The New Mexico locust is considered native to North America. This shrub-like tree appears as a large shrub or small tree and can grow up to 25 feet in height. The elliptical leaves are bluish green, 1.5 inch long, and grow in pairs of 7 to 10. The tree bark has a more grayish color.

Photo Credit: Sherry Skipper, USFWS

 

During the Army presence here, other trees were planted around buildings that have since been removed. The trees that remain are primarily ornamental species that include:

• blue spruce
• Rocky Mountain juniper
• green ash
• lilac
• oak
• occasionally plum, chokecherry and Siberian peashrub

RUSSIAN OLIVE trees have invaded along the First Creek corridor. This tree is very invasive along riparian corridors, crowding out native trees and shrubs. The Service is currently implementing a removal plan for them.

For a complete Refuge species list

Last Updated: 1/14/09

Most trees at the Refuge were either planted by someone or established as the result of man's past activity here.

Former homesteaders almost always planted some type of "windbreak or "shelterbelt" to protect and shade their farm buildings from the elements.

Trees commonly planted by farmers were

• Siberian elm
• New Mexico Locust
• Cottonwood
• Occasionally, white poplar.