by Analise Ortiz
Posted: 05.22.2015 at 7:19 PM

A familiar plant along the Rio Grande has been a nuisance for staff maintaining the grounds at Anzalduas Park.

But it also poses a threat to border security.

The Texas legislature found a possible solution.

Carrizo cane, a water-born plant that’s native to Asia, grows wildly along the banks of the Rio Grande. It looks and feels like bamboo and its thick texture and rapid growth causes headaches for Gerardo Flores, who oversees the grounds of Anzalduas Park which sits on the river.

“We cleaned it a couple of times, you can see, but then it will eventually grow back," Flores said. Staff at Anzalduas Park chop down the plant once every six months so it won’t obstruct the view of the river for park visitors.

If Senate Bill 1734 is signed by Governor Greg Abbott, it won’t be a worry any longer.

The bill maintains that the state will implement a program to eradicate carrizo cane along the Rio Grande. It’s part of a border security initiative because it’s not just the beauty of the river that the plant conceals. It has become a prime hiding spot for people entering the country illegally.

“It’s easy to hide yourself in this cane," said Chris Cabrera, vice president of The National Border Patrol Council Local 3307. “"Our boats can't maneuver into it, because of the water. We can't apprehend anyone in there because we can't get in there.”

The plant is so thick even aerial and thermal imaging equipment have difficulties picking up on illegal activity that is taking place in the brush.

Senate Bill 1734, if signed by the governor, is set to take effect immediately.

“I hope they can eradicate it, get it under control, whatever needs to be done. It is a security issue. Not just for the nation, but for our agents," Cabrera said. ‘

The State Soil and Water Conservation Board would be tasked with developing the eradication program.

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