Quick Facts
Location:
Rio Grande Village Nature Trail
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot
At this slight bend in the trail you are surrounded by mesquite trees. Mesquite's are desert survivors. Their roots may extend 150 feet into the soil to reach water. Their seeds, encased in a long pod, are sweet and high-protein, making them excellent feed for wildlife and livestock. Mesquite pods are ground into flour, or soaked and boiled down to make jelly for human use. Mature mesquite pods are maroon in color and signify the availability of a sweet treat. The sticky mesquite sap was used as a glue and in making dyes.
Big Bend National Park, Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River
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Tags
* big bend national park
* rio grande wild & scenic river
* rio grande village nature trail
* self-guided tour
* mesquite tree
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
