Mushroom Boulder Closed, Hueco Tanks, TX
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has closed the north face of 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 archeological resources within the soil. These previously covered resources include preserved flora and fauna remains as well as preserved cultural resources. TPWD's archeologists recommended closure of the area to 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 is working with Hueco locals to assess options that will allow for continued access to Mushroom Boulder. The Access Fund is also evaluating climbing management practices that will prevent similar erosion at other sites within the park.
The Access Fund looks forward to collaborating with TPWD and local climbers to reach a solution that will preserve archeological resources and allow for continued bouldering at Hueco Tanks. In the meantime, climbers are asked to respect the current closure of the north face of Mushroom Boulder and stay tuned for future updates.
For more information email diana@accessfund.org. diana@accessfund.org.