EDINBURG — As children are being released for summer break, Judge Cortez offers the Junior Explorer Initiative, a program designed to encourage the youth of Hidalgo County to embrace the outdoors and visit the many world-renowned parks and destinations located in our backyard. The Explore Hidalgo County Nature Trail that launched on April 22, 2022, was the first step in highlighting the hidden gems located in Hidalgo County.“One of my priorities as County Judge has been to bring attention to the parks and outdoor destinations of Hidalgo County,” said County Judge Richard F. Cortez. “I hope to encourage children and ...