Wildlife of Arizona: Celebrate Earth Day
Born To Be Wild!
To on April 22!
Canyon Echo
www.arizona.sierraclub.org Grand Canyon Chapter Mar c h/April 2007
Marc 2007
Monumental Habitats Need Your Help!
Your
By Scott Jones
In these days of tremendous population growth in the Southwest, protected public
lands are becoming increasingly important for a variety of uses – none more important
than habitat preservation. Arizona is blessed with five national monuments operated
by the Bureau of Land Management, from Grand Canyon-Parashant and Vermillion
Cliffs in the remote canyon country of the north to Agua Fria in the central grasslands
to Sonoran Desert and Ironwood Forest in the southern deserts. These protected
landscapes, encompassing nearly 2 million acres of public land, provide important
places for native wildlife. While their designation as national monuments provides
these landscapes stronger protections than they received in the past, there are still a
myriad of threats jeopardizing them.
Grand Canyon-Parashant and Vermillion Cliffs suffer from an excessive network
of roads and “wildcat” trails, fracturing habitat and inviting increased visitation. Whether
it’s for the California condor at Vermillion Cliffs or for the desert tortoise in Grand
Canyon-Parashant, we need the Bureau of Land Management to reduce the hundreds
of miles of roads they currently have planned for those monuments.
Agua Fria National Monument sees one of its more charismatic species, the
pronghorn, at risk from continued grazing and the proposed widening of Interstate Sonoran desert tortoise. Photo courtesy of Scott Sprague.
17. Will future upstream development suck dry the Agua Fria River and its tributaries,
extinguishing the area’s unique riparian areas while eradicating its native fish? to meet this challenge and ensure that the wildlife that depend on these areas receive
the attention and protections they deserve.
You can help! Get to know these places. Join us on a volunteer service project.
Sign up to receive action alerts. Send in comments whenever you can. Get involved
with a Friends group. Simply put, get involved – and do your part.
Scott is the National Monuments Organizer for Sierra Club’s Southwest Regional Office.
For more information on how you can help, contact Scott
Jones at 602-254-9330 or scott.jones@sierraclub.org.
Sign up for the electronic Echo!
Help us save time and money! It’s easy! Sign up to receive an e-
Alert when the latest issue is available online rather than receiving
American pronghorn. Photo courtesy of Scott Sprague. a paper copy.
Sonoran Desert National Monument is watching the quickening pace of urban
sprawl move closer and closer, eliminating important wildlife corridors and increasing
To sign up for an e-Alert, send an email with your full name
recreational pressures. Despite a ban on off-road travel, wildcat routes are springing up and membership ID (8-digit number located on the mailing
everywhere, further exacerbating these threats. label) to CanyonEchoESub@gmail.com
CanyonEchoESub@gmail.com.
Will the last viable indigenous population of desert bighorn in the Tucson Basin
thrive under Ironwood Forest National Monument’s new protections, or will the Please note: If you choose this option, you will not receive a
development of private and state in-holdings permanently tar the monument’s delicate paper copy of the newsletter. Instead, you will receive an email
desert ecosystem?
While each of these monuments acts as an important natural sanctuary for wildlife,
alert when the latest issue is available. Adobe Reader is required
none of them will realize their potential without an active array of advocates. The to view the newsletter online and can be downloaded for free.
remoteness of these places – once their best protector – is quickly vanishing. We need
Enjoy, explore and protect the planet
njoy explore protect
Grand Canyon Chapter
ory
Chapter Action Director
Arizona Chapter Action Director y
EAU
Canyon Echo Conservation Outreach Director
Sandy Bahr 602-253-8633 sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org
Flagstaff PLAT
V ol. 43 No. 2 SEDONA/ VERDE
Conservation Program Assistant ALLEY
VALLEY
March/April 2007
Mar ch/April 2007 Tiffany Sprague 602-253-9140 tiffany.sprague@sierraclub.org Prescott YAVAPAI
YAVAPAI
Grand Canyon Conservation Program Coordinator
Canyon Echo (ISSN 0164-7024) is Stacey Hamburg 928-774-6514 stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org SAGUARO
published bimonthly for Sierra Club Phoenix
members by the Sierra Club PALO VERDE
ALO
Grand Canyon Chapter,
202 E. McDowell Rd., Ste. 277, Tu c s o n
Phoenix, AZ 85004.
CHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRS RINC
Chairperson/Personnel/ ON
Phone: 602-253-8633
Council: Jim Vaaler (xc) 602-553-8208 jimvaaler@msn.com
Fax: 602-258-6533
Vice-Chair: Carole Piszczek-Sheffield(x) 928-204-1517 cpiszczek@msn.com
Secretary: Elna Otter (xc) 520-212-9736 otter@rnsmte.com
Treasurer: Jenny Roberts (xc) 480-488-2256 azjen@hotmail.com
POSTMASTER GRAND Conservation: Don Steuter (xc) 602-956-5057 dsteuter@hotmail.com
Send address changes to Sierra Club CANYON Nominations Chair: Michelle Pulich-Stewart 623-217-4093 sun7river@yahoo.com
Member Services, c/o Canyon Echo, P.O. Box CHAPTER Political Chair: Lynn DeMuth 480-345-2626 lmdemuth@cox.net
Outings Chair: Bev Full (xc) 480-595-2306 bfull@cox.net
52968, Boulder, CO 80322-2968.
Energy Chair: Jon Findley (xc) 480-756-2916 jonaz@learnweb.com
Periodicals postage paid at Chris Gehlker 602-866-9024 canyonrat@mac.com
Membership Chair:
Phoenix, AZ. Printed at Valley Newspapers. Elections Chair: Tom Cadden 602-971-1528 thomascadden@aol.com
Copyright Sierra Club Grand Canyon Legal Chair: Volunteer Opportunity
Chapter, Canyon Echo 2007. Fundraising Chair: Bob Sutherland (x) 928-774-9309 ars@infomagic.net
BECOME INVOLVED: Ex-Com (At-Large): Dale Volz(xc) 480-892-5102 dvolz@earthlink.net
Contact a Ex-Com (At-Large): Tom Martin (xc) 928-556-0742 tomhazel@grand-canyon.az.us
EDITOR representative in
Tiffany Sprague your area to voice 2006 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:
602-253-9140 your concerns and Palo Verde: Blair McLaughlin Saguaro: Louis Lantz
to participate in Plateau: Bob Sutherland Valley:
S edona/Verde Valley: Volunteer Opportunity
tiffany.sprague@sierraclub.org local activities. Rincon: Keith Bagwell Y a v apai: Tom Slaback
PALO VERDE GROUP—PHOENIX
ALO GROUP—PHOENIX http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde
DEDICATED V OL UNTEERS
DEDICATED VOLOLUNTEERS Chair/Secretary: Blair McLaughlin (x) 602-618-8591 blair.mclaughlin@cox.net
Outings Editor (xc) 2007 Chapter
Vice-Chair: Danny Ruppert (x) 602-705-5244 greyhounddad2004@yahoo.com
Treasurer: Dan Cline 480-921-9242 danpsu@hotmail.com
Jerry Nelson Executive Committee Conservation: Don Steuter (x) 602-956-5057 dsteuter@hotmail.com
602-279-4668 (Ex-Com) Members Outings: Darrel Foster 602-569-5549 az-outdoorsman@cox.net
peakbagger2@gmail.com Inner City Outings (ICO): Denise Berringer-Wood 602-867-3017 dberringerwood@yahoo.com
Lisa Vaaler 602-468-4158 lisavaaler@excite.com
Programs Chair: Sherry Celine (x) 602-840-4611 sceline53@yahoo.com
Photographers (x) Group Ex-Com Sierra Singles: Volunteer Opportunity
Sandy Bahr, Scott Jones, Robin Silver, Members Political: Volunteer Opportunity
Energy: Jon Findley (x) 480-756-2916 jonaz@learnweb.com
Tom Slaback, Scott Sprague, Computer: Chris Gehlker 602-866-9024 canyonrat@mac.com
Halina Szyposzynski At-Large Members: Jerry Nelson (x) 602-279-4668 peakbagger2@gmail.com
Jim Vaaler (x) 602-553-8208 jimvaaler@msn.com
Charles Zemis (x) 480-206-7694 c@kaidroo.net
Mailing Organizers
Bill Gill, Jerry Nelson
PLATEA U GR OUP—FLAGSTAFF
TEAU OUP—FLAGST
PLATEA GROUP—FLAGSTAFF http://arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau
Chair: Bob Sutherland (x) 928-774-9309 ars@infomagic.net
Publications Committee Vice Chair: Tom Martin (x) 928-556-0742 tomhazel@grand-canyon.az.us
Bob Ball, Jack Foster, Jerry Nelson Treasurer: Sharon Galbreath 928-774-1571 sharoneg@earthlink.net
Secretary: Mimi Torres (x) 928-226-8438 met57@nau.edu
SW Regional Coord: Jacque Lovett (x) 928-853-7444 jl396@nau.edu
Acting Publications Chair Outings: Nancy Sutherland 928-774-9309 ars@infomagic.net
Renée Guillory Programs Chair: Jim McCarthy 928-779-3748 jk436mc@npgcable.com
thesprawlbuster@yahoo.com At-Large Member: Lara Schmit (x) 928-779-3186 laraschmit@yahoo.com
Webmaster RINCON GROUP—TUCSON http://arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon
Dawson Henderson Chair/Transpor tation:
Chair/Transpor Keith Bagwell (x) 520-623-0269 akbagwell@hotmail.com
Vice-Chair/Programs: Linda Rothchild (x) 520-747-5078 ltepper@juno.com
dawsonh@earthlink.net Secretary: Joy Herr-Cardillo (x) 520-622-1752 joiellen@cox.net
Treasurer: Sean Sullivan (x) 520-250-9040 sean@sonorandesert.org
Membership Chair: Isabel Segovia (x) 520-795-2575 isabelsegovia@hotmail.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS Conservation Chair: Matt Hogel (x) 520-231-2517 unmalpescado@hotmail.com
ner-City
Inner-C Matt Nelson
In ner-C ity Outings (ICO): 520-404-7992 onejourney@juno.com
Annual dues to the Sierra Club are $39, Political/Merchandise: Lee Oler 520-791-9246 cloler@cox.net
($1for the Canyon Echo). Subscriptions rate for Newsletter Chairs: Heather Hopkins 520-207-8043 hashopkins@cox.net
non-members is $10. Send check payable to Vanessa Bechtol bechtol@hotmail.com
Sierra Club - Canyon Echo, Linda Aaronson laaronson@cox.net
202 E. McDowell Rd., Ste. 277 Outings Chair: Mitch Stevens 520-647-3823 mitchstevens@qwest.net
Webmaster: Bart Beck 520-885-8326 bbeck2@mindspring.com
Phoenix, AZ 85004. Volunteer Coordinator: Pete Bengtson 520-219-3507 pybengtson@earthlink.net
At-Large Member: Roy Emrick (x) 520-326-7883 rmemrick@cox.net
ADVERTISING SAGUAR O GROUP—NORTH MARICOPA COUNT Y
ARO
GUAR GROUP—NORTH MARICOPA COUNTY http://arizona.sierraclub.org/saguaro
http://arizona.sierraclub.org/saguaro
Advertising is sold on a first-come, space- Chair/Group Rep: Louis Lantz (x) 480-595-1782 louis85331@msn.com
-Chair:
Vice-Chair
Vice -Chair : Joel Sinclaire (x) 602-821-3800 cigarjss@yahoo.com
available basis. Endorsement of Jean Miyake (x) 602-595-2306 jeanmiyake@juno.com
Secretary:
advertisers by the Sierra Club is not implied, and Treasurer :
reasurer: Urb Weidner 602-595-3301 northwoods@cox.net
all interactions between advertisers and Conservation/Outings: Bev Full (x) 480-595-2306 bfull@cox.net
consumers are solely the responsibilities of Hospitality: Norma Hand (x) 480-595-9977 rhndnhnd@aol.com
those parties. Film Club: Lynne Cockrum-Murphy (x) 602-569-6078 lcockrum@cox.net
Publicity: Doug Murphy 602-569-6078 dmurphy@cox.net
Membership: Dalia Spina (x) 623-465-4844 director@dalia.com
Webmaster: Elizabeth Diethelm 480-485-6089 ediethelm@cox.net
SUBMISSIONS
Send electronic copies to the editor. Indicate SEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUP http://arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona
copyright or Creative Commons preference. For Contact: Carole Piszczek-Sheffield 928-204-1517 cpiszczek@msn.com
disks and hardcopies, please label with your **Group under reorganization**
name and the file name. Send a S.A.S.E. for
return of disk. We are not responsible for lost or YAVAPAI GR OUP—PRESCO TT
OUP—PRESCOTT
APAI GROUP—PRESCO http://arizona.sierraclub.org/yavapai
damaged items. Writer’s guidelines can be Chair/Conservation: Tom Slaback (x) 928-778-4233 prescottkid@peoplepc.com
Vice-Chair: Carolyn York (x) 928-541-1952
obtained by contacting the editor. All rights to Secretary: Joe Wenzel (x) 928-771-0838 joseph.wenzel@worldnet.att.net
publication of articles in this issue are reserved. Treasurer/Outings: Paul Poyner (x) 928-778-6534 rpaul910@msn.com
The deadline is the first day of the month
preceding the two months of the issue. Opinions
expressed in the Canyon Echo are those of the Southwest Regional Office
contributors and do not necessarily reflect the
Rob Smith 602-254-9330 rob.smith@sierraclub.org
official views or policies of the Sierra Club.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
March/April 2007 Canyon Echo 3
Grand Canyon Chapter What’s Going On
Canyon What’ Going On
Don’t Miss Out!
on’ Miss Out!
Environmental Day at the Legislature
arch
uesday, Mar
Tuesday, March 20
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Join us on this special day to meet other advocates and talk with your legislators about
important issues. For more information or to R.S.V.P., contact Sandy Bahr at 602-
253-8633 or sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org.
Free Seminar
Seminar Tucson ICO Needs Your Help!
ICO Needs Help!
Hiking,
Poles for Hiking, Walking, and Trekking
uesday, Mar
arch p.m.
Tuesday, March 20, 6:30 p.m. Tucson’s Inner City Outings (ICO) program is
committed to introducing at-risk youth to the joys
Phoenix REI and wonders of nature. Many of the families that
Paradise Pkwy,
12634 N. Paradise Village Pkwy, 602-996-5400
participate have little ones who love the outdoor
experience but can only hike a short distance.
Hiking or walking with poles is an amazing way to enjoy the outdoors and
In order to continue these outings, we need
extend your hiking life. Join Jayah Faye Paley, author of the award-winning DVD
donations of backpacks designed to carry small children. If you have little ones
“POLES for Hiking, Trekking & Walking – Techniques for ALL Ages and Abilities,”
who have outgrown their packs, please consider donating the packs to ICO.
to learn how correct use enables hikers and walkers to more safely and completely
With your support, we can continue to change the lives of inner-city families by
enjoy mobility and the outdoors. Top quality poles will be available so participants
providing educational and memorable experiences. The little ones that we
can practice terrain-based techniques and learn how to avoid hand/wrist/elbow/
introduce to nature today are the ones who will make the decisions necessary to
shoulder strain and convert effort into an upper body/core workout.
save it tomorrow.
To donate child carrier backpacks, make a monetary donation, or find out
This interactive clinic is for everyone – walkers, hikers, seniors, and backpackers.
more about ICO, contact Matthew Nelson at 520-404-7992 or
For more information, visit www.AdventureBuddies.net.
onejourney@juno.com.
Grand Canyon recommends vote Ken
The Grand Canyon Chapter recommends a vote for Ken Langton Echo News
Sierra Club’ Board Dir irectors.
in the upcoming election for the Sierra Club’s Board of Directors.
You can Use
Inside
St. Joseph the Worker 4 Buffel Grass Removal
Center to Honor Sandy Bahr
invites you to the 9 th Annual
April 21, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
6 Off-Road Vehicles
Pr
Bentley Projects
215 E. Grant Rd., Phoenix 7 Energy and Wildlife
The Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest will 8 Kaibab Logging Proposal
present its Public Interest Award to Sandy Bahr, the
Conservation Outreach Director for the Grand Canyon 9 Restoring Wolves
Chapter of the Sierra Club, at its annual benefit event. The
Center is honoring Sandy for her leadership and achievements 1 0 Group Happenings
as Arizona’s foremost environmental advocate.
1 1 Great Hikes and Trips
Discount tickets are available for Sierra Club members. Saturday, March 3
Saturda March
day
Live music will be provided by local jazz greats Margo Reed Estrella Mountain Regional Park
1 2 Service Outings
accompanied by Michael Reed and his band. Food and drinks Registration opens at 8 a.m.
will also be provided as well as a live and silent auction. Presented by Standard Pacific Homes
For more information, visit
On the Web
Please contact the Center at 602-258-8850
to reserve your tickets. www.sjwjobs.org
www.sjwjobs.org or contact Blue Chapter Action Network
On the Web
Swadener 602-41
Sw adener at 602-417-9854 or grandcanyon.sierraclubaction.org
bswadener@sjwjobs.org.
Sierra Club Home Page
www.sierraclub.org
Online News
The Arizona Game and Fish Department needs volunteers! Several opportunities are www.sierraclub.org/news
available, including office assistance for the desert tortoise and bat programs and wildlife Sierra Magazine
area and fish hatchery host postions. If you would like more information, contact Tiffany www.sierraclub.org/sierra
Sprague at 602-253-9140 or tiffany.sprague@sierraclub.org for more information. The Planet
www.sierraclub.org/planet
www .arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
4 Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter
Cast of Characters Buf fel Grass Removal
Buff emov
Remo
Jenny Roberts
Chapt er Treasurer
Chapter Treasurer
In October 2006, Jenny Roberts became our new
Chapter Treasurer and was elected to fill a vacancy on
the Executive Committee. She is also a member of
the Chapter’s Fundraising Committee. Jenny is
involved with Sierra Club at a national level and is a
National Trip Leader, leading a five-day trip in Oak
Creek Canyon each fall.
Originally from Australia, Jenny lived in New
York City before moving to Arizona fourteen years
ago. Hiking within the natural beauty and diversity
of Arizona’s desert landscapes is one of her favorite
pursuits. Jenny is interested in all aspects of Photo courtesy of Sandy Bahr.
environmental protection, especially in ensuring our
natural areas are left as genuine and untouched as Sunday, December 17th
possible both locally and nationally.
I am a Boy Scout from Phoenix, Arizona. When
it came time to do my Eagle Scout project, I
looked for a project that would benefit the
Spotlight on the Yavapai Group
Spotlight Ya Group environment. I contacted the Sierra Club and met
Sandy Bahr. She had a lot of great ideas, one of
By Tom Slaback
which was removing buffel grass, a non-native
friendly politicians to local and state offices, and attempted grass that is choking out our native vegetation.
to protect our land, air, and water from mercury It is so aggressive it can even kill a tree! So, at 6
contamination. We partnered with Prescott Creeks to a.m. on Sunday, December 17th, I set out from
set up a water quality monitoring lab and sought the Sierra Club Phoenix office with fellow scouts,
designation of the Verde River as one of the most family, friends, Sandy, and the Phoenix Sierra
endangered rivers in the U.S. We also assisted in the
Club members to remove buffel grass in the
formation of the Verde River Basin Partnership and have
been an active member of the Open Space Alliance. Ironwood Forest National Monument. When we
Currently, we are actively involved in growth got there, we met up with a bunch of other groups
management issues and making sure that no harm comes – Friends of the Ironwood Forest, the Bureau of
to the Verde River from plans to pump its headwaters. Land Management, the Native Plant Society,
Photo courtesy of Tom Slaback.
We also participate in the Verde River Water Sentinels the Tucson Sierra Club, the Weedwhackers, and
project. We are working on a concept of uniformity for homeowners from the area. We had such a great
My knowledge of the Yavapai Group dates back to all of the U.S. Forest Plan revisions in Arizona. On top turnout that we bagged twice as much grass as
April 1978 when I arrived in Prescott. At that time the of all of this, we are planning the third Wildlife any other time – approximately 200 bags! It was
group was standing on wobbly legs, but we were soon Symposium to be held in Prescott, continuing our local
hard but satisfying work because you could see
reorganized under the leadership of the Johnson family. outings program, and planning for informative public
One of our first successes was to get the abandoned Santa meetings and our newly initiated Film Nite. This year the difference between the area we attacked and
Fe Railroad right-of-way into public ownership for use we also plan to persuade Prescott to leave its ’60s other areas. I recommend joining the next buffel
as a trail. During the next few years, we became an activity mentality behind and become a “Cool City.” grass outing.
section of the Palo Verde Group, but we eventually None of these goals could have or will be Sincerely,
became a separate group again under the leadership of accomplished without the leadership of Doris Cellarius, Michael Calderon
Bobbie Root and became involved in a variety of issues, Paul Poyner, Joe Wenzel, Carolyn York, and a host of
including grazing, mining, forests, and habitat. greatly valued volunteers. We look forward to more and
Recently, we obtained a tree-size diameter cap in forest greater environmental progress during 2007. Join us for future buffel grass removal
thinning projects, sought reasonable solutions to our out- projects! For more information, see our
of-control population growth, elected environmentally- Tom is the Yavapai Group Chair. Service Outings on pg. 12.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
March/April 2007 Canyon Echo 5
Thank You to Our Donors
The Grand Canyon Chapter wishes to once again thank Earth Friends for their support of our work in Arizona. This year, if we can raise
$100,000 in new money, we will be awarded a significant challenge grant from the Foundation. All new dollars raised as part of the March
Fundraiser and elsewhere will go toward this challenge and will stay in Arizona to help protect our air, land, water, and the wildlife that
depend on it all. Please be as generous as you can to help us meet this challenge and to leverage your dollars to do even more.
Re-use, Recycle, Fundraise, and Fun!
ecycle, Fundraise,
Recy Fun!
Thank you to all of the
Friends ($1-29) volunteers who helped make the Keep Close to Nature’s
Jon Diebold Chapter’s Yard Sale a big success. Heart ($50-99)
Jules Lewis Ketcham We helped keep a lot of items out Catherine Gorman and Philip Hedrick
of the landfill and found new uses Robert Kuhn
for many slightly used items. Best Howard and Eleanor Wulsin
of all, we raised money for
conservation work. Special
thanks to Halina Szyposzynski
for organizing the yard
sale. Thank you also to Irena
Hitched to Everything Else Irena Szyposzynski and Jean Sutherland. Szyposzynski, Jean Sutherland, Make the Mountains
in the Universe ($30-49) Photo courtesy of Halina Szyposzynski.
Sandy Bahr, Renée Guillory, Glad ($100-299)
Pamela Hyde Tiffany and Scott Sprague, Kathy Roediger, Jerry Nelson, Jon Findley, Don Kathy Roediger
Carrol McDonald Begalke, and Julie, Ken, and Vivian Bannister for their help with donations,
Stephen and Joline Swauger getting the sale ready, cleaning up, and being there to help sell items. Thanks
to the many others who also donated items.
We really appreciate all of your support!
really appreciate your support!
you force
ilburfor Foundation!
Thank you to the Wilburforce Foundation!
Thank you American Express and Jenny Roberts for the
Expr
xpress Rober
oberts Thank you to the Wilburforce Foundation for again supporting
$500 Global Volunteer Action Fund Grant. We appreciate the Grand Canyon Chapter’s Restore and Protect Grand Canyon
the volunteer work that Jenny does and her willingness to Campaign – these dollars are essential to our work in that area and
help leverage that by seeking this grant. This is the second to the program overall. Thank you, too, for recognizing Sandy
year that American Express has awarded this grant to our Bahr with your Conservation Leadership Award and awarding the
chapter in recognition of the strong volunteer work that Grand Canyon Chapter additional financial support associated
Jenny donates to the Grand Canyon Chapter. with that. We are honored by the recognition and the support of
our work. We also want to acknowledge all of the great conservation
work Wilburforce makes possible throughout Arizona and the West.
For that, and more, we cannot thank them enough.
Make a Dif ference
Make Diff
We send out an appeal in March to each of our members, asking Thank you to Harry and Darlene Newman for
for contributions directly to the Chapter. You will not receive any their generous support of our Restore and
contributions requests from national Sierra Club during this time Protect the Grand Canyon and the Greater
so that you can concentrate on your local Chapter. Grand Canyon Ecoregion Campaign!
These contributions really do make a difference and are an
important part of our Chapter’s budget. When you make a donation
to the Chapter, you support our work in your own backyard,
protecting wilderness and wildlife, improving the quality of life in
The Grand Canyon Chapter of the Sierra Club
our cities, and promoting the enjoyment of nature.
also wishes to thank all of the other
generous and kind support received from
Please be as generous as you are able. Thank you!
those who chose to remain anonymous.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
6 Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter
State of the State Environment
By Governor Janet Napolitano
In my State of the State address, I focused on three components of what I call the Forest Health
One Arizona Plan – education, foundation, and innovation. A quality education system It is also important
for our children, a broad and stable foundation on which to grow, and an ability to that we continue to
innovate are essential in building a stronger Arizona economy. monitor and sustain the
Arizona’s landscape, natural splendor, and unique wildlife are major reasons Arizona health of our forests. I
is the fastest growing state in the nation. With this growth comes increasing necessity will continue the work
to further lay a foundation to meet the needs of our population, while being stewards we began two years ago
of Arizona’s natural resources. when we gave counties
Water the authority to adopt
A rapidly growing population coupled with a decade-long drought makes water and enforce a wildland
management essential. It is past time to enact legislation that will give our counties fire interface code.
and cities more tools to incorporate the availability of water in their planning decisions. This year, we will
We need to provide communities with tools to restrict wildcat subdivisions, limit take this a step further by
development where there is no assured water supply, and address the problem of establishing a state
exempt wells. My budget continues the assistance and research provided through the wildland/urban interface
new Arizona Water Institute code to ensure all
To ensure fast-growing communities can afford the water infrastructure they need, communities have basic
I directed the Arizona Departments of Environmental Quality and Commerce to protections from
provide longer-term, 30-year financing through a partnership between the Water devastating fires. In my
Infrastructure Finance Authority and the Greater Arizona Development Authority. State of the State, I also
This approach will save communities millions in interest payments, while providing called upon the
safe drinking water and protecting our precious water resources. Legislature to amend
Air Governor Janet Napolitano. Photo courtesy of State of Arizona. state statute to ensure
Growth is healthy in an economic sense, but it can have a significant impact on Arizona maintains a fire code that is up to date.
our state’s natural environment, particularly on air quality. In Maricopa County last Growth Cabinet
year, there were more pollution warnings issued than ever before. This is a troubling Natural resources and issues related to our national environment must be
fact. approached in a comprehensive, coordinated way. That is why I am expanding the
We have taken several steps in the right direction as it relates to air quality – for the scope of my “Growth Cabinet” – a group that includes the directors of agencies that
first time ever, Arizona has protocols for hazardous air pollution emissions and a deal with growth-related issues. I have directed my cabinet to develop – within 120
strong rule for addressing mercury emissions. I also issued executive orders directing days – an implementation plan for a smart growth and development process.
state government to reduce particulates and green house gas emissions. This is a great The Growth Cabinet will also ensure that all state agencies and stakeholders are
start, but we still have much to do. working together on critical growth issues – for example, creating a water development
I recently signed Executive Order 2007-03 or Improving Air Quality to focus on fund for rural Arizona and ensuring that infrastructure is built in a manner that
high-growth areas and reduce emissions from all sources – including cars, industry, contemplates the effects of development on our water quality, air quality, and wildlife.
and development. I want to mitigate impacts from development and ensure consistency
when it comes to burning on no burn days. Janet Napolitano was re-elected as Arizona’s Governor in 2006.
ORVs – an Alphabet Soup of Problems for Wildlife
By Sandy Bahr
ORVs, OHVs, ATVs, and The dust and noise are a problem, too. If you think the noise is disturbing to people,
ATCs are all acronyms for a just imagine being a desert creature, living on the margins already, and being forced to
growing problem. According to use precious resources to flee these noisy vehicles. Some, like desert tortoises, are just
the Motor Vehicle Division not fast enough and are often injured or killed by ORVs.
(MVD) at the Arizona There is no question that irresponsible ORV use is a growing problem. Several of
Department of Transportation the ORV groups even agree on this. What to do about it, however, is where the rubber
(ADOT), the number of off- meets the road, so to speak. Currently, there is a bill in the Arizona Legislature to
highway vehicles (OHVs) – all require registration and a user fee for ORVs. Some of the dollars from the fee are
terrain vehicles (ATVs) and all targeted for increased law enforcement and education. Another positive aspect of the
terrain cycles (ATCs) – registered bill is that it specifically prohibits ORVs from closed areas and allows them only
or titled in Arizona has grown where the agency has opened an area, making it easier to enforce the law as well. The
from about 51,453 in 1998 to bill requires mufflers to reduce noise and specifically limits riding these vehicles in a
more than 230,000 as of July way that causes damage to wildlife or habitat, including cultural and natural resources.
2006. With that increase has All of these are positive steps in the right direction.
come much damage to The biggest negative in the bill is that a large chunk of the dollars are targeted
vegetation, cultural and primarily for trail development. The Sierra Club’s main concern is that this will result
archaeological sites, and the land in opening even more areas, including new areas, for ORVs and will ultimately result
and wildlife. in more damage to wildlife and habitat.
Some off-road vehicle
(ORV) users believe (wrongly) Sandy is the Chapter Conservation Outreach Director.
that any wash is really an open Photo courtesy of Scott Jones.
trail. In reality, there are few places where these vehicles are more disruptive to wildlife.
Especially in our desert lands, washes are critical for wildlife and the last place we The Sierra Club is working for a bill that will limit and mitigate the
should allow vehicles to run amok. Other individuals drive off across the desert or damage caused by ORVs. To find out more about the bill or its
other open areas, especially if they are public lands, although private lands are also current status, go to http://arizona.sierraclub.org/political_action/
often used and damaged as well. None of this is okay. Many areas are seeing illegally tracker. To stay informed on this and other legislation, contact Sandy
created trails that become de facto use areas – after one person drives where he or she Bahr at 602-253-8633 or sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org and ask to be
shouldn’t, another does the same, and then another. This results in lost wildlife habitat added to the weekly legislative update list.
due to destruction of vegetation, soil erosion, and negative impacts to water quality.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
March/April 2007 Canyon Echo 7
ersection
Inter Energy, Wildlife
The Intersection of Energy, Wild Lands, and Wildlife
By Jon Findley
“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.”
~John Muir
Traditionally, the Sierra Club has worked to preserve wild and scenic areas by the need for more generation and generate electricity on-site or in nearby renewable
raising awareness of threats and generating political pressure to stop intrusion or energy utilities. If it doesn’t disturb sensitive areas, upgrade existing transmission lines
destruction of these special places. These threats have been from many causes, including to carry greater loads.
logging, mining, grazing, and, more recently, Problem: Proponents of nuclear energy
urban sprawl and development. Protection want to open new uranium mines on public
of these areas, of course, has benefited local lands. The mining process brings toxic
wildlife populations. tailings to the surface that pose health
After much deliberation and the first problems to all life, wild and otherwise. The
ever “Summit Conference,” bringing over roads and traffic through natural areas cut
700 members into a decision-making off migration routes and attract recreational
process, the Club has reorganized its vehicle use that continues the disruption
priorities. We established “Building a New long after the actual mining operation has
Energy Future” as our first priority for the been shut down. Solution: Promote
next five years. This decision certainly hasn’t renewable energy and efficiency to eliminate
abandoned our dedication to natural and the need for additional generating capacity.
wild areas. Instead, it addresses the fact that Problem: The current administration
by focusing on problems posed by energy wants to drill for gas and oil in new places,
generation and use, pressure will be relieved many of which are sensitive areas. Biofuel
on many of the places we want to protect. has been proposed as a possible alternative,
Here are some examples: but this increases the need for farming
Problem: Electric companies have Powerlines on the KOFA National Wildlife Refuge. Photo courtesy of Sandy Bahr. marginal lands and the application of
determined that we need to upgrade old transmission lines and build new capacity. fertilizer, both of which reduce the quantity and quality of habitat. Solution: Raise
Most people, understandably, do not want to live by the power lines, but they do Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency standards and/or institute a carbon tax to reduce
want an inexhaustible supply of electricity. The transmission lines then tend to be the amount of petroleum products used by vehicles.
proposed in unoccupied environments, many of which are sensitive and critical habitats. All of these problems are much more complicated than this brief description can
For example, the proposed Devers-Palo Verde 2 transmission line would widen an convey. And there is no single, simple solution to any of them. But solutions do exist,
existing right-of-way through the KOFA National Wildlife Refuge. This is critically and as we focus on how to solve these inter-related problems, new and better solutions
important habitat for the desert bighorn sheep, desert tortoise, and other species in will be found.
need of protection. Solution: Institute efficiency and conservation measures to eliminate Jon is the Chapter’s Energy Committee Chair.
Your Arizona Wildlife A gency – Past, Present, Future
Wildlife Agency Past, Future
By Halina Szyposzynski
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is the entity with the most direct and Department are
impact on the relationship between Arizona’s citizens and our wildlife. A five- demonstrating greater
member Commission, appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation, responsiveness to
directs the Department’s wildlife policy. We the public have numerous public input; for
opportunities to help define that policy by staying informed, lobbying our example, significant
legislators, attending Commission meetings, and participating in the Department’s improvements were
planning processes. made to the
The Department’s mission is “to conserve, enhance, and restore Arizona’s Department’s Strategic
diverse wildlife resources and habitats through aggressive protection and Plan, Wildlife 2012,
management programs and to provide wildlife resources and safe watercraft and and to the mountain
off-highway vehicle recreation for the enjoyment, appreciation, and use by present l i o n / h u m a n
and future generations.” interaction protocol
The Department is probably best known by the general public for regulating based on public
hunting, fishing, and trapping by issuing licenses and tags, setting seasons, and so comment from
forth. Indeed, the Commission was created in the 1880s by hunters and anglers individuals and
motivated by the unregulated decimation of Arizona’s game animals and the desire organizations including
to stock “desirable” species. our Grand Canyon
The culture of the Department continues to emphasize providing “hunting Chapter. The
and angling opportunity.” This is partly due to disparities in funding for Department has been
conservation of game versus non-game species. Today, however, the traditional in the forefront
consumptive wildlife users share their influence with other wildlife enthusiasts, Black-tailed prairie dog. Photo courtesy of Scott Sprague. nationally on
including environmental organizations such as the Sierra Club. We also share endangered species conservation, partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
many areas of agreement on protecting wildlife; chief among these is the critical on projects to recover the black-footed ferret, Mexican gray wolf, and native fish.
need to protect wildlife habitat from unrestrained development, destructive Even our Gunnison’s prairie dogs caught a break in 2002 when the Commission
recreational uses, and incompatible livestock practices. prohibited killing them during breeding season, although reintroduction of the
Ongoing areas of concern for ecosystem-minded conservationists include black-tailed prairie dog has stalled.
continued non-native fish stocking, the Department’s readiness to eliminate the We urge the Commission and Department to exercise more assertive leadership
competition – predators – as in aerial coyote shooting and mountain lion hunts on habitat protection when interacting with those state and local entities that
presumed to boost game animal numbers, and water catchment projects of regulate land use. They should also enlist the entire public in building a stewardship
questionable value to wildlife facing forage and habitat loss due to drought and mentality and lobbying for adequate funding to give all Arizona’s native species
poor land use. their due attention. The Department’s many non-traditional constituents are ready
Notable positive developments include the appointment of Commissioners and willing to help.
who possess education and job experience in wildlife biology. The Commission Halina is the Chapter’s Wildlife Committee Chair.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
8 Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter
Warm Fire Logging Proposal Will Devastate Impor tant Wildlife Habitat
Proposal Devastate Important Wildlife
By Stacey Hamburg
In June 2006, the Warm Fire burned almost mortality “can not be considered spotted owl
60,000 acres of piñon-juniper woodlands, habitat again for a long time.” The same goes for
ponderosa pine, and mixed conifer forests on the Kaibab squirrel habitat.
Kaibab Plateau near the Grand Canyon’s north rim. Post-fire logging does significant damage,
The Forest Service made a strategic decision to let drastically changes the plant and animal succession,
the fire burn naturally as a tool for wild land and has no ecological benefit. Moreover, the Warm
restoration but quickly lost control. Now they Fire Salvage Logging Plan is only miles away from
would like to “address restoration needs” by allowing Grand Canyon National Park, making it even
private logging interests to “recover the economic more imperative that this area be treated in a manner
value from the burned timber.” This proposal is that respects the integrity of the ecological systems.
calling for the removal of 84.5 million board feet The Greater Grand Canyon Ecoregion is part of a
of trees that are greater than 14 inches in diameter larger whole, and, rather than managing the Grand
on almost 10,000 acres of forest. Canyon National Park as a solitary island,
It has long been recognized by the scientific ecosystem-based conservation would more
community that standing dead trees (snags), effectively address the issue of long-term viability
particularly large dead trees, are integral to post-fire of all native species in the Park and surrounding
ecological recovery. Larger diameter trees – exactly area.
those the Warm Fire project proposes to log – with The Draft Environmental Impact Statement
a small percentage of live crown could still live for will be made available for comment this summer.
another 3-10 years. During that time these trees Please let the Forest Service know that you are
would continue to provide valuable habitat for opposed to salvage logging on the North Kaibab
wildlife, a seed source for the next generation of near Grand Canyon National Park’s famed north
trees, and stability for the soil. rim. Keep an eye on the Kaibab Forest Service
The Project Assessment Report conducted by website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/kai for future
the North Kaibab Ranger District details the comment deadlines.
importance of snags and logs for nesting, roosting,
or foraging for numerous species. Yet all of this is
For more information, contact Stacey
disregarded since, as the Forest Service claims, the
Mexican spotted owls. Photo courtesy of Robin Silver. Hamburg at 928-774-6514 or
future conditions are likely to exceed “post-fire snag
stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org.
and log levels typical of [historical] conditions in ponderosa pine forests.” The boundary
of critical habitat for the Mexican spotted owl extends into the Warm Fire area of the
North Kaibab Ranger District. However, the report claims that areas classified as high Stacey is the Grand Canyon Conservation Program Coordinator.
Do you like to read? Are you interested in the
environment? Join other Sierra Club members
in a book club focused on environmental topics!
Thursday, March 22, 7 p.m.
arch
Thursday, Mar p.m.
For more information, please contact Jessica at elljes@yahoo.com.
Cuddly Killers
By Scott Sprague
As an outdoor enthusiast, I have always enjoyed the multitude
of native species that make use of the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert.
However, during a recent visit, I left with a feeling of disgust after
seeing a dozen furry killing machines in various stages of the hunt.
An estimated 40 million pet cats in the U.S. are allowed to
roam outside. On average, each of these cats kills nearly a bird a
week. When Mittens leaves an occasional present, it may seem
inconsequential, but add in Felix and his friends and you get an
annual death toll of 1.6 billion birds. Add the 70 million feral cats,
and it’s over 3 billion. The number of small mammals killed each
year is almost twice that amount, resulting in approximately 9 billion
kills a year in the U.S. alone.
Because our native wildlife evolved without cats around, many are not sufficiently
equipped to avoid becoming a stand-in for a ball of yarn. Worldwide, cats have decimated
wildlife populations, hitting historically predator-free island ecosystems like Hawaii American widgeon. Photo courtesy of Scott Sprague.
and New Zealand the hardest. Several listed animals are threatened by cats, including
the piping plover, the least tern, and the San Bernardino kangaroo rat. Many Arizona There may not be an easy answer to the feral cat problem, but there is a simple
species of concern are documented victims: burrowing owls, gilded flickers, orange- solution to the pet cat issue. Keep Snowball inside! The average lifespan of an indoor
crowned warblers, hummingbirds, and even Mexican long-tongued bats. cat is over 15 years. With cars, disease, parasites, poison, and other animals to deal
While the ranks of citizens arguing for better environmental stewardship are with, the average outdoor cat doesn’t pass 5.
swelling, members of this cause often shrug off their role in the execution of native Scott is a wildlife biologist and an active member of the Wildlife Committee.
species, explaining why Fluffy can’t stay inside. Some even relate their support of the
neighborhood feral cat colony. Trap, neuter, and release programs (TNRs) sound
For more information, contact Scott Sprague at 623-826-7362
alright, but the average cat lives 7 years from the time of release. By supporting one or visit www.azgfd.gov/w_c/partners_flight.shtml.
(non-native) feral cat, you forfeit the lives of over 200 birds and 400 small mammals.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
March/April 2007 Canyon Echo 9
Restoring Wild Ecosystems: the Role of Wolves
estoring Ecosystems: Role olves
Wolv
Get Involved!
By Bettina Bickel
We climbed through pungent sage to an overlook
in the Lamar Valley and set up our spotting scopes. Chapter Committees
Within minutes, several wolves of the Druid Pack
emerged into view from the cottonwoods along the Conservation
Lamar River, frolicking and playing as a group of big Chair: Don Steuter
puppies. They came upon four bull elk and loped casually 602-956-5057
towards them. When one of the elk split off from the dsteuter@hotmail.com
group, the wolves’ attitude changed to deadly serious.
The scene I witnessed in Yellowstone that afternoon Energy
has effects that go beyond wolves and elk – effects that Chair: Jon Findley
ripple throughout the ecosystem. Wolves are considered 480-756-2912
a keystone or “highly interactive” species because they jonaz@learnweb.com
influence the presence and abundance of many other
species. Conversely, the absence of wolves may cause a Environmental Justice
decline in the function of the entire ecosystem. Chair: Keith Bagwell
In Yellowstone and elsewhere, studies are showing akbagwell@hotmail.com
that interactions between the gray wolf and its primary
prey, elk, are affecting riparian plant communities and Forest Conservation
the diverse array of species dependent on them. Woody Volunteer Opportunity
browse species, once heavily suppressed by elk, are
returning in greater abundance to riparian corridors. In Grand Canyon
turn, beaver have been able to re-colonize these riparian Volunteer Opportunity
areas. Beavers themselves are a strongly interactive species
through their function as “ecosystem engineers.” Their Mining
activities affect channel stability and water tables, while Chair: Don Steuter
creating wetlands habitats that support diverse species. 602-956-5057
Besides their role in restoring riparian habitats, the wolves’ Gray wolf. Photo courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. dsteuter@hotmail.com
presence benefits scavengers, from grizzly bears to bald eagles. Also, wolves have
significantly reduced the coyote population in Yellowstone, which greatly benefits You can help! National Parks & Wildlife
species such as red fox and pronghorn. Refuges
In the Blue Range Recovery Area of Arizona and New Mexico, the Mexican gray Sign up for updates on wolf recovery Chair: Ken Langton
wolf recovery effort began in 1998, but the wolves have not been given the chance to at www.azgfd.gov. 520-749-3829
perform their ecosystem restoration work. While the wolves have demonstrated the kplangton@msn.com
ability to hunt and kill wild prey, form packs, and reproduce, their recovery is being Check out www.gcwolfrecovery.org
undermined by policies based more on anti-wolf politics than on science. The Three for information on recovering wolves Water & Watershed
in the Grand Canyon ecosystem. Protection
Year Review, released in 2001 by a group of wolf experts, included recommendations
that have yet to be implemented. One recommendation was to allow wolves to range Participate in the National Forest Chair: Elna Otter
beyond the arbitrary recovery area boundaries, yet the government continues to trap Management planning process to otter@rnsmte.com
these wolves, resulting in several wolf deaths and injuries and disruption of pack promote plans that minimize
cohesiveness. Another recommendation was to require public lands ranchers to take damaging effects of activities such as Wilderness
responsibility for livestock carcasses so that wolves do not become habituated to eating grazing and excessive roads and Chair: Michelle Pulich Stewart
emphasize a return to natural sun7river@yahoo.com
livestock. Unfortunately, the government has instead implemented an aggressive processes.
predator control program on the wolves and has already shot eight of them.
As a keystone species, wolves are an important force in restoring sustainable Contact the Chapter office at Wildlife
ecosystems. Let’s give them the chance. grand.canyon.chapter@sierraclub.org Chair: Halina Szyposzynski
for more information. halina@amerion.com
Tina is a member of the Wildlife Committee.
Classified Ads
($8 for 30 words or less each issue, $48 for entire year, $0.25 for each additional FOR SALE. Eco-Friendly CoHousing Home with solar panels, 3bd/2ba, Tucson.
word. Reaches more than 13,000 readers throughout Arizona. To place an ad, See floorplan F at stonecurves.com. Organic garden, playground, pool/spa, 4000
mail or email your copy to the Editor. We do not accept personals. Please make sf common house, meal club, women’s groups, kids’ activities. Community has
check payable to Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter.) received two Urban Forestry grants for water harvesting to support native trees
and wildlife. Direct bus to University, near jogging trail, Trader Joes. Asking
EARTH WISE SINGLES. Where eco-passionate, politically active people meet $272,900. All offers considered, looking for community-minded people. Call Ron
others of like mind and heart. Join the community that cares. Easy to use. Post or Karen at 520-777-5999.
your profile free. www.EWSSingles.com.
FOR RENT. Cabin and vintage trailers at Blue River Wilderness Retreat. Cool off
RENT.
TRAVEL. July 2007 – Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa. LEADER: Beth Brookhouse 480-
TRAVEL. and relax @ 6,400ft. Situated among pines and cottonwoods on the Blue River,
636-7440. Have you always wanted to go to Africa? Have you always wanted to bordered by the Apache/Sitgreaves National Forest, near the Blue Range Primitive
go on a safari? Mt. Kilimanjaro is 19,340 ft and is the highest freestanding Area. Abundant hiking, birding, and fishing opportunities along perennial streams.
mountain in the World. This extinct volcano looms over 5 different ecosystems. Located on the Arizona/New Mexico border near Alpine, AZ. Reasonable rates!
I’d like to invite you to join me for a trek to the “Roof of Africa”! Are you interested Group or individual accommodations. Rent by the week or month.
in joining me? If so, please contact me ASAP at the phone number above. Total www.blueriverretreat.com. Call: 628-339-4426 Email: j.hoffman@frontiernet.net
cost of the trip is estimated at $6995.
MASSAGE BY EVANS.
MASSAGE BY JOHN I. EVANS. For optimum sports/work/activity performance,
TRAVEL. Explore Galapagos Islands! Nov. 3-13, 2007. Remote, pristine paradise,
TRAVEL. injury/chronic pain relief, over 11 yrs. exp.,”Muscle Relief (and) Repetitive
magical wildlife encounters! Small group – live aboard First Class Yacht. Aug. 16- Use Injury Techniques®”/deep tissue/stretching. 480-495-0898
26 – Mystical Peru and Machu Picchu with Shaman guide. For these and izymassage@aol.com Sierra Club member-licensed-certified-insured.
other life-changing journeys, contact Gayle at 727-785-5536 or visit
www.ajourneyofdiscovery.com. LOTUS MASSAGE & WELLNESS CENTER. Therapeutic massage and
bodywork. Relax afterward with a complimentary beverage in our 1930 adobe
SMALL-SHIP CRUISES. We’ll plan your next cruise. Small ships take you up-
SMALL-SHIP CRUISES. “house” or backyard garden. Locally owned, environmentally and socially
close to wildlife. Enjoy a voyage of discovery and exploration. Alaska, British responsible. Convenient location, 2850 E. Grant, Tucson. 520-326-7700,
Columbia, Costa Rica. www.CruiseHappyTravel.com. 480-626-2241. www.lotustucson.com.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
10 Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter
Happenings Around the State
Welcome! Six Groups make up the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter (see pg. 2 for listings). Conservation, political and legislative activism, administra-
tive work, and outings are a few ways we work to protect this amazing state. And there are many more! All the events and meetings listed below
to members interest
erested
are open to members interested in learning more about the Sierra Club. We aim to make this world a better, more livable place. We need
your help! You can find out more at our website: www.arizona.sierraclub.org - click on meetings.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
Keeping Gr oups in the Loop
Groups Chapter Announcements
Meetings are open to the public. MAR 5 (MON) 5:30 p.m. Chapter Political Committee meeting. Meet at the Sierra
For directions or more information, please call or email Club’s Phoenix office. The committee meets monthly to discuss legislative issues and to act
the contact person listed. as advocates for conservation by taking political action. Contact Lynn DeMuth at
lmdemuth@cox.net for details.
Palo Verde Group (Phoenix and suburbs) MAR 15 (THUR) 6:30 p.m. Wildlife Committee meeting. Help plan fun wildlife
outings, learn about wildlife research and agency policies, and meet some great folks who
share your concern for Arizona’s critters. Meet at the Willow Coffee House at SE corner of 3rd
MAR 13 (TUE) and APR 10 (TUE) 6:30 p.m. Conservation Committee Ave and McDowell. Please contact Halina S. at hkubus@yahoo.com or Sandy Bahr at 602-
meeting. The Conservation Committee meets to discuss preservation, forest protection, 253-8633.
wildlife and endangered species, energy conservation, growth management, etc. Contact
Executiv Committee
ecutive
Don Steuter at 602-956-5057 or dsteuter@hotmail.com. Executive Committee 27 24 Committee meetings.
MAR 27 and APR 24 (TUE) 6 p.m. Energy Committee meetings. Discuss various
meeting, 8 p.m. The Executive Committee meets to review group policies, outdoor energy activities, including Cool Cities and renewable energy campaigns nationally and locally.
activities, finances, and other business. Contact Blair McLaughlin at 602-618-8591 or Everyone is invited to participate, no matter how much or how little you know about energy
for both meetings:
blair.mclaughlin@cox.net. Location for both meetings: Sierra Club Grand Canyon issues. Location: Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter office, 202 E. McDowell in Phoenix (2nd
Chapter office, 202 E. McDowell in Phoenix (2nd floor conference room in the SE corner floor conference room in the SE corner of the Los Olivos-Quality Inn Suites). Please contact Jon
of the Los Olivos-Quality Inn Suites). Findley at 480-756-2916 or jonaz@learnweb.com.
MAR 20 (TUE) 6:30 p.m. General meeting/Water-Hikes presentation. Share Echo.
APR 1 (THUR). Copy deadline for May/June Canyon Echo. Articles, art, photographs,
an evening with Darrell Foster, the Palo Verde Group Outings Chairperson and Hike poetry, essays, and brief epiphanies are welcome. Contact the editor before submitting at
Leader, as he shares photographs and hike details from seven beautiful, rugged, remote, 602-253-9140 or tiffany.sprague@sierraclub.org to discuss word count, photos to include,
lesser-known water-hikes This “Sierra Seven” presentation will be a preview of the licensing, issue topics, and to request submission guidelines.
upcoming water-hike season, with one of the seven being led each month (Apr. through
Oct. - 15 hiker limit) by Darrell. The intent is to inspire you to get out there on your own to APR 3 (TUE) 6 p.m. Water Committee meeting. Contact Elna Otter at otter@rnsmte.com
explore these natural water parks. Oh… and the best part - it’s FREE! Location: Phoenix for more information.
Zoo at 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Directions: at the zoo go thru two entrances,
then to left, and follow the signs. Refreshments at 6:30. Meeting/presentation from 7- Cany Echo
APR 25 (WED) 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. (stop by anytime) Canyon Echo Mailing Par ty. Club arty
Party.
8:30. Questions? Contact Sherry at 602-840-4611 or sceline53@yahoo.com. volunteers save the Chapter thousands of dollars every year by preparing the Canyon Echo for
mailing. Thank you! The job is easy to learn and takes only a few hours once every two months.
17 Movie
APR 17 (TUE) 6:30 p.m. Movie Night. Get reeled into a movie about the conflict We all have a great time. Any amount of time that you’re available is appreciated. Contact
between energy and wildlands. The Rocky Mountain region is being converted to an Jerry Nelson at 602-279-4668 or peakbagger2@gmail.com or Bill Gill at gill412@cox.net for
industrial landscape due to oil and gas exploration and the pumping of billions of location and other details.
gallons from Montana and Wyoming aquifers. After this provocative movie, we will
discuss how this affects humans and wildlife as well as possible alternatives. Location:
Phoenix Zoo at 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Directions: at the zoo, go through two Rincon Group (Tucson and surrounding area)
entrances, then to left, and follow the signs. Refreshments at 6:30. Meeting/presentation
from 7-8:30. Contact Sherry at 602-840-4611 or sceline53@yahoo.com.
Rincon Group Gatherings at the Botanical Gardens. Join fellow Sierra Club
members at the Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way, for educational,
entertaining, and social gatherings the second Thursday of the month. Free, ample, on-
site parking. Refreshments served. Programs are free. Donations are always cheerfully
Yavapai Group (Prescott and surrounding area) accepted to help pay for putting on these programs. For further information on any of
these programs, contact Linda Rothchild at 520-747-5078 or ltepper@juno.com.
MAR 7 and APR 4 (WED) 6 p.m. Executive Committee meetings. For
vironment
Envir porate
Confronting Corporat Po er.”
MAR 8 (THUR) 7 p.m. “The Environment & Confronting Corporate Power.”
information and directions, contact Tom Slaback at 928-778-4233.
Dick Worthen, a representative of the national Sierra Club’s Corporate Accountability
Committee (CAC), presents an invigorating look at this issue. The CAC was formed just
meeting.
MAR 29 (THUR) 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. General meeting. Author adventurer Tyler
a few years ago and has now grown into a full-fledged national committee with three
Williams, formerly of Prescott and now living in Flagstaff, will highlight the best from his
task forces under its umbrella: Water Privatization, Shareholder Action, and Confronting
new guidebook Paddling Arizona Rivers and Creeks. Tyler’s slide show will cover the
Corporate Power. Come hear what Dick has to say on this burgeoning issue and join the
basics of boat selection, technique, and Arizona’s best paddling destinations from
conversation.
Apache Lade to the Verde River. If you have wondered about paddling a pond, lake, or
river in Arizona, this show is a must attend. Meet at the Prescott Public Library in the
APR 12 (THUR) 7 p.m. Happy Earth Day to all! Every day is Earth Day to the Sierra
Founders Room, lower level.
Club, but each April we like to celebrate it with something exciting, different, and uplifting.
For this evening, we have two very special guests: Mitch Stevens, Rincon Group’s new
Date TBA. Film Nite. Check our website or the message to appear on our Group
Outings Chair, and our very own Roy Emrick. Mitch will take us on a multi-media tour
listserve for program details.
with slides and music featuring hikes throughout the Southwest. Roy, who has held
several positions in the Sierra Club, is also the current president of the Buenos Aires
National Wildlife Refuge! Roy is bringing us an inside look at this remarkable refuge that
is rarely seen and practically unknown. Music and refreshments on the patio will follow
Saguaro Group (North Maricopa County) this inspiring program. Spend an evening under the stars celebrating our beautiful
Earth!
MAR 22 (THUR) 7 p.m. Excom meeting. All members are welcome to attend and The Program Committee needs your help! Can you come in early or
participate. Enjoy refreshments and environmental conversation. Located at Harris stay a few minutes after a program? Join our committee and be
Bank, SE corner of Scottsdale Rd. and Carefree Hwy. For more information contact an active part of the group! For more information or to get involved,
Louis Lantz at 480-488-4581 or louis85331@msn.com. contact Linda Rothchild at 520-747-5078 or ltepper@juno.com.
APR 18 (WED) 7 p.m. General meeting. Join the Friends of the Agua Fria National
Monument for an introduction to the unique archaeology and resources of nearby Agua
Fria National Monument. Then join us on Earth Day (Apr. 22) for an opportunity to see Plateau Group (Flagstaff and surrounding area)
the monument’s wonders up close. Meeting located at Harris Bank, SE corner of
Scottsdale Rd. and Carefree Hwy. For more information, contact Louis Lantz at 480-
488-4581 or louis85331@msn.com. MAR 6 (TUE) 6 p.m. Executive Committee meeting. We will discuss current
campaigns and events. Contact Bob Sutherland at 928-774-9309 for more information.
Fossil Week
eekend
APR 28 (SUN) 6 p.m. Fossil Creek Weekend and Film Club. To follow up on
our Saturday Hike to Fossil Creek, we are showing the film A River Restored at the home APR 2 (MON) 6 p.m. Planning meeting. Join us for a dinner meeting to discuss
of Louis Lantz. Enjoy viewing on a new wide screen, discussion, conversation, and plans for the upcoming year, including public meetings, guest speaker events, and our
refreshments. RSVP Louis Lantz at 480-488-4581 or louis85331@msn.com. conservation priorities for 2007. We will discuss the Sunshine Wind Project as well.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
March/April 2007 Canyon Echo 11
Enjoy and Explore Arizona
(SAT) Tule
MAR 3 (SAT) “B+” Tule Creek Day Day Superstition Wilderness follows a This easy one-way hike will take us 31 (SAT) Sev
MAR 31 (SAT) Seven Springs Trail Trail
Hike. This 14-mi. trek (for fast hikers primitive trail from Carney Springs from the river at Blue Point to Dome Project. The Forest Service is
only) north of Lake Pleasant will follow through West Boulder Canyon and Mountain Trailhead by way of Bulldog constructing an interpretive trail at the
dirt roads, off-trail routes, and burro then to First Water Trailhead Canyon in the Tonto National Forest. picnic grounds. Help with signage on the
paths up and down mesas and canyons via the Dutchman Trail. The hike’s Our route is through a region of colorful 2/3 mi. trail. Lunch provided. Contact
and through riparian areas to ancient bushwhacking and rockhopping are Sonoran vegetation and wildlife with Louis Lantz or Bev Full for information
cultural sites. Expect steep, slippery, rewarded by miles of spectacular expansive views of the rugged western at 480-488-4581 or bfull@cox.net.
and rocky slopes and thick and vicious scenery and enjoyable hiking over skyline of the Goldfield Mountains Phoenix
vegetation, including cholla fields. Bring slickrock canyon bottoms. Bring (cameras recommended). A joint outing
sneakers or sandals for wading the at least 3 quarts of water. Gloves with the Arizona Trailblazers Hiking Club. 31 (SAT) Woods Cany
MAR 31 (SAT) “C” Woods Can y on
Agua Fria River if it is flowing. Gloves recommended. Drive 55 mi. from No auto shuttle! Two parties will hike in Trail Day Hike (Sedona) (6.5 mi. RT,
Day Hike
recommended. Drive 30 mi. from Scottsdale. Call Ken McGinty at 602- opposite directions and meet near hill 100’ EC) This trail follows Woods
Phoenix. Call Ken McGinty at 602-265- 265-2854. Phoenix 2166 for lunch and exchange of car Canyon, through which Dry Beaver
2854. Phoenix keys. Bring a spare key. Call Ted Tenny Creek flows, and features views,
10 (SAT) Hot
MAR 10 (SAT) “C” Ho t Loop Trail Trail at 480-396-3389. Phoenix running water sometimes, and riparian
10 (SAT) Hieroglyphic
MAR 10 (SAT) “C” Hieroglyphic Day Hike (Sedona) (6 mi. RT, 900’
Day Hike habitat. Located 8.7 mi. from the
Superstitions Mt
Trail, Super stitions Mt. (3 mi. RT, EC). This trail climbs to the top of Wild MAR 23-25 (FRI-SUN) “B-“ Sedona Y. Contact Nancy Sutherland
570’ EC, moderate pace). Hieroglyphic Horse Mesa and features beautiful red Tumacacori Wilderness Area Car at 928-774-9309 for meeting time
Canyon has a great collection of rocks with great views. The top of the Camp/Day Hike (6 mi. RT, 1500’ EC).
Camp/Da Hike
p/Day and location. Flagstaff
Hohokam petroglyphs. Hike to see mesa is a good vantage point from Off I-19, 50 mi. south of Tucson. We
rock art belonging to the ancient which to view Pine Valley, Jacks Canyon, will camp at approx. 3500’, hike to the (SAT) Wat ater
APR 7 (SAT) Water f all Hike/ Hike/
Hohokam who lived as far back and Lee Mountain. Located 9.4 mi. Atascosa Fire Lookout on one day, and Mattress Removal/Pizza Party
as 300 B.C. Contact Donna at from the Sedona Y. Contact Nancy beautiful and richly vegetated Bartolo Event Enjoy an exhilarating hike to the
donnatakeahike@yahoo.com. Phoenix Sutherland at 928-774-9309 for Canyon on the other day. Order of the falls, help haul out an unsightly mattress
meeting time and location. Flagstaff hikes decided by consensus. Optional: on the way back, then head for Louis’s
10 (SAT) Hike to Rea
MAR 10 (SAT) “B+” Hike to Reavis eavis Bring an entree to share Saturday night. nearby home for a pizza luncheon party.
Falls (11 mi. RT, 2010’ EC). Most 17 (SAT)
MAR 17 (SAT) “C” McDo w ell McDow If unable to attend the entire weekend, For information, contact Louis Lantz or
people would not believe that there is Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway please consider joining us for the day Bev Full at 480-488-4581 or
a 196’ tall waterfall in the heart of the Cleanup Project (3 mi. RT, 300’ EC).
Project on one of the hikes. For those camping, bfull@cox.net. Phoenix
Superstition Mountains. However, the In the eastern foothills of the McDowell we will depart Phoenix on Friday
water volume of Reavis Creek, which Mountains, our 5-mi. stretch of scenic afternoon. Contact Brian Crawford at (SAT) Low
APR 7 (SAT) “B+” Lower Fish Creek
supplies the falls, varies greatly blue highway meanders in and out of KL7JDQ@amsat.org (preferred) or 480- (Superstitions) Water-Hike (8.5 mi.
depending on recent local rain or snow McDowell Mountain Regional Park from 882-8755. Phoenix RT, 800’ EC, moderate pace). Join us
fall. So hopefully, if the El Nino forecast Fountain Hills to Rio Verde. Nestled on a water-hike through a seldom-
holds sway, the falls will be spectacular. between Four Peaks and the Turle Trail Day
urley
MAR 25 (SUN) “C” Turley Trail Day visited section of Fish Creek, just
We will hike the Reavis Ranch Trail Superstition, McDowell, and Mazatzal Hike (6 mi. RT, 300 ft. EC). A fun hike
Hike outside the Superstition Wilderness.
about 3.5 mi. and then follow Reavis Mountains, there’s no finer place in the on the edge of Prescott with many great After dropping some vehicles at the
Creek to the falls. Experiencing the Sonoran desert to provide this views of the city and surrounding end-point, we will drop into the canyon
Superstitions, the wildflowers, and community service. We may visit mountains. Call Paul Poyner at 928- near the bridge on the legendary
Reavis Falls will be unforgettable. “McGinty’s Hidden Spring,” a secret 778-6534 or rpaul910@msn.com. Apache Trail and start hiking
Contact Mitch Stevens at and seldom seen Shangri-La known Prescott downstream. There are many creek
520-722-6860 (days) or only to Adopt-a-Highway alumni, or crossings along this 6-mi. hike down the
mitchstevens@qwest.net. Tucson “McGinty’s Kitchen Sink,” otherwise MAR 29 (THUR) “C” Bev’s canyon – none above waist deep
known as the “Grand Canyon” of eekday Hike: Cany
Weekday Hike: Black Canyon Trail Trail (depending on recent weather) – and
10 (SAT)
MAR 10 (SAT) Climbing Outing at McDowell Mountain Road. We’ll finish Hike. Hike on the recently constructed many beautiful pools. After reaching the
Mount Lemmon: Prison Camp and before noon, leaving the afternoon Black Canyon Trail, an old cattle trail river channel portion of Canyon Lake,
Jailhouse Rock. Join us for a day of free. Each trip participant receives an that runs from Carefree Highway to we exit the creek and walk the road
cragging at Jailhouse Rock on Mt. official Adopt-a-Highway t-shirt and Cordes Jct. We will do the part off the back up 2.5 mi. and shuttle back to
Lemmon near Tucson in the gloves courtesy of Maricopa County’s Table Mesa Road exit of I-17 and get the start. This is a water-hike (no trail),
Prison Camp/Gordon Hirabayashi Adopt-a-Highway program! Call Michael views of Lake Pleasant. Lunch at New so it’s much harder than it sounds with
Campground area. Our approach hike Brady at 602-534-1355. Phoenix River after hike. Contact Bev Full for lots of rock hopping and some pushing
will take approximately 20 minutes and reservations and directions at 480- through brush. Afterwards, we will dine
includes a section of scrambling over 17 (SAT)
MAR 17 (SAT) “B+” Bear Sign 221-2554 or bfull@cox.net. Phoenix on the patio of Canyon Lake Marina
loose rock negotiating a steep slope. Canyon/Dry Creek Loop Hike (8.5
We will discuss the impact that the mi., 1500’ EC, moderate pace). Join us See Outings continued on pg. 12
Aspen Fire and recent flooding have for something a little different in the
had on the area. Jailhouse Rock offers
climbing in the 5.5–5.10 range. Top
Sedona Canyons area. We will join two
trails by crossing over a saddle near
Hiking Guidelines
ropes will be set for participants. The their heads. There will be plenty of rock- The Sierra Club is a nationwide organization with active local outings for members and
trailhead lies at an elevation of 5000’. hopping, then thick brush and a very non-members. Please join us as we make friends and explore life-enriching interests.
Bring appropriate clothing as well as steep ascent at the crossover. These Simply find an outing by date and phone the contact for directions, reservations, time, and
adequate food and water. Meeting time canyons are filled with the red-rock additional information.
and place TBA. Sponsored by the beauty that defines the Sedona region. RESTRICTIONS: NO FIREARMS, RADIOS OR PETS.
Rincon Mountaineering Section, This is a demanding hike suited for Outings are by reservation. Call early (group limit 20). Each hike is rated for degree of
this outing requires Sierra Club strong, agile hikers. Afterward we will difficulty and risk by the leader.
membership, rock climbing experience, eat at an old favorite in Camp Verde.
and personal climbing equipment. SIGNUPS BEGIN Mar. 5th. “A” >16 miles or >3,000 ft. elevation change (EC)
Contact Jerry Cagle at 520-975-4955 Contact Darrell Foster at AZ-
or jcagle@cox.net for details. Tucson Outdoorsman@cox.net (preferred) or “B” 8–16 miles and 1,500–3,000 ft. EC
602-569-5549. Phoenix “C” 3–8 miles, 500–1,500 ft. EC RT Round Trip
10 (SAT) West
MAR 10 (SAT) “B+” West Boulder
Canyon Day Hike. This strenuous 10- 17 (SAT) Cany
MAR 17 (SAT) “C” Bulldog Canyon “D” <3 miles and 500 ft. EC OW One Way
mi. hike (for strong hikers only) in the One-Way Hike (8 mi., +830'-200').
Trip leader has absolute authority to question trip participants as to their equipment,
The Canyon Echo encourages its contributors to license their work through Creative conditioning, and experience before and during the trip. All participants on Sierra Club
Commons. This set of icons indicates that the contributor has chosen the Creative outings are required to sign a standard liability waver. If you would like to read the liability
Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike license: waver before you choose to participate in an outing, please go to http://www.sierraclub.org/
outings/chapter/forms or contact the National Outings Dept. at 415-977-5528 for a
printed version. Sierra Club liability covers leaders only. Each person is responsible for his
or her own first aid equipment. If you are injured, notify the leader immediately. If you leave
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License. the trip, with or without the leader’s permission, you are considered to be on your own until
To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5 or send a you rejoin the group. Hikers are encouraged to carpool and share the driver’s fuel expense.
letter to Creative Commons, 543 Howard Street, 5th Floor, San Francisco, California 94105. Suggested compensation is 5 cents/mile. Donations accepted from all participants at $1
(member) and $3 (nonmember). Money is collected by the leader and deposited with the
All other contributions, including photos, cartoons, and written work, fall under standard group treasurer. For more information, call Jim Vaaler, 602-553-8208. Hikes and outings
copyright restrictions. are also listed in the Rincon Group and Palo Verde Group Sierra Singles newsletters.
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
12 Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter
Outings continued from pg. 11
Enjoy and Explore Arizona
Restaurant with a beautiful view of the 14 (SAT) Peak
APR 14 (SAT) “C” Peak 3004 Loop between Four Peaks and the Restored, so you may want to sign up
lake. SIGNUPS BEGIN Mar. 21st (see Day Hike (6 mi, 1260' EC). Peak 3004 Superstition, McDowell, and Mazatzal for both events. Contact Louis Lantz for
preview to water-hike season at zoo is shaped like Mercedes-Benz, a 3- Mountains, there’s no finer place in the reservations and information at 480-
meeting on Mar. 20th). Contact Darrell pointed star with points to the east, Sonoran desert to provide this 488-4581 or louis85331@msn.com.
Foster at AZ-Outdoorsman@cox.net west, and north. Walk a scenic loop community service. We may visit Phoenix
(preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix around peak 3004 from Meridian “McGinty’s Hidden Spring,” a secret and
Trailhead on a popular trail, a seldom- seldom seen Shangri-La known only to MAY 5 (SAT) “B+” Mt. Ord Day Hike
MAY (SAT) Ord Day Hike
(SAT) Hike to Silver
APR 7 (SAT) “B+” Hike t o Silv er used trail, and an easy cross-country Adopt-a-Highway alumni, or “McGinty’s (14 mi. RT). The old dirt road up Mt. Ord
Peak (9.2 mi. RT, 3015’ EC). The mighty route. Be alert for wildlife along the way Kitchen Sink,” otherwise known as the in the Mazatzal Mtns. ascends nearly
Chiracahuas rise out of southeastern as we enjoy memorable views of the “Grand Canyon” of McDowell Mountain 4,000’ to a group of towers and the
Arizona, beautiful, rugged, and isolated Bush Pediment, Lone Mountain, Road. We’ll finish before noon, leaving forested 7,128’ summit. We’ll follow this
and offering some of the best hiking in Temptation Peak, Bulldog Ridge, and the the afternoon free. Each trip participant road as it passes through several
the state. Silver Peak (roughly 8000’) is mighty Superstitions. Call Ted Tenny at receives an official Adopt-a-Highway t- vegetation zones. In the process we’ll
a good introduction and will knock yours 480-396-3389. Phoenix shirt and gloves courtesy of Maricopa enjoy many fine vistas. Drive 55 mi. one-
socks off with one of the best summit County’s Adopt-a-Highway program! Call way from Scottsdale. Call Ken McGinty
views anywhere. This hike is in the 14 (SAT) aby
Huckab Trail Day
APR 14 (SAT) “C” Huckaby Trail Day Michael Brady at 602-534-1355. at 602-265-2854. Phoenix
eastern part of the range, out of the Hike
Hike (Sedona) (6 mi. RT, 200’ EC). This Phoenix
Portal/Cave Creek Canyon area. Expect trail runs between Schnebly Hill and MAY
MAY 25-28 (FRI-MON) “A
“A -“
spectacular panoramic views of the Midgley Bridge with the center part APR 25 (SAT) “B” Jacks Can y on
(SAT) Cany Memorial Weekend at Havasupai,
Chiracahuas and the Cave Creek following along the banks of Oak Creek. Trail Day Hike (Sedona) (10 mi. RT,
Day Hike Cany
Grand Canyon (20 mi. RT, 2430’ EC).
Canyon system from the summit. Featured are views, the inner gorge of 1800’ EC). This is an 1890s cattle trail Come enjoy the most beautiful part of
Contact Mitch Stevens at Oak Creek Canyon, and a variety of that goes from an inhabited area into the Grand Canyon. This trip will be done
520-722-6860 (days) or beautiful and interesting landscapes. some remote back country, climbing to at a moderate, comfortable pace.
mitchstevens@qwest.net. Tucson Located 1.3 mi. from the Sedona Y. the top of the Mogollon Rim. The trail is Phoenix departure time on Friday will be
Contact Nancy Sutherland at 928-774- interesting, scenic, and colorful, set by consensus, as early in the
(SAT
APR 7-8 (SAT-SUN) “B” Lime Creek 9309 for meeting time and location. especially if there is water running in the afternoon as possible, camping near
Backpack (18 mi RT). We will follow Flagstaff canyon. Located 9.4 mi. from the the trailhead Friday night, hiking down
this beautiful drainage through the Sedona Y. Contact Nancy Sutherland at Saturday morning, and hiking out on
middle of a 35,000 acre Inventoried APR 15 (SUN) “C” Copper Creek 928-774-9309 for meeting time and Monday. Hualapai Hilltop (trailhead)
Roadless Area in the Cave Creek District Day Hike
Day Hike (5 mi. RT, 470’ EC). Hiking location. Flagstaff elevation is 5170', campground is 2740'.
of Tonto National Forest. We will visit down the creek to the Hassayampa R.S.V.P. with deposit preferred before
historic and prehistoric sites along the River (and maybe across), we will see APR 27 (SAT) “C” Fossil Creek Hike.
27 (SAT) Fossil Hike. May 15th. For further information and
way, as well as view beautiful riparian an arrastra, a mine tunnel, a corral, and Carpool to the Fossil Creek Trail. Bring arrangements, contact Brian Crawford
scenery throughout the trip. Cattle have several creek crossings. We will lunch and water. This hike precedes the at KL7JDQ@amsat.org (preferred) or
not grazed this area for many years. We encounter some interesting boulder Sunday Film Club presentation of A River 480-882-8755. Phoenix
will spend the night by a rustic cabin. hopping. Probably, with luck, no wet feet
Sierra Service Outings
Water will not be a problem as there is will result. Call Paul Poyner at 928-778-
a beautiful spring right by the cabin. The 6534 or rpaul910@msn.com. PrescottPrescott
pace will be enjoyable and moderate
with an elevation change of less than 9-24
19-2
APR 19-24 (THUR–TUE) Canoe the (SAT) for Burro
MAR 3 (SAT) 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Build Homes for Burrowing Owls. Over 170
1000’ per day. The leader will set up a Green River through Canyonlands
burrowing owls rescued from development are awaiting new homes at the Wild at
car shuttle or key swap depending on ark
Par
National Park. Drive to Moab, UT, on
how many people sign up. For Thurs, Apr. 19th, canoe 20th-23rd, and Heart shelter. Join us to construct tents and participate in a possible owl release
reservations and meeting time and drive back on the 24th. Contact Bev Full at the end of the day. Location: 99th Ave. near 101 freeway in Peoria. Work all of
place, contact Jim Vaaler at 602-553- for information at 480-221-2554 or part of the day; be prepared to get down and dirty. Pizza lunch provided. Please
8208 or jimvaaler@msn.com. Phoenix bfull@cox.net. Total cost of trip includes contact Halina at 602-749-2063 or hkubus@yahoo.com for more information.
canoes and shuttles; food is $295. Phoenix
10 (SAT) Treasure
APR 10 (SAT) “D” Treasure Loop Phoenix
Trail (2.4 mi. RT, 500’ EC, moderate
21 (SAT) Eagletail Peak
pace). This hike starts at the Lost APR 21 (SAT) “C” Eagle tail Peak MAR 4 (SUN) 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Buffel Grass Removal at Ironwood
Dutchman State Park. We will hike along Hike (7 mi RT, 400’ EC, moderate pace).
Hike Forest National Monument. Assist the Bureau of Land Management with the
the majestic Superstitions Mountains. This is a gentle desert hike about 60 removal of buffel grass, a non-native invasive grass, from a portion of the Ironwood
A great hike for beginners. mi. west of Phoenix. There should be Forest National Monument. We will begin with a short orientation session on the
Please contact Donna at some great spring blooms. High monument and vegetation and on how to identify the grass and safely remove it.
Donnatakeahike@yahoo.com. Phoenix clearance vehicles are needed to reach Lunch will be provided. Bring water, a hat, sunscreen, work gloves, and lots of
the trailhead. The ridge is named after
energy. A group will be carpooling from Phoenix. For more information and to
APR 12 (THUR) “C” Bev’s Weekday three spires with appearance of
Hike: Bartlett Lake. Sack lunch after feathers. Contact Brian Crawford at R.S.V.P., contact Sandy Bahr at 602-253-8633 or sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org.
at the picnic shelter. Contact Bev Full KL7JDQ@amsat.org (preferred) or 480- Tucson
for reservations and directions at 480- 882-8755. Phoenix
221-2554. Phoenix MAR 10 and APR 14 (SAT) 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Piestewa Peak -Summit
10 14 (SAT) Pieste eak-Summit
Peak
21 (SAT)
APR 21 (SAT) “C” McDo w ell McDow Exotic Plant Removal. We will assist the Phoenix Chapter of the Weed Wackers
14 (SAT) onw
Iron Tree
APR 14 (SAT) “C” Iron w ood Tree Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway with removing buffel grass from a portion of Piestewa Peak. Buffel grass is an
Project
Planting at Spur Cross. The group Cleanup Project (3 mi. RT, 300’ EC).
invasive species that out-competes native vegetation and poses a fire risk, which
will replace ironwood trees along the In the eastern foothills of the McDowell
Metate Trail. Contact Louis Lantz for Mountains, our 5-mi. stretch of scenic can endanger desert species that are not fire adapted. We will work under the
information and reservations at 480- blue highway meanders in and out of direction of Claudia Bloom of the Weed Wackers. Please bring plenty of water, a
488-4581 or louis85331@msn.com. McDowell Mountain Regional Park, from hat, boots, sunscreen, and good work gloves. Contact either Dan Cline at 480-
Phoenix Fountain Hills to Rio Verde. Nestled 921-9242 or danpsu@hotmail.com or Claudia Bloom at 480-641-7449. Phoenix
MAR 30–31 (FRI-SAT). Black-footed Ferret Spotlighting. We will assist
30–31 (FRI-SAT). Black-foot-foo erret
Ferre Spotlighting.
MOVING? the Arizona Game and Fish Department with locating and determining the status
of the highly endangered black-footed ferret. Black-footed ferrets, once considered
Paste the current mailing label here and write extinct, have been reintroduced in several states, including the Aubrey Valley of
in new address below. Arizona. Spotlighting provides important information about the ferrets’ success
(Please allow 4-6 weeks processing time.) and offers a unique opportunity to see various nocturnal species, possibly including
the elusive ferret. For more information or to sign up, contact Sandy Bahr at 602-
253-8633 or sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org. R.S.V.P. by Mar. 10. Seligman
Sierra Club
P.O. Box 52968 Name
APR 22 (SUN) 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. Celebrate Earth Day! Join the Sierra Club
Boulder, Colorado Address and the Phoenix Weed Wackers to remove buffel grass in the Phoenix Mountain
80322-2968 Preserves. For more information or to R.S.V.P., contact Sandy Bahr at 602-253-
City State Zip
8633 or sandy.bahr@sierraclub.org or Claudia Bloom at 480-641-7449 or
greytdogs@cox.net. Phoenix
www.arizona.sierraclub.org
www.arizona.sierraclub.org