ROCK CLIMBING NEWS ITEM

Mushroom Boulder at Hueco Tanks Closed

WEDNESDAY, 9 JANUARY 2008

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has closed the Mushroom Boulder at Hueco Tanks State Historic Park (Hueco Tanks) to all foot traffic, including climbing. Studies conducted by TPWD assert that erosion caused by human activity, including the placement and movement of crash pads, has exposed archaeological resources within the soil. These previously covered resources include preserved flora and fauna remains as well as preserved cultural resources. TPWD’s archaeologists recommended closure of the site to all foot traffic to preserve these resources, an action which was executed by park managers on December 22, 2007.

The Access Fund has contacted TPWD and Hueco locals to assess options that will allow for continued access to the Mushroom Boulder. The Access Fund is also evaluating climbing management practices that will prevent similar erosion at other sites within Hueco Tanks. The Access Fund looks forward to collaborating with TPWD and local climbers to reach a solution that will preserve any archaeological resources and allow for continued bouldering at Hueco Tanks.

In the meantime, the Access Fund asks climbers to respect the current closure of the Mushroom Boulder and stay tuned for future updates. For more information, email diana@accessfund.org.

Source:
www.accessfund.org