Rio Grande kayak tours to highlight detriments of border wall

by Marisa Treviño of Latina Lista

Ever since the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that they would construct a wall along the Texas-Mexico border, Rio Grande Valley residents have been trying to show Washington just how bad an idea that really is.

Already an impoverished area, where only 5% of the region’s native habitat remains, and which relies heavily on its eco-tourism industry to supply jobs and much needed capital, the Valley residents have tried to reason, offer alternative solutions, and finally stage border protests to show DHS and Congress that a wall is not wanted.

Nothing is working.

What’s worse, fellow Texans outside the Valley have paid scant attention to the struggles of their Texan brothers and sisters. So, Valley Texans have decided that people have to see for themselves what would be lost if a wall was built.

Every weekend, throughout the month of November, Los Caminos Del Rio will host weekend kayak getaways along the Rio Grande.

Kayak cruising for one to three-hour excursions through the last remnants of a wildlife habitat that features more than 500 bird species and other exotic animals, organizers hope to show that the Rio Grande is more than a barrier between two countries.

Tour guides are offering their time for the cause and the cost of the trip is only $4 — the park’s weekend entrance fee. Kayakers will be provided with kayaks, paddles and safety equipment. A BYOBarbeque follows each trip and organizers ask that everyone bring a little something to contribute to it.

Tours begin every Saturday and Sunday morning at 9 a.m. at the Los Caminos office in McAllen, Texas or at 10 a.m. at the entrance to Anzalduas Park, south of Mission, Texas.

Organizers say to bring a change of clothes because everyone will get wet and with November temps hovering in the 80s by mid-day, people should still bring the bug spray and sunscreen.

Reservations are recommended to be made a week in advance by calling 956.776.0100, ext. 311.

What better way to experience the outdoors, support a worthwhile cause and see a part of Texas that may not last much longer as it stands today.