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The Texas Prairie Rivers Initiative
Nature Tourism along the
Texas Prairie Rivers By Texas Prairie Rivers Initiative Without nature, there can be no nature tourists. Without culture and history, there can be no cultural and historical tourists. All of the above mentioned activities are dependent upon a stable, accessible, sustainable base of natural, cultural, and historical assets. By extension, the industries that these activities support and nurture through travel and tourism are likewise reliant upon a stable resource inventory. The Texas Prairie Rivers region is blessed with an abundance of natural, cultural, and historical resources. Yet, no comprehensive inventory of these resources exists. The following assessment is offered in an initial attempt to fill this void. The Caprock formation of the Texas Prairie Rivers region represents the southeastern periphery of the Great Plains. The biota within this region, therefore, is generally similar to that found through the interior prairies of the United States. The excellent condition of these rangelands, however, allows a visitor to experience the prairie like it may have been one hundred years ago. Mammals of particular interest to nature tourist include the following:
All of the species mentioned above offer the nature tourist an opportunity to experience the "charismatic megafauna" more characteristic of the Rocky Mountains or the African plains. In the case of the Black-tailed Prairie Dog, the colonizing nature of the animal allows it to be easily observed, interpreted and appreciated. In addition, both species of deer and the Pronghorn Antelope are important game species, and many private ranches hold herds that will support annual harvesting. Birds of particular interest to nature tourists include the following:
Many of the species listed above are only seen in Texas in this Panhandle region. The sand/sage habitat in this area supports the most significant remaining Lesser Prairie-Chicken population in the world, a species of special concern throughout its limited range. Wild Turkey and various waterfowl proliferate in this region, and offer wildlife watching and hunting opportunities. As nature tourism in the Texas Prairie Rivers region evolves, other wildlife of note will become apparent. Yet today there exists sufficient interest in the species listed above to begin the development of a vibrant nature tourism industry. The wildlife of the Texas Prairie River region is sufficiently varied and diverse to satisfy the most avid wildlife watcher (or hunter), yet the charismatic species (Bison, Pronghorn Antelope, Black-tailed Prairie Dog) also appeal to the most casual of observers. Experiential tourists express a broad range of interests and often these travelers attempt to satisfy a number of their interests during the same trip. These travelers may watch birds in the morning, visit a battleground in the afternoon, and attend a local theater in the evening. The success of a trip, therefore, may be dependent upon the sum of its parts, rather than how perfectly any specific interest or activity may be satisfied. In addition to its impressive nature resources, the Texas Prairie Rivers region also possesses a wealth of cultural and historical assets. European pioneers first settled this region only a century ago, and the traces of the first settlers are still apparent. Numerous Paleo-Indian and Native American sites, such as the Alibates Flint Quarry, still persist. Several cavalry forts and emplacements have been preserved, and a number of battlegrounds (such as Buffalo Wallows, Adobe Walls, and the Red River War sites) have been restored or commemorated. The regional communities host events throughout the year to celebrate their heritage, such as the Bluegrass Festival in Wheeler, the July 4th Celebration in Canadian, the National Cow Calling Contest in Miami, and the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Shamrock. The Canadian River Bridge and the Palace Theatre in Canadian, the Mobeetie Museum, the Old Wheeler Jail, and the Spearman Windmill Park are but a few examples of historical sites and venues that are available to tourists in the region. In addition to being blessed with prolific wildlife, and endowed with a natural scenic beauty, there are also a number of specific nature destinations that represent the building blocks for a nature tourism strategy in the region (Table 1). A few of these, such as Palo Duro State Park, Caprock Canyons State Park, and Alibates Flint Quarry, are nationally known as nature tourism destinations. Others are known only locally, yet possess the potential to become more significant economic contributors. In general, there appears to be excess capacity at most locations, and all seem to be able to manage future growth.
Table1: Texas Prairie Rivers Region Nature Destinations, by County
In addition to these public sites, there are also private lands that have great potential as nature tourism destinations. In fact, the most significant opportunity for developing nature tourism in the region is through the use of private lands. Landowners in the region have expressed an interest in pursuing this opportunity, and future economic development plans for the region should reflect this willingness.
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