88R19766 CW-D
By: Moody H.R. No. 993
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, On March 21, 2023, President Joseph R. Biden Jr.
signed a proclamation establishing the Castner Range National
Monument near El Paso; and
WHEREAS, Encompassing nearly 6,700 acres in the high desert
of far West Texas, Castner Range makes up the southern portion of
the Franklin Mountains; the creation of the national monument puts
into place a wide range of protections for wildlife, ecosystems,
culturally significant sites, unique geological features, and
archeological, paleontological, biological, and ecological
resources; and
WHEREAS, Located on the Fort Bliss military base near the
heart of El Paso, Castner Range served as the training and testing
site for the U.S. Army from 1926 through 1966; the area was once
home to the Comanche Nation and the Apache, Pueblo, Hopi, and Kiowa
Tribes, among other indigenous peoples; within Castner Range,
scientists have identified 41 archeological sites that include
living structures, hearths, remnants of pottery and tools, and
petroglyphs and images; and
WHEREAS, An area of rich biodiversity for desert species,
Castner Range features a high concentration of natural springs and
crucial habitat for such wildlife as American peregrine falcons,
golden eagles, Texas horned lizards, black-tailed prairie dogs, and
Western burrowing owls; rare and endemic plants are also found
throughout the range, and its protection will play a vital role in
setting up migratory corridors that allow for safe wildlife travel;
moreover, the declaration of the land as a monument will expand
access to outdoor recreation on public land while providing
research and educational opportunities for people of all ages in a
natural classroom setting; and
WHEREAS, The preservation and protection of Castner Range
honors the history of the Native Americans and the military
veterans who once lived and worked there, and the new national
monument stands as a beautiful and majestic landmark that
El Pasoans and all visitors will enjoy for years to come; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the establishment of the Castner
Range National Monument and extend sincere appreciation to the
environmental leaders and advocates who helped bring about this
historic designation.