Category Archives: State Government

Paving continues on Interstate 40 in northern Arizona; lane and ramp closures scheduled

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The Arizona Department of Transportation advises northern Arizona drivers on Interstate 40 to plan for travel delays because of traffic realignment and ramp closures at Parks, Garland Prairie and Pittman Valley roads. Crews are repairing 17 miles of pavement on I-40 between Parks and Williams. The project also includes making bridge deck repairs at Garland Prairie and Pittman Valley roads.

The westbound I-40 off-ramp at Parks (milepost 178) will be closed from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12. The eastbound on-ramp at Pittman Valley Road(milepost 171) will be temporarily re-opened as a traffic detour for this closure.

Crews are completing work to rebuild 5 eastbound miles between mileposts 167 and 172 with all traffic moved to the westbound lanes using a temporary crossover in that section. In August, crews began work on the eastbound section of the freeway and closed the eastbound on- and off-ramps at Garland Prairie and Pittman Valley roads for the next few months. Traffic is detoured onto the Parks and East Williams traffic interchanges. Please see the attached detour map.

For more information, please visit www.azdot.gov/I40CataractLakeRd2Parks

Elk viewing workshop at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area October 6

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PINETOP — The Arizona Game and Fish Department is again partnering with the Arizona Elk Society White Mountain Chapter (AES) to offer an elk natural history and viewing workshop on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area near Eagar.

Late September to early October is prime elk breeding season and is the best time of year to view the majestic animals. Bulls will bugle as they battle to gather cow elk into harems. It is truly an awesome time of year to experience this unique wildlife event.

Workshop presentations will be begin at 11 a.m., followed by an early dinner served by the AES. After dinner, participants can attend an optional field trip to view nearby elk. Several field trip opportunities will be available, including some that will require driving and hikes or walks with various degrees of difficulty.

The workshop is limited to 100 participants. Children must be 12 years old to participate.

Dinner tickets cost $20 per person and must be payable by check only to Arizona Elk Society. The dinner is a fundraiser for the AES, which aims to enhance the quality of wildlife habitat as well as teaching future generations the importance of being responsible stewards of our national heritage our great outdoors. Dinner will include a hamburger, side and dessert.

Workshop topics include:

Elk Natural History
Elk Management in Arizona
History of Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area
Reintroduction and Management of Mexican Wolves in Arizona
Elk calling
Wildlife Photography by AZGFD photographer George Andrejko

OR

How to Get Started Hunting by AES

Directions to Sipe
Take Highway 191 south to Eagar towards Alpine; you’ll see the turnoff signs just two miles outside of Eagar. Follow the graded dirt road, which is suitable for passenger cars, about five miles to the property.

What to wear
Wear long pants and hiking/comfortable shoes. Participants might be walking distances of a ¼-mile or more in low light conditions. Dress in layers, be prepared for a cool night and possible rain. Dark or camouflage clothing is best as white or bright clothes will alert wildlife to your location. Also consider bringing a headlamp or flashlight, binoculars or spotting scope, a camera and water. A limited numbers of spotting scopes and binoculars will be provided.

Additional details
For more information or to register, call Diane Tilton at the Arizona Game and Fish Pinetop Office at (928) 532-3691 or email dtilton@azgfd.gov. After registration, please mail checks to Arizona Game and Fish Pinetop Office at 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd, Pinetop, AZ 85935.

Pavement work on State Route 89A between Cottonwood and Sedona begins in early September

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The Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to plan for delays on State Route 89A between Cottonwood and Sedona this fall while a pavement-repair project is underway.

Crews will have lane closures in place in both directions Mondays through Fridays from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Work is scheduled to begin Tuesday, September 4 and continue through November.

Drivers should always proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and watch for construction personnel and equipment.

Partners team together to promote healthy pronghorn populations

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AZGF Photo

WILLIAMS — Earlier this month, more than 60 volunteers joined forces with Forest Service and Arizona Game and Fish Department specialists to modify fences on the Kaibab National Forest in order to promote healthy pronghorn populations.

The volunteers, largely brought together through the dedication and focus of the Arizona Antelope Foundation, modified more than 4 miles of fencing in an area on the Williams Ranger District about 8 miles north of the community of Parks. The fence modification work included removing the bottom barbed wires and replacing them with smooth wire at a height of 18 inches from the ground. This height allows pronghorn to easily slip under the fences without the risk of injury. Pronghorn rarely jump fences, rather preferring to go underneath them.

“Multiple research studies in northern Arizona have shown that pronghorn populations are being fragmented by fences and roads to the point that populations are suffering genetic consequences,” said Jeff Gagnon, statewide research biologist with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “While the fragmentation of habitat affects many wildlife species, pronghorn are particularly vulnerable in our state. It is important that we take steps to ensure pronghorn population persistence.”

To this end, the Arizona Game and Fish Department began working with the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests, National Park Service, Arizona Antelope Foundation, Arizona Department of Transportation, and local ranchers in 2012 to begin addressing pronghorn habitat connectivity at a landscape scale.

The project uses GPS locations from collared pronghorn to identify barriers and potential corridors for improvements. On the Kaibab National Forest alone, the team of partners and volunteers has modified nearly 18 miles of fence since the effort began. Similar work has been accomplished on the Coconino National Forest and state and private lands.

“To help our current pronghorn populations persist, fences can be modified, grasslands can be restored, water can be made available, and the list goes on,” states an article entitled “A Data-Driven Approach to Reconnecting Pronghorn Populations North of I-40; Collaboration at its Best,” which was written by Gagnon and his colleagues Chad Loberger and Scott Sprague of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “In all cases, the cooperation and collaboration of multiple stakeholders is required to help get today’s pronghorn to tomorrow.”

Not only is the GPS collar data collected from this project used to identify and correct barriers to pronghorn movement, but it is also made available to inform the planning and implementation of forest and grassland restoration work, such as that associated with the Four Forest Restoration Initiative.

“We are grateful to have partners and volunteers who care as deeply about the health of our forests and wildlife populations as we do,” said Roger Joos, wildlife biologist with the Kaibab National Forest. “We have been partnering on these efforts for many years and have had incredible successes not only in terms of the number of miles of fence modified but also in the acres of grasslands and savannas restored. We could not achieve these results without the continued commitment of our partners.”

The efforts earlier this month were just one example of ongoing work to promote healthy pronghorn populations in northern Arizona. The work will continue indefinitely, with upcoming volunteer and partner projects to shift south of Interstate 40 over the next several years.

To become an Arizona Antelope Foundation volunteer or member, or for additional information on the organization, visit https://azantelope.org/. The Arizona Antelope Foundation’s mission is to actively seek to increase pronghorn populations in Arizona through habitat improvements, habitat acquisition, the translocation of animals to historic range, and public comment on activities affecting pronghorn and their habitat.

To learn more about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s “Reconnecting Pronghorn North of I-40 Project,” visit page 6 in the Pronghorn newsletter at http://bit.ly/2Lv49I7.

ADOT officers trained to identify, respond to opioid overdoses

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PHOENIX – While working at ports of entry to ensure that commercial vehicles have the proper permits and can operate safely on state highways, Arizona Department of Transportation officers have to be ready for situations in which they’re called upon to help save a life.

That’s why nearly 100 officers, part of ADOT’s Enforcement and Compliance Division, have been trained so far to identify opioid overdoses and administer a drug to reverse the effects.

“One of the worst feelings as a law enforcement officer is being unable to help someone in an emergency situation,” said Sergeant Sean Dalley with the Enforcement and Compliance Division. “Having the right tools and knowing how to use them is a way to ensure we are always in a position to act fast when called upon.”

ADOT officers who have gone through the training now carry Naloxone, a type of drug known as an opioid antagonist.

“This kind of training allows our officers to respond quickly to various types of situations at the ports of entry and in the field,” said Tim Lane, director of the Enforcement and Compliance Division. “ADOT looks to do its part in helping combat opioid abuse in Arizona.”

ADOT has set a goal of training an additional 100 officers before year’s end.

Since Governor Doug Ducey declared a statewide emergency in June 2017 to address opioid overdoses and deaths, Arizona has expanded access to Naloxone and training among first responders. The Arizona Opioid Epidemic Act, passed in January, enables county health department employees, detention officers, police aides and other ancillary law enforcement and corrections officers to administer such drugs.

“Training and equipping more responders, including officers at commercial ports of entry, is another way we are taking serious action in response to the statewide emergency of opioid overdoses and deaths,” Governor Doug Ducey said. “Too many Arizonans lose their lives as a result of an opioid overdose, and Arizona will continue to be vigilant in combating this epidemic.”

The first training for ADOT officers, offered by the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority in partnership with the Arizona Department of Health Services, consisted of identifying opioid overdoses and administering Naloxone. Officers also learned CPR, trauma response and how to protect themselves from opioid exposure.

Dove season outlook: Hunters won’t notice fewer birds

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PHOENIX — When you’re talking about 20 million mourning doves criss-crossing Arizona’s skies on opening day, versus the usual 30 million or so, what’s the difference, really?

Not much.

In fact, Arizona’s dove hunters won’t even notice the drop-off when the 2018 season begins September 1.

“The first half of 2018 was an extremely dry year,” said Johnathan O’Dell, small game biologist for the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). “Based on what we’re seeing in the field, mourning doves may not have pulled off as many nests as usual. Early estimates are that most doves pulled off three or four nests, instead of the usual five to six nests.

“So what does that mean? Well, you still have to consider the scale we’re talking about. A down year like this one means there will be about 20 million mourning doves on opening day, instead of 30 million.

“You’re still going to find plenty of doves out there.”

Once again, the greatest number of doves – and dove hunters — will be concentrated in the state’s agricultural areas, particularly those that produce small-grain crops like wheat, barley, oats and sorghum. For hunters who prefer a little more elbow room, now is the time to scout desert locations for water sources.

O’Dell said white-winged doves are still abundant in most areas and call counts remain high. All of that could change, however, depending on monsoon weather patterns over the next couple of weeks.

“If we get any really big storms between now and the opener, many of them will start to migrate out of state,” O’Dell said. “If the monsoon slows down, we could be in for a very good opening day for white-winged doves.”

AZGFD reminds dove hunters to review the “2018-2019 Arizona Dove and Band-tailed Pigeon Regulations,” which are posted online at www.azgfd.gov/dove. The regulations have been produced in a format that hunters will find particularly handy in the field. The color brochure is easier to read and features important hunting information, such as season dates, daily bag and possession limits, and legal requirements, at a glance. The printed version is available at all department offices and more than 200 license dealers statewide.

All hunters 18 and older must possess a valid Arizona hunting license, as well as a migratory bird stamp for the 2018-19 season — both of which can be purchased online now. But don’t just buy a hunting license. Why not enjoy the “Best of Both Worlds” and save money at the same time? Go online and select a combo hunt and fish license that will be valid for the next 365 days — and for only $20 more (for state residents) than the price of an individual hunting or fishing license. Visit https://www.azgfd.com/bestofbothworlds/.

For everything else “dove,” visit www.azgfd.gov/dove. Also, check out O’Dell’s video that demonstrates two techniques for field-dressing doves at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DDRZGPzJDI.

Dove hunters play an important role in conservation. Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR) funds are comprised of excise taxes collected on the sale of hunting and fishing equipment (including 11 percent on ammunition), the benefit of which comes right back to Arizona for habitat improvements, shooting ranges, boating access and more.

Life jacket exchanges coming to Lake Powell and Kingman

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The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) has already exchanged a record number of life jackets this summer — more than 1,000 old, worn-out life jackets have been swapped for brand-new ones during numerous events held throughout the state.

Arizonans have two more chances to swap their life jacket for a new one. In September, the public is invited to join AZGFD and its partner organizations at the following life jacket exchange events (Type I and Type II life jackets will not be accepted):

  • Lake Powell at Wahweap Marina on September 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Kingman at the AZGFD regional office (5325 N. Stockton Hill Road) on September 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Lake Powell at Antelope Marina in front of the restaurant on September 14 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

2018 marks the 10-year anniversary of AZGFD’s life jacket exchange program, and to commemorate the achievement the department is working toward the goal of exchanging 1,700 life jackets and has held events in new areas throughout the state.

“The life jacket exchange in Kingman is another example of AZGFD bringing this important program to new locations,” said Josh Hoffman, boating safety education coordinator for AZGFD. “Come out and meet us and our partner organizations, and take advantage of this program to ensure you have a new, properly fitting life jacket.”

For more information about boating in Arizona or to sign up for a free safety course, visit azgfd.gov/boating.

Batcam the latest live-streaming wildlife camera from AZGF

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PHOENIX — They’re the chattery, fuzzy, winged creatures of the night and now they’re the star attractions of Arizona Game and Fish Department’s latest live-streaming wildlife camera.

AZGFD recently installed what is believed to be the first live-streaming wild bat roost camera in Arizona. Viewers tuning in to the “bat cam” can watch as migratory Yuma myotis bats, and other bat species, roost at the Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area near Safford in southeastern Arizona.

“Bats are truly amazing animals,” said Randy Babb, AZGFD Watchable Wildlife Program manager. “In Arizona, we have a wonderful diversity of bats that perform pretty much all the same tasks that birds do. Some – such as the lesser long-nosed and Mexican long-tongued bats – drink nectar, while others are voracious insect predators, consuming up to 1,000 mosquito-sized insects an hour. We’re really excited to offer this fascinating real-time glimpse into an active bat roost.”

Download bat cam footage

The bat cam can be viewed at www.azgfd.gov/livecams. The best chance to view the animals is from about 9 a.m. until noon, when they move into the open on the rafters to cool. At other times of the day the bats may be more concealed and difficult to view.

Bats were first observed in an old barn located on the Cluff Ranch property in 1992. It soon was discovered that at least one species was using the barn to birth and raise its young. While it does not appear to serve as an active nursery site now, today it is used by pallid bats, canyon bats, cave myotis and Yuma myotis.

In keeping with the department’s mission to conserve and protect all wildlife, the barn was set aside for the bats’ use, and disturbances are kept to a minimum to ensure their safety and continued use of the building.

“One of our goals as a department is to connect and engage the public with their wildlife,” Babb said. “Live-streaming wildlife cameras are just one more tool to do just that.”

Department biologists will be monitoring the bat cam and studying these fascinating mammals throughout the summer and early fall. The public is also invited to assist in these efforts by watching the bat cam and tweeting their observations to www.twitter.com/azgfd and using the hashtag #findthebats.

The bat cam is just the latest seasonal offering of live-streaming cameras by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The department’s popular sandhill crane cam shows thousands of the migratory birds wintering in southern Arizona, while the desert pupfish cam offers a live view of the small fish’s daily life.

Arizona Wildlife Views TV receives 5 regional Emmy® nominations

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s award-winning television show, Arizona Wildlife Views, has received five regional Emmy® nominations from the Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The nominations are:

Category: Environment Program Special

Arizona Wildlife Views Show 3: https://youtu.be/ek0aaAo__Bw
David Majure, Producer
Ben Avechuco, Editor

Arizona Wildlife Views Show 1 (Eagle Conservation): https://youtu.be/FITV_o2g0hU
David Majure, Producer
Ben Avechuco, Producer, Editor

Category: Director – Non-Live (Post Produced)

Arizona Elk West Virginia Bound: https://youtu.be/naPnn8V4rP0
David Majure, Director

Category: Video Journalist

Shootin’ from the Saddle: https://youtu.be/FrztcS7Zk_c
David Majure, Producer, Videographer, Editor, Voice Talent

Category: Writer – Program (Non-News)

Counting Mexican Wolves: https://youtu.be/v8ZaXXET19Y
David Majure, Writer

The 2018 Rocky Mountain Emmy® Awards Gala will be held Saturday, September 22, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix, where winners will be announced and receive their awards. There were 994 entries in this year’s competition. The Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter consists of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming and El Centro, California.

Arizona Wildlife Views is a half-hour original series produced by the Marketing Branch of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The show airs on local PBS stations, city cable channels across the state and YouTube. Full episodes and individual segments can also be viewed on the Game and Fish YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/magnusgrafex

AZGFD seeks public input on dedicated funding source for outreach, education and public awareness

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AZGF Photo

PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is still seeking ideas for establishing and maintaining a discretionary, dedicated funding source for outreach, education and public awareness efforts.

To view ideas received to date, or to submit ideas throughout the 30-day public input period that ends September 8, visit https://www.azgfd.com/agency/dedicated-funding-source/. Ideas also can be emailed to: ideas@azgfd.gov.

Draft funding alternatives, based on this public input, vetting and benchmarking, will be presented to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission during its public meeting September 21 at the Navajo County Heber Complex, 2188 W. Country Club Drive, in Overgaard.

There will be an additional opportunity for the public to provide input on select alternatives, based on Commission direction. AZGFD will host a public forum and webcast at 6 p.m. October 10 at department headquarters (Quail Room), 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix. The public will be able to ask questions or provide comments in person during the forum in the Quail Room, or by email from their smartphone or other device. The webcast also can be viewed at any AZGFD regional office, where the public also can submit their questions or comments via email.

The forum will kick off another 30-day comment period that ends November 8. AZGFD then will present potential funding option(s) to the Commission at its public meeting December 7 in Phoenix.