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These news releases are originated by various Coconino County agencies, the Forest Service, and other entities. News releases from the City of Flagstaff are sometimes posted on their website.
News releases issued by other organizations and businesses may be found through a
Google search using keyword phrases such as flagstaff news release or
sedona news release. News releases are posted here for a few days or weeks, as their news value warrants. ~~~~~ ~~~~~ Advertisements Did you know?
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| Progressive - Liberal | Conservative - Libertarian |
Dreams
From My Father
By Barack Obama By Barack Obama |
|
| Rules
For Radicals
By Saul Alinsky |
~~~~~ ~~~~~
I am often asked to include political news releases on this page. For those people, I offer these links...
| Left | Right |
|
Common Dreams Progressive
Newswire http://www.commondreams.org/newswire The Progressive Apollo Alliance People's World Caleb's Columns Center for American Progress |
Judicial
Watch http://www.judicialwatch.org/ My
Heritage Newsletter Human
Events National
Review Online Americans For Prosperity Tea Party Express |
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 8, 2010
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff, AZ– A new forest supervisor for the Coconino National Forest arrived last week, replacing Nora Rasure, who left the Coconino in July to become the deputy director of recreation, heritage, and volunteer resources in Washington D.C.
Forest Supervisor Earl Stewart, previously the deputy forest supervisor of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in Montana, arrived March 1 and has been with the Forest Service for 19 years.
“I’m very excited to be here and look forward to working with everyone on the Coconino and the stakeholders who partner with us,” said Stewart. “I’ve heard great things about Arizona, the Coconino National Forest and this region.”
Stewart graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology and went on to work with Oklahoma’s Department of Wildlife Conservation as a biologist.
He joined the Forest Service in 1991 and has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of positions on five national forests in three different regions before coming to the Coconino.
His early assignments and titles include:
- Ouachita National Forest; wildlife biologist; 1991-1994
- Kasatchie National Forest; wildlife biologist, zone fire management officer, military liaison, fish biologist; 1994-1998
- National Forests in Alabama; threatened, endangered and sensitive species program manager, range program manager, forest wildlife biologist; 1998-1999
- Talladega National Forest; deputy district ranger, district ranger; 1999-2005
- House of Representatives and Washington Office; legislative fellow for Interior Appropriations; 2005-2007
- Nez Perce National Forest; deputy forest supervisor; 2007
Stewart recently completed his two-year assignment in Montana and is now stationed in Flagstaff. He has three sons who live out of state.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 8, 2010
Coconino County
Coconino County Parks &
Recreation announces the meeting of the Parks & Recreation Commission on Tuesday,
March 9, 2010 at 4:00 PM in the Ponderosa Room,
The Commission will hold its election
of officers.
Information update (Director’s
Written Briefing) will be available on the following: Parliamentary
procedure refresher;
County residents, media practitioners
and the public are invited to observe the meeting.
The Coconino County Parks &
Recreation Commission (PRC) is the citizen body responsive to the communities
and the people of
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 5, 2010
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Sedona, Ariz. – There are events on almost every weekend here at the Coconino National Forest's Red Rock Country Visitor Center.
Roy Julian and Al Cornell will be demonstrating prehistoric skills on some weekend days.
All events are free and open to the public.
March 6, Saturday - Ken Zoll, “Rock Art of the Verde Valley “,
10:00 a.m. &1:30 p.m.
March 6, Saturday - Prehistoric Skills Demonstration 10-2
March 14, Sunday - Prehistoric Skills Demonstration 10-2
March 21, Sunday - Prehistoric Skills Demonstration 10-2
March 27, Saturday - Prehistoric Skills Demonstration 10-2
March 28, Sunday - Al Cornell & Roy Julian, “Prehistoric World of
Agave” l:00 p.m.
For further information contact Genny Riner or Emma Peschke at 203-2900
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 5, 2010
Arizona
Association
of Counties
Arizona's county organizations unite in opposition to budget proposals seeking to place more unfunded mandates on counties while reducing county revenue.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 5, 2010
Arizona
Association
of Counties
The State of Arizona is currently considering the adoption of a budget proposal based on Governor Brewer's Executive Budget Recommendation that would seek to balance a significant portion of the state's budget deficit on the backs of county governments and the taxpayers they serve. Learn more - and get involved today!
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 5, 2010
Coconino County
Sheriff's Department
Flagstaff
,
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 4, 2010
Arizona
Sheriff's Association
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 2, 2010
Coconino County
| I am pleased
to have Ron Sieg, Flagstaff Regional Supervisor, Arizona Game and Fish,
as my guest.
We'll be at Mary's Cafe
on Monday, March 15, 7-9am. There's no agenda and no appointment is needed. |
|
~~~~~ ~~~~~
March 2, 2010
Coconino County
Coconino
Events & Recreation
Manager
A complete text of the proposed changes may be obtained from the Parks and Recreation Department by calling Regina Salas (928) 679-8027, or from the office of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Second Floor, 219 East Cherry Avenue, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001; telephone (928) 679-7144; fax (928) 679-7171; e-mail wescoffier@coconino.az.gov. Anyone unable to be present in person may present written testimony by letter, fax, or e-mail.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 24, 2010
UniSource Energy Services
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Feb 24, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- UniSource Energy Services (UES) is advising its Northern Arizona customers about the importance of protecting gas meters from costly and potentially dangerous damage that can occur after a heavy snowfall.
Accumulated snow on a rooftop, if left unattended, can fall and damage meter loops, the assembly that connects underground natural gas supply lines to gas meters. This damage requires costly repairs and can cause gas leaks that pose a public safety hazard. Gas service may have to be disconnected for an extended period while repairs are made.
"We've had a lot of snow in Northern Arizona this winter, so we're asking customers to make sure there isn't a dangerous amount of snow or ice on their rooftops that might break loose and fall on the gas meter serving their home or business," said Nathan Shelley, General Manager of Gas Operations for UES.
Customers clearing snow from a rooftop should take care not to drop that snow on a meter loop. Please take all appropriate safety measures while clearing snow from rooftops and away from gas meters.
If you suspect natural gas is leaking from a damaged meter loop or another source, please call 911. For more information about natural gas safety, visit uesaz.com.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 24, 2010
National Rifle Association
Institute For Legislative Action
HCR
2008,
Although it has been an activity conducted by humans since the beginning of
time, hunting has been targeted for extinction by the well-funded animal
“rights” extremists at the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). They
spend $120 million a year lobbying and litigating against hunting and
science-based wildlife management. Wayne Pacelle,
the group's CEO, told the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, "Our goal is to
get sport hunting in the same category as cock fighting and dog fighting.
Our opponents say hunting is a tradition. We say traditions can
change." Whether sportsmen want to believe it or not, the
threat is real and NRA is laying the groundwork of our defense against future
attacks with meaningful constitutional amendments such as HCR 2008.
Hunters are
If passed and approved by the voters, HCR 2008 would make
It is critical that you
contact your State Representatives and respectfully urge them to support this
important constitutional amendment. Contact information
can be found by clicking here.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 24, 2010
USDA FOREST SERVICE
National News Release
WASHINGTON, Feb.24, 2010--USDA
Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell today announced a series of events to provide
opportunities for public discussion on the development of a new Forest Service
Land and Resource Management Planning Rule (planning rule). The Forest Service
will host a national science forum, three national roundtables and nine
regional roundtables.
Providing multiple opportunities for public
participation ties directly to President Obama's call for open government that
is transparent, participatory and collaborative, and illustrates Forest Service
commitment to engage the public in the development of a new planning
rule.
"We encourage broad participation in the
creation of our new planning rule," said Tidwell. "Through
collaboration we will be able to better address the current and future needs of
the National Forest System such as restoration, protecting watersheds,
addressing climate change, sustaining local economies, improving collaboration,
and working across landscapes."
Following the meetings, notes will be posted on
the planning rule Web site, http://www.fs.usda.gov/planningrule,
to allow for further feedback. Summaries of the presentations and discussions
in the science forum and roundtables, along with the individual comments
received during the 60-day formal comment period on the Notice of Intent, will
be used to develop the proposed rule and a draft environmental impact
statement.
The meetings announced today include:
National Science Forum March 29 and 30, 2010, in Washington, DC.
National roundtables April 1 and 2, April 20 and 21, and May 11 and 12, 2010,
in Washington, DC.
Nine regional roundtables in the following locations:
* Pacific Northwest Region (Region 6), Portland, OR on April 6, 2010;
* Pacific Southwest Region (Region 5),Sacramento, CA on April 6, 2010;
* Intermountain Region (Region 4), Salt Lake City, UT on April 8, 2010;
* Rocky Mountain Region, (Region 2), Lakewood, CO on April 12, 2010;
* Northern Region (Region 1), Missoula, MT on April 13, 2010;
* Alaska Region (Region 10), Juneau, AK on April 13, 2010;
* Southern Region (Region 8), Atlanta, GA during the week of April 12, 2010
(exact date to be determined);
* Eastern Region (Region 9), Chicago, IL during the week of April 28 (exact
date to be determined); and
* Southwestern Region (Region 3), Albuquerque, NM on April 28, 2010.
* Region 2 will host additional meetings on April 14 in Cheyenne, WY and on
April 21 meeting in Rapid City, SD.
Webcasting may also be available for selected meetings; please check the
planning rule website, at http://www.fs.usda.gov/planningrule,
for the most up-to-date information.
To encourage widespread participation the Forest
Service is using new media tools in conjunction with the public meetings.
Please visit http://blogs.usda.gov/usdablogs/planningrule
to participate in the Forest Service web-based planning rule blog.
The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to
sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and
grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency
manages the 193 million acres of National Forest System land, provides
stewardship assistance to non-federal forest landowners, and maintains the
largest forestry research organization in the world.
#
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint
of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272
(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 22, 2010
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Sedona, Ariz. – As students and families anticipate warm weather
and head for water during Spring Break, the Forest Service is helping
visitors prepare for changes at Fossil Creek, one of Northern
Arizona’s more popular swimming and camping sites.
If you are
going to Fossil Creek, the Forest Service wants you to know about new
camping and campfire regulations that will affect your visit there.
Specifically, to help protect Fossil Creek, beginning March 8,
2010, campfires will be prohibited throughout Fossil Creek and camping
will be limited to certain areas away from the creek.
Big changes
for Fossil Creek began in 2005 with the decommissioning of the Arizona
Public Service Hydro-electric dam and the return of full flows to the
creek. Then in 2009 Congress designated Fossil Creek as a National Wild
and Scenic River. The Coconino and Tonto National Forests are working
together to maintain and protect the area’s special values.
“Fossil
Creek is incredibly beautiful and became popular really fast,
so it’s no wonder that it’s being loved to death,” said Red
Rock Ranger District Recreation Staff Officer Jennifer Burns.
“Unfortunately, we’re seeing its beauty eroded from impacts of tens
of thousands of visitors wanting to get close to the clear pools and
lush vegetation.”
Officials say
trees are being chopped down for firewood, human and pet waste is
threatening water quality, streamside vegetation is being trampled as
new trails are created and the ground is littered with waste, glass,
trash and ash.
“We are
very concerned about the threat of wildfire to the creek and nearby
communities,” said Burns. “Last summer we put out over 200 abandoned
campfires.”
As the Forest
Service works with the public to create and implement a long-term
Comprehensive River Management Plan, officials and volunteers will be on
site informing visitors of current and anticipated changes in how the
area is managed for recreation. “Until we get a long term plan worked
out,” says Burns, “we have to stop the trashing of this treasure. We
hope visitors understand these interim management changes are meant to
buy us time.”
Because
Fossil Creek is one of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers in the State, the
Forest Service will be including Fossil Creek in a national Respect
the Rivers campaign to connect people to their riparian
environments, return watersheds and rivers to a healthy state and call
on the public to become stewards of such national treasures.
For more information about Fossil Creek or how to help protect the area, please go to: www.coconinoforest.us, www.redrockcountry.org, or www.tonto www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/home.shtml or call the Red Rock Ranger District at (928) 282-4119 or the Payson Ranger District at (928) 474-7900.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 22, 2010
Arizona Game and
Fish Department
PHOENIX – They’re back: Arizona hunting and fishing licenses are available online once again.
It’s simple and easy: just visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Web site at www.azgfd.gov to decide what license or license package suits you or your family best, and make the online purchase using your Visa or MasterCard from the convenience of your own home or office.
“It’s been a long time coming. But the timing is superb for hunting and fishing conditions,” said Game and Fish Deputy Director Bob Broscheid. “Our interior lakes are filling and spilling. There’s a lush green-up in the desert low lands. Plus we have a tremendous snow pack in the high country.”
There is a $1.50 Internet fee for buying your license online – the fee actually pays for the service. Be sure to have a printer handy; you must physically print out the license you purchase online (color or black and white will work).
If you need a little help while purchasing the license online, there is telephone assistance available during normal 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. business hours Monday through Friday by calling (602) 942-3000.
There are lots of hunting and fishing license options available, including some exceptional deals on Family Licenses, so be sure to shop online at Buy a License for the license package that works best for you.
You will also find lots of online help deciding where to go on your hunting or fishing adventures.
The Game and Fish Department’s Web site is full of where-to and how-to fishing and hunting information. In fact, you can even subscribe to the weekly fishing report or the Hunter Highlights e-news products and have them delivered directly to your computer.
Agency officials pointed out that the online license sales and other online services were suspended almost three years ago due to workload difficulties the former vendor experienced during the online big game draw process. There is no projected date for when the online hunt draw process will be available online once again, although agency officials are actively working on the issue.
The Game and Fish Department operates on revenue-driven “user pay, user benefit” business model and relies on non-tax dollars – it receives no tax money from the state’s general fund.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 18, 2010
Coconino County
Flagstaff
, Az. – The March 9, 2010 City of
The City of
·
Complete and return the Permanent Early Voting list form to the Elections
office; or
·
Request an early ballot for the May 18 election only; or
·
Go to their polling place on Election Day (locations are listed on the
informational pamphlet mailed to each eligible voter).
If a voter
chooses to be added to the Permanent Early Voting list, they can either mail
the form to the Elections Office, 110 E. Cherry, in Flagstaff; or drop it off
at one of the white drop boxes located in the parking lots at the Elections
Office and the Health and Community Services building, 2625 N.King Street,
Flagstaff. Another option is to return the form in the envelope with the
voted March 9 election ballot.
Any
voter who would like to be placed on the Permanent Early Voting list may
do so by calling the Elections office at (928) 679-7860; toll-free (800)
793-6181, and a form will be mailed to the voter. Another option
is to visit www.coconino.az.gov/elections,
click on “Permanent Early Voting”, complete the form and return it
to the Elections office.
For more information, call the Coconino
County Elections office at (928)679-7860; toll-free (800) 793-6181.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 17, 2010
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff, AZ – The Coconino National Forest has released the Hart Prairie Fuels Reduction and Forest Health Project Environmental Assessment (EA) and is accepting public comments until March 17, 2010.
The Project’s proposed activities will include thinning and prescribed fire treatments to improve forest health and reduce the potential for a large wildfire. Approximately 12,775 acres of land are included in the project, located 20 miles north of Flagstaff on the Peaks/Mormon Lake Ranger District. The EA can be found online at .
Submit comments to Environmental Coordinator Harmony Hall by email, hhall@fs.fed.us or by hand to the Peaks Mormon Lake Ranger District, 5075 N. Highway 89 weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
For more information or to receive a hard copy of the Hart Prairie EA, contact Harmony Hall at (928) 527-8234, or hhall@fs.fed.us.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 16, 2010
Coconino County
Flagstaff
, Az. – At their regular meeting on February
16, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted
mid-year budget reductions proposed by County Manager Steve Peru.
The budget reductions, which total $3 million, offset revenue shortfalls
from the continuing economic decline and State cost shifts.
The adopted budget cuts will
allow the County to balance their overall budget through June 30, 2010.
These cuts will set the stage for the Board of Supervisors to balance
revenues and expenditures in FY11, which will likely result in a
decrease in service levels countywide.
The current recommendations
include a combination of departmental budget reductions in the amount of
$1.5 million, and the use of $1.5 million in General Fund balances and
reserves. The use of the General Fund balances and reserves
follows the County’s financial plan that began in 2007, which sets
aside funds for the County to use during recessionary periods to offset
revenue shortfalls.
Remaining fund balances,
including emergency reserves and revenue smoothing, will be maintained
for potential additional State cuts and cost shifts and future revenue
shortfalls.
The departmental cuts consist
of operational budget reductions and the continuation of the current
hiring freeze through this fiscal year. The vacancies created due
to the hiring freeze will be used to create opportunities for employees
who could be moved from reduced programs into programs that will
continue into next year, and avoid layoffs whenever possible. The
County’s current vacancy rate is at 12%, or over 110 positions.
On February 2, the Board of
Supervisors,
The Board of Supervisors,
Elected Officials and Department Directors agreed to voluntarily take
two furlough days between now and the end of June. Employees may
also voluntarily reduce their hours up to 50% for the remainder of this
fiscal year. Other employee solutions considered were mandatory
furloughs, retirement incentives, voluntary separation incentives, pay
and/or benefit reductions. In the County’s ongoing effort to
keep employees whole and maintain service levels, these solutions were
not brought forward in the final recommendation. However, all
solutions, including these, will be considered in the FY11 budget
process, which will take into account impacts to citizens countywide.
The following departmental
budget cuts do not reflect position reductions or vacancy savings.
Some department proposals were evaluated and determined to negatively
impact citizen services, and were not included in the final
recommendation.
For more information, call
Deputy County Manager Mike Townsend at (928) 679-7130; toll-free (877)
679-7120.
Summary of Approved General
Fund Budget Reductions
Adult Probation
Suspend the General Fund transfers to the Work
Furlough Fund ($1,061) and Community Punishment Fund ($40,619).
Utilize the Deferred Prosecution Fund balance
for existing General Fund expenditures ($37,721).
Assessor
Temporary wage line item reduction ($25,000)
Board of Supervisors
Reduction of advisory council budgets by 50%
($3,375)
Reduction to various Elected ($13,875) and
Clerk ($8,961) divisional line items
6% reduction to Community Initiatives funding
($15,000)
Elimination
of funding for Teenworks ($75,000)
(This
was part of the FY10 initial budget reduction)
Clerk of Superior Court
Utilize the Clerk’s Forfeiture Fund balance
($30,000) and the Superior Court Enhancement Fund balance ($25,034)
Community Development
Various operating line item reductions
($22,000)
Suspend budget for contract plan reviews
($30,000)
Community Services
Shift General Fund salaries to stimulus funds
($76,734)
Various operations and travel line item
reductions ($72,919)
Facilities
Various operational reductions to Resource
Conservation, Capital Repair & Replacement, Operations and
Maintenance, Capital Planning & Construction, and Administration
programs ($107,665)
Finance
Line item reduction ($2,500)
Various operational, travel and training
reductions ($5,000)
Health
Various line item reductions ($22,729)
Homecare program lapse support ($27,000)
Capture indirect costs from H1N1 grant
($50,000)
Utilize Birth Certificate Fund balance
($50,000)
Human Resources
Various operational reductions to Employee
Relations, Personnel Administration, EGAD, and Recruitment &
Retention programs ($19,483)
Information Technology
CJI contract support reduction ($22,000)
Justice Courts
Shift General Fund expenditures to Enhancement
Funds:
Fredonia ($7,423)
Williams ($16,483)
Juvenile Court
Operational reductions ($50,595)
Use of Probation and Diversion Fee Fund
balance ($37,297)
Parks and Recreation
Administration travel & training
reductions ($2,800)
Lessee Events line item reductions ($3,696)
Stables line item reductions ($6,768)
Capital savings ($7,645)
Fee increases ($17,091)
Public Defender
Use of Fees for Services Fund for General Fund
expenditures ($108,386)
Superior Court
Reduction to Integrated Family Court ($2,500)
Reduction to Law Library ($8,500)
Utilize Fill the Gap Fund balance ($18,000),
Court Enhancement Fund balance ($23,000), and Conciliation Fund
balance ($40,000) for existing General Fund expenditures
Treasurer
Utilize Taxpayer Information Fund balance for
existing General Fund expenditures and General Fund line item
reductions ($53,471)
For more information, call
Deputy County Manager Mike Townsend at (928) 679-7130; toll-free (877)
679-7120.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
February 8, 2010
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff, AZ – With the holiday weekend approaching, the Coconino National Forest reminds the public of the following:
Winter driving conditions
Be aware: Roadways through Flagstaff are often congested during the weekends. Be patient, and don’t park along the highway.
Road closures: Keep informed on the current conditions of roadways in the Flagstaff area. Many forest roads are seasonally closed due to wet or snowy conditions, especially in higher elevations. Drivers are reminded to respect road barricades and avoid driving on saturated surfaces to prevent road damage, soil erosion and getting stuck. Check on the status of state routes through the Arizona Department of Transportation via their 511 system (888-411-7623) or website at www.dot.state.az.us .
For forest roads, contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 877-878-9377.
Be prepared: Stock your vehicle with emergency items such as chains, flashlight, and shovel. It’s also a good idea to pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and trash bags, and always travel with a full tank of gas.
Where to play
Recreation sites: Current information about where to play in the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center. A winter map shows popular recreation areas including the Flagstaff Nordic Center, Mormon Lake Lodge, Happy Jack Lodge, and Fort Tuthill County Park. To view the map, visit www.flagstaffarizona.org/documents/WinterRec.map.pdf.
Use good judgment: Provide for the safety of you and others; do not play adjacent to highways or high-traffic roads.
Snowplay areas: Wing Mountain Snowplay Area is located 10 miles northwest of Flagstaff off of Highway 180. The site charges $10 per vehicle. Contact Wing Mountain at 602-923-3555 for current conditions. Crowley Pit is also available for snow play, located further north on Highway 180. Cinch Hook Pit is closed indefinitely.
Backcountry travel: Learn about current avalanche and snow conditions in the San Francisco Peaks backcountry through the Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center at www.kachinapeaks.org. Winter backcountry travel into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness via Arizona Snowbowl, Forest Road 522 and Lamar Haines Wildlife Area requires a free seasonal backcountry permit. You can obtain this permit by visiting either the Peaks Ranger District, 5075 N. HWY 89; the Coconino National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 1824 S. Thompson St. in Flagstaff or Arizona Snowbowl’s Agassiz Lodge weekend mornings when the ski area opens.
Additional information can be found on the website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
January 22, 2010
Coconino County
Sheriff's Department
Flagstaff
. AZ- As a result of the severe winter storms that have pelted the
~~~~~ ~~~~~
January 21, 2010
Coconino County
Sheriff's Department
Flagstaff
.
People
venturing into mountainous terrain should carry avalanche rescue
equipment such as a shovel, avalanche rescue beacon, avalanche probe,
and winter survival gear. Be prepared for travel and emergencies
in the remote winter mountain environment where rescue is not immediate.
Do not travel alone and leave a detailed trip plan with a responsible
person. Your best chance for survival in an avalanche is companion
rescue. It is important to review recent weather reports and
forecasts as well as driving conditions prior to and during your trip.
Carrying a cell phone is recommended; however, it may not always work in
backcountry locations and should not substitute for good judgment and
preparation. It is recommended that people who use the mountain
backcountry receive formal avalanche safety education and winter
survival skills. Free avalanche awareness clinics are offered by
the
Winter backcountry travel into
the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area from Arizona Snowbowl requires a free
annual backcountry permit. This includes the parking areas at FR
522 and Lamar Haines Wildlife Area. Backcountry permits are
available in
~~~~~ ~~~~~
January 20, 2010
Coconino County
Sheriff's Department
Flagstaff
,
Coconino County Sheriff Bill Pribil
would like to remind community members and visitors of some simple
safety tips that will make your winter travel safer and more enjoyable.
If you find yourself driving in the snow, stay
alert, slow down
and stay in control. These are
the three key elements to safe driving in the snow.
Here are a few other tips for driving in the snow:
During severe storms or blizzard
conditions if your travel is not absolutely necessary or
an emergency, do not travel.
Considering the possibility of a severe storm beginning
on Thursday out of town visitors who plan a
trip to
most current weather forecasts and strongly
consider not traveling as weather conditions
worsen.
If you think you may be heading into snow
or there is a possibility of driving in the snow, make sure you do a
maintenance check on your vehicle before making the trip. Check the
vehicle battery, belts and hoses, anti-freeze, oil, lights, brakes,
heater and defroster and check the exhaust system for leaks which
may allow carbon monoxide to enter the vehicle.
Plan your route ahead of time and give
yourself extra travel time. Make sure someone knows your travel
plans.
Wear comfortable clothing that does not
restrict your movement while at the wheel. Keep warm clothing
available for when you exit the vehicle.
Always clear any snow and ice from all
windows, lights, mirrors and the roof before driving. After starting
the vehicle wait for the interior windows to clear of fog so you
will have appropriate visibility.
Make sure there is sufficient windshield
washer fluid in the vehicle reservoir and that it is rated for
freezing temperatures.
It takes longer to stop on slippery
surfaces, so add additional time to the three-second rule.
Know the proper handling procedures for a
skidding vehicle.
Slow down in snow and icy conditions, make
turns slowly, and make all starts slow and smooth.
Remember that bridges and overpasses may
freeze before the regular travel lanes of a roadway. Watch out for
black ice, areas of the roadway that appear black and shiny and
where your vehicle can suddenly lose traction. Slow down in these
areas and keep your foot off the brakes.
If you get stuck or stranded, don’t
panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Wait for help
to arrive. If you have a cell phone and are in an area with cell
phone service, try calling for help. Try to always know your exact
locations while driving.
Keep your clothing dry. Wet clothing can
lead to dangerous loss of body heat.
Winter Driving Survival Kit:
It’s a good idea to keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle if
you might be traveling into an area where you could encounter snow.
Having essential supplies can provide some comfort and safety for
you and your passengers. The following items are recommended for
your winter driving survival kit:
Ice scraper/snowbrush
Shovel
Sand or other type of traction aid
Tow rope or chain
Booster cables
Road flares or warning lights
Gas line antifreeze
Flashlight and batteries
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Small tool kit
Extra clothing and foot wear
Non-perishable energy foods, like
chocolate or granola bars, juice, instant coffee, tea, soup, and
bottled water
Candles and a small tin can to hold the
candle
Water proof matches
Winter driving can be safe with planning and
extra caution. Sheriff Bill Pribil and the Men and Women of the
Coconino County Sheriff’s Office would like to wish all community
members and visitors a safe and happy Holiday Season.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
December 11, 2009
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff,
AZ – Winter is here along with opportunities to enjoy the snow. The
Coconino National Forest and Coconino County Sheriff’s Office remind
visitors:
Be prepared for cold weather and winter driving conditions with a full tank of gas, chains, flashlight and other emergency items.
Pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and a trash bag.
Be safe and aware. Don’t park along the highway. Look before you slide. Watch out for hazards and other visitors. Bike helmets are recommended for safe sledders.Be patient. Highways through the Flagstaff area may be congested.
Leave
no trace other than footprints and snowmen. Take your trash
with you. Respect
private property and other locations where snowplay and
sledding is not appropriate.
Know
before you go - Current information about where to go to play in
the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center
at 877-878-9377. A map
is at
Winter recreation locations include Flagstaff Nordic Center, Mormon Lake Lodge, Happy Jack Lodge, and Fort Tuthill County Park.
Peaks
and Mormon Lake Ranger Districts
Road Closures –
All
forest roads are closed above the rim off of
Forest
Highway 3/Lake Mary Road – A detour remains in place around
the west side of Mormon Lake.
Snowbowl Road - Snowbowl Road is subject to closure when the ski area and its business office are closed. Snowbowl Road will be open on Saturday, closed on Sunday.
Snowplay Areas –
Wing
Mountain Snowplay Area is open, located 10
miles northwest of Flagstaff off of Highway 180. This site,
managed by Recreation
Resource Management, charges $10/car. For conditions at
Wing Mountain call 928-226-0493 or http://www.snowplayaz.com/
Crowley
Pit further north on Highway 180 is also open for snowplay.
San
Francisco Peaks Backcountry Travel – Winter backcountry travel
into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness from Arizona Snowbowl requires
a free seasonal backcountry
permit, available Monday – Friday at the
Peaks Ranger Station, 5075 N. Highway 89, and the Coconino
National Forest Supervisor’s
Office, 1824 S Thompson St. Permits
will also be available at Arizona
Snowbowl’s Agassiz Lodge weekend mornings when the ski area opens. The
best source for current avalanche and snow
conditions information in the San Francisco Peaks backcountry is
the Kachina Peaks Avalanche
Center www.kachinapeaks.org.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
November 23, 2009
National Park Service
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. (AP) - Motorized access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon ends for the season next week.
The Arizona Department of Transportation will close State Route 67, the roadway leading to the North Rim.
Most North Rim facilities closed on October 15. However, scenic roadways and overlooks, as well as gas stations, camping and gift and book stores have remained open in order to provide basic services until the road closes for the season.
State Route 67 and all services on the North Rim are expected to reopen next May.
South Rim facilities and the inner canyon remain open year-round.
The North Rim campground will still be available for winter camping and is accessible by inner canyon trails from the South Rim or by cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
On The Web: http://www.nps.gov/grca
~~~~~ ~~~~~
October 8, 2009
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff- Fall is here and camping
season is coming to an end. Seasonal
closures have begun at Coconino National Forest campgrounds and day-use
sites. These areas are
closed for the duration of each winter and reopened every spring.
When closed, campgrounds
and day-use sites will no longer have services such as water and toilets
available, and in many cases, will be gated closed.
Some campgrounds on the Coconino, however, will remain open
year-round.
Alternately, a few
campgrounds on the Coconino may be used during the closure season, free
of charge, as long as the roads to those campgrounds remain open.
When visiting these areas during the off-season, use the
designated sites and be prepared to camp without services such as water
and toilets.
Visitors who choose to Dispersed Camp must remain at least 1 mile from designated recreation sties. As always, practice Leave No Trace methods when camping in the forest.
Campgrounds will be open only until noon the day before their listed close date.
The
following chart outlines the campgrounds and day use areas on the Coconino.
Campground
|
District
|
Available in Off-Season
|
CLOSE DATE
|
|
Ashurst
Lake & Forked Pine |
Yes |
Already
Closed |
|
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
|
Already
Closed |
||
|
Yes |
Already
Closed |
|
|
Oct 13 |
||
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
|
Oct
13 |
||
|
Yes |
Oct
13 |
||
|
O'Leary
Group Camp |
|
Oct
13 |
|
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
|
Already
Closed |
||
|
|
Nov 16 |
||
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
|
Already
Closed |
||
|
Blue Ridge |
Mogollon
Rim |
|
Already
Closed |
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
Elks Group
Camp |
Mogollon
Rim |
Open
Year-Round |
|
|
Open
Year-Round |
|||
|
|
Around
Oct 31 |
||
|
Moqui Group |
Mogollon
Rim |
|
Already
Closed |
|
Long Valley
Work Center |
Mogollon
Rim |
Open
Year-Round |
|
|
|
Already
Closed |
||
Day Use Areas
|
District
|
Available in Off-Season
|
CLOSE DATE
|
|
Lower Lake Mary Picnic Area |
|
Already
Closed |
|
|
Upper Lake Mary Site#1 |
Yes |
Oct
13 |
|
|
Upper
Lake Mary Site#2 |
Yes |
Oct
13 |
|
|
Lake
Mary Narrows Lauch Site |
|
Already
Closed |
For more information regarding recreational opportunities on the Coconino National Forest, please visit our web site at www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino, or call 928-527-3600.
~~~~~ ~~~~~
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