Monthly Archives: November 2017

Tonto National Forest to implement restrictions on shooting targets

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PHOENIX — The Tonto National Forest has announced it will implement reasonable restrictions on the types of shooting targets that will be allowed beginning Monday, November 20.

In an effort to reduce the amount of trash being left behind by recreational target shooters, only the following types of shooting targets will be allowed on the forest:

  1. Cardboard, and/or cardboard targets with reusable frames (excluding wooden pallets), which are removed from the site after shooting.
  2. Paper, and/or paper targets with reusable frames (excluding wooden pallets), which are removed from the site after shooting.
  3. Reactive targets designed to move or bounce along the ground when hit, are made of non-metallic materials and removed from the site after shooting.
  4. Self-healing targets, which are removed from the site after shooting.
  5. Metal targets specifically made for firearms. These targets are designed to swing, spin or fall down when struck and are removed from the site after shooting.
  6. Biodegradable clay targets.

“Over the last seven years, volunteer groups who organize and assist the forest with clean-up events have collected 192 tons of trash at these shooting sites,” said Neil Bosworth, forest supervisor. “We’re grateful for volunteers’ efforts, but all visitors should keep in mind that littering on forest land is prohibited and is a punishable offense.

“We want to keep areas open for target shooting. Target shooters can help by removing their targets and trash, including spent shell casings. This benefits the forest by protecting its resources and also fosters a positive image toward target shooting.”

Read the target restriction order on the Tonto National Forest’s website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/?aid=44243.

Desert bighorn sheep translocated to Goldfield Mountains

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MESA — The next time you’re out hiking or just meandering in the Goldfield Mountains, take a good look around.

If you’re lucky, maybe way up high on the crags, you’ll see one or more of the area’s newest residents taking a good look at you.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department recently translocated 14 adult desert bighorn sheep – four rams and 10 ewes – from a healthy population of the animals near Saguaro Lake in Game Management Unit 24B to the Goldfield Mountains, also in Unit 24B.

All 14 of the animals were given an identification ear tag and complete health evaluation before being released. A few were fitted with a GPS tracking collar to better monitor their movements in their new locale.

“The main purpose of this project was to capture several desert bighorn sheep from within Unit 24B and establish a subpopulation within their native range,” said Dustin Darveau, terrestrial wildlife specialist. “This is important for several reasons, one of which is if there ever were to be a disease outbreak, it would not have a devastating effect on the entire population.

“We’re excited because these animals that were captured were placed in excellent habitat that also features a couple of redeveloped water catchments that will help them to easily establish a foothold in their native range.”

The translocation was no small operation. From helicopter pilots, net gunners and muggers – the ones who jump from the helicopter and safely secure the animals on the ground – to dozens of support staff and volunteers, it was a long, hard, but satisfying day in an effort to enhance and conserve Arizona’s wildlife.

The project was a cooperative effort between the department and its partners: Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society, Mogollon Sporting Association, Tonto National Forest, and the Arizona State Land Department.

“We have heard so many comments about the professionalism and smooth implementation of this project,” Darveau said. “We can only take credit in the fact that everyone involved at every stage of this project made it so successful.”

2018-19 elk, pronghorn proposed hunt recommendations online

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s proposed recommendations for 2018 and 2019 elk, pronghorn, and population management hunts are available for review online at www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

The hunt structures and recommendations were formulated based on a five-year hunt guideline package that was approved in September.

The department recently hosted several “meet the game biologist” events at local businesses and sporting goods stores to discuss and answer questions about game species management and hunt recommendations. For those who might have missed these events, questions or comments about a particular game management unit or hunt can be e-mailed to: azhuntguidelines@azgfd.gov. The public also can call a game management biologist at any of the department’s statewide regional offices. No formal presentations are planned.

The proposed hunt recommendations will be presented for consideration at the next Arizona Game and Fish Commission meeting December 2 at department headquarters in Phoenix. The agenda will be posted at www.azgfd.gov/commission.

For more information about the hunt recommendations and hunt guidelines processes, visit www.azgfd.gov/huntguidelines.

Board recommends 2 candidates to governor for Arizona Game and Fish Commission appointment

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board has forwarded the names of two candidates to Governor Doug Ducey for his consideration in making his 2018 appointment to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

Leland “Bill” Brake of Elgin and James E. Goughnour of Payson were selected from four candidates who were interviewed by the board at its public meeting on Nov. 15 at the Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters in Phoenix. The four who were interviewed were chosen from an initial slate of nine applicants previously considered by the Appointment Recommendation Board at its November 7 public meeting.

Per Arizona State Statute 17-202, the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board shall assist the governor by interviewing, evaluating and recommending candidates for appointment to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. The board shall recommend at least two, but no more than five, candidates to the governor. The governor must select and appoint a commissioner from the list submitted by the board.

Members of the Commission Appointment Recommendation Board are William “Jim” Lane (chair), Susan E. Chilton, Charles I. Kelly, Phillip D. Townsend, and Richard B. Williams.

For additional information about the Commission Appointment Recommendation Board, contact the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commissions at 602-542-2449, toll free at 1-800-253-0883 or on the Web at www.azgovernor.gov.

Red Cross Offers Top 10 Driving and Other Travel Tips for the Holidays

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PHOENIX — Millions of people are expected to travel over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, and the American Red Cross is offering tips travelers can follow as they visit loved ones over the long weekend.

“More vehicles are expected on the highways, making travel risks greater,” said Colin Williams, Regional Communications Officer, American Red Cross “Bad weather and distracted drivers also add to the danger, so plan ahead and expect delays.”

DRIVING SAFETY

  1. Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
  2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit and supplies in the trunk.
  3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
  4. Check the weather along your route and plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
  5. Be well rested and alert.
  6. Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drive while impaired.
  7. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
  8. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
  9. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
  10. If you have car trouble, pull of the road as far as possible.

OTHER SAFETY TIPS

Winter weather:

  1. Keep the car’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
  2. Pull over and stay with your vehicle. Do not try to walk to safety.
  3. Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
  4. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
  5. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
  6. Keep one window slightly open – away from the blowing wind – to let in air.

Public transportation and preventing the spread of the flu virus:

  1. Everything you touch is likely touched by someone else – luggage, seats, etc. – which is how germs are spread.
  2. Handle your own belongings. Wash your hands often with soap and water.
  3. Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.
  4. Bring your own pillows and blankets – they can act as a shield against the seat itself.
  5. Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS

People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to weather alerts for their area and where loved ones live. Expert medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in the First Aid App in case travelers encounter any mishaps. Both apps are available to download for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

Public Situational Awareness Class November 29, 2017

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office will be holding a public class on Situational Awareness and Response to Active Shooter on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 from 6 to 9 p.m. in Flagstaff. There is no fee, but pre-registration is required. If you have any questions, please call 928-226-5012.

The purpose of this class is to help citizens understand what they can do to improve their safety during a crisis situation. This is a three-hour class. The first half of the class focuses on how to increase your every day safety through Situational Awareness. The second half of the class teaches a three-step plan known as “Avoid, Deny and Defend” which can be applied to crises such as Active Shooter events. The class includes some video and audio recordings of actual and simulated crises that some may find disturbing. Because of the possibly disturbing audio and video content, attendees must be 18 years of age or older.

For more information, go to http://coconino.az.gov/1571/Citizens-AwarenessActive-Shooter-Class#.

Hantavirus confirmed in recent traveler to northern Arizona

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) officials have announced a confirmed case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in a recent traveler to the County from outside Arizona. The individual traveled to multiple areas in northern Arizona and it is unknown where the current case contracted the virus.

The disease is transmitted to people who come into contact or breathe infected urine, droppings and/or saliva of wild mice (primarily deer mice). People who come into contact with rodents that carry hantavirus are at risk of contracting the disease. The illness has not been found to spread from person to person.

HPS is not limited to one geographic location. It can be present in many areas in the southwestern region of the United States where there is rodent activity, even if mice are never seen.

This is the first confirmed HPS case in Coconino County this year and the sixth case of HPS in Coconino County since 2007. Two cases resulted in death from complications caused by the illness. Symptoms of the illness could include fever, headache and muscle aches progressing rapidly to severe difficulty in breathing. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should see their physician immediately and mention their potential rodent exposure.

To prevent HPS, public health officials recommend the following clean-up methods for areas that may have rodent activity:

  1. Prior to starting cleanup, open all door and windows, especially in areas that have been closed for an extended period such as a garage, storage shed or second homes that are not used year-round. Leave open for 30 minutes before cleaning and if possible, allow direct sunlight on the area.
  2. Do not stir up dust in the infested area by vacuuming, sweeping, or any other means. This will allow virus particles to go into the air, where they can be breathed in, and potentially causing infection.
  3. When rodent droppings or nests are found in and around the home, spray them liberally with a household disinfectant (such as one-part bleach to nine parts water) and allow them to soak for at least 15 minutes. Any rodent droppings and rodent nests should be sprayed with a pesticide to kill fleas before disinfecting or disposing the carcasses.
  4. After disinfecting, wear rubber gloves and clean up the droppings with disposable materials such as paper towels, rags or disposable mop heads.
  5. Seal all materials, droppings or nests in double plastic bags and dispose of them in the trash.

Rodent-proof your home:

  1. Prevent rodents from entering the home by plugging or sealing all holes and gaps to the outside greater than 1/4-inch in diameter. Use steel wool, thick wire screen, metal flashing or cement to seal holes.
  2. Eliminate or reduce rodent shelter around the home by removing outdoor junk and clutter, and by moving woodpiles, lumber, hay bales etc., as far away from the house as possible.
  3. Do not make food easily available to rodents. Do not leave pet food in dishes and dispose of garbage in trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
  4. Prevent mice infestation inside your home with the use of traps and proper removal.

For more information regarding HPS, call the Coconino County Public Health Services District at 928-679-8750, toll-free at 877-679-7272 or visit www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps.

ADOT publishes Tentative Long-Range Transportation Plan

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After two years of research and analysis, the public now has the opportunity to comment on the Arizona Department of Transportation’s draft long-range plan, outlining strategies for meeting the state’s highway and bridge needs over the next 25 years.

ADOT’s Tentative Long-Range Transportation Plan, which is required to be updated every five years, is available for comment through Dec. 21 and can be reviewed at azdot.gov/WhatMovesYouArizona. The CiviComment online tool, which is also available on the project website, allows users to comment on the full report or comment on individual pages pulled from the document. The direct link to CiviComment is provided here: whatmovesyouarizona.civicomment.org.

ADOT has spent the past two years drafting this update to the Long-Range Transportation Plan, which looks through 2040. The project team conducted stakeholder outreach, gathered extensive public comment across the state and worked through months of technical analysis.

During the 25-year period of this draft plan, about $923 million in annual highway capital funding will be available from state and federal sources. On average, the Phoenix and Tucson regions are expected to receive $512 million annually. Of that, $223 million comes from voter-approved regional programs in those two metropolitan areas dedicated largely to highway expansion. ADOT’s Recommended Investment Choice calls for all of the remaining annual average of $411 million to go toward preserving and modernizing highways in Greater Arizona.

The recommendation outlined in the Tentative Long-Range Transportation Plan is in line with public and stakeholder outreach, in which most participants listed preservation, safety and modernization projects as their highest priorities for Greater Arizona.

The State Transportation Board approved the Tentative 2040 Long-Range Transportation Plan on Oct. 20, allowing it to move forward for public review and comment. The Long-Range Transportation Plan is expected to be finalized in early 2018.

Comments can also be sent to:

  1. ADOT Project Information Line: 1.855.712.8530
  2. Mail:
    Long-Range Transportation Plan
    c/o ADOT Communications
    1655 W. Jackson St., Mail Drop 126F
    Phoenix, AZ 85007

Supervisors update Winter Parking Ordinance

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FLAGSTAFF — The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to approve Winter Parking Ordinance 2017-11 during a public hearing Tuesday, Nov. 7. The new ordinance requires parking restrictions from County maintained rights-of-way during snow season and for the enforcement of parking restrictions either by citation or towing.

Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statute § 11-251, the County Board of Supervisors may manage public roads within the County, as well as, pursuant to Arizona Revised Statute § 11-251.05, adopt all ordinances necessary or proper to carry into effect such powers.

“This ordinance will allow the County to better manage issues associated with winter recreation,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Matt Ryan. “This is another tool the County can use to help navigate winter challenges.”

The Board of Supervisors has amended the ordinance to state that between Nov. 1 – April 1 of each year, motor vehicles must be kept clear of County maintained rights of way. Any vehicle parked in such prohibited areas reserves the right to be cited or towed at the owner’s expense (not less than $200.00) due to the possibility of threatening the health or welfare of County residents. Penalties are applicable where violations take place and where signed.

Winter recreation in Coconino County has resulted in increased parking and traffic congestion, littering and other dangerous hazards that negatively impact the health, safety and welfare of residents of the County who live and/or own property adjacent to County highways and roads. Over 80 signs will be disbursed to identified roadways to reinforce the new ordinance.

“I want to thank the community for addressing the challenges of peak winter recreation events in Coconino County,” said District 1 Supervisor Art Babbott. “This new ordinance provides a legal foundation to better serve and protect our neighborhoods and communities. Moving this forward was an important objective of the Community Winter Recreation Task Force to improve safety along County maintained roads and complements the new ADOT no parking signage on the Highway 180 corridor.”

It is a primary responsibility of the County to keep County owned, or maintained, rights -of-way reasonably clear of snow and provide major access for emergency vehicles. Most motor vehicles left parked in the streets become a hazard, both to the County snow removal equipment and to the owner of the vehicle.

Free firewood giveaway at Fort Tuthill County Park

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Parks & Recreation is offering a free firewood giveaway to the public at 8 a.m. Saturday, November 18, at Fort Tuthill County Park near the archery range. The firewood giveaway is a result of recent forest thinning efforts to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfires.

Approximately 25 cords of pine will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The wood will not be ready to burn this winter because it was cut this fall and is green. The wood is cut to firewood length (approximately 18” or less), but not split.

Future firewood giveaways will be in conjunction with local service organizations and chapter houses and will occur after November 18.

For more information on Coconino County Parks and Recreation: http://www.coconino.az.gov/parks.