Panther Junction News

PANTHER JUNCTION, Texas - Surrounded by large patches of straw-yellow sotol and withered prickly pear, federal botanist Joe Sirotnak summarized the causes of a massive plant die-off that has changed the Big Bend desert landscape, at least temporarily.

Big Bend's Lone Mountain is being circled with a multiple-use trail, but for now only hikers will be allowed to use it.

If you're up to it, drive the Panther Junction towards the Chilicotal Mountains.

Get in shape and study up. I can't help you on the physical fitness aspect, but for study aids, I'd start by surfing the Internet.