso Fire Department, offers community tool sheds available at area fire stations. The sheds will be stocked with push brooms, shovels, rakes, a gas weed eater, gloves and trash bags for use for cleanup or beautification projects. The items may be borrowed for no charge to the public for community cleanup projects. Information: 546-6742.
Tool sheds are at 5315 Threadgill, 3801 Fort Blvd., 6500 N. Mesa, 7901 San Jose, 11977 Pellicano, 1801 Montana, 6300 Delta and 10834 Ivanhoe.
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