Deep Freeze and Drought

On the road again

After a hike around Tortugas Mountain we returned to the Chihuahuan Observation Center to assess the damage from severe weather--the Deep Freeze in February and the three-month-plus drought we're experiencing now.  Several of the native plants are dead, and some are severely injured.  Unfortunately, since there is no rain in the forecast, many of the injured plants may not recover.

Dead Variegated Agave at COC

Half-dead Century Plant at COC



Small Barrel Cactus in bad shape



Large Barrel Cactus with obvious damage at COC

Dead Mexican Palo Verde Tree (center)

Closeup of dead Mexican Palo Verde Tree

Healthy (volunteer) Seep Willow