may - june 2006 canyon echo

EEEEEnjonjonjonjonjoyyyyy, explor, explor, explor, explor, explore and pre and pre and pre and pre and protect the planetotect the planetotect the planetotect the planetotect the planet

Canyon Echowww.arizona.sierraclub.orgwww.arizona.sierraclub.orgwww.arizona.sierraclub.orgwww.arizona.sierraclub.orgwww.arizona.sierraclub.org Grand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon Chapter May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006

On Public Lands and the BorderOn Public Lands and the BorderOn Public Lands and the BorderOn Public Lands and the BorderOn Public Lands and the Border Want to Receive the Echo Electronically?Want to Receive the Echo Electronically?Want to Receive the Echo Electronically?Want to Receive the Echo Electronically?Want to Receive the Echo Electronically?See p 3 to learn how!See p 3 to learn how!See p 3 to learn how!See p 3 to learn how!See p 3 to learn how!

Photos of the border courtesy of Joni Bosh

Bad Ideas Never Die:Bad Ideas Never Die:Bad Ideas Never Die:Bad Ideas Never Die:Bad Ideas Never Die:Jacob Ryan Timber Sale Back on Drawing BoardJacob Ryan Timber Sale Back on Drawing BoardJacob Ryan Timber Sale Back on Drawing BoardJacob Ryan Timber Sale Back on Drawing BoardJacob Ryan Timber Sale Back on Drawing Board

By Roxane George

In June, the Sierra Club and Centerwon an appeal of the Jacob Ryan oldgrowth timber sale on the Kaibab Na-tional Forest north of Grand CanyonNational Park, thereby saving, at leastfor the moment, thousands of old growthtrees. In March, 2006, the Forest Ser-vice issued a new Draft EnvironmentalImpact Statement (DEIS) for the JacobRyan project, which includes three al-ternatives: 1) No Action; 2) The ForestService Preferred Alternative B; and 3)The Southwest Forest Alliance Alterna-tive endorsed by the Sierra Club.

The Forest Service’s Preferred Alter-native looks a lot like the one we ap-pealed. The agency continues to claimthat the logging of rare old growth andtrees as large as 40" in diameter across a30,000 acre project area is necessary toincrease forest health, reduce the threatof fire and “enhance” wildlife habitat.

The Southwest Forest Alliance in-vested much time and effort surveyingthe Jacob-Ryan Planning Area and de-veloping an alternative to increase foresthealth through thinning small trees andprescribed burns while protecting oldgrowth and promoting its future devel-opment. The Southwest Forest Alliancealternative provides an opportunity tosave old growth on a landscape scale,while increasing forest health.

What YWhat YWhat YWhat YWhat You Can Doou Can Doou Can Doou Can Doou Can Do

Please send comments to theForest Service in support of theSouthwest Forest Alliancealternative, referred to in the DEISas Alt. C.

The deadline is May 8, 2006.The deadline is May 8, 2006.The deadline is May 8, 2006.The deadline is May 8, 2006.The deadline is May 8, 2006.

Send comments to:Jonathan Beck430 S. MainFredonia, AZ 86022Email: [email protected]

Send electronic comments to:[email protected]

To review the DEIS online, go to:http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/dai/projects/index.shtml.

For more information contactRoxane at: 928-774-6514 [email protected]

Life on the Border:Life on the Border:Life on the Border:Life on the Border:Life on the Border:Life on the EdgeLife on the EdgeLife on the EdgeLife on the EdgeLife on the Edge

By Sandy Bahr

Arizona’s southern borderlands con-tain some of the most amazing publiclands in our state including the Organ

Pipe National Monument, the CabezaPrieta National Wildlife Refuge, theBuenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge,and the San Pedro Riparian NationalConservation Area, among others. Theyare also some of our most threatenedlands.

The buildup of infrastructure alongthe Arizona – Mexico border over the lastdecade to stop immigration and othercross-border activities has pushed peopledeeper and deeper into the fragile ariddeserts where water is limited and life ison the margins. While this has not re-sulted in a reduction in migration, it hasresulted in an increase in immigrantdeaths as well as significant damage tothe border’s desert ecosystems.

Both public and private lands arebeing damaged by trucks and cars cross-ing and also by the thousands of migrantswho pass through on foot, often leavingtrash, and carving human trails throughsensitive areas. The public lands manag-ers for these border areas are now spend-ing most of their time dealing with cross-border travel – this drains resources awayfrom other important land and resourceprotection activities.

Now the Congress is proposing tomake things even worse. In an amend-ment adopted by the Senate JudiciaryCommittee on S.2454, the Immigrationand Nationality Act, , , , , Senator Jon Kyl pro-posed to add at least 25 miles of newfencing west of Naco, including alongthe San Pedro Riparian National Con-

servation Area. This area is home to or astopover for hundreds of species of birdsand provides habitat to at least 80 spe-cies of mammals, including mule deer,javelina, bobcats, and mountain lions,among others. Senator Kyl’s fence pro-posal is not likely to stop the migrationof people, but it would likely block travelfor larger mammals like deer and inter-fere with natural wildlife corridors.

This approach to our border is sim-ply not working. People and the envi-ronment are suffering. Senator Kyl hassince indicated that he might trim thefence to 10 miles and remove the sec-tion that affects the river directly, but itstill includes miles of fencing that is un-

necessary, ineffective and damaging tothe border environment. A better alter-native would be limited use of vehiclebarriers in strategic locations – this canhelp reduce the passage of cars andtrucks, but still accommodate wildlife,and help to mitigate some issues in theshort-term. A long-term solution mustinclude examination of agriculturalpolicy, trade agreements and other rea-sons that people immigrate.

As the debate over immigration andborder policies continues, the SierraClub and other conservation organiza-tion will need to be vigilant to ensurethat the walls, fences, and roads do notcut through our public lands and iso-late the northern portion of the desertresulting in a loss of diversity in plantsand animals over time.

Sandy is the Chapter Conservation OutreachDirector.

The Southwest Forest Alliance alter-native will:

· Protect all old growth ponderosapines throughout the planning area.

· Protect all trees over 100 years oldof all tree species. These trees were es-tablished before logging, grazing and firesuppression significantly altered the for-est structure on the Kaibab Plateau.

· Retain all ponderosa pine treesgreater than 12 inches in diameter.

· Reduce the risk of habitat loss fromfire by thinning trees smaller than 12inches in diameter. According to the For-est Service the greatest fire risk is in thesesmall diameter trees. A component ofthese small trees will be retained at thestand level to provide wildlife cover andstructural diversity.

· Reduce competition between pon-

derosa pine individuals and groups bycutting dense groups of trees less than12 inches in diameter from within thedrip line of old growth pines.

· Use prescribed fire to reduce fuelloads and the potential for high inten-sity forest fire throughout the PlanningArea.

· Use prescribed fire on all acres thatare thinned. Thinning treatments ini-tially increase fire hazard by creatinglarge amounts of slash, drier and warmerground conditions and higher windspeeds. This increased fire potential canbest be decreased using prescribed fire.

· Remove ladder fuels and duff fromaround yellow ponderosa pine trees priorto prescribed fire.

· Treat the intensive zone within 200meters (660 feet) of structures and camp-grounds. Remove ladder fuels and thinsmall diameter understory trees.

· Support road closures.

Roxane works for the Chapter as the GrandCanyon Conservation Program Director.

Grand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon Chapter

wwwwwwwwwwwwwww.arizona.sierraclub.org.arizona.sierraclub.org.arizona.sierraclub.org.arizona.sierraclub.org.arizona.sierraclub.org

PPPPPALALALALALO VERDE GRO VERDE GRO VERDE GRO VERDE GRO VERDE GROUP—PHOENIXOUP—PHOENIXOUP—PHOENIXOUP—PHOENIXOUP—PHOENIX http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde/http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde/http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde/http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde/http://arizona.sierraclub.org/paloverde/ChairChairChairChairChair Paul Zemboy (x) 602-989-1977 [email protected] :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair : Heidi Garcia (x) [email protected]:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Dan Cline 480-921-9142Secretary/ Webmaster:Secretary/ Webmaster:Secretary/ Webmaster:Secretary/ Webmaster:Secretary/ Webmaster: Blair McLaughlin (x) 480-515-3850 [email protected]:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation: Don Steuter (x) 602-956-5057 [email protected]::::: Darrell Foster [email protected] CInner CInner CInner CInner City Outings (ICity Outings (ICity Outings (ICity Outings (ICity Outings (ICO):O):O):O):O):Denise Berringer-Wood 602-867-3017 [email protected] Chair:Programs Chair:Programs Chair:Programs Chair:Programs Chair: Sherry CelineSierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles: Charles Zemis (x) [email protected] i t ical :Pol i t ical :Pol i t ical :Pol i t ical :Pol i t ical : Stormy Rose (x) [email protected]

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RINCON GROUP—TUCSONRINCON GROUP—TUCSONRINCON GROUP—TUCSONRINCON GROUP—TUCSONRINCON GROUP—TUCSON http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/rincon/Chair/ TChair/ TChair/ TChair/ TChair/ Transporransporransporransporransportation:tation:tation:tation:tation: Keith Bagwell (x) 520-623-0269 [email protected]/ProgramsVice-Chair/ProgramsVice-Chair/ProgramsVice-Chair/ProgramsVice-Chair/Programs Linda Rothchild-Tepper (x) 520-747-5078 [email protected]:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary: Joy Herr-Cardillo (x) 520-622-1752TTTTTreasurer/Memberreasurer/Memberreasurer/Memberreasurer/Memberreasurer/Membership:ship:ship:ship:ship: Sean Sullivan (x) 520-250-9040Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair: Matt Hogel (x) 520-231-2517 [email protected] Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO): Matt Nelson 520-404-7992 [email protected] ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise: Lee Oler 520-791-9246Newsletter Chairs:Newsletter Chairs:Newsletter Chairs:Newsletter Chairs:Newsletter Chairs: Brian and Kim (x) Beck 520-326-9587 [email protected] Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair: Janet Krisinski-Saxer and Chris Saxer [email protected]:Webmaster:Webmaster:Webmaster:Webmaster: Bart Beck 520-885-8326 [email protected] Coordinator:Volunteer Coordinator:Volunteer Coordinator:Volunteer Coordinator:Volunteer Coordinator: Pete Bengston 520-219-3507At-Large Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member: Isabel Segovia (x) 520-795-2575 [email protected]

Roy Emrick (x) 520-326-7883

SSSSSAAAAAGUGUGUGUGUARARARARARO GRO GRO GRO GRO GROUP—NORTHOUP—NORTHOUP—NORTHOUP—NORTHOUP—NORTH MARICOPMARICOPMARICOPMARICOPMARICOPA A A A A COUNTCOUNTCOUNTCOUNTCOUNTY Y Y Y Y http://wwwhttp://wwwhttp://wwwhttp://wwwhttp://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/saguar.arizona.sierraclub.org/saguar.arizona.sierraclub.org/saguar.arizona.sierraclub.org/saguar.arizona.sierraclub.org/saguaroooooChair/Group Rep:Chair/Group Rep:Chair/Group Rep:Chair/Group Rep:Chair/Group Rep: Louis Lantz (x) 480-488-4581 [email protected] -Chair/Poli/Outings-Chair/Poli/Outings-Chair/Poli/Outings-Chair/Poli/Outings-Chair/Poli/Outings:::::Bev Jones-Full (x) 480-595-2306 [email protected]::::: Urb Weidner [email protected]:Outings:Outings:Outings:Outings: Dalia Spina (x) 623-465-4844 [email protected] ity:Hospital ity:Hospital ity:Hospital ity:Hospital ity: Norma Hand (x) 480-595-9977 [email protected]:Webpage:Webpage:Webpage:Webpage: Elizabeth Diethelm [email protected] ic i ty :Publ ic i ty :Publ ic i ty :Publ ic i ty :Publ ic i ty : Phyllis Strupp [email protected] Harrington (x) [email protected] Jean Miyake (x) [email protected]

SEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUPSEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUPSEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUPSEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUPSEDONA/VERDE VALLEY GROUP http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/sedona/Chair:Chair:Chair:Chair:Chair: Carole Piszczek-Sheffield(x) 928-204-1269 [email protected]:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary: Claire Swain (x)TTTTTreasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Gary Dorer (x) 928-203-9050Hikes/Outings:Hikes/Outings:Hikes/Outings:Hikes/Outings:Hikes/Outings: Henry Mellon (x) 928-646-5484Conservation ChairConservation ChairConservation ChairConservation ChairConservation Chair::::: Lisa Vunk 928-204-0689 [email protected]

YYYYYAAAAAVVVVVAPAPAPAPAPAI GRAI GRAI GRAI GRAI GROUP—PRESCOOUP—PRESCOOUP—PRESCOOUP—PRESCOOUP—PRESCOTTTTTTTTTTChair/Conservation:Chair/Conservation:Chair/Conservation:Chair/Conservation:Chair/Conservation: Tom Slaback (x) 928-778-4233 [email protected]/Outings:Vice-Chair/Outings:Vice-Chair/Outings:Vice-Chair/Outings:Vice-Chair/Outings: Carolyn York (x) 928-541-1952Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary: Joe Wenzel (x) 928-771-0838TTTTTreasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Paul Poyner 928-778-6534 [email protected]:Membership:Membership:Membership:Membership: Doris Cellarius (x) 928-778-6724 [email protected] Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member:At-Large Member: Jeri Merritt (x)

VVVVVol. 42 No. 3ol. 42 No. 3ol. 42 No. 3ol. 42 No. 3ol. 42 No. 3May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006May/June 2006

Canyon Echo (ISSN 0164-7024) ispublished bimonthly for Sierra Club

members by the Sierra ClubGrand Canyon Chapter,

202 E. McDowell Rd., Ste. 277,Phoenix, AZ 85004.

Phone: (602) 253-8633Fax: (602) 258-6533

POSTMASTERPOSTMASTERPOSTMASTERPOSTMASTERPOSTMASTER Send address changes to Sierra Club

Member Services, c/o Canyon Echo, P.O. Box52968, Boulder, CO 80322-2968.

Periodicals postage paid atPhoenix, AZ. Printed at Valley Newspapers.

Copyright Sierra Club Grand CanyonChapter, Canyon Echo 2006.

EDITOREDITOREDITOREDITOREDITORKate Darby

(602) [email protected]

DEDICADEDICADEDICADEDICADEDICATED VTED VTED VTED VTED VOLOLOLOLOLUNTEERSUNTEERSUNTEERSUNTEERSUNTEERSOutings EditorOutings EditorOutings EditorOutings EditorOutings Editor

Jerry Nelson(602) 279-4668

[email protected]

PhotographersPhotographersPhotographersPhotographersPhotographersRobert Ball, Jerry Nelson, Alex Stewart

Mailing OrganizersMailing OrganizersMailing OrganizersMailing OrganizersMailing OrganizersJohn C. Blakney, Bill Gill, Jerry Nelson

Publications CommitteePublications CommitteePublications CommitteePublications CommitteePublications CommitteeBob Ball, Jack Foster, Richard Genser, RenéeGuillory, Dawson Henderson, Jerry Nelson,

Publications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairMichelle Harrington

(602) [email protected]

WebmasterWebmasterWebmasterWebmasterWebmasterDawson Henderson

[email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONSSUBSCRIPTIONSSUBSCRIPTIONSSUBSCRIPTIONSSUBSCRIPTIONSAnnual dues to the Sierra Club are $39,

($1for the Canyon Echo). Subscriptions ratefor non-members is $10. Send check payable

to “Sierra Club” - Canyon Echo,202 E. McDowell Rd., Ste. 277

Phoenix, AZ 85004.

ADVERTISINGADVERTISINGADVERTISINGADVERTISINGADVERTISINGAdvertising is sold on a first-come, space-

available basis. Endorsement of theadvertisers by the Sierra Club is not implied,and all interactions between advertisers andconsumers are solely the responsibilities of

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SUBMISSIONSSUBMISSIONSSUBMISSIONSSUBMISSIONSSUBMISSIONSSend electronic copies to the editor. Indicate

copyright or Creative Commons preference. Fordisks and hardcopies, please label with yourname and the file name. Send a S.A.S.E. for

return of disk. We are not responsible for lost ordamaged items. Writer’s guidelines can be

obtained by contacting the editor. All rights topublication of articles in this issue are reserved.

The deadline is the first day of the monthfirst day of the monthfirst day of the monthfirst day of the monthfirst day of the monthpreceding the two months of the issue. Opinions

expressed in the Canyon Echo are those of thecontributors and do not necessarily reflect the

official views or policies of the Sierra Club.

Arizona ChaptArizona ChaptArizona ChaptArizona ChaptArizona Chapter Aer Aer Aer Aer Action Directction Directction Directction Directction Directorororororyyyyy

Canyon Echo

GRANDCANYONCHAPTER

(x) Group Ex-ComMembers

ConservationConservationConservationConservationConservation Outreach Director Outreach Director Outreach Director Outreach Director Outreach DirectorSandy Bahr 602-253-8633 [email protected] Canyon Conservation Program CoordinatorGrand Canyon Conservation Program CoordinatorGrand Canyon Conservation Program CoordinatorGrand Canyon Conservation Program CoordinatorGrand Canyon Conservation Program CoordinatorRoxane George 928-774-6514 [email protected] Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantKate Darby 602-253-9140 [email protected]

BECOME INVOLVED:Contact a

representative inyour area to voice

your concerns andto participate inlocal activities.

(xc) 2005 ChapterExecutive Committee(Ex-Com) Members

TTTTTu c s o nu c s o nu c s o nu c s o nu c s o nRINCONRINCONRINCONRINCONRINCON

P r e s c o t tP r e s c o t tP r e s c o t tP r e s c o t tP r e s c o t t

F l a g s t a f fF l a g s t a f fF l a g s t a f fF l a g s t a f fF l a g s t a f f

PPPPPALALALALALO O O O O VERDEVERDEVERDEVERDEVERDE

SAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUARO

YAYAYAYAYAVVVVVAPAPAPAPAPAIAIAIAIAI

PLPLPLPLPLAAAAATEATEATEATEATEAUUUUU

SEDONA/ VERDESEDONA/ VERDESEDONA/ VERDESEDONA/ VERDESEDONA/ VERDEVVVVVALLEALLEALLEALLEALLEYYYYY

P h o e n i xP h o e n i xP h o e n i xP h o e n i xP h o e n i x

CHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRSCHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRSCHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRSCHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRSCHAPTER OFFICES & COMMITTEE CHAIRSChairperson/Personnel/Chairperson/Personnel/Chairperson/Personnel/Chairperson/Personnel/Chairperson/Personnel/Counci l :Counci l :Counci l :Counci l :Counci l : Ken Langton (xc) 520-749-3829 [email protected] :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair :Vice-Chair : Jim McCarthy (xc) 928-779-3748Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary: Bev Full (xc) 480-595-2306 [email protected]:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Dale Volz (xc) 480-892-5102 [email protected]:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation: Don Steuter (xc) 602-956-5057 [email protected] Chair:Nominations Chair:Nominations Chair:Nominations Chair:Nominations Chair: vacantPolitical Chair:Political Chair:Political Chair:Political Chair:Political Chair: Lynn DeMuth [email protected] Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair:Outings Chair: Jim Vaaler (xc) 602-553-8208 [email protected] Chair:Membership Chair:Membership Chair:Membership Chair:Membership Chair: Chris Gehlker 602-866-9024 [email protected] Chair:Elections Chair:Elections Chair:Elections Chair:Elections Chair: Tom Cadden [email protected] Chair:Legal Chair:Legal Chair:Legal Chair:Legal Chair: Lara SchmitFundraising Chair:Fundraising Chair:Fundraising Chair:Fundraising Chair:Fundraising Chair: VacantEx-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large): Elna Otter (xc) 520-212-9736 [email protected] (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large): Chad Campbell (xc)Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large): Tom Martin (xc)Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large):Ex-Com (At-Large): Jon Findley (xc) 480-756-2916 [email protected]

2005 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:2005 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:2005 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:2005 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:2005 Group Voting Representatives to Chapter Ex-Comm:Palo Verde:Palo Verde:Palo Verde:Palo Verde:Palo Verde: Stormy Rose Saguaro:Saguaro:Saguaro:Saguaro:Saguaro: Louis LantzPlateau:Plateau:Plateau:Plateau:Plateau: Bob Sutherland SSSSSedona/Verde Valleedona/Verde Valleedona/Verde Valleedona/Verde Valleedona/Verde Valley:y:y:y:y: Carole Piszczek-SheffieldRincon:Rincon:Rincon:Rincon:Rincon: Keith Bagwell YYYYYaaaaavvvvvapai:apai:apai:apai:apai: Tom Slaback

Southwest Regional DirectorSouthwest Regional DirectorSouthwest Regional DirectorSouthwest Regional DirectorSouthwest Regional DirectorRob Smith 602-254-9330 [email protected]

March/April 2006March/April 2006March/April 2006March/April 2006March/April 2006 Canyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon Echo


33333

Echo News You can Use

On the WebSierra Club Home PageSierra Club Home PageSierra Club Home PageSierra Club Home PageSierra Club Home Pagewww.sierraclub.org

Sierra MagazineSierra MagazineSierra MagazineSierra MagazineSierra Magazinewww.sierraclub.org/sierra

Online NewsOnline NewsOnline NewsOnline NewsOnline Newswww.sierraclub.org/news

Chapter Action NetworkChapter Action NetworkChapter Action NetworkChapter Action NetworkChapter Action Networkgrandcanyon.sierraclubaction.org

The PlanetThe PlanetThe PlanetThe PlanetThe Planetwww.sierraclub.org/planet

44444 Land Designations

66666 Buenos Aires NWR

77777 More Border News

88888 Desert Tortoises

99999 Take the Antiquities Quiz!

111111 1 1 1 1 Great Hikes and Trips

On the Web

GGGGGrand Canyrand Canyrand Canyrand Canyrand Canyon Chapter on Chapter on Chapter on Chapter on Chapter WhatWhatWhatWhatWhat’’’’’s Gs Gs Gs Gs Going Ooing Ooing Ooing Ooing Onnnnn

Inside

Attention Phoenix-area Members!Attention Phoenix-area Members!Attention Phoenix-area Members!Attention Phoenix-area Members!Attention Phoenix-area Members!Join the Palo Verde Group for our Monthly ProgramsJoin the Palo Verde Group for our Monthly ProgramsJoin the Palo Verde Group for our Monthly ProgramsJoin the Palo Verde Group for our Monthly ProgramsJoin the Palo Verde Group for our Monthly Programs

Each month, the Palo Verde Group holds an educational program at the Phoenix Zoo wherewe invite speakers to brief us on a current issue. These events are free and open to everyone.Attending one of these programs is a great way to meet new people, learn about currentenvironmental issues, and become more involved with the Sierra Club.

May 16 (Tues), 7 PM, Electric VehiclesJune 20 (Tues), 7 PM, National Monuments

Arrive early to chat with folks and enjoy some refreshments. For more information, see thedescription under Palo Verde Group on p. 10 or contact Sherry Celine at [email protected]

Sign up fSign up fSign up fSign up fSign up for the Electror the Electror the Electror the Electror the ElectroniconiconiconiconicEcho!Echo!Echo!Echo!Echo!

Some members have expressed interestin receiving a link to the online PDF of

this publication, rather than the printed newsletter. We’dlike to try offering this option to all of our members. Be-cause we must order the newsletter in blocks of 500 fromour printer, we need at least 500 people to make thisrequest for us to save any paper. If you sign up for the e-Alert, you will NOT receive a paper copy. Instead, you willreceive an email with a link to the PDF of the newsletteron our website.

TTTTTo sign up fo sign up fo sign up fo sign up fo sign up for an e-or an e-or an e-or an e-or an e-AlerAlerAlerAlerAlerttttt send an email befbefbefbefbefore Juneore Juneore Juneore Juneore June11111 with your full name and your membership ID (8-digitnumber located on the mailing label) to:[email protected].

Please note: You will continue to receive the paper ver-sion until we receive at least 500 requests.

FirFirFirFirFirst Aid and CPR Tst Aid and CPR Tst Aid and CPR Tst Aid and CPR Tst Aid and CPR Training fraining fraining fraining fraining for Hikor Hikor Hikor Hikor Hike Leadere Leadere Leadere Leadere Leadersssss

To ensure that our hikes, backpacks and other outings are both enjoyable and as safe as possible, theSierra Club requires that all Sierra Club hike leaders have first aid certification. If you are interested inbecoming a hike leader or assistant hike leader or are a current leader who needs a refresher, please markyour calendar and plan to attend this first aid class on Sunday, May 7 from Noon to 5pm at the Sierra Clubin the second floor conference room located at 202 E. McDowell Rd (Econolodge complex) in Phoenix. Thiswill also include CPR as several of our leaders have requested that. The CPR is not required for hike leaders,however. The cost is $25 per person for both or $15 for just first aid. Scholarships are also available. Pleaselet us know whether you plan to take both the first aid and CPR as that will help determine the timing of thesession. To sign up or to ask questions, please contact Sandy Bahr at (602) 253-8633 [email protected]. The deadline tThe deadline tThe deadline tThe deadline tThe deadline to RSo RSo RSo RSo RSVP is MaVP is MaVP is MaVP is MaVP is May 3, 2006! y 3, 2006! y 3, 2006! y 3, 2006! y 3, 2006! We hope you can make it.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo -Join us for a Mexican potluck

In Lake Havasu City

Please join your Sierra Club friends and neighbors at a Mexicanpotluck on Friday, May 5, 2006 at 5pm at the home of LoraWinsborough, located at 3390 Candlewood Dr Lake HavasuCity, AZ 86406-9142.

This is a great time to get to know new Sierra Club members in the area and toreconnect with others. It will be a casual evening of mingling with a briefpresentation and informal discussion of some of the current conservation issues.We will enjoy a potluck dinner and a brief hike that will begin in Lora Winsborough’sbackyard, which adjoins Bureau of Land Management land.

Please bring a dish to share and a friend. The Grand Canyon Chapter will provideplates, utensils and drinks. For more information, directions and to r.s.v.p. callor email Lora Winsborough at [email protected] or (928) 680-7082. Youcan also call (602) 253-8633 or email [email protected],the Chapter office. Hope to see you there!

Please join us for ourCitizen Lobbyist Workshop

May 15, 20066:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Conference Room at the Historic YWCA738 N. Fifth Avenue, Tucson

TTTTTucson Citizen Lobbucson Citizen Lobbucson Citizen Lobbucson Citizen Lobbucson Citizen Lobbyist Wyist Wyist Wyist Wyist Worororororkshopkshopkshopkshopkshop

Now, more than ever, Arizona’s environment needs your voice. We need more people speaking up for clean air, cleanwater, and protection of important wildlife habitat. Before we know it, the 2007 Legislature will be in session. To geta jump on things and learn about the process, please join us for this informative and fun workshop. If you areinterested in learning more about lobbying and advocating for environmental protection — how to, do’s and don’ts,key issues and players, and much more, come on down. We will provide materials and some good snacks.

To RSVP or to learn more about the workshop, please contact Sandy Bahr at (602) 253-8633 or [email protected]. It is important that you RSVP so we can make sure there are an adequate number ofpackets and materials. Please le Please le Please le Please le Please let us knot us knot us knot us knot us know no latw no latw no latw no latw no later than Maer than Maer than Maer than Maer than May 1y 1y 1y 1y 133333 if you plan to attend the Tucson workshop.Thanks!

Special thanks to everyonewho donated to the chapterfor our March Appeal. Still

haven’t sent in your check?See p. 5 to get more

information.

Sierra ClubSierra ClubSierra ClubSierra ClubSierra Club Grand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon Chapter


4

Call to the CanyonCall to the CanyonCall to the CanyonCall to the CanyonCall to the Canyon

Call & Echo

Do you ever want some answers to your environmen-tal questions? In each Canyon Echo, we feature aquestion from our members focusing on environmen-tal concerns. If you have a question, please send it to:

Sierra Club—Grand Canyon Chapter202 E. McDowell Dr. Ste. 277

Phoenix, AZ 85004or [email protected]

Echo ResponseEcho ResponseEcho ResponseEcho ResponseEcho Response

What offers the most protection for our publiclands—management as National Forests, BLMlands, wilderness or national monument?

Wilderness is the most protective designation for publiclands. It seeks to preserve the most pristineundeveloped lands in the U.S.

Lands designated as wilderness include only thoselands managed by the federal government; ie. theForest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureauof Land Management, and the Fish and WildlifeService. Wilderness can only be designated byCongress. Beyond the multi-use mandates given thesefederal agencies, a wilderness designation providessome protection against activities that “trammel” orimpair the resources. Grazing and mining claims thatwere established prior to designation are allowed tocontinue. Logging, however, is not allowed unless it isnecessary in the development of a mine. Motorizedvehicles are also not allowed except where they wereestablished prior to designation and are deemednecessary.

Land can also be designated as a national monument.Those lands are managed primarily by the Bureau ofLand Management and the National Park Service.Monument protection may overlap wildernessdesignations. National monument designation requiresthose protections that are specified in the presidentialproclamation that establishes the monument and mayallow livestock grazing and off-road vehicle use tocontinue.

Several other designations can occur, each withvarying degrees of protection, including designationas a national wildlife refuge, national conservation area,national recreation area, national historic site, etc. Inmany of these cases, established uses are allowed tocontinue. Keep in mind that any designation, includingwilderness, does not assure preservation. Publicinvolvement is necessary to keep public landsprotected.

Pictured from left to right: Joann Finch, Bonnie Secakuku, Susan Secakuku,Krus Kuhn, Bonnie Johnson. Nancy Sutherland and Andy Bessler. Photocourtesy of Bob Sutherland

On March 25th, the Sierra Club Partnership Program under theleadership of Andy Bessler and the Plateau Outings Group participatedin the first of several trail clean-ups on the Hopi Reservation in prepa-ration for the 30+ miles ultra-marathon run to be held September 16th

outside of Polacca, Az. Sierra Club volunteers raked and brushed withHopi runners to start getting traditional Hopi trails cleaned and readyfor the Paatuwaqatsi “Water is Life” run meant to renew Hopi teach-ings about the importance of water. For more information, log ontowww.waterisliferun.org. These service trips are the result of the jointcooperation between the Sierra Club and the Paatuwaqatsi Run Com-mittee. If you are interested in helping with this project, please sign upand join us for a very unique experience. See p 12 for more info.

Helping the Hopi with WHelping the Hopi with WHelping the Hopi with WHelping the Hopi with WHelping the Hopi with Watatatatater is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is LifeeeeeBy Nancy Sutherland

All trips have to begin somewhere. This particular tripbegan in my mind a few years ago as I suppose they all do.Bobbie Holaday introduced me to the Sycamore Wilder-ness Area many years ago on several service trips she ledin and around Taylor Cabin and Nick’s Cave. The SycamoreWilderness had become a special place to me, thanks toBobby.

I knew that the Sycamore Wilderness was a large place,and after looking at the topographical maps for the area, aunique trip began formulating in my mind. This trip wouldnot only visit two historical cabins, but also would traversethe Sycamore Wilderness Area from south to north, usingthe Forest Service trail system. I was already familiar withthe Dogie Trail and the Sycamore Basin Trail. These twotrails went from the wilderness boundary at Sycamore Passto the national register site at Taylor Cabin. Taylor Cabinbecame a national register site due to the efforts of ourown Bobbie Holaday. Through a number of day hikes onForest Service trails in the north end of the Sycamore Wil-derness to places such as Dorsey Springs, Winter Cabin,and Kelsey Springs, I felt I had enough knowledge of thearea to lead the two-day backpack I had been thinkingabout. Still, I had not checked out the mid-section of theproposed trip that followed the Winter Cabin Spring Trailpast Ott Lake and down to the bottom of Sycamore Creek.I would learn about that on the trip – the hard way, whichsometimes is the best and only way to truly learn some-thing.

On the evening of February 24th we drove up throughFlagstaff to the Dorsey Springs trailhead and leave my oldBronco there. We then piled into Dave Mowry’s new F150and headed south through Sedona to the Dogie trailhead,arriving at 1 AM Saturday morning.

It had been about 125 days without significant rain inthe area, so I figured it would be necessary to pack in all ofour water for the two day trip. I figured right. There wasno water at Taylor Cabin. Upon arriving at Taylor Cabin itwas with great relief that I unburdoned myself of my sixtypound pack, wondering at the same time what genetic de-ficiency had led me to a life of backpacking to begin with.However, upon looking at beautiful Taylor Cabin I real-ized I was hell and gone from Phoenix, television, air pol-lution, freeways and traffic, and of course the Internet. In

short, I had gotten beyond what Ed Abbey called, “the wallof the city”. What I had really gotten beyond was the wallinside my own mind that sometimes makes me think thatPhoenix is somehow worthy of our habitation. Worthy ofour love and respect. Worthy of our admiration as beingone of the great cities on the planet. Make no mistake,Phoenix is not worthy. Growth is the philosophy of thecancer cell; progress is finding a cure for that cancer.

Morning: a mercifully overcast day. As I alluded toearlier, I had underestimated the difficulty of the secondday, and thus had not done the necessary map scrutiny andhomework. I had looked at the maps and it seemed all tooeasy in my mind. Just follow the trail, no problem. Right?Wrong! I started out by mistaking the Taylor Cabin Trailjunction for the place where we were to leave the bottomof Sycamore Creek for Ott Lake. We stop and rest at thetrail junction and a couple of hikers happen along andmake me aware of my disorientation. The Taylor CabinTrail receives very little use, and is not even signed at thebottom of Sycamore Creek. It almost seemed like a one ina million chance for those hikers to appear when they did.Had I continued up the Taylor Cabin Trail, the trip wouldhave turned out very differently, and for the worse. Shortly,our new “correct trail” seemingly disappears into the boul-der strewn bottom of Sycamore Creek. This time it takesa group effort to figure things out. We finally locate thetrail leading up and out to Ott Lake and Winter Cabin.The canyon scenery as we are ascending this trail is spec-tacular: cross-bedded Coconino sandstone, Ponderosa pinetrees growing in shady canyons; and the trail itself provid-ing a pathway through all of this seldom visited beauty.

We finally pass Ott Lake and arrive at Winter Cabin,where the spring actually has water. It will be a very longday, but I now know the trip can be completed beforedark. At 6:10 PM on Sunday, after ascending 2,700 feetthat day, we are finally back at my Bronco. I eventuallywalk in the door to my house at ten minutes after mid-night early Monday morning.

But, to paraphrase Ed Abbey: Who can now say wherehome is, especially after a trip like this? Phoenix is whereI spend most of my time. But in my mind home is some-where else, inside of a dream. Home is Wilderness. Thedream, from time to time, becomes reality.

Sycamore Wilderness Backpack:Sycamore Wilderness Backpack:Sycamore Wilderness Backpack:Sycamore Wilderness Backpack:Sycamore Wilderness Backpack:TTTTTrip Rrip Rrip Rrip Rrip Reporeporeporeporeport, Mart, Mart, Mart, Mart, Marccccch 25-26, 2005h 25-26, 2005h 25-26, 2005h 25-26, 2005h 25-26, 2005

By Jim Vaaler

Jim co-chairs the Chapter’s wilderness committee and serves onthe Chapter Executive Committee.

MMMMMay/Jay/Jay/Jay/Jay/June 2006une 2006une 2006une 2006une 2006 Canyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon Echo


5

The Grand CanyonChapter of the Sierra Clubalso wishes to thank all of

the other generous andkind support received

from those who chose toremain anonymous.

Thank You to Our DonorsThank You to Our DonorsThank You to Our DonorsThank You to Our DonorsThank You to Our Donors

Make the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsGladGladGladGladGladLynn DeMuthWalt WictorBeth BorstKathy RoedigerJoan and David SteningerTimothy SchaffnerTerry WoolstonH Rick FreasSteven MillerKeith BagwellPatricia and Richard VivianWilliam R. GillW J FaustRobert & Janet WitzemanMichael C QuinlanElizabeth M DevlinMr Jerry NelsonBeverly FullRoy M EmrickC Toth and D WinkleOlga StricklandTom LazzelleRobert RobbBeverly SassDiana LettFred J HaggersonSandy Bahr and David KommMs J A Wezelman/ D C BartlettDave BelkiewitzRoberta MccartyMs Barbara MerzCheryl NordstromKatharine M. OlmsteadDouglas and Stacey PilcherPeggy TaylorLois TyaackMr and Mrs Robert EidsmoeTim Flood MDF Spaulding & R KulakofskyMichael and Janice SmithBob AndroffMichael L KottkeMiss Grace A Nixon

Friends Friends Friends Friends Friends ($1-$29)($1-$29)($1-$29)($1-$29)($1-$29)

Hitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the Universe ($30-$49) ($30-$49) ($30-$49) ($30-$49) ($30-$49)

Keep Close to Nature’s Heart Keep Close to Nature’s Heart Keep Close to Nature’s Heart Keep Close to Nature’s Heart Keep Close to Nature’s Heart ($50-$99)($50-$99)($50-$99)($50-$99)($50-$99)

Make the Mountains Glad Make the Mountains Glad Make the Mountains Glad Make the Mountains Glad Make the Mountains Glad ($100-$299)($100-$299)($100-$299)($100-$299)($100-$299)

The Morning Stars Sing Together The Morning Stars Sing Together The Morning Stars Sing Together The Morning Stars Sing Together The Morning Stars Sing Together ($300+)($300+)($300+)($300+)($300+)

Many thanks to Earth Friends for their continued support ofour conservation work to protect Arizona’s wildlife for futuregenerations.

FFFFFriendsriendsriendsriendsriends

Alice DorrMr Thomas MoranW HendricksonGary MechlerPatricia GilmoreCurtis KoontzCarroll MunzAlbin OehlerRita J SmallingGlen MurrayFareed AbouhaidarBrian NordstromD W Mount and J D HallJoan PrefontaineMarvin FisherNovelene B HydeEd GreenhillHarold FrommJune HardinMarilyn MaceLee and Colleen JohnsonMarilyn and Gerald MillerMs. M. von KuegelgenPaul J DanielsonCindie WolfLeigh RobinsonKaren BowersRoberta ClarkCarol S ParksMr. and Mrs. Earl MontgomeryDon SteuterMrs Jean BickelMr Ronald CohenMs Donna D YoderLynne HulveySander HolsteinAnthony ValadezMarietta Thieding and RandyZongeJames D CoffmanJohn DotyLarry and Sherri EttkinMs Bonnie MathesonBillie MorrisJudi and David VictorJoseph And Susan Mesch

Keep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sHeartHeartHeartHeartHeartDr and Mrs James G UrbanEllen L RistowStuart And Cindy AltDennis and Sevren CoonFelicia & Warren MayPeter KohlMary B HoltJohn M FranklinMr and Mrs Walter PelechAlvin R FinkelsteinJ Finlayson and L MandarinoMargaret HuntingtonHelen And Robert Svob, JrJames NafzigerJoneric WennerstromAubrey S JohnsonSally and James AllenMatt Mc WenieW David/Virginia DotsonMrs Celia R HolmMr and Mrs Ivo LucchittaDick Leathers

Hitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the UniverseHitched to Everything Else in the Universe

Don BegalkeDon BegalkeDon BegalkeDon BegalkeDon Begalke, for helping us mail legislative alertsevery Friday.

Maggie HuntingtMaggie HuntingtMaggie HuntingtMaggie HuntingtMaggie Huntington and Jon Findleon and Jon Findleon and Jon Findleon and Jon Findleon and Jon Findleyyyyy, forprocessing March Appeal donations.

Our mailing party volunteers Our mailing party volunteers Our mailing party volunteers Our mailing party volunteers Our mailing party volunteers -- these folks helpus save thousands of dollars each issue of the Echoby processing and mailing the newsletter.

Barbara FilosiJudy Todd DewittStephen and JessicaWilliamsonBetsy AaronDavid and Heidi KennedyMark SalvoLinda and Martin RosenthalMr and Mrs James NotestineDr McDonald RobinsonJohn LippertChristine VerhaydenDr Ray BermanVan SlykeJoan and Clyde McClellandBruce FischerCheryl L ScottNaomi SwickleBarbara HucekRonald A PelechRobert & Margery EllisLee OlerRudy And Doreen DalpraEve Simon and Ernest SimonGordon FergusonRichard SearleCarl KueltzoDarlene and Harry NewmanThad JohnsonRobert G BeelerBettina BickelMr John KurdekaTom FergusonLinda E. NicholasTom DonaldsonJohn PamperinChris SmithRhea PhiloS E NewmanTim HedgerAndrea J YoolMr & Mrs Thomas L ShermanDouglas AlexanderMarshall P ScholingBob KuhnertElizabeth YankerCraig AgeeSteve Arthur

Mary Beth BaileyRodney BaumbachEd BeaudettJeff And Keesha BestDonna Boe and Steve FletcherMurray P BolestaMary and Robert S BrickerDavid BurkholderMr and Mrs Steve CanningJohn ChaneyGail A CochraneDale DemonbreunJames DoranAnne W DurningBeverly FlaksEdward E FranciscoCarol FrommDonna Kae Branch-GilbyMarc D GlawsonRobert S HerdliskaSandra HillMerit HongDrs A Sprague and D HuntenViola M JanowskiMr Nelson JonesBernard KobesTyler KokjohnDavid LangebartelAlishya and Judy MayfieldS Mc FaddenGary MccormickAndrea MccoyJames R NeffJ RutherfordThomas SonandresStanley G. StolpeRobert K StoneMs Margaret TombaughCarolyn R TrowbridgeJames and Lynn VaalerMrs Susan K ValdiviaE WalterLisa WrightJames and Virginia ZuelowSally HansonThomas HoepnerW J HalvorsenJuanita SchultzMichael MullarkeyMr Bob Cayton

Gary A. HuckleberyBarrie RyanLouis Lantz Fred H SnyderGeorgette ValleJan BalsomM C AugustineRichard CarlisleKevin DahlMr. and Mrs. Rudolf DankwortJohn EvansDebra GevirtzmanPaul R Gordon & Eve ShapiroMr. and Mrs. Gordon JensenCatherine C KeenanW Bradley KincaidEdwin H KohlheppCarolyn MatthewsRoderic SmithDrs. Jack and Joy TuberRichard BoydenLinda MccutcheonMs Barbara Busse

Special thanks toJanet and PaulMorrison who

donated moneyin the memory of

Silvia Ross.

Office Thanks To:Office Thanks To:Office Thanks To:Office Thanks To:Office Thanks To:

Every March, the Grand Canyon Chapter sends out a request for donations to ourmembers. These donations go directly to the work we do here in Arizona. This year,Earth Friends has issued a challenge grant to help us raise additional funding. Everydollar we raise beyond what we raised last year will go tward meeting their match andsecuring the $6,000 grant. Much thanks to all of you who have already contributed tothis effort.

If you have not yet sent in a donation, you can still send your check to:Sierra Club - Grand Canyon Chapter

202 E McDowell Rd, Ste 277Phoenix, AZ 85004-4536

The Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingTTTTTogeogeogeogeogetherthertherthertherMerle and Donita AlbrightKenneth P. LangtonFord and Susan Schumann

Special ThanksSpecial ThanksSpecial ThanksSpecial ThanksSpecial Thanksto Desert Song Yogaand Massage Center

(www.adesertsong.com)for hosting our EarthDay poetry reading.



6

Excellent OpportunitiesExcellent OpportunitiesExcellent OpportunitiesExcellent OpportunitiesExcellent Opportunities

ConserConserConserConserConservvvvvation ation ation ation ation Chair: Don Steuter,(602) 956-5057, [email protected]

EnergyEnergyEnergyEnergyEnergy Chair: Jon Findley,(480) 756-2912,[email protected]

Environmental JusticeEnvironmental JusticeEnvironmental JusticeEnvironmental JusticeEnvironmental JusticeChair: Keith Bagwell,[email protected]

Forest ConservationForest ConservationForest ConservationForest ConservationForest ConservationChair: Sharon Galbreath,(928) 774-1571,[email protected]

Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonChair: Jim McCarthy, (928) 779-3748

Public Land on the Border: Buenos Aires National Wildlife RefugePublic Land on the Border: Buenos Aires National Wildlife RefugePublic Land on the Border: Buenos Aires National Wildlife RefugePublic Land on the Border: Buenos Aires National Wildlife RefugePublic Land on the Border: Buenos Aires National Wildlife RefugeBy Roy Emrick

MiningMiningMiningMiningMining Chair: Don Steuter,(602) 956-5057, [email protected]

National Parks & Wildlife RefugesNational Parks & Wildlife RefugesNational Parks & Wildlife RefugesNational Parks & Wildlife RefugesNational Parks & Wildlife RefugesChair: Ken Langton, (520) [email protected]

Water & Watershed ProtectionWater & Watershed ProtectionWater & Watershed ProtectionWater & Watershed ProtectionWater & Watershed ProtectionChair: Elna Otter, [email protected]

WildernessWildernessWildernessWildernessWildernessCo-Chairs: Michelle Pulich Stewart,[email protected] & Jim Vaaler,[email protected]

Wildlife & Endangered SpeciesWildlife & Endangered SpeciesWildlife & Endangered SpeciesWildlife & Endangered SpeciesWildlife & Endangered SpeciesChair: Halina Szyposzynski,[email protected]

Less well-known than the Big Threeland agencies (National Parks and Monu-ments, National Forests, and BLM ), theNational Wildlife Refuge system com-prises 95 million acres with more than540 refuges and thousands of small wet-lands that serve as waterfowl breedingand nesting areas. Whereas the Big Threelands are primarily in the west, wildliferefuges are in every state and at least oneis within an hour’s drive of every majorUS city. The system was started in 1903when President Theodore Roosevelt des-ignated Florida’s tiny Pelican Island as awildlife refuge.

In 1985 the US Fish and WildlifeService purchased the old Buenos Airesranch on the Mexican border 80 milessouthwest of Tucson to create the BuenosAires National Wildlife Refuge(BANWR) with the mission of restor-ing habitat for threatened and endan-gered species with emphasis on themasked bobwhite quail. Years of cattlegrazing had reduced the once lush grasscover to the point where the grass couldno longer sustain the range fires neces-sary to keep mesquite and other woodyplants under control. The loss of thegrassy habitat eliminated the bobwhitequail and seriously reduced the popula-tions of many other species. The refugeis now home to several endangered spe-cies in addition to the quail: the lesserlong-nosed bat, the Pima pineapple cac-tus, Kearney’s bluestar, the razorbacksucker, the southwest willowflycatcher,and the cactus ferruginouspygmy owl. Creation of the Refuge madeit the largest ungrazed Sonoran semi-desert grassland remaining in the world.

BANWR now comprises 116,000acres on which controlled burns andother management techniques are beingpursued to restore habitat for mule deer,white-tailed deer, pronghorn, javelina,mountain lions, jaguars, over 325 mi-gratory and resident bird species, as wellas 53 species of reptiles and amphibians.One can drive down 286 from ThreePoints west of Tucson and then returnthrough Arivaca to I-19 for a scenic andenjoyable trip to the Refuge.

BANWR includes many naturalist

gems that make it a worthy destination.Just east of Arivaca in a broad valley isthe Arivaca Cienega, a birding meccaworth a special trip. On the other sideof town is the Arivaca Creek trail.Groundwater pumping and the droughthave resulted in the death of many ofthe large, stately cottonwoods and newones are not appearing. Another Refugegem is Brown Canyon, at the foot ofimposing Baboquivari Peak. It is beau-tifully wooded with a perennial stream.Its upper end forks into Jaguar Can-yon, which is aptly named, for FWS cam-eras have recorded the presence of thisreclusive animal.

A new habitat management studyplan is now underway to assess the ef-fectiveness of previous improvementtechniques, such as controlled burns,and develop new ones. Things have im-proved to the point that coveys of quailtotaling a few hundred birds have beensuccessfully established, but it is highlyunlikely that a casual visitor will ever seethis reclusive bird in the wild. Thus,unlike Bosque del Apache NWR whichhas annual visitations of 20,000 snowgeese and 10,000 sandhill cranes whichfill the sky morning and evening, thereisn’t even a remotely comparable draw-ing card at BANWR. However, a minorimprovement is about to be made. TheRefuge has given part of its quail breed-ing program to the Phoenix Zoo, whichspecializes in supporting endangered

species.Being on

the borderdoes cause se-rious problemsfor the Refuge.As many as1,000 peoplecross it everyday on hun-dreds of milesof unautho-rized trails ofuse. As theytire, they droplarge amountsof plasticbottles, cans

and even clothing along these trails. Drugrunners and coyotes drive vehicles onhundreds of miles of illegal roads acrossthe Refuge. Funds have just beenawarded for vehicle barriers along theborder side of the refuge, although theymay not be completed for several years.These barriers should curb the vehicletraffic, which is a hazard to employeesand visitors, without affecting wildlifemigration. Another threat is the proposedconstruction of a 30" pipeline along thewestern border of the refuge to carry liq-uefied natural gas from a deep water portat Libertad, Sonora north toward Tuc-son. It would have a 100-foot wide con-

struction swath with a permanent 50-foot maintenance road. Local efforts areunder way to have it rerouted.

Another issue is the miles of barbedwire, remaining from its cattle ranchingdays, which are a mortal threat to deerand pronghorn. Removing the barbedwire as well as the trash left by the ex-hausted migrants provide opportunitiesfor volunteers to make a valuable contri-bution. Cathy Haden, SC National Out-ings Leader from Prescott leads nationalservice outings to the Refuge. The Ari-zona Wildlife Federation holds frequentbarbed wire removal projects, so checkwith them if you are interested in help-ing. You can have a wonderful experi-ence in a fabulous setting and help wild-life at the same time. We will also try toannounce such work parties in the out-ings section of the Echo.

You can find much more informa-tion about BANWR on the Friends ofBANWR website, http://www.friendsofbanwr.org. There are pho-tos and many other bits of information.Under “New & Old Friends” click on “Tolearn more about Buenos Aires NWR,click here”. This will connect you to theRefuge’s site. Add this wonderful placeto your must-visit, must-support list!

Roy Emrick and group at clean-up on Mustang Saddle in BANWR. Photo courtesy of Roy Emrick

Roy serves on the Rincon Group ExecutiveCommittee and is actively involved with theFriends of BANWR.



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Elna chairs the Chapter’s water committee.

2000

To learn more about theseissues and to get involvedwith the Rincon Group’sefforts, contact Keith at(520) 623-0269 [email protected] orIsabael [email protected] check out therelatedarticle on page 1 and theDefenders of Wildlife re-port at http://www.defenders.org/bor-der/ for more detailed in-formation on how the bor-der policies are affectingwildlife and the border en-vironment.


It’s not often that you getto watch a movie on SierraClub icon David Brower andthen ask his granddaughterwhat she thought of the film,but that’s what happened inFebruary during the SaguaroGroup’s quarterly movie night.

The film was “Monumen-tal: David Brower’s Fight forWild America” and the grand-daughter was Katy Olsen,originally from Portland, Ore.,now a freshman at ArizonaState University where she ismajoring in music.

“I saw the schedule at a Si-erra Club table at ASU andwanted to see the movie again,”said 18-year-old Olsen.

The film explains how asthe Sierra Club’s first executivedirector in 1952, her grandfa-ther created the modern envi-ronmental movement by tak-

ing the organization from asmall group of 2,000 hikers andmountaineers to become thenation’s premiere protector of itsnatural heritage.

Special Guest Adds to MovieSpecial Guest Adds to MovieSpecial Guest Adds to MovieSpecial Guest Adds to MovieSpecial Guest Adds to MovieBy Doug Murphy

The film was almost entirelymade up from home moviestaken by Brower in the yearsbefore and after World War II,as he first hiked the Sierra Ne-vada mountain range and thenfought to protect the environ-

ment from growth anddevelopment after thewar.

“What my grandfa-ther did for me was toshow a real appreciationfor the earth,” saidOlsen.

But not everyonehas the benefit of grow-ing up in a family likeOlsen’s. She said thatyoung people todaydon’t seem to have aninterest in the environ-ment.

“In general manyaren’t interested, espe-cially looking at theASU campus,” Olsensaid. “I’m sure that if mygrandfather were here,youth would be hisnumber one priority.”

The Saguaro groupbegan movie night lastyear to offer a differenttype of social activityand to generate discus-sion on important top-ics.

For more informa-tion about the SaguaroGroup movie nights,contact Bev Full at(480) 595-2306.

Kathy Olsen, granddaughter of the Sierra Club’s first executive director David Brower, and Louis Lantz, chair of theSaguaro Group, chat after the February viewing of Monumental: David Brower’s Fight for Wild America. Photo courtesyof Doug Murphy

Help Wanted!Sierra Singles Newsletter Proofreader Position OpenSierra Singles Newsletter Proofreader Position OpenSierra Singles Newsletter Proofreader Position OpenSierra Singles Newsletter Proofreader Position OpenSierra Singles Newsletter Proofreader Position Open

Would you enjoy an active role in the production of our Sierra Club Singlesnewsletter? If so, an opening is currently available for the position of “Proof-reader.” The qualified individual should have good proofreading skills, assist-ing our newsletter editor with the text contained within our bi-monthly news-letter. All communication is through email, mostly during the first couple ofweeks prior to each publication, which is only every two months. If you areinterested, please contact our PVG Outings Chairperson, Darrell Foster at [email protected] (preferred), or 602-569-5549.

Rincon Group Seeks Border SolutionsRincon Group Seeks Border SolutionsRincon Group Seeks Border SolutionsRincon Group Seeks Border SolutionsRincon Group Seeks Border Solutions

The Rincon Group cam-paign seeks to repair the dam-age that the federalgovernment’s policy for oursouthern border in recent yearshas had on fragile SonoranDesert areas, and to prevent fur-ther degradation by advocatingfor a safer and more humaneborder policy.

Under assault — and threat-ened with more devastation byseveral measures Congress is con-sidering, one of which won fullHouse of Representatives ap-proval last December — areCabeza Prieta National WildlifeRefuge, Organ Pipe Cactus Na-tional Monument, Buenos AiresNational Wildlife Refuge,Coronado National Forest andits Pajarito and Miller Peak Wil-derness Areas, Coronado Na-tional Memorial, San Pedro Ri-parian National ConservationArea, and San Bernardino Na-tional Wildlife Refuge. We mustbe concerned as well about thehundreds of migrants who die

each year in the harsh weatherthat so often is encountered inthese and other border areas.

The same ill-advised policiescause the environmental degra-dation and the migrant deaths.The walls, fences, high-intensityand all-night lights, roads, andoff-road damage of heavy utilityvehicles are there to deter or cap-ture migrants, but steer them tofrequent deaths in rugged, inhos-pitable terrain. These installa-tions and force deployments alsodeter, prevent or negatively im-pact the border crossing of jag-uars, Sonoran pronghorn, doz-ens of rare and semi-rare birdspecies, and other uniqueSonoran Desert critters.

One comprehensive changein border policy can provide asolution that serves to protect thesensitive border wildlands whileit saves precious lives. Peoplehave come to the United Statesfrom the south to work and im-prove their families’ lives sincethis country purchased what is

now the Southwest fromMexico in 1848 and 1853. Thenumbers of people migrating,proportionate to the growingpopulations on both sides of theborder, has not changed signifi-cantly over this century andone-half. What has changed iswhere people have crossed theborder.

Traditionally, 80 percent ofthe migrants into this countryfrom the south crossed the bor-der in Tijuana-San Diego orJuarez-El Paso. Nearly all therest crossed through other bor-der cities and towns such as thetwo Nogaleses and Douglas-Agua Prieta. Beginning in theearly 1990s, we began an armedBorder Patrol build-up in theborder cities and started ourwall and fence building in thesesame cities. Migrants are forcedinto the rugged Sonoran Desertand mountainous areas wherethey perish, as sensitive landsserving as wildlife habitat, andas wildlife movement corridors,are degraded.

The good news is that whatwe need as Sierra Club memberswho are concerned about our be-loved Sonoran Desert and itsflora and fauna is comprehensiveand humane border policies. Wehave a lot of allies, and many ofthem are young, vigorous andenthusiastic!

Despite the good news, wehave a long way to go. TheRincon Group will continue todevelop and expand its BorderEnvironment Protection Cam-paign in the weeks and monthsto come. As we work to involvemore Group members in ourcampaign, Executive Committeemember Isabel Segovia and my-self are participating in the Tuc-son-based Bring Down the WallsCoalition that discusses,and sponsors actions on,these issues.

Keith chairs the RinconGroup.



8

Name

Address

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MOVING?Paste the current mailing label here and write

in new address below.(Please allow 4-6 weeks processing time.)

Sierra ClubP.O. Box 52968Boulder, Colorado80322-2968

DeserDeserDeserDeserDesert Tt Tt Tt Tt Tororororortttttoise Conseroise Conseroise Conseroise Conseroise Conservvvvvation:ation:ation:ation:ation:HoHoHoHoHow Yw Yw Yw Yw You Can Makou Can Makou Can Makou Can Makou Can Make a Dife a Dife a Dife a Dife a Difffffferenceerenceerenceerenceerence

Lisa is a Desert Tortoise Biologist for theArizona Game and Fish Department. You canreach her at [email protected].

By Lisa Bucci

($8 for 30 words or less each issue. $48 for entire year. 25 cents for each additional word.Reaches more than 13,000 readers throughout Arizona. To place an ad, mail or email your copyto the Editor. We are not accepting personals. Please make check payable to Sierra Club GrandCanyon Chapter.)

For Rent:For Rent:For Rent:For Rent:For Rent: Cabin and vintage trailers at Blue River Wilderness Retreat. Cool off and relax@ 6,400ft. Situated among pines and cottonwoods on the Blue River, bordered by theApache/Sitgreaves National Forest, near the Blue Range Primitive Area. Abundant hikingand fishing opportunities along perennial streams. Located on the Arizona/New Mexicoborder, near Alpine, AZ. Reasonable rates! Group or individual accommodations. Rent bythe week or month. www.blueriverretreat.com. Call: 928-339-4426 Email:[email protected]

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Want to Do More to HelpWant to Do More to HelpWant to Do More to HelpWant to Do More to HelpWant to Do More to Helpthe Deserthe Deserthe Deserthe Deserthe Desert Tt Tt Tt Tt Tororororor tttttoise?oise?oise?oise?oise?

We need 2 to 4 volunteers tohelp scan photographic slidesof desert tortoises and tortoisehabitat into a computer. Helpthe desert tortoise projectdigitize a massive collection ofphotographs while getting toknow a few goofy wildlifebiologists (their description, notours!) at the Arizona Game andFish Department. Minimumcommitment: 2 hours per weekfor 3 weeks. Schedule: anytimeMonday through Friday duringoffice hours. Flexible. Pleasecontact Halina [email protected] or 602-749-2063.

TRATRATRATRATRAVELVELVELVELVEL- Mystical PERU - shaman guide, August 17 - 27. IRELAND - Women -SacredFeminine, Sept. 27 - Oct. 7. HUMPBACK WHALES- Dom. Rep. Feb 07 AFRICA - Soul Safari,May 07. www.ajourneyofdiscovery.com. 727-785-5563.

Vacation Rental.Vacation Rental.Vacation Rental.Vacation Rental.Vacation Rental. White Mountains. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, sleeps 6-8, fishing, hiking,mountain biking, horseback riding, golf, skiing, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing. $100/night, $500/week. VRBO.com #60487. [email protected]

TTTTTucson. Comfucson. Comfucson. Comfucson. Comfucson. Comfororororortable fully furnished vtable fully furnished vtable fully furnished vtable fully furnished vtable fully furnished vacation home facation home facation home facation home facation home for wor wor wor wor weekly or monthlyeekly or monthlyeekly or monthlyeekly or monthlyeekly or monthlyrental.rental.rental.rental.rental. 2 bedroom/1 bath/carport/washer and dryer. Fully-equipped kitchen. Largewalled/fenced yard with mature trees. Nice front porch and back patio for relaxing.Convenient to Tucson Mountains, Saguaro National Park West, and Desert Museum.Short walk to shopping. Reasonable rates. Quiet. Dog welcome. Please contact Lee Oler520-791-9246 [email protected]

Roommate WantedRoommate WantedRoommate WantedRoommate WantedRoommate Wanted to share 2 bedroom house 44th St. & Camelback (Phoenix),furnished, walk to shopping, close to everything, to share w/female & animals,park likeback yard, $350+ low util, call 602-840-4611.

Daybreak. Early morning sunlightslides over a rocky hillside and castslong saguaro-shaped shadows across adry wash. A Sonoran desert tortoiseemerges from its burrow beneath aboulder, stretches its legs, and pausesto bask in the warm rays. An emblemof the desert southwest, the desert tor-toise is simultaneously a modern spe-cies that has remained virtually un-changed over the last three millionyears and a species with an uncertainfuture. Fire, off-road vehicle use, inva-sive species, and diseases includingUpper Respiratory Tract Disease(URTD) pose a major threat to Arizona’sdesert tortoises.

URTD is an incurable and some-times deadly tortoise disease that affectsupwards of twenty percent of captivetortoises in Arizona. It is transmittedthrough direct contact between healthyand sick tortoises. The symptoms includea runny nose, puffy eyes, labored breath-ing, lethargy, loss of appetite and evendeath.

URTD is a major issue for wild tor-toises near urban areas. Occassionally awell-meaning person has released a sickcaptive tortoise into the wild, expectingthat it would get better. Instead of be-coming healthier, the released tortoisespreads disease to wild tortoises. For thisand other reasons, releasing captive deserttortoises into the wild is not only harm-ful to wild tortoises - it is also illegal.

If you suspect that your captivedesert tortoise is sick, seek medical at-tention from a veterinarian with reptile

experience. Remember, URTD cannot becured, but treatment will help alleviatesymptoms, and your tortoise may live along life despite the infection.

What What What What What YYYYYou Can do for Dou Can do for Dou Can do for Dou Can do for Dou Can do for Desereseresereseresert t t t t TTTTTororororortoisestoisestoisestoisestoises

DDDDDononononon’’’’’t pick up a wild tort pick up a wild tort pick up a wild tort pick up a wild tort pick up a wild tortoise. toise. toise. toise. toise. If youfind a tortoise, use your best judgmentto evaluate whether the tortoise is wildor an escaped captive. If you are far fromhouses or adjacent to wildlands, youshould assume the tortoise is wild andleave it alone (you can help it cross theroad if it is in danger). A tortoise foundin an urban neighborhood is likely anescaped captive.

Never release a desert tortoise intoNever release a desert tortoise intoNever release a desert tortoise intoNever release a desert tortoise intoNever release a desert tortoise intothe wild.the wild.the wild.the wild.the wild. If you can no longer care foryour captive tortoise or move out of state,you can gift it to another individual orcall the Arizona Game and FishDepartment’s Adobe Mountain WildlifeCenter at (623) 582-9806 for instruc-

tions.AAAAAdopt a deserdopt a deserdopt a deserdopt a deserdopt a desert tort tort tort tort tortoisetoisetoisetoisetoise. The Adobe

Mountain Wildlife Center in Phoenixhas tortoises available for adoption, rang-ing from tiny hatchlings to large adults.You can find information about tortoiseadoption on the Game and Fish website:http://www.azgfd.gov/.

Prevent your captive tortoise fromPrevent your captive tortoise fromPrevent your captive tortoise fromPrevent your captive tortoise fromPrevent your captive tortoise fromescapingescapingescapingescapingescaping. You should install a self-clos-ing hinge on your gate and close off allescape routes.

DDDDDononononon’’’’’t brt brt brt brt breed captiveed captiveed captiveed captiveed captive tore tore tore tore tortoisestoisestoisestoisestoises. Deserttortoises can lay 3-8 eggs per year, andmay breed for 50 or more years. Onebreeding pair will quickly produce morehatchlings than you can find good homesfor. Hatchlings cannot be released intothe wild.

The Canyon Echo encourages its contributors to license their work through CreativeCommons. This set of icons indicates that the contributor has chose the CreativeCommons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License:

The following statement applies to all contributions designated with the above icons:

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike Li-cense. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/ orsend a letter to Creative Commons, 543 Howard Street, 5th Floor, San Francisco, California,94105, USA

All other contributions, including photos, cartoons and written work, fall under stan-dard copyright restrictions.

Desert tortoise in the sun. Photo courtesy of Robin Silver

Calling All Bat Fans

Holy Chiroptera, Batman! Several volunteerprojects are coming up this year with variousbat species including Mexican freetails,pipistrelles, Townsend and California leafnose

bats. Activities may include doing visual counts of exitingbats, camera use, logging data, and helping to build a battower in northern Arizona. Supersition Wilderness hikersare needed to monitor bats’ usage and human vandalism ofthe Dacite Mine bat gate. If you’d like to get more infor-mation as details are worked out, contact Halina at 602-749-2063 or [email protected].



9

Celebrating the Antiquities ActCelebrating the Antiquities ActCelebrating the Antiquities ActCelebrating the Antiquities ActCelebrating the Antiquities ActBy Scott Jones

Scott works for the Sierra Club as a NationalMonuments Organizer in Arizona.

Check out the Grand Canyon Action Network andkeep up to date on your local Sierra Club Action

Alerts.

Grand Canyon ActionGrand Canyon ActionGrand Canyon ActionGrand Canyon ActionGrand Canyon ActionNetworkNetworkNetworkNetworkNetwork

http://grandcanyon.sierraclubaction.org

Sign up today to make your voice heard onthe issues affecting our home, the

environment.

One century ago, PresidentTheodore Roosevelt signed an importantpiece of legislation that would have a last-ing effect on millions of acres of publicland across the country. The AntiquitiesAct, signed into law on June 8, 1906,provided the President with the author-ity to designate national monuments—parcels of land set aside to protect “his-toric landmarks, historic and prehistoricstructures, and other objects of historicor scientific interest.” Many of these na-tional monuments protected some ofAmerica’s finest and most enduring sym-bols, from the Grand Canyon to theStatue of Liberty.

While the original impetus for theact was the desire to protect the prehis-toric dwellings of the Southwest,Roosevelt more broadly interpreted hisnew authority, using it to preserve awider range of places for their potentialscientific interest than the bill’s spon-sors had anticipated. This practice re-mained relatively uncontroversial untilTeddy Roosevelt’s fifth cousin, FranklinD. Roosevelt, used the act to proclaimJackson Hole National Monument in1943 after Congress had refused to ex-pand the boundaries of Grand TetonNational Park to include it.

While Congress has occasionallytaken issue with the President’s author-ity to designate national monuments, ithas frequently solidified a monument’sstatus as a special place deserving pro-tection by re-designating it a nationalpark. Many of our nation’s largest na-tional parks, for instance, originally be-

gan as national monuments created bythe stroke of the President’s pen. As amatter of fact, three parks here in thestate—Saguaro, Petrified Forest, and theGrand Canyon—were re-designated asnational parks after being initially setaside as national monuments.

Over the last century, presidentshave made frequent use of the Antiqui-ties Act in Arizona. The state boasts avariety of national monuments, from theancient dwellings of Tuzigoot, Wupatki,Navajo, Tonto, Walnut Canyon, CasaGrande, and Montezuma’s Castle to thespectacular landscapes of Chiricahua,Organ Pipe Cactus and Sunset Crater.Each of these special places protects animportant piece of our cultural andnatural heritage.

In addition to these older unitsmanaged by the National Park Service,Arizona also boasts five newer nationalmonuments that were designated dur-ing the Clinton Administration.

The remote Grand Canyon-Parashant and Vermilion Cliffs nationalmonuments lie north and west of theColorado River in the Arizona Strip andencompass nearly 1.3 million acres ofthe greater Grand Canyon ecosytem.Agua Fria National Monument protectsancient rimtop dwellings north of Phoe-nix. Sonoran Desert National Monu-ment preserves nearly half a million acresof beautiful sonoran desert habitat nearGila Bend. Finally, northwest of Tucsonlies Ironwood Forest National Monu-ment, which contains one of the richeststands of ironwood in the southwest.

Unlike most national monuments,these five are being managed by theBureau of Land Management (BLM), anagency that lacks a history of strong pro-tective management practices. As a re-sult, these treasures need your help.

As many readers know, the BLM iscurrently deciding how they will man-age these new monuments. Draft man-agement plans were recently released forAgua Fria, Grand Canyon-Parashant, andVermilion Cliffs national monuments.Unfortunately, the agency’s proposalshave thus far failed to adequately pro-tect the resources that these monumentswere created to preserve.

MULMULMULMULMULTIPLE CHOICETIPLE CHOICETIPLE CHOICETIPLE CHOICETIPLE CHOICE1) What was the first national monument created by the Antiquities Act?A. Yellowstone National MonumentB. Devils Tower National MonumentC. Casa Grande National MonumentD. El Morro National MonumentE. Grand Canyon National Monument

2) President George W. Bush has created a single national monument during hispresidency. How large of an area did he protect?A. 15,000 square feetB. 1,500 acresC. 15,000 acresD. 150,000 acresE. He hasn’t created a national monument

3) What was the name of the former national monument that used to incorporatePapago Park in Phoenix?A. Papago Indian National MonumentB. Papago Springs National MonumentC. Hole-in-the-Rock National MonumentD. Papago Saguaro National MonumentE. Papago Park has never been a national monument

4) Which of the following national monuments did not later become a nationalpark?A. Fort Jefferson National MonumentB. Kobuk Valley National MonumentC. Sieur de Monts National MonumentD. Cinder Cone National MonumentE. Fort Wood National Monument

5) Which President has created the highest number of national monumentssince the Antiquities Act was passed?A. Theodore RooseveltB. Calvin CoolidgeC. Franklin RooseveltD. Jimmy CarterE. Bill Clinton

6) How many national monuments currently exist in Arizona?A. 13B. 14C. 15D. 16E. 17

TRTRTRTRTRUE/FUE/FUE/FUE/FUE/FALSEALSEALSEALSEALSE7) The National Park Service, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and BLMall manage national monuments.8) Grand Canyon National Park incorporates lands previously protected by threenational monuments.9) Only the President can create national monuments.

FILL IN THE BLANKFILL IN THE BLANKFILL IN THE BLANKFILL IN THE BLANKFILL IN THE BLANK10) Name the national monument in Arizona that is on entirely nonfederal land.11) Theodore Roosevelt created five national monuments in Arizona. Name them.12) Congress has barred the President from using the Antiquities Act to createnational monuments in which two states?13) What is the name of the system of BLM-managed national monuments andspecial lands?

EXTRA CREDITEXTRA CREDITEXTRA CREDITEXTRA CREDITEXTRA CREDIT: SHOR: SHOR: SHOR: SHOR: SHORT ANST ANST ANST ANST ANSWER ESSAWER ESSAWER ESSAWER ESSAWER ESSAY QUESY QUESY QUESY QUESY QUESTIONTIONTIONTIONTIONTell us about your favorite national monument.


As early as September, the BLM couldrelease draft management plans for bothSonoran Desert and Ironwood Forestnational monuments. Your voice will beneeded during the subsequent publiccomment period to help convince theBLM to provide the protections these ar-eas need. Please do your part to cel-ebrate the legacy of the Antiquities Actby taking an active role in ensuring thatour newest monuments are treated justas well as our oldest ones. Contact meat [email protected] if you’d liketo help out or learn more.

National Monuments QuizNational Monuments QuizNational Monuments QuizNational Monuments QuizNational Monuments QuizIn the spirit of celebration, we’re offering up our own national monument quiz. Please send your answers and your mailing address to [email protected] or SierraClub, 202 E McDowell Rd, Ste 277, Phoenix, AZ 85281 by June 1st. We’ll publish the names of those with highest scores in the next edition of the Canyon Echo andquiz winners will receive a prize.



10

KKKKKeeping Greeping Greeping Greeping Greeping Groups in the Loopoups in the Loopoups in the Loopoups in the Loopoups in the Loop

Happenings ArHappenings ArHappenings ArHappenings ArHappenings Around the Sound the Sound the Sound the Sound the StattattattattateeeeeWelcome!Welcome!Welcome!Welcome!Welcome! Six Groups make up the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter (see pg.2 for listings). Conservation, political and legislative activism, admin-istrative work, and outings are a few ways we work to protect this amazing state. And there are many more! All the events and meetings listedAll the events and meetings listedAll the events and meetings listedAll the events and meetings listedAll the events and meetings listedbelobelobelobelobelow are open tw are open tw are open tw are open tw are open to membero membero membero membero members ints ints ints ints interesteresteresteresterested in learning more about the Sierra Club.ed in learning more about the Sierra Club.ed in learning more about the Sierra Club.ed in learning more about the Sierra Club.ed in learning more about the Sierra Club. We aim to make this world a better, more livable place.WWWWWe need ye need ye need ye need ye need your help!our help!our help!our help!our help! You can find out more at our website: www www www www www.arizona.sierraclub.org .arizona.sierraclub.org .arizona.sierraclub.org .arizona.sierraclub.org .arizona.sierraclub.org - click on meetings.

Chapter AnnouncementsChapter AnnouncementsChapter AnnouncementsChapter AnnouncementsChapter AnnouncementsMeetings are open to the public. For directions, please call or email the contact person listed.

Rincon Group Rincon Group Rincon Group Rincon Group Rincon Group (Tucson and surrounding area)(Tucson and surrounding area)(Tucson and surrounding area)(Tucson and surrounding area)(Tucson and surrounding area)

Palo Verde Group Palo Verde Group Palo Verde Group Palo Verde Group Palo Verde Group (Phoenix and suburbs)(Phoenix and suburbs)(Phoenix and suburbs)(Phoenix and suburbs)(Phoenix and suburbs) The Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political Committee meets the first Monday of each month at 5:30PM in the Sierra Club’s Phoenix office. All members are welcome to discuss legislativeand federal issues, and act as advocates for conservation by taking political action.Contact Lynn DeMuth at [email protected] for details.

MAMAMAMAMAY 1Y 1Y 1Y 1Y 11 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlifs) 6:30 PM Wildlifs) 6:30 PM Wildlifs) 6:30 PM Wildlifs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committe Committe Committe Committe Committee Meeee Meeee Meeee Meeee Meetingtingtingtingting Learn about ongoingefforts to protect Arizona’s amazing wildlife and how you can help. The May meetingis out in the field: we will participate in an owl survey at Phoenix Mountain Preservewith Game & Fish staff. For details and to reserve a spot, please RSVP to Halina at602-749-2063 or [email protected].

MAMAMAMAMAY 23 and JUN 2Y 23 and JUN 2Y 23 and JUN 2Y 23 and JUN 2Y 23 and JUN 27 (T7 (T7 (T7 (T7 (Tues) 6:00 PM Energy Committues) 6:00 PM Energy Committues) 6:00 PM Energy Committues) 6:00 PM Energy Committues) 6:00 PM Energy Committee.ee.ee.ee.ee. The revitalizedEnergy Committee meets to work on our 2006 projects, including the Cool Citiescampaign. We will also talk about the national scene and local energy issues. Everyoneis invited to come and participate no matter how much or how little you know aboutenergy issues. Sierra Club 2nd floor conference room in Phoenix. Please contact JonFindley at (480) 756-2916 or email [email protected]

JUN 1 (Thurs) Copy Deadline for July/August JUN 1 (Thurs) Copy Deadline for July/August JUN 1 (Thurs) Copy Deadline for July/August JUN 1 (Thurs) Copy Deadline for July/August JUN 1 (Thurs) Copy Deadline for July/August Canyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon Echo, Theme: State, Theme: State, Theme: State, Theme: State, Theme: Stateof the Enof the Enof the Enof the Enof the Envirvirvirvirvironmentonmentonmentonmentonment Submissions of articles, drawings, photographs, poetry, essays,calls to action, and brief epiphanies are welcome. This will be a 16-page issue, so weneed more submissions! We recommend contacting the editor before writing at (602)253-9140 or [email protected] to discuss word count, issue topics and otherwriting details and to request submission guidelines.

JUN 14 (Weds) 6:30 PM Wilderness Committee meeting JUN 14 (Weds) 6:30 PM Wilderness Committee meeting JUN 14 (Weds) 6:30 PM Wilderness Committee meeting JUN 14 (Weds) 6:30 PM Wilderness Committee meeting JUN 14 (Weds) 6:30 PM Wilderness Committee meeting at Rosie McCaffrey’slocated at 906 E. Camelback (north side of street). We will plan and discuss someFall service trips into our BLM National Monuments and the Picacho IRA (inventoriedroadless area) on Tonto National Forest. We will have updates on the roadless rulepetition process and maps available for people to locate the areas. For moreinformation contact Jim Vaaler at [email protected] or Michelle Pulich-Stewart [email protected]

JUN 28 (WJUN 28 (WJUN 28 (WJUN 28 (WJUN 28 (Weds) Caneds) Caneds) Caneds) Caneds) Canyyyyyon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pararararartytytytyty, , , , , 2–7 PM (stop by anytime). Clubvolunteers save the chapter thousands of dollars every year by preparing the CanyonEcho for mailing. Thank you! The job is easy to learn and takes only a few hours onceevery two months. We all have a good timegood timegood timegood timegood time. Work begins at 2 PM and continues untilall copies are addressed, bundled and sacked, usually around 7 PM or earlier. You’refree to arrive as your schedule allows and any amount of time is appreciated. ContactJerry Nelson at (602) 279-4668 ([email protected]) or Bill Gill at([email protected]) for location and other details.

JUL 8 and 9 (Sat and Sun) Chapter Conservation and ExCom MeetingJUL 8 and 9 (Sat and Sun) Chapter Conservation and ExCom MeetingJUL 8 and 9 (Sat and Sun) Chapter Conservation and ExCom MeetingJUL 8 and 9 (Sat and Sun) Chapter Conservation and ExCom MeetingJUL 8 and 9 (Sat and Sun) Chapter Conservation and ExCom Meeting inSedona at the Verde Valley School. An evening potluck picnic/social for Sierra clubmembers and friends will take place at Crescent Moon (Red Rock Crossing) on Sat,July 8. All are invited to attend. For more information call Carole at (928) 204-1269.

MaMaMaMaMay 9 (Ty 9 (Ty 9 (Ty 9 (Ty 9 (Tues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Palo Valo Valo Valo Valo Verererererde Grde Grde Grde Grde Group Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conservvvvvation and Exation and Exation and Exation and Exation and Executivecutivecutivecutivecutive Committe Committe Committe Committe CommitteeeeeeeeeeMeeMeeMeeMeeMeetings.tings.tings.tings.tings. The Palo Verde Group Conservation Committee meets at 7 PM to discussissues related to desert preservation, forest protection, wildlife and endangered species,energy conservation, growth management, etc. The Palo Verde Group Executive Committeemeets at 8:30 PM to review matters related to group policies, outdoor activities, finances,and other business. At the Sierra Club office, 202 E. McDowell in Phoenix (2nd floorconference room in the southeast corner of the Los Olivos – Econolodge Suites). For theconservation meeting, contact Don Steuter (602-956-5057 or [email protected])and for the ExCom meeting contact Paul Zemboy ([email protected] or 602-989-1977).

MaMaMaMaMay 1y 1y 1y 1y 16 (T6 (T6 (T6 (T6 (Tues) 7 PM, Electric Vues) 7 PM, Electric Vues) 7 PM, Electric Vues) 7 PM, Electric Vues) 7 PM, Electric Vehicles.ehicles.ehicles.ehicles.ehicles. Are alternative fueled cars in yourfuture? With gas prices expected to soar to $3.50 this summer, this is the meeting not tomiss.Did you know that electric vehicles can now go 300 miles on a charge & they can gofaster then most sports cars? Come & find out all about them from the expert, Jim StackPresident of the Electric car Association. See you there! Phoenix Zoo, 455Galvin Pkw,gothru 2 gates then next left to meeting room. For more information please contact SherryCeline at 602-840-4611or [email protected].

Jun 1Jun 1Jun 1Jun 1Jun 13 (T3 (T3 (T3 (T3 (Tues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Palo Valo Valo Valo Valo Verererererde Grde Grde Grde Grde Group Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conservvvvvation and Exation and Exation and Exation and Exation and Executivecutivecutivecutivecutive Committe Committe Committe Committe CommitteeeeeeeeeeMeetings.Meetings.Meetings.Meetings.Meetings. See description on May 9.

Jun 20 (TJun 20 (TJun 20 (TJun 20 (TJun 20 (Tues) 7 PM, National Monuments.ues) 7 PM, National Monuments.ues) 7 PM, National Monuments.ues) 7 PM, National Monuments.ues) 7 PM, National Monuments. Join us for an exciting presentationby Scott Jones, who is the Monuments Protection Organizer for the Southwest RegionalOffice of the Sierra Club. Find out about the 5 latest & greatest national monuments thatClinton preserved for us to enjoy, where they are, how immigration is affecting two ofthem in Arizona, & how the change of management could affect their well being.We evenget a slide show & cookies! Phoenix Zoo, 455Galvin Pkw,go thru 2 gates then next left tomeeting room. For more information please contact Sherry Celine at [email protected].

MaMaMaMaMay 1y 1y 1y 1y 11 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thur1 (Thurs) 7 PM Ts) 7 PM Ts) 7 PM Ts) 7 PM Ts) 7 PM Turning Wurning Wurning Wurning Wurning Watatatatater Scarer Scarer Scarer Scarer Scarcity Intcity Intcity Intcity Intcity Into Wo Wo Wo Wo Watatatatater Aer Aer Aer Aer Abundance –bundance –bundance –bundance –bundance –Guiding Principles tGuiding Principles tGuiding Principles tGuiding Principles tGuiding Principles to Wo Wo Wo Wo Welcome Rain Intelcome Rain Intelcome Rain Intelcome Rain Intelcome Rain Into Yo Yo Yo Yo Your Lifour Lifour Lifour Lifour Life and Landscapee and Landscapee and Landscapee and Landscapee and LandscapeGuest Speaker: Brad Lancaster. In this important program Brad demonstrates the eightguiding principles of integrated water harvesting. This story and its principles are presentedin the context of how Tucson, Arizona, like many across the globe, has taken the wastefulpath of scarcity—rapidly depleting its water resources by dehydrating the landscapes of itswatersheds. Yet, we can choose the stewardship path to abundance by rehydrating ourlandscapes through simple water harvesting. Brad Lancaster is the author of “RainwaterHarvesting for Drylands, Volume 1 – Guiding Principles to Welcome Rain Into Your Lifeand Landscape.” He will also be on hand to sell and sign copies of this book. Location:Tucson Botanical Gardens. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. Refreshments served. Free, ample, on-site parking. For more information, call 747-5078.

Jun 8 (Thurs) 7 PM Leading Wilderness Adventures in the SouthwestJun 8 (Thurs) 7 PM Leading Wilderness Adventures in the SouthwestJun 8 (Thurs) 7 PM Leading Wilderness Adventures in the SouthwestJun 8 (Thurs) 7 PM Leading Wilderness Adventures in the SouthwestJun 8 (Thurs) 7 PM Leading Wilderness Adventures in the Southwestfor the Sierra Club for the Sierra Club for the Sierra Club for the Sierra Club for the Sierra Club Guest Speakers: Barry Morenz (National Sierra Club SouthwestOutings Leader) and Chris and Janet Krisinski-Saxer (Rincon Mountaineering OutingsCo-Chairs). Whether you want to lead a southwestern wilderness adventure, join one, orlearn how it’s done, please join Barry Morenz for this exciting program. As most of you whoread Sierra Magazine know, the National Outings Committee fields about 350 trips eachyear all over the world. Barry is responsible for coordinating 20-25 trips in the Southwest,which are usually week-long backpacks. Come learn about a typical Southwestern trip anddecide for yourself whether you’d like to learn, lead, or just watch. Meet Chris and Janet, ourRincon Group Outings/Mountaineering Leaders extraordinaire and get to see what theyhave been doing with this latest arm of the club. Location: Tucson Botanical Gardens. 2150N. Alvernon Way. Refreshments served. Free, ample, on-site parking. For more information,call 747-5078.

Saguaro Group Saguaro Group Saguaro Group Saguaro Group Saguaro Group (North Maricopa County)(North Maricopa County)(North Maricopa County)(North Maricopa County)(North Maricopa County)

MAMAMAMAMAY 1Y 1Y 1Y 1Y 17 (W7 (W7 (W7 (W7 (Weds) Saguareds) Saguareds) Saguareds) Saguareds) Saguaro ExCom Meeo ExCom Meeo ExCom Meeo ExCom Meeo ExCom Meetingtingtingtingting at 7 PM at Harris Bank (SE cornerof Carefree Hy and Scottsdale Rd): Planning for Political, Outings, and Programs. Allinterested members are invited. Call Louis Lantz 480 488 4581 or e-mail [email protected]

Jun 4 (Sun) SaguarJun 4 (Sun) SaguarJun 4 (Sun) SaguarJun 4 (Sun) SaguarJun 4 (Sun) Saguaro Film Club o Film Club o Film Club o Film Club o Film Club at 6 PM in a Scottdale home. Two short filmswill be shown: The Man Who Planted Trees, an award winning film by Jean Giono andWild America, Protecting the Lands Explored by Lewis and Clark. Discussion andRefreshments will follow. Call 480 595 2306 or e-mail [email protected] for directionsand information.

Jun 21 (Weds) Saguaro Pot Luck and ProgramJun 21 (Weds) Saguaro Pot Luck and ProgramJun 21 (Weds) Saguaro Pot Luck and ProgramJun 21 (Weds) Saguaro Pot Luck and ProgramJun 21 (Weds) Saguaro Pot Luck and Program at 5:30 PM at Cave CreekPark, Shelter 4. Bring a dish to share. A Maricopa County Parks Ranger will conduct ashort hike and talk to us about Spring flowers and birds in the park. There is a $5.00fee per car to enter the park. For reservations and information call 480-488-4581.

May 5 (Fri) General MeetingMay 5 (Fri) General MeetingMay 5 (Fri) General MeetingMay 5 (Fri) General MeetingMay 5 (Fri) General Meeting at 3 PM at Sierra Club office. For more information,contact Bob Sutherland at 928-774-9309 or [email protected].

Plateau Group Plateau Group Plateau Group Plateau Group Plateau Group (Flagstaff and surrounding area)(Flagstaff and surrounding area)(Flagstaff and surrounding area)(Flagstaff and surrounding area)(Flagstaff and surrounding area) MaMaMaMaMay 3, Jun 7 & Jul 5 (Wy 3, Jun 7 & Jul 5 (Wy 3, Jun 7 & Jul 5 (Wy 3, Jun 7 & Jul 5 (Wy 3, Jun 7 & Jul 5 (Weds) Yeds) Yeds) Yeds) Yeds) Yaaaaavvvvvapai Grapai Grapai Grapai Grapai Group Exoup Exoup Exoup Exoup Executivecutivecutivecutivecutive Committe Committe Committe Committe CommitteeeeeeeeeeMeeMeeMeeMeeMeetings tings tings tings tings at 6 PM. For info and directions phone Tom at (928)778-4233.

Jun 2Jun 2Jun 2Jun 2Jun 24 (Sat) General Public Mee4 (Sat) General Public Mee4 (Sat) General Public Mee4 (Sat) General Public Mee4 (Sat) General Public Meetingtingtingtingting With the arrival of warm weather theYavapai Group will be hosting an outdoor potluck dinner followed by a short progam.For information and location phone Tom at (928)778-4233.

Yavapai Group Yavapai Group Yavapai Group Yavapai Group Yavapai Group (Prescott and surrounding area)(Prescott and surrounding area)(Prescott and surrounding area)(Prescott and surrounding area)(Prescott and surrounding area)



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See Outings continued on pg. 12

The Sierra Club is a nationwide organization with active local outings for members andnon-members. Please join us as we make friends and explore life-enriching interests.Simply find an outing by date and phone the contact for directions, reservations, time andadditional information.RESTRICTIONS: RESTRICTIONS: RESTRICTIONS: RESTRICTIONS: RESTRICTIONS: NO FIREARMS, RADIOS OR PETS.Outings are by reservation. Call early (group limit 20). Each hike is rated for degree ofdifficulty and risk by the leader.

“A” +16 miles or + 3,000 ft. elevation change (EC)

“B” 8–16 miles and 1,500–3,000 ft. EC

“C” 3–8 miles, 500–1,500 ft. EC RT Round Trip

“D” – 3 miles and 500 ft. EC OW One WayTrip leader has absolute authority to question trip participants as to their equipment,conditioning and experience before and during the trip. All participants on Sierra Cluboutings are required to sign a standard liability waver. If you would like to read the liabilitywaver 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 aprinted version. Sierra Club liability covers leaders only. Each person is responsible for hisor her own first aid equipment. If you are injured, notify the leader immediately. If you leavethe trip, with or without the leader’s permission, you are considered to be on your own untilyou rejoin the group. Hikers are encouraged to carpool and share the driver’s fuel expense.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 thegroup treasurer. For more information, call Jim Vaaler, (602) 553-8208. Hikes and outingsare also listed in the Rincon Group newsletter and in the Palo Verde Group Sierra ClubSingles newsletter.

Hiking Guidelines

MAY 5 - 7 (SAT – MON) Black Canyon ofthe Colorado River Canoe Trip Drive toBoulder City on Saturday, camp or stay inmotel, get put in below Hoover Dam onSunday AM, canoe and camp Sunday andMonday, take out on Monday and driveback to Phoenix. There will be no motorizedwatercraft on the River. Enjoy hot springsand spectacular views. Trip limit 12. Call BevFull for cost and information. (480) 595-2306or e mail [email protected] Phoenix

MAY 6 (SAT) “A” Battleship Dayhike &Climb (10 mi. RT, 3,000'+ elev. gain) Hikedown the Bright Angel Trail very early &then go off trail to the Battleship, the buttejust to the west & above Indian Garden.Bushwacking, exposure, 3 rd class climb atthe end to the top of the Battleship. Moreinformation on this route may be found inthe Grand Canyon’s Summit Select, FirstEdition by Tomasi. Limit of 6. Headlampmandatory. For more info & registrationcontact the leader: Bob Audretsch (928) 638-2077 before 9 PM or e-mail (preferred):[email protected] . Grand Canyon

MAY 6 (SAT) Rockclimbing, “Atlantis”,Queen Creek Canyon near SuperiorLocated along the floor of Oak CreekCanyon, this area is a nice place to climbwhen the temps start rising! A variety ofroutes will be set up on top rope in the 5.7 to5.10+ range. We’ll learn more about thecongressionally legislated land swapinvolving Resolution Copper Companywhich threatens access to this world-classrecreation area. The approach is 10 minutes,requiring a steep scramble down from theparking pullout. Sponsored by the RinconMountaineering Section, this outingrequires Sierra Club membership, rockclimbing experience and personal climbingequipment. Contact Jerry and Pat Cagle fordetails at 520-975-4955 or [email protected]

MAY 7 (SUN) “B” Eagletail Peak Hike Thishike is about 60 miles west of Phoenix. Morehigh clearance vehicles are needed for hike.This is a good desert hike with a gentle climbof about 500', about 9 total miles in and out.This is the hike that was cancelled Mar 12due to heavy rains. We’ll start early in themorning since the date is starting to get intothe warm season. The peak is named afterthree spires with appearance of feathers.Contact Brian Crawford (email preferred) [email protected] or 480-882-8755.Phoenix

MAY 10 (WED) “C” 8 AM Bev’s Wed. Hikeon the Lookout Mountain Trail. Enjoybreakfast afterward at a nearby private home.Call Bev Full (480) 595-2306 or [email protected] Phoenix

MAY 12 (FRI) “B” Moonrise hike in theTucson Mountains. (9 miles RT) This hikewill begin shortly before sunset at the KingCanyon Trailhead. With use of the fullmoonlight, we’ll hike to the top of the ridgeto see the moon shining above the city lightsof Tucson. Contact Chai Blair-Stahn fordetails at (520) 481-1638 [email protected] Tucson

MAY 20 (SAT) “C” McDowell MountainRoad Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup Project ISeeService Outings on p. 12 for description. CallMichael Brady (602) 534-1355. Phoenix

MAY 13 (SAT) “C” 8AM - Tonto NaturalBridge Hike and Picnic Lunch Call BevFull (480) 595-2306 or e mail [email protected] car pool information and details. Phoenix

MAY 13 (SAT) “B” Bradshaw MountainsWet-N-Wild II Water-Hike Join us for a non-technical canyoneering adventure to a rarelyvisited creek near Crown King in theBradshaw Mountains. From the trailhead(5,400’) we will scramble down (1,000’) thesteep hillside trail to the cool refreshingcreek below. Once at the creek we will wade,swim, rock-hop and brush-bust our waydownstream. We will visit several poolswhere we will swim, enjoy cascades, baskon boulders, or relax in the creek-side shadeof large cottonwoods. Following a toughscramble, we’ll reach the “big ticket,” whichis a pool that is 60’ to 70’ across and 15’ deepwith a 35’ waterfall at its head! This is anawesome swimming hole that offersjumping/diving opportunities. We will spend1.5 hours getting “Wet-N-Wild” at the poolof this natural water-park. Only 5 miles RTand 1,000’ EC, but very strenuous. You mustbe a strong, agile hiker who can swim.Afterwards we will gather in Crown King fordinner and conversation. Contact DarrellFoster at [email protected](preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix

MAY 13 (SAT) “C” Secret Canyon TrailDay Hike in Sedona (5.0 miles RT, 600’ EC)This trail features views and a beautifulremote canyon with an endless display ofredrock beauty. Located 8.6 miles NE of theSedona Y. Trip Leader: Nancy Sutherland,(928) 774-9309, for meeting time and location.Flagstaff

MAY 13 (SAT) Rockclimbing,“Munchkinland”, Mt. Lemon, SantaCatalina Mountains, N/E of Tucson. We willconcentrate on the newer routes in the 5.7to 5.10+ range located on LowerMunchkinland’s west facing crag, N/NW ofRose Canyon Lake. At approx. 7,000’. we willexperience this area’s plant diversity whereponderosa pine cohabitate with desert flora;and appreciate the regrowth resulting fromthe Aspen Fire of 2003. The approach is 15minutes from the meeting area. Spaciouscampsites nearby. Sponsored by the RinconMountaineering Section, this outingrequires Sierra Club membership, rockclimbing experience and personal climbingequipment. Contact Janet Krisinski-Saxer orChris Saxer for details at 520-743-8017 [email protected] Tucson

MAY 14 (SUN) “B”. Oracle Ridge and RedRidge in the Santa Catalina Mountains (7.4or 8.5 miles RT - depending upon whetherwe have a car at each end – 2350’ EC) Thishike will start at 8,000’ on Mount Lemmonand descend the Oracle Ridge Trail into theEast Fork of the Canada Del Oro. We willpass through some areas burned in theBullock and Aspen fires so we will have theopportunity to see the damage and theregrowth that is now occurring. On the returnwe will ascend via the Red Ridge Trail. Planon eating lunch near the midpoint of the hikeand bring sufficient water. Contact: DrewMilsom, (520) 621 2678 (daytime), 908 1087(evening). Tucson

MAY 20-21 (SAT-SUN) “A” Mt. GrahamBackpack The leader will discuss thecontroversial environmental issues that haveaffected the Mt Graham wilderness studyarea over the past years. We will descendon the Grant Creek trail into the beautifulPost Creek riparian area. The trail comes outto an old road that will take us down to thejunction with the Goudy Trail. We will pickup water in Post Creek and then ascendabout 1,500’ to our dry camp on the GoudyTrail. The Goudy Trail climbs for almost4,000’ up through a collage of changingexposures and then through a mosaic of old

burns before topping out at 9,400’ in a lovelyfir forest. Total hiking distance is 20 miles.For reservations, meeting time and place, callyour leader: Jim Vaaler at 602-553-8208 oremail at [email protected] Phoenix

MAY 26-29 (FRI-SUN) “B+” Memorial DayUtah Day Hikes and Car Camp. This yearwe will explore the Dark Canyon Plateau, aremote, seldom-visited area high above thedeserts of southern Utah. Camp in the pines,and explore big, forested canyons, withIndian ruins hidden among them. Drive upFriday, hike Saturday and Sunday, returnMonday. High-clearance vehicles needed,please volunteer. We will carpool to theextent practicable. For info contact JaySkardon at 602-943-6583 or [email protected]

MAY 27 (SAT) “C” West Fork Trail DayHike (Sedona) (6.0 miles RT, 400’ EC) Thistrail features a beautiful canyon with astream. It is one of the most popular hikes inArizona and requires an entry fee. 10.5 milesnorth of the Sedona Y. Trip Leader: NancySutherland, (928) 774-9309, for meeting timeand location. Flagstaff

MAY 27-29 (SAT-MON) “B+” NavajoNational Monument Keet Seel Backpack.Keet Seel is a strenuous 17 mile round triphike. The payoff is the spectacular Keet Seelcliff dwellings. We will depart from Phoenixon May 27 very early to make the 4pmmandatory orientation. We will pitch campat the trailhead and then head out bright andearly the next morning. Two gallons of waterare needed for each hiker, so prepare for aheavy pack. There is no water available forthe entire 17-mile hike. Upon reaching KeetSeel, a ranger will lead an interpretive tour ofthe dwellings. We will visit the ruins and thencamp at a primitive campground, 1/2 mile fromthe ruins. Composting toilets are availableand no campfires are allowed. Carry a stoveif you wish to cook. Contact Denise [email protected] or 623-910-7978. Spaceonly for 10 hikers! Phoenix

JUN 3 (SAT) “C” O’Leary Peak Trail DayHike near Flagstaff (3 miles RT, 750’ EC) Thistrail goes to the top of a peak which dominatesthe Sunset Crater area and has great views

following a fairly strenuous climb. Located22 miles north of Flagstaff. Trip Leader:Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309, formeeting time and location. Flagstaff

JUN 10 (SAT) “B” Wet Beaver CreekSwim/Hike (11 mi., 300' EC) We’ll hike in onthe Bell Trail to the popular swimming holeat the 3.5-mile mark. The creek bed will thenbecome our trail, as we alternately hike, swim,wade, rock-hop, and boulder-scramble toother beautiful redrock swimming holes inthis lush riparian area. Along our route wewill have the opportunity to observe thegeology of the area, including the KaibabLimestone, Toroweap, Coconino Sandstone,and Supai formations. Waterproofed pack,quick-drying clothes, and personal flotationdevice strongly recommended. Swimmersonly. Dinner afterwards at Rock SpringsCafe. Contact Gary Hendrickson [email protected] or 480-423-3898.Phoenix

JUNE 21 (WED) 8 AM Bev’s Wed. Hike toWaterfall in Tonto National ForestBreakfast after in Carefree. Call Bev Full at(480) 595-2306 or email [email protected]

JUN 24 (SAT) “B” Indian Maiden Falls/West Clear Creek Water-Hike .Join us fora non-technical canyoneering adventure aswe explore West Clear Creek (WCC). Ourdestination is the middle section of WCC inthe WCC Wilderness just outside of CampVerde. We will scramble 1,600’ down the sideof the canyon on Trail 17 until we hit thecool waters of WCC. Then head upstream,in and out of the creek, until reaching IndianMaiden Falls. Here in the Supai sandstoneformation we will enjoy our lunch and take-in all of the wondrous geology of this red-rocked riparian paradise. Scrambling, rock-hopping, pushing through brush andswimming are all included in this awesomeadventure. You must be a strong, agile hikerand able to swim. Approximately 7 miles RTand EC is –1,600 ft/+1,600 ft (much harderthan it sounds, including a steep, 1,600 feetin 1.5 miles, sun exposed trail on the wayout).We will gather afterwards at a favoriterestaurant just outside Camp Verde for dinner



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and conversation. Limit 15. Contact DarrellFoster at [email protected](preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix

JUN 24 (SAT) “B” Bear Jaw Canyon DayHike near Flagstaff (5.10 miles RT, 1300’ EC)This is a strenuous hike up the north face ofthe San Francisco Peaks and features alpinescenery and vast views. 24.7 miles north ofFlagstaff. Trip Leader: Nancy Sutherland(928) 774-9309, for meeting time and location.Flagstaff

JUL 1 (SAT) “C” Anderson Mesa Day Hike(6 miles, +-500' EC) Plentiful wildlife and great

MAMAMAMAMAY 7 (SUN) BufY 7 (SUN) BufY 7 (SUN) BufY 7 (SUN) BufY 7 (SUN) Buffffffel Grass Rel Grass Rel Grass Rel Grass Rel Grass Remoemoemoemoemovvvvval at Iral at Iral at Iral at Iral at Ironononononwwwwwood Food Food Food Food Forest National Monument.orest National Monument.orest National Monument.orest National Monument.orest National Monument.Ironwood Forest National Monument contains one of the richest stands of ironwoodtrees in the Sonoran Desert and is also home to the Nichol Turk’s Head Cactus, anendangered species. Our efforts will focus on removing buffel grass, an invasive species,from an area that these threatened plants inhabit. We will meet at the site at 7 AM andwork until noon or so. The Sierra Club will provide lunch. Please bring water, a hat, sunscreen,some work gloves, and lots of energy. There will be a contingent driving down from Phoenix.For more info, please contact Sandy Bahr at (602) 253-8633 [email protected]. Please RSVP so we can plan to have enough food and toolsfor everyone. Phoenix/T Phoenix/T Phoenix/T Phoenix/T Phoenix/Tucsonucsonucsonucsonucson

MAMAMAMAMAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDowwwwwell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Road Aoad Aoad Aoad Aoad Adopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwaaaaay Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup ProjectojectojectojectojectIn the eastern foothills of the McDowell Mountains, our 5-mile stretch of scenic bluehighway meanders in and out of McDowell Mountain Regional Park, from Fountain Hillsto Rio Verde. We may visit “McGinty’s Hidden Spring,” a secret and seldom seen Shangri-La, known only to Adopt-a-Highway alumni, or “McGinty’s Kitchen Sink,” otherwise knownas the “Grand Canyon” of McDowell Mountain Road. We’ll finish before noon leaving theafternoon free. Each trip participant receives an official Adopt-a-Highway t-shirt and glovescourtesy of Maricopa County’s Adopt-a-Highway program! 3 mi. RT, 300 ft. EC. Call MichaelBrady (602) 534-1355. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix

MAMAMAMAMAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAT) AnderT) AnderT) AnderT) AnderT) Anderson Mesa Habitat Rson Mesa Habitat Rson Mesa Habitat Rson Mesa Habitat Rson Mesa Habitat Restestestestestoration oration oration oration oration Assist the Arizona Game andFish Department with habitat restoration work on the grasslands of Anderson Mesa, 45miles SE of Flagstaff. This is an area of concern due to its diversity of plants and animals,and particularly for the American Pronghorn Antelope. We will cut small junipers, pinyonand/or ponderosa pines with loppers and handsaws. The work day will end by 1:00 PM.An optional potluck dinner will follow. Optional overnight camping in primitive sites or atLake Kinickinick Campground for $10.00 fee. Contact Halina at [email protected] or(602) 749-2063 for details and RSVP.

MAMAMAMAMAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAY 20 (SAT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” Paatuwaatuwaatuwaatuwaatuwaqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “WWWWWatatatatater is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is Life” Re” Re” Re” Re” Run Tun Tun Tun Tun Trail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Reseresereseresereservvvvvation)ation)ation)ation)ation)Sierra Club Partnership Program and Plateau Group Outings Service trip. Trail clean up onFirst Mesa on the Hopi Reservation. We will be assisting traditional Hopi runners as theyprepare a 30+ ultra-marathon course over remote trails that visit traditional springs meantto renew Hopi teachings about the importance of water. This work will involve clearingbrush and rocks from the trail and marking the trail for the ultra-marathon run scheduledfor Sept. 16. We will cover 4-5 miles of trail working from 10 AM to 1 PM, and then we willhave a cook-out. Space is limited to 8 spots so call to register. We will meet in Flagstaff at7:30 AM. Volunteers will be oriented to Hopi laws and customs to follow while on the trip.Trip leader: Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309. FlagstafFlagstafFlagstafFlagstafFlagstaffffff

MAMAMAMAMAY 26-29 (FRI, SAY 26-29 (FRI, SAY 26-29 (FRI, SAY 26-29 (FRI, SAY 26-29 (FRI, SATTTTT, SUN, MON) Grand Can, SUN, MON) Grand Can, SUN, MON) Grand Can, SUN, MON) Grand Can, SUN, MON) Grand Canyyyyyon Hiking/Highwon Hiking/Highwon Hiking/Highwon Hiking/Highwon Hiking/Highwaaaaay Cleanupy Cleanupy Cleanupy Cleanupy CleanupWWWWWeekeekeekeekeekend “B” Hikend “B” Hikend “B” Hikend “B” Hikend “B” Hikeseseseses Trip includes Friday social (pizza) Saturday “B” hike and potluckand Sunday “B” hike and group meal out. Learn some basic geology, Grand Canyonwildflowers and environmental issues effecting Grand Canyon. On Mon. morning we cleanthe Sierra Club Adopt a Highway section on Rt. 64 east of Desert View. Bring gloves for thehighway cleanup, daypack, sunscreen, water bottles. Limited sleeping space at our housein Grand Canyon Village & a few camping spaces in our yard. Do all or some of the hikes.For more info & registration contact the leader, Bob Audretsch, 928-638-2077 (before 9PM only) or e-mail (preferred): [email protected] Grand CanGrand CanGrand CanGrand CanGrand Canyyyyyon.on.on.on.on.

JUN 1JUN 1JUN 1JUN 1JUN 10 (SA0 (SA0 (SA0 (SA0 (SAT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” PT) “B” Paatuwaatuwaatuwaatuwaatuwaqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “aqatsi “WWWWWatatatatater is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is Lifer is Life” Re” Re” Re” Re” Run Tun Tun Tun Tun Trail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Rrail (Hopi Reseresereseresereservvvvvation)ation)ation)ation)ation)See May 20 for description. Trip leader: Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309. FlagstafFlagstafFlagstafFlagstafFlagstaffffff

JUN 2JUN 2JUN 2JUN 2JUN 24 (SA4 (SA4 (SA4 (SA4 (SAT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDoT) “C” McDowwwwwell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Rell Mountain Road Aoad Aoad Aoad Aoad Adopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwdopt-a-Highwaaaaay Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup Pry Cleanup ProjectojectojectojectojectSee May 20 for project description Call Michael Brady (602) 534-1355. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix

JUN 2JUN 2JUN 2JUN 2JUN 24-25 (SA4-25 (SA4-25 (SA4-25 (SA4-25 (SATTTTT-SUN) “C+” Mt. Graham Inner City Outing (ICO) Car Cam-SUN) “C+” Mt. Graham Inner City Outing (ICO) Car Cam-SUN) “C+” Mt. Graham Inner City Outing (ICO) Car Cam-SUN) “C+” Mt. Graham Inner City Outing (ICO) Car Cam-SUN) “C+” Mt. Graham Inner City Outing (ICO) Car Camppppp Wewill visit the beautiful Ash Creek area in the Mt. Graham wilderness study area. This 7 mileRT hike will have an elevation change of about 1,200’ On the hike we will visit the historicMt. Graham Mill Site, the “catwalk”, Slickrock Falls, and then possibly go down to the AshCreek Falls overlook (time and energy permitting). This is a truly spectacular area. If youwould like to become involved in the ICO program and help out on this trip, call Jim Vaalerat 602-553-8208 or email Jim at [email protected] Sierra Club Inner City Outings(ICO) is a community outreach program that provides opportunities for urban youth andadults to explore, enjoy, and protect the natural world. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

Sierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service Outings

views of the San Francisco Peaks are themajor features of this Flagstaff section of theArizona Trail. We’ll begin at the MarshallLake Trailhead. This vital wetland, which ismore of a marsh than a lake, is frequented bybald eagles in winter and osprey in summer.We’ll finish the one-way hike at Sandy’sCanyon. Call Ted Tenny (480) 396-3389.Phoenix

Grand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterGrand Canyon ChapterFire SeasonFire SeasonFire SeasonFire SeasonFire Season

RecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendationsThe fire risk throughout Arizona is significant this year – from the ponderosa pineforests to the piñon-juniper to the fragile Sonoran Desert, we are likely to see aconsiderable number of fires. High temperatures, low humidity, and low moisture ina lot of the vegetation contribute to the fire risk. With 65% of the fires in Arizonabeing human-caused, it is important that we all do our part to limit the fire risk.

Beginning on May 1 we recommend that all hike leaders:

o Refrain from having any fires on hikes, campouts, and backpacks. If FIRERESTRICTIONS are in place in the National Forests, that also means nostove fires or smoking. Please even avoid fires in fire rings wheneverpossible as sparks can ignite nearby brush if the wind kicks up.

o Promote a smoke free environment on all Sierra Club trips.

o Please use extreme caution when parking vehicles. Make sure you donot park on top of any dry grasses or other flammable materials thatmight be ignited by a hot catalytic converter.

o Prior to visiting any of our public lands, check with the managing agencyfor any restrictions. For the latest fire restrictions on Arizona’s publiclands go to http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/information/firerestrictions/az/restrictions_az.htm.

o At the beginning of the hike or other outings and when chatting withpeople prior to the outing, please brief them on the fire restrictions andadvise them of the fire risks.

o Please distribute information about protecting communities from fire andinformation on forest restoration, the fire risk in the desert caused byinvasive plant species, and other important information on your hikes.Go to www.arizona.sierraclub.org for copies of these handouts or you cancontact the Chapter office.

Thank you so much for helping out and doing your part. For more information,contact the Grand Canyon Chapter office at (602) 253-8633 or [email protected].

Long time Sierra Club member, Lester Olin, passed away on March 23rd.Lester lived in Yuma and led numerous outings to the Kofa Game Rangeas well as many other areas of state. Lester was an avid Salt River rafterwhom I had the privilege to raft with on at least two occasions. He servedon the Chapter Executive Committee when our chapter was still quiteyoung. Lester was always a man of good humor and good judgment. We’llmiss you, Lester.

Jim Vaaler

Outings Leader MeetingOutings Leader MeetingOutings Leader MeetingOutings Leader MeetingOutings Leader MeetingMay 18 (Thu) - Palo Verde Group Outings Leaders Planning Meeting.May 18 (Thu) - Palo Verde Group Outings Leaders Planning Meeting.May 18 (Thu) - Palo Verde Group Outings Leaders Planning Meeting.May 18 (Thu) - Palo Verde Group Outings Leaders Planning Meeting.May 18 (Thu) - Palo Verde Group Outings Leaders Planning Meeting. Join us atAunt Chilada’s -Squaw Peak at 6:30 PM for our bimonthly get-together to talk about all thehiking, biking, backpacking, camping, and other outdoor activities we’ll be leading in July/August, and beyond, as well as happy hours, dinner and movie nights, and other sociallyresponsible activities. Have you ever thought about being an outings leader? Come to thismeeting and see what it takes! Feel free to attend if you would like to plan an event(current outings leaders), offer suggestions, or just see what the heck we’re up to. If youcan’t make it to the meeting, but have an event that you’re planning to put on thecalendar, then it would be most thoughtful of you to send your date/event in advance tome so that the rest of us can be aware of it. Please RSVP by 16th if attending. AC is at7330 North Dreamy Draw Drive Phoenix, Arizona 85020, 602-944-1286. Contact DarrellFoster at [email protected] (preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix.Phoenix.Phoenix.Phoenix.Phoenix.

Interested in leading hikes? Plan to attend the next First AidInterested in leading hikes? Plan to attend the next First AidInterested in leading hikes? Plan to attend the next First AidInterested in leading hikes? Plan to attend the next First AidInterested in leading hikes? Plan to attend the next First AidTTTTTraining (see p. 3 fraining (see p. 3 fraining (see p. 3 fraining (see p. 3 fraining (see p. 3 for deor deor deor deor details)tails)tails)tails)tails)

Remembering Lester OlinRemembering Lester OlinRemembering Lester OlinRemembering Lester OlinRemembering Lester Olin

may - june 2006 canyon echo

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