Background
In 2019, after a years-long public process, the Coronado National Forest decided to close 160 miles of old roads within southern Arizona’s Sierra Vista District that no longer served the needs of the forest or visitors. These “administratively decommissioned” roads are now technically not for travel. However, until they are physically blocked, many of these roads continue to be used regularly, allowing vehicle traffic in otherwise isolated areas, spreading invasive species, disturbing wildlife, and contributing to erosion. Now is our chance to physically close and renaturalize these roads!
On this trip folks can camp out and join us for the full event, or they can join us just for the day on Saturday and/or Sunday. Day-trippers, please keep in mind that the work site is quite a drive from surrounding communities. Google "Montezuma Pass, Arizona" to figure out about how long a drive to expect, but keep in mind this is not the work location and dirt roads along the way could slow your progress considerably.
What to Expect
We will be working and camping on the Coronado National Forest with plenty of spots to set up tents, but we will not have access to a bathroom and there is not potable water available onsite. SIA will bring drinking water, but it wouldn't hurt to bring some yourself.
Folks staying through the weekend should bring their own camping gear (or contact us if you need to borrow some) and meals for the weekend — a minimum of two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners, with snacks.
We will be digging up compacted soils, building rock structures to control erosion, seeding the roadbed with native plants, camouflaging the road with woody debris, brush, and rocks, and installing signs to notify the public about the road closures. All of this will entail digging with tools and carrying, moving, and placing objects of various sizes and weights. Some heavy lifting might be required, though no one will be asked to lift more than they feel capable of. Be prepared for getting dirty!
Also, be prepared to unplug as cell phone service is spotty or non-existent out there.
What to Bring
- Water bottle(s), snacks, and food for the duration of your stay out there.
- Binoculars — this is a fabulous birding spot!
- Sturdy footwear (ex. hiking boots) that you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy
- Sun protection (ex. wide-brimmed hat, sunblock, long-sleeved shirt and long pants)
- Sturdy pants — we will be kneeling and working in the dirt, sand, and rocks: you'll want pants that are up to the task (if you like working with kneepads and you have some, this would be a great opportunity to bring them as well)
- SIA will provide all tools, work gloves, and other PPE, though if you have a pair of gloves or tools you like, feel free to bring them.
Project Schedule & Location
- Friday (carpoolers and caravaners): Meet at 2:30 p.m. at our office: 3127 N Cherry Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719 at the southwest corner of Cherry Ave. and Fort Lowell Rd. to carpool or caravan to the site. There is parking in our lot off Cherry.
- Friday (self-drivers): If you'd prefer to meet us at the campsite, please join us after 6 p.m. near Montezuma Pass (directions will be sent to registered participants).
- Saturday: We will start work around 8 a.m. (day-trippers should join us by then), work throughout the day with a break for lunch, and end by 4 p.m.
- Sunday: We will start work around 8 a.m. (day-trippers should join us by then), work throughout the day with a break for lunch, and be wrapping up by 4 p.m. (or earlier). We will return to the office in Tucson by 6:30 p.m.
Questions? Contact Bryon Lichtenhan at bryon@skyislandalliance.org
