January - February 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 January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 2006

Resolutions for a better environment in Arizona!Resolutions for a better environment in Arizona!Resolutions for a better environment in Arizona!Resolutions for a better environment in Arizona!Resolutions for a better environment in Arizona!

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

The Sierra Club and other conservation groups will host rooms at the BLM’s Arizona open houses where we will serverefreshments and provide information to help people write comments. Please attend an open house if you can. We willneed a strong showing to reverse the direction of this plan.

There is a comment period which has been extended to March 17, 2006. Comments can be mailed to the Arizona StripDistrict Office, 345 East Riverside Drive, St.George, Utah 84790, or emailed to [email protected]. If you cannotattend an open house, please send comments to the BLM and let us know that you have done so, that way we can trackour success in this effort.

Open house meetings on the Draft Plan/DEIS will be held at the following locations, from 4-7 pm local time. The SierraClub-hosted rooms will be open from 3-7 pm:

Jan. 17, 2006 Marriott Courtyard Hotel, 600 Clubhouse Drive, Page, AZJan. 18, 2006 Kaibab Paiute Community Park Bldg, Kaibab Village, AZJan. 24, 2006 Mohave Community College, Student Union, Room 200F, Kingman, AZJan. 25, 2006 Deer Valley Community Center, 2001 W. Wahalla Lane, Phoenix, AZJan. 26, 2006 DuBois Center, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ

The draft plan can be found at http://www.blm.gov/az/LUP/strip/strip_plan.htmFor more information, contact Roxane at: 928-774-6542, email: [email protected]

Monumental “Monumental “Monumental “Monumental “Monumental “TTTTTurururururkkkkkeeeeey” Cooky” Cooky” Cooky” Cooky” Cooked uped uped uped uped upfffffor the Grand Canor the Grand Canor the Grand Canor the Grand Canor the Grand Canyyyyyononononon

By Roxane George

Roxane is the Chapter’s Grand CanyonConservation Coordinator.

During the Thanksgiving holiday,the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)released a 1,500-page draft resource man-agement plan for Grand Canyon-Parashant and Vermilion Cliffs NationalMonuments, called the Arizona StripPlan. The draft plan contains little to bethankful for.

The purpose of Arizona’s new monu-ments is to preserve the grand geology,archaeology, and wildlife that character-ize this remote and wild part of thegreater Grand Canyon ecosystem. Thesemonuments provide prime habitat forthe California condor, the largest bird inNorth America and an endangered spe-cies.

During the 2002 scoping phase forthe monuments, more than 89 percentof comments favored increased protec-tion of the Arizona Strip’s natural andcultural features, including its wild char-acter, solitude, wildlife, and archaeologi-cal sites. More than 85 percent of com-ments cited the destruction that off-roadvehicles (ORVs) can cause, and asked forroad closures or new restrictions on ORVtravel within the monuments.

Ignoring the public will and themonuments’ purpose, the draft planwould allow more than 1,700 miles ofORV routes in the two monuments, plusan additional 1,000 miles for the Ari-zona Strip area outside the monuments.Many of these ORV routes disrupt theregion’s wild and primitive character,threaten wildlife populations, and invitedamage to cultural and archaeologicalresources. For perspective, 2,700 milesis more than the driving distance fromPhoenix to New York. Also, the draft planwould only preserve wilderness charac-teristics on less than 300,000 acres of thenearly 1 million acres of wilderness-qual-ity lands within the monuments.

We need your help to achieve landmanagement plans that protect theseplaces and the opportunity for this andfuture generations to see a condor soar-ing in the wild.

Sierra Club Members Share NewSierra Club Members Share NewSierra Club Members Share NewSierra Club Members Share NewSierra Club Members Share NewYYYYYear’s Rear’s Rear’s Rear’s Rear’s Resolutionsesolutionsesolutionsesolutionsesolutions

Photo courtesy of Bob Ball

This year my resolution is to think about water,its source, its purity and its requirement for allforms of life to live. And how to use only theamount that I need and not to waste a drop ofthis precious source of life. - Bob Ball

I resolve in 2006 to eat less ingeneral, eat more organic veg-etables and fruits, and reduceprocessed food intake—thereby reducing overall con-sumption of food stuffs, reduc-ing pesticide use, reducing fueluse for transportation and pro-cessing, reducing packagingmaterials, and reducing gar-bage landfill space and/or re-cycling energy costs (includ-ing transportation and process-ing), et. . . I’m a vegetarian al-ready, so the costs—water,land, transportation—in-volved in meat production/consumption are not at issue.Unfortunately, Kobi the dogstill insists on Iams. - MichelleHarrington

Another Another Another Another Another YYYYYearearearearear

Another year and things have gone from bad toworse.Another year and we are still fighting to protectpublic lands.Another year and people are still driving their gasguzzling autos.Another year and development is rampant & with-out regard to water supply.Another year and residents are still wasting waterby the 100s of gallons.Another year and still no relief from air pollution.Another year and no more designated wildernessareas.Another year and global warming goes unabated.

Resolution: TRY HARDER to set a good example,spread our message, pressure elected officials andmost importantly elect people to public office whoare environmentally enlightened. - Bev Full

I will read books that will helpme be a more effective conser-vationist. I will think strategi-cally instead of reactively. I willnot let the avalanche of emailsget in the way of personal de-velopment. - Jim McCarthy

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 : Diane Nolan (x) 480-425-8948 [email protected]:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Dan Cline 480-921-9142 [email protected]/ 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: Vacant volunteer opportunitySierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles:Sierra Singles: Alan Stater [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]

PLAPLAPLAPLAPLATEATEATEATEATEAU GRU GRU GRU GRU GROUP—FLAOUP—FLAOUP—FLAOUP—FLAOUP—FLAGSTGSTGSTGSTGSTAFFAFFAFFAFFAFF http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau/http://www.arizona.sierraclub.org/plateau/Chair:Chair:Chair:Chair:Chair: Jim McCarthy (x) 928-779-3748TTTTTreasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Sharon Galbreath (x) 928-774-1571 [email protected]:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary:Secretary: Carol Tepper (x) 928-638-9827 [email protected]:Membership:Membership:Membership:Membership: Lara Schmit (x) 928-779-3186 [email protected] Members:At-Large Members:At-Large Members:At-Large Members:At-Large Members: Tom Martin (x) 928-556-0742 [email protected]

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]/ Membership:Secretary/ Membership:Secretary/ Membership:Secretary/ Membership:Secretary/ Membership: Kim Beck (x) 520-326-9587 [email protected]:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Roy Emrick (x) 520-326-7883 [email protected] Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair:Conservation Chair: Jan Anderson (x) 520-682-8850 [email protected] Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO):ity Outings (ICO): Matt Nelson 520-404-7992 [email protected]

Andy Small 520-326-9079 [email protected] ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise:Polit ical/Merchandise: Lee Oler 520-791-9246 [email protected] 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 [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: Joy Herr-Cradillo [email protected]

Sean Sullivan [email protected]

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]/Membersh-Chair/Membersh-Chair/Membersh-Chair/Membersh-Chair/Membership:ip:ip:ip:ip: Barbara Sciacca (x) 480-488-0329 [email protected]/Polit/Outing:tary/Polit/Outing:tary/Polit/Outing:tary/Polit/Outing:tary/Polit/Outing:Bev Full (x) 480-595-2306 [email protected]:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: VacantConservation:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation:Conservation: Bill Baker (x) 623-581-7639 wnbaker@earthlink.netFFFFFundraisiundraisiundraisiundraisiundraising/Hospitality:ng/Hospitality:ng/Hospitality:ng/Hospitality:ng/Hospitality:Norma Hand 480-595-9977 [email protected]:Webpage:Webpage:Webpage:Webpage: Elizabeth DiethelmPublications:Publications:Publications:Publications:Publications: Phyllis Strupp [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: Henry Mellon (x) 928-646-5484TTTTTreasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer:reasurer: Gary Dorer 928-203-9050 [email protected]/Outreach:Membership/Outreach:Membership/Outreach:Membership/Outreach:Membership/Outreach: Angela Greco (x)Interim Ex-Com Interim Ex-Com Interim Ex-Com Interim Ex-Com Interim Ex-Com Member:Member:Member:Member:Member: Marilyn Thaden Dexter 928-204-2250

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) 928-771-0838 [email protected]: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: Vacant

VVVVVol. 42 No. 1ol. 42 No. 1ol. 42 No. 1ol. 42 No. 1ol. 42 No. 1January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 2006January/February 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, Dawson

Henderson, Jerry Nelson, Kathy Roediger

Publications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairPublications ChairMichelle Harrington

(602) [email protected]

WebmasterWebmasterWebmasterWebmasterWebmasterDawson Henderson

[email protected]

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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

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: Kathy Roediger 602-266-6358 [email protected] 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: VacantFundraising 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): Sharon Galbreath (xc) 928-774-1571 [email protected] (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: Jim McCarthy 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

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 602-774-6514 [email protected] Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantConservation Program AssistantKate Darby 602-253-9140 [email protected]

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

BECOME INVOLVED:Contact a

representative inyour area to voice

your concerns andto participate inlocal activities.

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

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SAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUAROSAGUARO

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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

JJJJJanuaranuaranuaranuaranuary/Fy/Fy/Fy/Fy/Febrebrebrebrebruaruaruaruaruary 2006y 2006y 2006y 2006y 2006 Canyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon Echo


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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 Cool your City

55555 Recycle Old Batteries

66666 Invest Responsibly

77777 Reasonable Growth InitiativeWrap-Up

88888 Colorado River in Trouble

99999 Prairie Dog Communication

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

Cast of CharactersCast of CharactersCast of CharactersCast of CharactersCast of Characters

BeBeBeBeBev Fv Fv Fv Fv FullullullullullChapter Secretary

In July, the office began accepting usedcell phones. The Sierra Club will send thesephones to EARTHWORKS for refurbishingor recycling. EARTHWORKS will use theproceeds from refurbished phones tosupport communities impacted by mining.Any phones that cannot be reused will berecycled for metal and plastic in compliancewith U.S. laws and regulations.

How do I donate my used cellHow do I donate my used cellHow do I donate my used cellHow do I donate my used cellHow do I donate my used cellphone?phone?phone?phone?phone? Send in your used cell phone tothe Sierra Club office instead of the landfill,where the phone’s toxic contents, includinglead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic, couldleach into soil and groundwater. Send yourphone to the Sierra Club office at 202 E.McDowell Rd, Suite 277, Phoenix, AZ85004. For more information, contact DonSteuter at (602) 956-5057

Thanks to those who have alreadymailed in or dropped off their phones!

On November 21st, the Phoenix InnerCity Outings group accepted a gener-ous $5000 grant from the Paradise Val-ley R.E.I. store. These funds will be usedto provide quality outings for the group’spartner agencies in Phoenix and Mesa.The Inner City Outings program (ICO)is a community outreach program of theSierra Club that provides low-income,inner city youth with trips to wilder-ness. The Sierra Club San Francisco Baychapter established the first ICO groupin 1971. Today, a dedicated core of vol-unteer leaders located in approximately50 cities across the United States workwith local social service agencies andschools to provide wilderness experiencesfor people who otherwise might not havethem.

The Phoenix ICO group has been activesince 1999 and is currently acceptingapplications for new outings leaders,volunteers, and partner agencies. Formore information, [email protected].

Inner City Outings Receives REI GrantInner City Outings Receives REI GrantInner City Outings Receives REI GrantInner City Outings Receives REI GrantInner City Outings Receives REI Grant

KKKKKeep Sending thoseeep Sending thoseeep Sending thoseeep Sending thoseeep Sending thoseOld Cell PhonesOld Cell PhonesOld Cell PhonesOld Cell PhonesOld Cell Phones

Bev has been a Sierra Club member since1968 and an activist since 1980 in the Iowa,Los Padres, Angeles, and Grand CanyonChapters. She has served as group chair,chapter and group political chair, and outingschair. She organized new Sierra Club Groupsin Orange County and also here in NorthMaricopa County. She has been a NationalSierra Club Outings leader since 1988 leadingtrips into Colorado & Wyoming wildernessareas. Her popular spring and fall float tripsraise a considerable amount of money for thechapter each year, while providing participantswith a fulfilling wilderness adventure. Amember of the Grand Canyon Chapter Excomsince 1999, she currently serves as chaptersecretary and also as political chair and outings chairfor the Saguaro Group. She lives in north Scottsdalewith her two dogs.

The Inner City Outings (ICO) is par-ticipating in Basha’s “Thanks a Milllion”fundraising program. All you have to doto contribute is ask a cashier to link yourBasha’s card (available for free) to theICO fundraiser group ID: 28564. Onceyou’ve done that, a portion of your gro-cery spending will go to ICO. The pro-gram runs through the end of March.For more information, visit http://www.bashas.com/charity.

Help SupporHelp SupporHelp SupporHelp SupporHelp Support Inner City Outings While Yt Inner City Outings While Yt Inner City Outings While Yt Inner City Outings While Yt Inner City Outings While YouououououGrGrGrGrGrocerocerocerocerocery Shopy Shopy Shopy Shopy Shop

WWWWWelcome, Scoelcome, Scoelcome, Scoelcome, Scoelcome, Scott!tt!tt!tt!tt!

Resolve to Become more Active in theResolve to Become more Active in theResolve to Become more Active in theResolve to Become more Active in theResolve to Become more Active in theSierra Club this YSierra Club this YSierra Club this YSierra Club this YSierra Club this Yearearearearear

By Rob Smith

Scott Jones has recently joined the Sierra Club’s Southwestoffice in Phoenix as an organizer for our Arizona nationalmonuments campaign. Scott has many years of environmentalactivism, beginning when he joined an environmental groupin second grade. He has been active with the Sierra StudentCoalition and has served on the Grand Canyon Chapter’spolitical committee. Most recently, Scott has been themembership director for the Arizona League of ConservationVoters.

Scott and his fiancée travel around the West spending time “getting the mountains’ glad tidings”every year in our great public lands. Scott brings with him skills in organizing, data managementand political involvement which will be a boon to our monument protection campaign.

Please help me welcome Scott Jones to the Sierra Club and the national monuments, and give hima call at the office at 602-254-9330.

The theme of this issue of the Canyon Echo is New Year’sResolutions. Resolve to become more active in the SierraClub in 2006! Attend group meetings (p. 10), participatein a conservation committee (p. 7), or volunteer for a ser-vice outing (p. 12). Also consider stepping up to chair thefundraising committee (p. 7). Volunteer help in the Phoe-nix office is always welcome, as well. No experience orspecial skills are required. Contact 602-253-9140 if you’dlike to help out.

Denise Berringer-Wood, Paradise Valley store manager Dave, and REI Outreach Spe-cialist Carla Olson, photo courtesy of Tom Berringer

This year, I resolve to look for waysto reduce my energy and water useat home and at work and to try toimplement Xeriscaping in mylawn. I will also try to write moreletters to the editor on environ-mental issues. I also resolve tospend more time hiking and back-packing in our beautiful state.

- Anonymous

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


4

By Sandy Bahr

Sandy is the Chapter’s conservation outreach director.

Jon is the chair of the Chapter’s energy committee and an activemember of the Palo Verde group.

RRRRResolvesolvesolvesolvesolve te te te te to Cool Yo Cool Yo Cool Yo Cool Yo Cool Your City in 2006our City in 2006our City in 2006our City in 2006our City in 2006Join the Energy Committee’s New CampaignJoin the Energy Committee’s New CampaignJoin the Energy Committee’s New CampaignJoin the Energy Committee’s New CampaignJoin the Energy Committee’s New Campaign

By Jon Findley

Energy is one of the Grand Canyon Chapter’s 2006key conservation issues and the Chapter’s energy com-mittee is gearing up for an exciting year. We’ll be work-ing to protect our land, water and air and promotehealthy communities by using energy more efficientlyand replacing fossil fuels and nuclear energy with clean,sustainable energy resources. The Chapter Energy com-mittee will be starting its new activities in January of2006. In addition to the Cool Cities Program men-tioned below, we will be working to encourage publicutilities to use more renewable resources in power gen-eration and promote energy efficiency. We will be pub-licizing programs that are available from the variousutilities. We will be working with groups on Arizona’scollege and university campuses to promote campusenergy reduction programs. We will also be involvedwith the Governor’s Climate Change Advisory Groupand the Arizona Legislature. We hope Sierra Club mem-bers from all over the state of Arizona will agree tosupport these goals and volunteer in whatever way theycan to help us achieve our overall long-term goals.

One of the ways Sierra Club members can get in-volved is through a program called Cool Cities. Theidea is to encourage local leaders to move forward withinnovative solutions to reduce heat-trapping globalwarming pollution. People in 38 states have becomeinvolved and, as of September, 183 mayors represent-ing nearly 40 million Americans have pledged to re-duce global warming carbon pollution in their cities.

“Mayors around the country aren’t waiting on thefederal government to move forward with real cleanenergy solutions like hybrid cars and renewable en-

ergy,” said Glen Brand, Regional Representative for theSierra Club’s Global Warming and Energy Program.“These cities show that we can curb global warmingand save money at the same time.”

The National Sierra Club launched the Cool Cit-ies campaign in October by recognizing Chicago MayorRichard Daley for signing on to the U.S. Mayors Cli-mate Protection agreement. He joined Seattle MayorGreg Nickels and the 182 other mayors nationwide,who have pledged to reduce global warming carbondioxide pollution in their cities to 7 percent below 1990levels by 2012.

Currently, all of our neighboring states have at leastone city that has signed up but Arizona has none. Whilemany Arizona cities recognize the problem and somehave initiated programs to reduce their overall emis-sions, there is a lot still to be done. For example,Scottsdale has an aggressive green-building program thatpromises to reduce energy use by requiring that all newcity building will be designed and built to meet strictenergy use and efficiency guidelines set up by the Lead-ership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)program. We hope that by getting them to sign up forthe Cool Cities Program, we can encourage other Ari-zona cities to start similar programs and give them na-tional recognition when they do.

The energy committee is seeking volunteers to helpwith this campaign. We need to identify cities that aregood candidates for the program. We hope to organizegrassroots-level working groups in each city that willtake the leadership in approaching and working withtheir city. The energy committee will provide assistanceduring the process.


11111 Work with the energy committee to help yourcommunity become a “Cool City.”

2 Get involved in other energy-related projects byattending energy committee meetings (see p. 10for meeting schedule).

3 Help the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapterreduce our own energy use by carpooling or tak-ing public transit to club events.

If you are interested in participating in any of theseactivities, please contact the committee chair, JonFindley ([email protected]) or contact theChapter office for more information.

The New Year is here and so is another session ofthe Arizona Legislature. While it would be nice to thinkwe could expect a quick session with little in the way ofenvironmental attacks, I suspect that is a bit of a wish-ful thinking. Nonetheless, it does look like there willbe some small opportunities to improve environmen-tal protections. We are looking at a measure to improvethe notification requirements relative to pesticide spray-ing, hope to support several bills that will encouragethe use of renewable energy sources, and also will workto promote a bill to tighten up the requirements for lotsplits in county areas. All of these represent small, butimportant, steps in improving our quality of life.

Unfortunately, I think the session will also bringus our fair share of anti-environmental bills, as well asthose that nick away at some of the important publicprocesses like our right to initiative and referendum.With a flush budget, it would be a real treat if theLegislature did not go after the Heritage Fund (this isfunded with lottery dollars and goes to parks and wild-life programs), but there has only been one session sinceits passage in 1990 in which the Legislature did nottry to swipe, divert, or otherwise pervert the use of theseimportant conservation dollars.

I resolve to work hard and to fight like crazy toensure that our air, water, land, wildlife, and our healthis protected – from the Arizona Legislature, the BushAdministration, Congressman Pombo from Californiaand all his buddies in the US Congress, and the vari-ous short-sited interests that would risk our future fora quick buck.

To help us with this resolution please contact meat (602) 253-8633 or [email protected]. Signup for our legislative alerts, learn how to be a citizenlobbyist, come to Environmental Day at the Legisla-ture, and find out more about how you can make adifference. Thanks!

NeNeNeNeNew Yw Yw Yw Yw Yearearearearear, Ne, Ne, Ne, Ne, NewwwwwLegislative SessionLegislative SessionLegislative SessionLegislative SessionLegislative SessionSame Ol’ LegislatorsSame Ol’ LegislatorsSame Ol’ LegislatorsSame Ol’ LegislatorsSame Ol’ Legislators

MARK YMARK YMARK YMARK YMARK YOUR COUR COUR COUR COUR CALENDALENDALENDALENDALENDARS!ARS!ARS!ARS!ARS!Environmental Day at the LegislatureEnvironmental Day at the LegislatureEnvironmental Day at the LegislatureEnvironmental Day at the LegislatureEnvironmental Day at the Legislature

TTTTTuesdauesdauesdauesdauesdayyyyy, F, F, F, F, Februarebruarebruarebruarebruary 7, 2006y 7, 2006y 7, 2006y 7, 2006y 7, 2006

We are planning to get together early in the day for a light breakfastand a couple of speakers. We will then encourage folks to go tocommittee hearings and meet with legislators. For more informationor to RSVP contact Sandy Bahr at 602-253-8633 [email protected]

We hope to see you there!We hope to see you there!We hope to see you there!We hope to see you there!We hope to see you there!



5

Call & Echo

The Grand Canyon Chapterof the Sierra Club also

wishes to thank all of theother generous and kind

support received fromthose who chose to remain

anonymous.

What do I do with all of my old batteries?

Do you ever want some answers to your environmentalquestions? Ever have conservation questions that you’dlike for an expert to answer? In each Canyon Echo, wefeature a question from our members focusing on environ-mental concerns. One of our activists who focuses on thatparticular issue, researches and answers the question.When we don’t know the answer, we find someone whodoes. You do not need to include your name. If you have aquestion, please send it to:

Sierra Club—Grand Canyon ChapterSierra Club—Grand Canyon ChapterSierra Club—Grand Canyon ChapterSierra Club—Grand Canyon ChapterSierra Club—Grand Canyon ChapterEditEditEditEditEditororororor, Can, Can, Can, Can, Canyyyyyon Echoon Echoon Echoon Echoon Echo

202 E. McDo202 E. McDo202 E. McDo202 E. McDo202 E. McDowwwwwell Drell Drell Drell Drell Dr. St. St. St. St. Ste. 2e. 2e. 2e. 2e. 27777777777Phoenix, AZ 85004Phoenix, AZ 85004Phoenix, AZ 85004Phoenix, AZ 85004Phoenix, AZ 85004

Thank You to All of Our DonorsThank You to All of Our DonorsThank You to All of Our DonorsThank You to All of Our DonorsThank You to All of Our Donors

FFFFFriendsriendsriendsriendsriendsJulia Rouvier

Make the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsMake the MountainsGladGladGladGladGladBob and Nancy SutherlandLara SchmitSandy BahrGay ChanlerWilliam GarlandRichard and Jean WilsonDawson Henderson andSharon GalbreathTom and Susan BeanMaricopa Audobon Society

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+)

Keep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sHeartHeartHeartHeartHeartJean MyersMichael ColbertThomas Gilmore

Many thanks to Earth Friends for theircontinued support of our conservationwork to protect Arizona’s wildlife for

future generations. OfficeOfficeOfficeOfficeOfficeThanks To:Thanks To:Thanks To:Thanks To:Thanks To:Waves In Motion- Marcus SilvingMaggie Huntington

Special thanks to Wilburforce for supporting our Restore the Grand Canyon and theGreater Grand Canyon Ecoregion Campaign and also to all of the following donors

who gave to this work in the past two months:

The Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingThe Morning Stars SingTTTTTogeogeogeogeogetherthertherthertherPaul Diefenderfer and AnnaMarsolo

FFFFFriendsriendsriendsriendsriendsChad CampbellRalph L. SheltonLoraine Gilbreath

Keep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sKeep Close to Nature’sHeartHeartHeartHeartHeartB. CathellMarsha Ann Presley

Hitched to EverythingHitched to EverythingHitched to EverythingHitched to EverythingHitched to EverythingElse in the UniverseElse in the UniverseElse in the UniverseElse in the UniverseElse in the UniverseDaniel and Shari Hoftstadter

On Sunday, November 6,2005, the Grand Canyon Chap-ter held its annual VolunteerRecognition Potluck Picnic atPapago Park. Volunteers are thelifeblood of the Sierra Club.Without them we could notprotect this state, this nation,and the planet for future gen-erations. While the Chapter rec-ognized only a few of our amaz-ing volunteers at the picnic, weappreciate each of you and thework you do, day in and dayout, to help the Sierra Club andto help us accomplish our mis-sion to protect the planet.

At the picnic BobbieBobbieBobbieBobbieBobbieHoladayHoladayHoladayHoladayHoladay was recognized for her25 year25 year25 year25 year25 year commitment to the Si-erra Club. Bobbie was a previ-ous winner of our lifetimeachievement award for her out-standing work for wolves andwilderness. She continues to beactive – attending meetings,making calls to her legislators,and supporting environmentalprotection.

The O O O O Outings Autings Autings Autings Autings Awarwarwarwarward d d d d went toBob and Nancy SutherlandBob and Nancy SutherlandBob and Nancy SutherlandBob and Nancy SutherlandBob and Nancy Sutherland whoas a team have helped put lifeback into the outings programin northern Arizona.

JJJJJim im im im im VVVVVaaler aa ler aa ler aa ler aa ler received theOOOOOutstanding Sutstanding Sutstanding Sutstanding Sutstanding Sererererervice Avice Avice Avice Avice Awarwarwarwarward d d d d forhis tireless work to protectArizona’s wildlands and wildlifeand to help more people enjoytheir wonders. Our Environ- Environ- Environ- Environ- Environ-

mental Pmental Pmental Pmental Pmental Pararararartner tner tner tner tner recognition wentto the Center for Biological Di- Center for Biological Di- Center for Biological Di- Center for Biological Di- Center for Biological Di-versityversityversityversityversity for its work to protect andrestore Arizona’s streams and riv-ers, especially the San Pedro andFossil Creek. TTTTTom Som Som Som Som Slaback laback laback laback laback wonspecial Special Achievement Special Achievement Special Achievement Special Achievement Special Achievement rec-ognition for his work on theReasonable Growth Initiative inPrescott, which was passed byPrescott voters the Tuesday af-ter the picnic. The ConserConserConserConserConservvvvva-a-a-a-a-tionist of the Dtionist of the Dtionist of the Dtionist of the Dtionist of the Decade Aecade Aecade Aecade Aecade Awarwarwarwarwardddddwent to D D D D Don Son Son Son Son Steuterteuterteuterteuterteuter..... Normally,this is our Conservationist of theYear award, but the awards com-mittee and the Chapter Execu-tive Committee felt that recog-nizing this year’s work was notenough when talking aboutDon Steuter. Don has been theChapter’s Conservation Chairfor the past nine years and hasbeen athe Palo Verde Groupconservation chair for evenlonger. He has helped fight de-structive mining throughoutthe state, worked for rangelandreform and to lessen the nega-tive impacts of livestock grazing,worked for growth managementand protection of state trustlands, and has been engaged inevery aspect of the Sierra Club’sadvocacy work.

Our Lifetime Achievement Lifetime Achievement Lifetime Achievement Lifetime Achievement Lifetime AchievementAAAAAwarwarwarwarward d d d d went to two deservingrecipients —JJJJJack Fack Fack Fack Fack Foster andoster andoster andoster andoster andEEEEEdith Rdith Rdith Rdith Rdith Reeveeveeveeveeves.es.es.es.es. Jack Foster hasand continues to do much forenvironmental protection at thelocal, state, national and inter-national level. He has been writ-ing a monthly publication“Gadfly” for many years whichpromotes progressive issues in-cluding environmental protec-tion and being responsible withthe Earth’s resources. Jack has

done much for us here in Ari-zona. He has served on theChapter Executive Committee,the Rincon Group ExecutiveCommittee, and served as theChapter’s Energy CommitteeChair. He has helped withgrowth management measures,various transportation efforts,and has even battled the bureau-cracy on the use of web-basedprograms that do not accommo-date all users. Jack is often ourconscience in reminding us towalk the talk whether it is rela-tive to using too much water ortoo much fossil fuel.

Edith was one of the found-ing members of the chapter backin the 60’s. She has been a hikeleader at both the chapter andnational level, where she lednumerous outings. She was the“business manager” for the Can-yon Echo back in the 1970’s. Sheserved as both Chair and Trea-surer for the chapter in 1972.She is still active and regularlyattends the Canyon Echo mail-ing parties and other events.Thank you everyone for protect-ing Arizona and its many spe-cial places and for helping ourchapter get going and keep go-ing.

By Sandy Bahr

Lost AndLost AndLost AndLost AndLost AndFoundFoundFoundFoundFound

Did you leave serving dishesor utensils at the picnic?We have the items in thePhoenix office. Call 602-253-9140 to arrange to pickup your dishes. Thank you!

VVVVVoluntoluntoluntoluntolunteereereereereers Rs Rs Rs Rs Rococococock (and picnic, tk (and picnic, tk (and picnic, tk (and picnic, tk (and picnic, too)!oo)!oo)!oo)!oo)!

Sandy is the Chapter’s conservationoutreach director.

Almost all of us use batteries – in smoke alarms, musicplayers, toys, etc. We use all kinds of batteries, includingautomotive, nickel-cadmium, nickel metal hydride, button celland alkaline. Although some types of batteries are less harmfulthan others, all batteries contain hazardous materials thatshould be kept out of landfills.

Instead of trashing your used batteries, drop them off ormail them to a private company or local municipality that acceptsold batteries. To find a location near you, visit: http://www.earth911.org/master.asp?s=ls&serviceid=126. After youenter your zip code, this website will provide a list of nearbydrop-off sites.

In the future, consider purchasing rechargeable batteriesand a battery charger. Not only are rechargeable batteries betterfor the environment because they decrease battery disposal,but the batteries will save you money, since you can reusethem for many years.

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

Echo ResponseEcho ResponseEcho ResponseEcho ResponseEcho Response

Sierra Club members chow down at the 2005 volunteer recognition picnic. Photo courtesy ofThomas Slaback



6

Protecting ArizonaProtecting ArizonaProtecting ArizonaProtecting ArizonaProtecting ArizonaA BalloA BalloA BalloA BalloA Ballot Prt Prt Prt Prt Proposal toposal toposal toposal toposal to Mako Mako Mako Mako Make Arizona Smoke Arizona Smoke Arizona Smoke Arizona Smoke Arizona Smoke Fe Fe Fe Fe Freereereereeree

This is our 10th trip counting both spring and fall outings. Paddle70 miles down the Green River from Green River, Utah toCayonlands National Park though spectacular Labyrinth Canyon.This area is environmentally threatened and has been designatedas part of the area to be preserved in the Red Rock WildernessAct. Participants will be asked to phone or write to their Congress-man asking them to sign on to this legislation. Camp four nightson sand bars along the river and stop for short scenic hikes atpoints along the way. The cost of this outing is $275. This includescanoes, shuttle service, and meals. We can accommodate a fewkayaks but these must be either your own, or rented at additioncost. The trip begins at 8 AM on Friday, April 20th and ends atnoon on the 24th. The number of participants will be limited tothe first 12 persons who send a $175 deposit to Bev Full, 6528 E.Brilliant Sky Drive, Scottsdale AZ 85262. After that cancellationswill be filled from a wait list.

For more information contact Bev Full, (480) 595-2306;[email protected]

5th ANNUAL SPRING GREENRIVER CANOE/KAYAK TRIPAPRIL 20-24, 2006

Fewer than one infive Arizona adultssmoke. The smokingrate has been fallingsince 1994 to its cur-rent level of 18.4%.The vast majority ofnon-smokers dislikebeing exposed to to-bacco smoke, andmany are allergic orhave chronic diseasesthat are made worse byexposure to secondhand smoke. We haveknown for a long timethat exposure to second hand smokecauses heart and lung disease and sud-den infant death syndrome, but it wasonly last year that the Centers for Dis-ease Control issued a warning thatpeople with an increased risk of coronaryheart disease or with known coronaryartery disease should be advised to avoidshould be advised to avoidshould be advised to avoidshould be advised to avoidshould be advised to avoidall indoor environments that permitall indoor environments that permitall indoor environments that permitall indoor environments that permitall indoor environments that permitsmoking.smoking.smoking.smoking.smoking.

We all know people with heart dis-ease, and we now know that we shouldkeep them out of any place that allowssmoking.

Given these facts, it is no wonderthat the issue of secondhand smoke inenclosed public places and workplacesis emerging as a major health concern inArizona. The Arizona affiliates of theAmerican Cancer Society, AmericanHeart Association and American LungAssociation have written an initiativewhich is being circulated for signaturesnow and will almost certainly be on theNovember, 2006 ballot. It is the SmokeFree Arizona initiative. This is no wild-eyed scheme. Our neighbors in Califor-nia have had a similar law since 1995and today 13 states and 9 countries haveeliminated smoking indoors in publicplaces and workplaces.

In Arizona, several cities around thestate have adopted ordinances and par-tial regulations as well, but the time hascome for the state to level the playingfield by creating one set of rules.

The Smoke-Free Arizona initiativewill protect the health of all Arizonans

by ensuring that all offices, healthcarefacilities, retail stores, licensed childcarefacilities, sport arenas, hotels and motels,restaurants, bars and bowling alleys aresmoke-free. It restricts smoking for a rea-sonable distance around entryways andexits from indoor areas where smoking isprohibited, to ensure that tobacco smokedoes not enter. The initiative does allowsmoking in limited areas including re-tail tobacco shops, outdoor patios, one-half of hotel and motel rooms, and pri-vate homes when they are not being usedfor child care, adult care or health care.

Our goal is to protect the health ofall citizens, especially those who are vul-nerable to secondhand smoke, includingchildren, seniors and those with existinghealth problems. It is time for Arizonato ensure the health of every Arizonan.

Arizona will be a healthier place tolive and work if the Smoke-Free ArizonaInitiative passes. The Grand CanyonChapter of the Sierra Club has officiallyendorsed the Initiative and inviteseveryone’s help in collecting the nearly200,000 signatures needed to qualify themeasure for the ballot. If you’d like tohelp, or to read the entire measure, visitwww.SmokeFreeArizona.org.

Socially responsible investments,SRIs, provide a way to invest yourmoney and do good things for theplanet and the people on it! Socially re-sponsible investing is also called valuesbased, sustainable, green, or sociallyconscious investing. SRIs use a three-pronged approach: screens, shareholderactivism, and community development.

Screens are filters that can excludemanufacturers of weapons, tobacco, al-cohol, etc., and include companies thathave a good environmental record, fairlabor practices, diversity, respect for hu-man rights, and fair trade policies thatcreate a more just and sustainable soci-ety and have a positive impact on thefuture of the planet and our quality oflife.

Shareholder activism has a highideal. Become a shareholder in a com-pany and then put pressure on the man-agement and boards of directors to im-prove corporate policies and practices.The underlying assumption here is thatbusinesses have more clout than religionor government and have a profound im-pact on our environment. The share-holder activism makes businesses ac-countable and responsible.

Community development involvesinvesting in marginalized andunderserved communities, communitiestoo poor to get good loan rates on theirown. These investments can be eitherdomestic or international. The interna-tional loans began with microcredit andthe Grameen Foundation and haveworked wonders in the Third World,with over a 90% repayment rate on theloans. These small loans ($50- $300)are taken out by mostly women in ruralareas trying to start or sustain small en-terprises so they can remain in their vil-

lages and make a living wage.In all, over $2.16 trillion is invested

in SRIs right now. Some well knownnames of SRI funds are Pax, Calvert, andDomini. Lest you be thinking, “ Invest-ing takes lots of money,” the Pax Fundonly requires a minimum of $250. EvenSierra Club has a Mutual Fund, and theirscreens are even stricter. The Sierra ClubMutual Funds will not invest in anymining, gas, oil, or timber firms.

For the doubters who feel these ideasare too idealistic, observe how people,churches, universities, cities and statesused ‘investment strategies’ (divestment)on the former government of South Af-rica to remove apartheid.

Money MattersMoney MattersMoney MattersMoney MattersMoney MattersInvest With a ConscienceInvest With a ConscienceInvest With a ConscienceInvest With a ConscienceInvest With a Conscience

By Cathy Della Penta

Cathy Della Penta is an active member of thePalo Verde group. She is not a financialplanner, but she has been investing in SRIs forthe last 15 years.


For those of you interested in diggingdeeper, check out the followingwebsites:

First Affirmative Financial Network:www.firstaffirmative.com

Co-op America:www.coopamerica.org

Social Investment Forum:www.socialinvest.org

What YWhat YWhat YWhat YWhat You Can Doou Can Doou Can Doou Can Doou Can DoSierra Club activists have alreadygotten involved in the Smoke-freeArizona campaign. To join them,contact Maxanne Millett [email protected] (preferred) or602-359-3398.

Smoke-free activists table at Frank Kush event in Tempe, photo courtesy of Maxanne Millett.

By Smoke-Free Arizona Campaign Activists



7

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

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]

Join a CommitteeJoin a CommitteeJoin a CommitteeJoin a CommitteeJoin a Committee

The Reasonable Growth InitiativeThe Reasonable Growth InitiativeThe Reasonable Growth InitiativeThe Reasonable Growth InitiativeThe Reasonable Growth InitiativePart 3: Success!Part 3: Success!Part 3: Success!Part 3: Success!Part 3: Success!

By Tom Slaback

Going Out in a Blaze of GlorGoing Out in a Blaze of GlorGoing Out in a Blaze of GlorGoing Out in a Blaze of GlorGoing Out in a Blaze of Gloryyyyy

By Bobbie Holaday

Tom chairs the Yavapai group inPrescott

We are in search of a dedicated andenthusiastic individual to chair ourfundraising committee. No fundraisingexperience is necessary and theresponsibilities of the chair do not involveactual fundraising, but primarily entailhelping to address the administrativefunctions of the Committee – setting upthe meetings, chairing the meetings,following up with those who agreed totake action, and helping to recruit newmembers for the committee. We havethree people who have already indicatedthat will serve on the committee, plus wehave a solid plan in place, so there is agood place to start. If you are interestedin this or would like more information,please contact Sandy Bahr at 602-253-8633 or [email protected].

Help WHelp WHelp WHelp WHelp Wantantantantanted!ed!ed!ed!ed!

In the last update on theReasonable Growth Initiative inPrescott I reported that Prop400, a ballot initiative requir-ing additional action on CityCouncil-approved annexations,had been ordered back on theballot by the Arizona State Su-preme Court. We finally got thecampaign under way to pass theinitiative.

The opposition did thesame, with money pouring infrom the Phoenix real estate anddeveloper interests. Feldmeier(the individual who attemptedto invalidate many of the Ini-tiative signatures), his PoliticalAction Committee, and the1000 Friends of Prescott, en-gaged in another push poll offalse information, going so faras to say that if the propositionpassed, it would invalidate theCity’s General Plan. They had

constant ads and anti-Initiativediatribes on former MayorRutkowski’s and current Coun-cil member Blair’s radio talkshows and by the DailyCourier’s editor Hansen.

We were able to get ourmessage out in a series of timelycable TV ads paid for by manyindividual small contributionsand money raised at a concertin support of the Initiative. Theconcert took place at WatsonLake Park, overlooking theproperties in the Granite Dellswhich have played such a con-troversial role in the City’s at-tempt at annexation and give-aways to the potential devel-oper.

On the evening of Novem-ber 8 the lobby of the YavapaiCounty Administrative Build-ing was crowded with the can-didates and supporters of the

Initiative awaiting the outcomeof the election. Within 15 min-utes it was all over. The Initia-tive had won by an overwhelm-ing 57% to 43% margin. Achallenger candidate who sup-ported the Initiative also wonelection to the Council. Theopposition was stunned. Fordays the radio and editorial wagstried to convince themselves thatthe electorate didn’t know whatit was doing and didn’t under-stand the unforseen conse-quences of such an action. TheCourier ran a half-page story onNovember 20 with the head-line: “Area mayors do not likeProposition 400.” The storysuggested that a similar Initia-tive won’t happen in their cit-ies.

The Citizens For Reason-able Growth is hosting a meet-ing in January to build upon our

initial success and to planfor further citizen empow-erment in quality of life is-sues within the PrescottActive Management Area.This will be a facilitated,day-long meeting, bringingtogether as many localgroups and individuals aspossible to focus on our fu-ture. If you are interested inhelping to achieve a sustain-able, high quality life style;

please contact Tom for more in-formation at (928) 778-4233or [email protected]

Inner City OutingsBoot Camp

February 5, 20069:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Sierra Club Office, Phoenix

Sierra Club Inner City Outings is an outreach program of the Sierra ClubFoundation. We are seeking new volunteers to lead trips of 5-12 kidsfrom disadvantaged backgrounds in Arizona’s wild places. Volunteerswill be subject to a screening & application process for the security ofour kids.

At this event, you will:Learn leadership techniquesLearn trip planningGet basics and fundamentals of the ICO program

For more information or to RSVP, contact Denise Berringer-Wood [email protected] or 602-867-3017.

Space

is Li

mited

Call To

day!

At 83 years ofage, I decided thatthe four-day Frontiersof Wolf Recoveryconference held Oc-tober in ColoradoSprings and con-ducted by the Inter-national Wolf Center(IWC) would be thefinal time for me tomake a presentationand attend the ses-sions. Because thiswould be my last major wolfconference, I wanted to go outin a blaze of glory while I’m stillon top. The IWC conferencesare by far the most prestigiousof the wolf conferences. They areconducted by the educationalcenter that was founded by L.David Mech, the world’s lead-ing wolf expert.

I presented an educationalprogram that consisted of arole-playing activity in whichten other volunteers helped meenact a state wildlife commis-sion meeting discussing and vot-ing on a critical wolf related is-sue. The activity demonstratedhow teachers can employ thisactivity in their classrooms,thereby involving their studentsin learning how controversialissues are resolved. The activitywas well-received.

The balance of the confer-ence provided many outstand-ing presentations on variousphases of wolf recovery, withemphasis on the wolf in theSouthwest. IWC staff estimatedthat at least 400 people at-tended.

On the final night, theIWC presented its annual “WhoSpeaks for Wolf” awards. Thefirst three awards presented bymembers of the IWC Board ofDirectors, went to Bob Landis,Emmy award-winning cinema-tographer, having produced overa dozen wildlife films for Na-

tional Geographic and Nature;Rick McIntyre, renowned au-thor, photographer, and wolfmonitor at Yellowstone NationalPark; and Jennifer Galbraith,wildlife biologist and founder ofthe Red Wolf Coalition.

Dave Mech then came for-ward to present the special“Who Speaks for Wolf” award.He described my work in re-turning the Mexican gray wolfto Arizona’s Blue Range, andread from my book, The Returnof the Mexican Gray Wolf. DaveMech then called on me to comeforward to accept the award. Iwas totally overwhelmed whenhe went on to read the text fromthe award plaque, “In recogni-tion of your pivotal role in bring-ing the Mexican gray wolf backto the Blue and your leadershipin educating the public aboutthis endangered subspecies.”

Tears of gratitude filled myeyes, and I found it difficult tosay all the great things oneshould say on such an occasion.I was truly honored by such aprestigious award from theworld’s greatest wolf expert, andwhen reminded by Neil Hutt ofhow I previously had told herabout my blaze of glory, I said,“Yes I did say I wanted to go outin a blaze of glory, but I neverdreamed the blaze would be thisgreat.”Bobbie is an active Sierra Clubmember, an accomplished authorand dedicated wolf advocate.

HoladaHoladaHoladaHoladaHoladay Honored at Wy Honored at Wy Honored at Wy Honored at Wy Honored at Wolf Confolf Confolf Confolf Confolf Conferenceerenceerenceerenceerence

International Wolf Center Board of Directors Neil Hutt, Nancy Gibson, andL. David Mech present award to Bobbie Holaday. Photo courtesy of BobbieHoladay

Citizens for Reasonable Growth Fundraiser Concert, October 23, 2005. No Small Mangos performas at Watson Lake Park,Granite Dells. Photo courtesy of Thomas Slaback



8

mercial motorized use would increase byincrease byincrease byincrease byincrease by8 percent8 percent8 percent8 percent8 percent to 79,913. Commercial userdays would increase by 9 percentincrease by 9 percentincrease by 9 percentincrease by 9 percentincrease by 9 percent to115,500. The total number of passen-gers would increase by 10 percentincrease by 10 percentincrease by 10 percentincrease by 10 percentincrease by 10 percent to24,657.

Motors would stay on commercialraft trips down the Colorado River de-spite the National Park Service claims tomanage “for a wilderness-type river ex-perience.” The NPS proposal would alsocontinue the use of helicopters into thebottom of the Grand Canyon for trans-porting passengers to and from raft trips.The Park Service recommended most ofthe park, including the river corridor, forwilderness protection in 1977 when theyfirst proposed to phase out raft motorsto restore and protect the wilderness ex-perience.

All in all, the “new” Colorado RiverManagement Plan would guarantee a 34percent increase in foot traffic on theriver’s disappearing beaches, and anotherten years of the unacceptable negativeimpacts to the Canyon’s wilderness,natural, and cultural resources that arealready occurring.The NPS has no ap-peals process or public comment periodfor the Final EIS. After a 30-day periodthat ended on December 10, a Recordof Decision will be issued. After that,the only opportunity to challenge theplan is through the courts. For more in-formation or to become involved withour work to protect the Grand Canyon,contact Roxane at: (928) 774-6514 oremail: [email protected].

The Final Environmental ImpactStatement is available at: http://www.nps.gov/grca/crmp/index.htm

($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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EARTH WISE SINGLES. EARTH WISE SINGLES. EARTH WISE SINGLES. EARTH WISE SINGLES. EARTH WISE SINGLES. Where eco-passionate, politically active adults meet othersof like mind and heart. Join the community that cares. FREE for limited time.FREE for limited time.FREE for limited time.FREE for limited time.FREE for limited time.www.EWSingles.com

Plan FPlan FPlan FPlan FPlan Fails tails tails tails tails to Pro Pro Pro Pro Proooootttttect Grand Canect Grand Canect Grand Canect Grand Canect Grand Canyyyyyon’s Colorado Rivon’s Colorado Rivon’s Colorado Rivon’s Colorado Rivon’s Colorado Rivererererer

Sign up today to make your voiceheard on the issues affecting our

home, the environment.

Check out the Grand Canyon ActionNetwork and keep up to date on your local

Sierra Club Action Alerts.

Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonAction NetworkAction NetworkAction NetworkAction NetworkAction Network

http://grandcanyon.sierraclubaction.org

Roxane is the Grand Canyon ConservationProgram Coordinator.

By Roxane George

For those who see the Colorado Riverthrough the Grand Canyon as a rare andwonderful place to be enjoyed and pre-served as a rich legacy for future genera-tions, rather than a theme park with areally cool water ride, the outcome of lastyear’s public comment period on theColorado River Management Plan(CRMP) is baffling. In spite of thousandsof comments supporting protection ofthe Park’s wilderness values, and culturaland natural resources, on November 10,2005, the National Park Service (NPS)released the Final Environmental ImpactStatement (FEIS) with a preferred man-agement proposal that would increasemotorized use and harm the river’s wild-life, plants, and beaches.

The NPS proposal, modified Alter-nate H, is about increasing the headcount in the Canyon rather than pro-tecting a national treasure for future gen-erations. Rather than end degradationof the river at the heart of Grand Can-yon National Park, this plan would makeit worse.

According to a recent report by theUnited States Geological Survey (USGS),The State of the Colorado River Ecosystemin Grand Canyon, protection of the Colo-rado River calls for reduced recreationalimpacts rather than the increase allowedby the NPS proposal. The report con-firms that the river’s beaches are dwin-dling, and archaeological sites in the rivercorridor and locations of traditional im-portance to Native Americans are suffer-ing from side channel surface erosion andrecreational visitors. The final EIS ac-knowledges that this situation is com-pounded by recreational use, yet the pre-ferred alternative increases use levels.

Total recreation user days would in-in-in-in-in-crease by 34 percentcrease by 34 percentcrease by 34 percentcrease by 34 percentcrease by 34 percent to 228,986. Com-

ASH CREEKASH CREEKASH CREEKASH CREEKASH CREEK

Towering pinnacles of GrayAbove which we climbCascading waterfalls along the wayRed, Yellow, and GreenThe trail dimly wandersThrough an overflow of lifeCassiopeia adorns the night skyBy day a sky of Azure BlueThe material world fades to oblivionYou are left with nothingNothing but BEAUTY

- Jim Vaaler, October 30, 2005

A group of Sierra Club hikers atop Lookout Mountain, one of seven summits we hiked that day as part of the inauguralPhoenix Summits Challenge, a Phx Parks/REI event. Pictured are Randy Goodale, Lynne Hulvey, Darrell Foster, MoiraCurtis, and Diane Nolan. Photo courtesy of Darrell Foster

Saturday, January 28, 20069am - 4pm

Arizona State University, Downtown Center, Phoenix, AZ

Please join us for an interesting and informative day. Learn from key experts on how to be more effective inprotecting our public lands, our wildlife, and the public involvement process itself. The program will focus onbackground on important environmental laws and their implementing regulations, how the public can beinvolved, how to write effective comments, and how to develop an effective plan for engaging on these issues.

Space is limited, so RSVP to Sandy Bahr (602-253-8633 or [email protected]) ASAP.

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Learn how to be an effective conservation activistLearn how to be an effective conservation activistLearn how to be an effective conservation activistLearn how to be an effective conservation activistLearn how to be an effective conservation activist

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9

Name

Address

City State Zip

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

Gunnison’s Prairie Dogs are TGunnison’s Prairie Dogs are TGunnison’s Prairie Dogs are TGunnison’s Prairie Dogs are TGunnison’s Prairie Dogs are Talking. . . About Us!alking. . . About Us!alking. . . About Us!alking. . . About Us!alking. . . About Us!

On October 26th, the Sierra ClubGrand Canyon Chapter and the ArizonaWildlife Federation hosted Professor ConSlobodchikoff of Northern Arizona Uni-versity, who fascinated his audience witha presentation of his research onGunnison’s prairie dog linguistics.

Dr. Slobodchikoff studiesGunnison’s prairie dogs (Cynomysgunnisoni) in several locations through-out their range in the Four Corners areaof Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and NewMexico. He and his intrepid graduatestudents spend months in the field inobservation towers of dubious stability,sometimes foregoing a change of cloth-ing for extended periods. They recordprairie dog vocalizations, correlatingthese to the animals’ observed behaviorsand events taking place within thecolony’s surroundings.

Their findings indicate that Cynomysgunnisoni has the most sophisticatednatural language of any non-hunmananimal species yet studied, even chim-panzees.

By one accepted definition, lan-guage contains five elements: semantics,meaning; displacement, reference tophenomena distant in space or time; du-ality, combining sounds into differentwords; productivity, the creation of new

words; and syntax, the order of words.Dr. Slobodchikoff believes he has founddefinitive evidence for the first four ofthese elements in Gunnison’s prairiedogs, and an indication of the fifth ele-ment, syntax.

Social chatter is a sort of runningsoundtrack of vocalizations among prai-rie dog colony members. It is not nowpossible to attribute meaning to socialchatter. However, sonograms of soundwave frequencies display syntax, withvarious sound components appearingmost often at various time points.

Alarm calls are the vocalizationswhich provide a context for researchersto decipher meaning. Prairie dogs havedistinct calls for different predators.Colony members respond differentiallywhen one of them sounds a call. For ex-ample, the entire colony dives into theirburrows when one calls for approachinghumans; for red-tail hawks, all membersrun to their burrows but only those inthe flight path dive in. Playbacks of re-corded alarm calls elicit the same re-sponses as original alarms. Moreover,Gunnison’s prairie dogs are unique inthat their calls provide informationabout each intruder’s speed of travel,size, shape, and color (including humans

in grungy T-shirts!).Alarm calls reference environmen-

tal information outside of the animal.Different calls comprise different pro-portions of various sounds, displayingthe duality element of language. Colonymembers create new calls for unfamil-iar shapes and predators, displaying theproductivity element.

Most intriguingly, alarm calls maybe learned rather than instinctual, sincegeographically separated colonies show“dialects” in their calls despite being ge-netically almost identical.

Gunnison’s prairie dogs are a key-stone species; their foraging habits andburrows provide food or shelter to nu-merous other animals including the en-dangered black-footed ferret. Yet eventoday, they are too commonly perceivedas agricultural pests or shooting prac-tice targets.

The linguistic research gives us ad-ditional food for thought – abouthuman’s unique status as word-smithsand the consideration we owe to otherspecies’ cognitive abilities. Dr.Slobodchikoff ’s research helped per-suade the Arizona Game and Fish Com-mission to prohibit Gunnison’s prairiedog hunting for 45 days each spring, anotable step towards a more enlight-ened perspective.

By Halina Szyposzynski

Halina chairs the chapter’s wildlife committee.

2000

PPPPPeaks Goes teaks Goes teaks Goes teaks Goes teaks Goes to To To To To TrialrialrialrialrialBy Robert Tohe

Robert is an environmental justice organizer forSierra Club. He is based in Flagstaff.

After a long history of working toprotect the San Francisco Peaks, the Si-erra Club has recently taken action toprotect the area from additional devel-opment through the trial, Navajo Na-tion et al vs. U.S. Forest Service et al. Thetrial lasted ten days over a six week pe-riod and Judge Rosenblatt concluded thebench trial on November 15, 2005. Fi-nal instructions to attorneys for theplaintiffs (tribes & environmentalgroups), defendants (Forest Service) andinterveners (Arizona Snowbowl ResortLimited Partnership) were to submittheir final cases by December 8, 2005.

A set of legal claims by tribes con-cerning the Religious Freedom Restora-tion Act, 1993 (RFRA) are being testedin this case. The controversial proposalby Coconino National Forest Service(FS) Supervisor Nora Rasure to approveski facilities improvements, including theuse of reclaimed water to make artificial

religion.One indicator of this campaign’s suc-

cess is a New York Times article, “Com-merce & Religion Collide on aMountainside” published on October23, 2005.

To learn more, visit:www.savethepeaks.org

snow on the San Francisco Peaks, hasdrawn stiff opposition from environ-mental groups and tribes. Since March2005, members of Save the Peaks Coa-lition have successfully broadened pub-lic participation and debate on re-claimed water, the economic viability ofthe Snowbowl, and sacred site issues.Almost every week, a public event inFlagstaff memorializes the sacredness ofthe Peaks. Events such as educationalforums, fundraisers, concerts, prayer vig-ils, marches or long distance runs keepthe issue alive. Out of this protractedcampaign came an organizing tool: avideo documentary produced by KleeBenally called “Snowbowl Effect” thatdescribes compelling opposition to useof reclaimed water on the peaks.

Attorney Howard Shanker with TheShanker Law Firm assisted in the ad-ministrative appeals and now is legalcounsel for the Navajo Nation, White

Mountain Apache Tribe, Yavapai-ApacheNation, Sierra Club, Flagstaff ActivistNetwork and Center for Biological Di-versity.

These actions have prevented the For-est Service and Arizona Snowbowl Re-sort Ltd Partnership from implementingany construction activities this winter.The outcome of this lawsuit has far reach-ing ramifications for the government iftribes succeed with their RFRA claims.Other plaintiffs’ claims alleged failure ofthe FS to comply with the requirementsof the National Environmental PolicyAct, the National Historic PreservationAct, and the National Forest Manage-ment Act. RFRA does not allow the gov-ernment to “substantially” impose oncitizen’s religious activities. RFRA pro-vides exceptions if that imposition fur-thers “compelling governmental inter-est.” Under the exception, the govern-ment must use minimal impositions on

In 2006, I resolve to attend atleast one Sierra Club event each

month.- Anonymous



10

Jan 19 (Thurs) Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 PM. Jan 19 (Thurs) Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 PM. Jan 19 (Thurs) Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 PM. Jan 19 (Thurs) Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 PM. Jan 19 (Thurs) Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 PM. Folks who areinterested in attending should call Carole at (928) 204-1269 for directions.

Sedona/Verde Valley GroupSedona/Verde Valley GroupSedona/Verde Valley GroupSedona/Verde Valley GroupSedona/Verde Valley Group

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.

Jan 5 (ThurJan 5 (ThurJan 5 (ThurJan 5 (ThurJan 5 (Thurs), 7s), 7s), 7s), 7s), 7:00 PM, ExCom Mee:00 PM, ExCom Mee:00 PM, ExCom Mee:00 PM, ExCom Mee:00 PM, ExCom Meeting.ting.ting.ting.ting. The Plateau Group ExecutiveCommittee meets to discuss future actions. All are welcome. Call Jim McCarthy at 928-779-3748 for further information.

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)

All programs held at Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way, 7:00 PM, 2ndThursday of every month. Free, ample, on-site parking. Refreshments served. For moreinformation, call 520-747-5078.

Jan. 1Jan. 1Jan. 1Jan. 1Jan. 12 (Thur2 (Thur2 (Thur2 (Thur2 (Thurs) 7s) 7s) 7s) 7s) 7:00 PM :00 PM :00 PM :00 PM :00 PM EcoparqueEcoparqueEcoparqueEcoparqueEcoparque! ! ! ! ! The first this year, of what we hope will beseveral programs on water and its various vital aspects, Ecoparque! explores the creation andimpact of an experimental water renewal system and zero waste upon a community.Ecoparque! is a place that now flourishes on a formerly barren hillside thanks to an innovativesystem that uses residents’ wastewater to transform a canyon. It also makes a scientific andan economic case for a neighborhood-scale, nature-mimicking facility over a centralizedconveyance and chemical treatment system for a community. This documentary film haswon notice and acclaim for its innovative ideas. Will it work here? To help explore thesequestions, we are honored to have the film’s young producer, Michael Bedar, as our guestpresenter. Come early for best seats!

FFFFFeb 9 (Thureb 9 (Thureb 9 (Thureb 9 (Thureb 9 (Thurs) 7s) 7s) 7s) 7s) 7:00 PM W:00 PM W:00 PM W:00 PM W:00 PM Watatatatatererererer, W, W, W, W, Watatatatatererererer, Ev, Ev, Ev, Ev, Everererererywhere! ywhere! ywhere! ywhere! ywhere! As a part of RinconGroup’s commitment to present an ongoing series of water programs, for this February’sprogram we have invited Staffan Schorr and Greg Hess of the Pima Association ofGovernments, as well as Julia Fonseca, Environmental Planning Manager for Pima CountyRegional Flood Control District, to be our very special guests. Issues to be covered tonightwill include the quality of our tap water, surface water, stormwater, etc. Water in relation tostreams and riparian areas will also be discussed. We hope you’ll join us for this vitalprogram and discussion.

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)

Jan 4, FJan 4, FJan 4, FJan 4, FJan 4, Feb 1eb 1eb 1eb 1eb 1, and Mar 1 (W, and Mar 1 (W, and Mar 1 (W, and Mar 1 (W, and Mar 1 (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 6:00 PM. For info and directions phone Tom (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)

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)

Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 10 (T0 (T0 (T0 (T0 (Tues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Palo Valo Valo Valo Valo Verde Grerde Grerde Grerde Grerde Group Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conservvvvvation & Exation & Exation & Exation & Exation & Executivecutivecutivecutivecutive Committe Committe Committe Committe CommitteeeeeeeeeeMeeMeeMeeMeeMeetings.tings.tings.tings.tings. The Palo Verde Group Conservation Committee meets at 7:00 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 consider matters related to group policies, outdoor activities, finances,and other business. Both meetings held at the Sierra Club office, 202 E. McDowell inPhoenix (2nd floor conference room in the SE corner of the Los Olivos – EconolodgeSuites). For conservation meeting, contact Don Steuter (602-956-5057 [email protected]). For executive committee meeting, contact Paul Zemboy([email protected] or 602-989-1977).

Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 17 (T7 (T7 (T7 (T7 (Tues) Endangered Species Aues) Endangered Species Aues) Endangered Species Aues) Endangered Species Aues) Endangered Species Act Presentation.ct Presentation.ct Presentation.ct Presentation.ct Presentation. Michael Robinson ofthe Center for Biological Diversity will discuss the history of the Act’s creation, how itworks, and the current threats to it in Congress. At the Phoenix Zoo Education Building,455 N. Galvin Parkway in Phoenix; 7:00 PM. Contact Sandy Bahr:([email protected] or 602-253-8633). FFFFFeb 1eb 1eb 1eb 1eb 14 (T4 (T4 (T4 (T4 (Tues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Pues) Palo Valo Valo Valo Valo Verde Grerde Grerde Grerde Grerde Group Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conseroup Conservvvvvation and Exation and Exation and Exation and Exation and ExecutivecutivecutivecutivecutiveeeeeCommittee MeetingsCommittee MeetingsCommittee MeetingsCommittee MeetingsCommittee Meetings See information for Jan 10 meeting. FFFFFeb 2eb 2eb 2eb 2eb 21 (T1 (T1 (T1 (T1 (Tues) Enues) Enues) Enues) Enues) Envirvirvirvirvironmental Pronmental Pronmental Pronmental Pronmental Proooootttttection and the Arizona Legislature.ection and the Arizona Legislature.ection and the Arizona Legislature.ection and the Arizona Legislature.ection and the Arizona Legislature.Representative Kyrsten Sinema serves on both the House Environment and House NaturalResources and Agriculture committees. She will be discussing the status of environmentallegislation at the Arizona Legislature. At the Phoenix Zoo Education Building, 455 N.Galvin Parkway in Phoenix; 7:00 PM. Contact Sandy Bahr: ([email protected] 602-253-8633).

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)

Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 1Jan 18 (W8 (W8 (W8 (W8 (Wed) 7ed) 7ed) 7ed) 7ed) 7:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguaro Gro Gro Gro Gro Group Exoup Exoup Exoup Exoup Excom Meecom Meecom Meecom Meecom Meeting ting ting ting ting for election ofofficers and planning for 2006. Held at the Harris Bank Community Room, SE cornerof Carefree Hy and Scottsdale Rd. All members are welcome to participate. Refreshmentswill be served.

FFFFFeb 15 (Web 15 (Web 15 (Web 15 (Web 15 (Wed) 7ed) 7ed) 7ed) 7ed) 7:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguar:00 PM Saguaro Gro Gro Gro Gro Group General Memberoup General Memberoup General Memberoup General Memberoup General Membership Meeship Meeship Meeship Meeship Meeting.ting.ting.ting.ting.Held at Harris Bank Community Room, SE of Carefree Hy and Scottsdale Rd. GrandCanyon Chapter Outings Chair Jim Vaaler will show his slides and comment on theLime Creek Roadless area which is located between Seven Spring Road and the VerdeRiver.

FFFFFeb 26 (Sun) 6:00 PM Saguareb 26 (Sun) 6:00 PM Saguareb 26 (Sun) 6:00 PM Saguareb 26 (Sun) 6:00 PM Saguareb 26 (Sun) 6:00 PM Saguaro Gro Gro Gro Gro Group Enoup Enoup Enoup Enoup Envirvirvirvirvironmental Film Club.onmental Film Club.onmental Film Club.onmental Film Club.onmental Film Club. Thedocumentary David Brower’s Fight For Wild America will be shown at a north Scottsdalehome followed by a discussion, deserts and beverages. The Film Club is open to membersand those interested in finding out more about Sierra Club. For information call(480)595-2306.

The Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political CommitteeThe Chapter Political Committeemeets the first Monday of each monthat 5:30 PM in the Sierra Club’s Phoenixoffice. All members are welcome todiscuss legislative and federal issues,and act as advocates for conservationby taking political action. Contact LynnDeMuth at [email protected] fordetails.

Jan 14-15 (Sat-Sun) Grand Canyon Chapter Conservation and ExecutiveJan 14-15 (Sat-Sun) Grand Canyon Chapter Conservation and ExecutiveJan 14-15 (Sat-Sun) Grand Canyon Chapter Conservation and ExecutiveJan 14-15 (Sat-Sun) Grand Canyon Chapter Conservation and ExecutiveJan 14-15 (Sat-Sun) Grand Canyon Chapter Conservation and ExecutiveCommittee Meetings.Committee Meetings.Committee Meetings.Committee Meetings.Committee Meetings. The Palo Verde Group will host this quarterly Conservation(Sat) and Executive (Sun) Committee meetings of statewide Club leaders; to considermatters related to statewide conservation efforts, share experiences across groups,and coordinate strategy to align Chapter mission and goals with that of the nationalSierra Club. At the Sierra Club office, 202 E. McDowell in Phoenix (2nd floor conferenceroom in the southeast corner of the Los Olivos – Econolodge Suites). Contact PaulZemboy ([email protected] or 602-989-1977).

Jan 19 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committee MeetingJan 19 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committee MeetingJan 19 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committee MeetingJan 19 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committee MeetingJan 19 (Thurs) 6:30 PM Wildlife Committee Meeting Interested in protectingArizona’s amazing wildlife? The Chapter wildlife committee meets the third Thursdayof every other month to discuss ongoing work on behalf of wildlife protection. Location:Sierra Club Office (2nd Floor, 202 E McDowell Rd, Rm 277) in Phoenix. Pleasecontact Halina at [email protected] or Sandy Bahr at (602) 253-8633.

Jan 2Jan 2Jan 2Jan 2Jan 24 and F4 and F4 and F4 and F4 and Feb 28 (Teb 28 (Teb 28 (Teb 28 (Teb 28 (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 revitalized EnergyCommittee meets to work on our 2006 projects, including the Cool Cities campaign.We will also talk about the national scene and local energy issues. Everyone is invitedto come and participate no matter how much or how little you know about energyissues. Sierra Club 2nd floor conference room in Phoenix. Please contact Jon Findleyat (480) 756-2916 or email [email protected]

Feb 1 (Weds) Copy Deadline for March/April 2006 Feb 1 (Weds) Copy Deadline for March/April 2006 Feb 1 (Weds) Copy Deadline for March/April 2006 Feb 1 (Weds) Copy Deadline for March/April 2006 Feb 1 (Weds) Copy Deadline for March/April 2006 Canyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon EchoCanyon Echo, Theme:, Theme:, Theme:, Theme:, Theme:Energy and TEnergy and TEnergy and TEnergy and TEnergy and Transporransporransporransporransportationtationtationtationtation Submissions of articles, drawings, photographs, poetry,essays, calls to action, and brief epiphanies are welcome. We recommend contactingthe editor before writing at (602) 253-9140 or [email protected] to discussword count, issue topics and other writing details and to request submission guidelines.

FFFFFeb 22 (Web 22 (Web 22 (Web 22 (Web 22 (Weds) Caneds) Caneds) Caneds) Caneds) Canyyyyyon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pon Echo Mailing Pararararartytytytyty, , , , , 2:00–7:00 PM (stop by anytime).Club volunteers save the chapter thousands of dollars every year by preparing theCanyon Echo for mailing. Thank you! The job is easy to learn and takes only a fewhours once every two months. We all have a good timegood timegood timegood timegood time. Work begins at 2:00PM andcontinues until all copies are addressed, bundled and sacked, usually around 7:00PMor earlier. You’re free to arrive as your schedule allows and any amount of time isappreciated. Contact Jerry Nelson at (602) 279-4668 ([email protected]) or BillGill at ([email protected]) for location and other details.



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EnjoEnjoEnjoEnjoEnjoy and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizona

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

JAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SATTTTT) “B+” A) “B+” A) “B+” A) “B+” A) “B+” Apache pache pache pache pache TTTTTears Dears Dears Dears Dears DayhikeayhikeayhikeayhikeayhikeOn this 8-10 mile on- and off-trail adventurehike near Superior, we’ll visit historical sites andlearn about history of the area at the base ofPicketpost Mountain. First we will visit the OldPinal Townsite and the Apache Tears Mine. Nextwe’ll drop into Telegraph Canyon, hike up thecanyon for a mile, and explore the rugged coun-try on the east side of Picketpost Mountain. Thenwe’ll drop into Arnett Creek Canyon, climb outof the canyon and follow a high ridge back toour cars. Expect many fine vistas. This countryis brushy and full of spiny plants, so gloves arerecommended. There will also be plenty of steepand slippery slopes, and wet feet are possiblecrossing streams. 55 miles from Tempe Call KenMcGinty at (602) 265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SAJAN 7 (SATTTTT)”C” H)”C” H)”C” H)”C” H)”C” House Mt. Ovouse Mt. Ovouse Mt. Ovouse Mt. Ovouse Mt. Overerererervievievievieview w w w w (8miles RT, 1000’ EC) We will leave from RedRock State Park Visitors’ Center, bridge pictur-esque Oak Creek, then cross red rock water waysto Turkey Creek Trail. This level trail offers spa-cious views of rock spires and a vista-rest stop atTurkey Creek Tank. The next two miles is an800’ climb to a southern exposure lunch stopoverlooking the large volcanic basin and 5000’knoll summits known as House Mountain. Con-tact: Leader Henry Mellon (928)646-5484.SSSSSedona/Vedona/Vedona/Vedona/Vedona/Verererererde de de de de VVVVValleyalleyalleyalleyalley

JAN 7 “B+” (SAJAN 7 “B+” (SAJAN 7 “B+” (SAJAN 7 “B+” (SAJAN 7 “B+” (SATTTTT) S) S) S) S) South South South South South Summit of Summit of Summit of Summit of Summit of Su-u-u-u-u-perstition Mtn. perstition Mtn. perstition Mtn. perstition Mtn. perstition Mtn. This hike is only about 8 milesRT but it has some steep climbs to make the2800’ EC. You will be rewarded with a viewfrom the highest point in the western Supersti-tions. The primitive trail from Carney Springshas loose rocks and climbs more than 1400’ inthe first 1 ½ miles. Then it goes up and down alittle before climbing to the Superstition Mt.Ridgeline to excellent views and eventually toour lunch spot on South Summit. We will re-turn via the same route. Contact Jim Roosen at(480) 983-7344 or Chris Tesner at (480) 661-1324. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 8 (SUN) ”C” Prescott, Old SenatorJAN 8 (SUN) ”C” Prescott, Old SenatorJAN 8 (SUN) ”C” Prescott, Old SenatorJAN 8 (SUN) ”C” Prescott, Old SenatorJAN 8 (SUN) ”C” Prescott, Old SenatorHwyHwyHwyHwyHwy 5 miles RT. Bring water and hiking boots,may be muddy or snowy. Meet at 12:00. Chiliat Carolyn’s afterwards. Call to confirm no laterthan Jan. 6 Carolyn York (928) 541-1952PrescottPrescottPrescottPrescottPrescott

JAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SATTTTT) “C” M) “C” M) “C” M) “C” M) “C” Mescal Mescal Mescal Mescal Mescal Mountain ountain ountain ountain ountain TTTTTrailrailrailrailrailDDDDDay Hay Hay Hay Hay Hike ike ike ike ike (SEDONA)SEDONA)SEDONA)SEDONA)SEDONA) (5 miles RT, 750’ EC)Features nice views and Indian ruins. Non-sys-tem trail goes to the top of Mescal Mountain, amesa at the mouth of Boynton canyon. Located6.7 miles SW of the Sedona Y. Trip Leader:Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309, for meet-ing time and location. FlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaff

JAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SATTTTT) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” Gere re re re ronimo Honimo Honimo Honimo Honimo HeadeadeadeadeadDayhikeDayhikeDayhikeDayhikeDayhike On this 7-8 mile off-trail hike in theSuperstition Wilderness, we will climb 1700’ tothe rarely visited top of Geronimo Head, hikearound the summit, and enjoy spectacular views.Then we’ll return via a steep route similar to ourascent. This hike offers everything: steep androcky slopes, interesting and colorful rock for-mation, brushy and painful vegetation (glovesrecommended), unparalleled views. On this hikewe’ll also learn some history of the Apache Trailand Tortilla Flat. 45 miles from Phoenix. CallKen McGinty at (602) 265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 14 “C” FJAN 14 “C” FJAN 14 “C” FJAN 14 “C” FJAN 14 “C” Fororororord Canyd Canyd Canyd Canyd Canyon Hon Hon Hon Hon Hikeikeikeikeike This is agreat loop hike in the White Tank Mountains inthe West Valley. It is moderate with some boul-der hopping, great views and some places of in-terest including petroglyphs and ruins from theturn of the 20th century. It is roughly 7 milesRT, uphill and downhill. Optional dinner afterin El Mirage. Contact Denise Aston, e-mail (pre-ferred) [email protected] or (623) 910-7978PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SAJAN 14 (SATTTTT) “B+” S) “B+” S) “B+” S) “B+” S) “B+” South outh outh outh outh WWWWWilson to Nilson to Nilson to Nilson to Nilson to NorororororthththththWilson Mountain HikeWilson Mountain HikeWilson Mountain HikeWilson Mountain HikeWilson Mountain Hike. Join us for a strenu-ous but “worth it” climb in the Sedona area.We’ll be able to observe the extraordinary winterviews of the scenic Sedona Red Rock Area as weanalyze Oak Creek Canyon, Coffee Pot Rock,Capitol Butte, Sterling Canyon, and we’ll evensee a snowy Mt. Humphries to our north. TotalEC is 2400’ and the complete distance will bealmost 12 miles. Limit is 15. We’ll gather after-

wards for a bite to eat in or near Sedona. JimGoman will co-lead this hike. Contact MoiraCurtis at [email protected] (email pre-ferred), or (602) 316-3356. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 15 (SUN) “B” Pima Canyon HikeJAN 15 (SUN) “B” Pima Canyon HikeJAN 15 (SUN) “B” Pima Canyon HikeJAN 15 (SUN) “B” Pima Canyon HikeJAN 15 (SUN) “B” Pima Canyon HikeEnjoy this beautiful 11 mile hike (2800’ EC)near Tucson in the Santa Catalina Mts. througha riparian canyon. We will look for signs of big-horn sheep near the Pima Canyon Dam andthen hike up to Pima Spring .We will discussthe impact on the land and vegetation of 2 largewildfires that occurred in the area in the past 3years that somehow did not affect this canyon.The hike starts out a fairly easy grade but thenclimbs rapidly from the dam up to Pima Springs..Call Jim Roosen (480) 983-7344 or Chris Tesner(480) 661-1324. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 18 (JAN 18 (JAN 18 (JAN 18 (JAN 18 (WED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM Bevevevevev’’’’’s s s s s WWWWWednes-ednes-ednes-ednes-ednes-day Hday Hday Hday Hday Hikeikeikeikeike Hike the new Terravita Nature Trailand learn more about the plants that inhabitour fragile desert environment. Breakfast at Bev’safter. Call Bev Full at (480) 595-2306. N.N.N.N.N.PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SATTTTT) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” G) “B+” Gonzales Ponzales Ponzales Ponzales Ponzales Pass-Rass-Rass-Rass-Rass-ReymereymereymereymereymertttttMine DayhikeMine DayhikeMine DayhikeMine DayhikeMine Dayhike On the 10-mile off-trail ridgetrek, we will hike from Gonzales Pass (betweenFlorence Junction and Superior) to the aban-doned Reymert Mine and back, following a se-ries of ridges and bagging numerous high points.At the old silver mine we’ll learn some of themining history. Although the absolute elevationgain is only 900’, total elevation gain and losscould be twice that much. Expect steep slopes,loose rock, and truculent vegetation, numerousfence crossings, fine vistas, and the interestingremains of mining. Gloves recommended. 55miles from Tempe. Call Ken McGinty at (602)265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN. 21 (SAJAN. 21 (SAJAN. 21 (SAJAN. 21 (SAJAN. 21 (SATTTTT) “B” Eagletail M) “B” Eagletail M) “B” Eagletail M) “B” Eagletail M) “B” Eagletail Mountains,ountains,ountains,ountains,ountains,Arizona Outback Arizona Outback Arizona Outback Arizona Outback Arizona Outback Midwinter is the prime sea-son for visiting the Eagletail Mtns, a volcaniccordillera about 70 miles west of Phoenix southof I-10 in the largely uninhabited region referredto as the “Arizona Outback.” The ‘Tails are hometo desert bighorn sheep and sustain a large herd.If the winter rains are good, the surface creeksflow. This is an all-day outing with overnight

Outings Location Advisories (OLAs)Outings Location Advisories (OLAs)Outings Location Advisories (OLAs)Outings Location Advisories (OLAs)Outings Location Advisories (OLAs)

These are listings of sensitive areas on a state-by-state basis. They were formerly known as FOPSdesignations (fragile, overused, or politically sensitive areas). OLAs are “in house” designationsthat inform Sierra Club members and outings leaders within there states about these sensitiveareas. OLAs can be advisory only, restrictive advisory, and political advisory. OLAs need to be re-newed each year by the Chapter. In Arizona we currently have six OLAs:

1) WWWWWesesesesestttttern Superern Superern Superern Superern Superssssstition Wilderness Area tition Wilderness Area tition Wilderness Area tition Wilderness Area tition Wilderness Area (Tonto National Forest)- advisory only.This has to do with proper management of a Wilderness Area, encroaching urbanization, DesertBighorn Sheep, non-system travelways, and potentially crowded conditions for climbers on Weavers Needle.

2) Mount Baldy Wilderness Area Mount Baldy Wilderness Area Mount Baldy Wilderness Area Mount Baldy Wilderness Area Mount Baldy Wilderness Area (Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest)- political andrestrictive advisory. The actual summit of Baldy Peak is a “closed area.” It is considered sacredto the Fort Apache Native American community.

3) Ragged Top, Silverbell MountainsRagged Top, Silverbell MountainsRagged Top, Silverbell MountainsRagged Top, Silverbell MountainsRagged Top, Silverbell Mountains (Ironwood National Monument) - restrictiveadvisory. Lambing and Breeding season occurs from January through September for the DesertBighorn Sheep.

4) Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Agassiz PeakKachina Peaks Wilderness, Agassiz PeakKachina Peaks Wilderness, Agassiz PeakKachina Peaks Wilderness, Agassiz PeakKachina Peaks Wilderness, Agassiz Peak (Coconino National Forest)- restrictiveadvisory. An endangered plant, the groundsell (senecio Franciscanus), inhabits this alpine tundrazone.

5) LakLakLakLakLake Pe Pe Pe Pe Powellowellowellowellowell (Department of the Interior)- restrictive advisory. Given the Sierra Club’slong history of being opposed to Glen Canyon Dam, it seems only appropriate not to conductoutings at this place.

6) Pinaleno Mountains, Mount Graham Pinaleno Mountains, Mount Graham Pinaleno Mountains, Mount Graham Pinaleno Mountains, Mount Graham Pinaleno Mountains, Mount Graham (Coronado National Forest)- restrictiveadvisory. The summit of Mount Graham is being managed as a refuge for the endangered MountGraham red squirrel.

For more detailed information on Arizona and other state OLAs, go to:http://mitchell.sierraclub.org/outings/outreach/location_advisories/advisories.asp, within theSierra Club’s member page.

Saturday camping optional. The walking is easybut cross-country, relying on basic navigationskills periodically. Weather conditions and groupconsensus will determine starting location. CallStu Williams at (520) 465-0322 or e-mail himat [email protected]. Meet-up is in Buck-eye, west of Phoenix. Minimum of seven andmaximum of 12. TTTTTucsonucsonucsonucsonucson

JAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SAJAN 21 (SATTTTT) “C+” S) “C+” S) “C+” S) “C+” S) “C+” Sunrise unrise unrise unrise unrise TTTTTrail Hrail Hrail Hrail Hrail Hike (9ike (9ike (9ike (9ike (9mi., 1000' EC)mi., 1000' EC)mi., 1000' EC)mi., 1000' EC)mi., 1000' EC) A fairly new trail opened in theMcDowell Mountains earlier this year. From thetrailhead we will hike through a half a mile ofteddy bear chollas, also known as the “jumpingcactus” for their ability to attach in clusters shouldyou get too close. It is awesome watching theirgolden needles sparkle from the reflection of themorning sun. We’ll discuss area history and desertplants. From atop the Sunrise Peak, on a clearday you will be able to see Picacho Peak 75 milessouth. Also a great view of the Four Peaks, andthe famous Ft. McDowell Casino. Contact SteveYap, email yapper @ cox.net (preferably) or (480)315-0569. Reserve early! PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SATTTTT) “C+” 8 AM E) “C+” 8 AM E) “C+” 8 AM E) “C+” 8 AM E) “C+” 8 AM Elephant Mlephant Mlephant Mlephant Mlephant Moun-oun-oun-oun-oun-tain tain tain tain tain TTTTTrail Hrail Hrail Hrail Hrail Hike in Sike in Sike in Sike in Sike in Spur Cpur Cpur Cpur Cpur Crrrrross Poss Poss Poss Poss Prrrrreseresereseresereservvvvveeeee Ob-serve and discuss the effects of recent fires on theCave Creek ecosystem. Appreciate the hard-fought and successful preservation of this uniquedesert area. Bring walking stick for rough terrain.Optional lunch after the hike in Cave Creek.Bev Full at (480) 595-2306. N. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. Phoenix

JAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SATTTTT) “C” J) “C” J) “C” J) “C” J) “C” Jim im im im im Thompson Thompson Thompson Thompson Thompson TTTTTrail Drail Drail Drail Drail DayayayayayHHHHHike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sedona edona edona edona edona (6.0 miles RT, 400’ EC) Thishistoric road is easy to reach and provides won-derful views while hiking around the base ofSteamboat Rock. The trail takes you right upinto the red rocks where the highly sculpted rockformations can be enjoyed up close and personal.1.9 miles from the Sedona Y. Trip Leader: NancySutherland, (928) 774-9309, for meeting timeand location. FlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaff

JAN 28 SAJAN 28 SAJAN 28 SAJAN 28 SAJAN 28 SAT “C” PT “C” PT “C” PT “C” PT “C” Prrrrrescott, Lescott, Lescott, Lescott, Lescott, Lynx Lakeynx Lakeynx Lakeynx Lakeynx Lake 3 milesRT. Boots in case of snow. Meet at 11:00. Op-tional lunch in town afterwards. Call to confirmno later than 1/26. Carolyn York (928) 541-1952. PrescottPrescottPrescottPrescottPrescott

JAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SATTTTT) “B+” B) “B+” B) “B+” B) “B+” B) “B+” Brrrrronco Conco Conco Conco Conco Crrrrreek-eek-eek-eek-eek-Rackensack Canyon DayhikeRackensack Canyon DayhikeRackensack Canyon DayhikeRackensack Canyon DayhikeRackensack Canyon Dayhike On this 12-mileoff- and on-trail hike near Seven Springs NE ofCarefree, we will climb 1,000’ to a 4,344’ name-less peak and descend slightly to a ridge, whichwe will follow for several miles. Eventually we’lldrop into Bronco Creek and follow a jeep roadto its end, climb another peak, and descend intoRackensack Canyon, returning to our cars alonganother jeep road. Expect steep and rocky slopes;thick, brushy, and spiny vegetation; and miles of



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EnjoEnjoEnjoEnjoEnjoy and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore Arizonay and Explore ArizonaOutings continued from pg. 11panoramic views. In visiting this area rich in cul-tural sites, we’ll learn some of the area’s prehis-tory. Gloves recommended. 35 miles fromScottsdale. Call Ken McGinty at (602) 265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SAJAN 28 (SATTTTT) “D” S) “D” S) “D” S) “D” S) “D” San Pan Pan Pan Pan Pedredredredredro Ripariano Ripariano Ripariano Ripariano RiparianConserConserConserConserConservvvvvation Aration Aration Aration Aration Area Rivea Rivea Rivea Rivea River er er er er WWWWWalk. alk. alk. alk. alk. Carpool toSan Pedro House (past Sierra Vista). We will joina group under the auspices of the Friends of theSan Pedro River for an interpretive walk, usually2 to 3 miles long over easy terrain. See what adesert river ought to look like. Slow pace. Con-tact Elna Otter at [email protected] (preferred)or (520) 212-9736.

FEB 4 (SAFEB 4 (SAFEB 4 (SAFEB 4 (SAFEB 4 (SATTTTT) “B” U) “B” U) “B” U) “B” U) “B” Upper Agua Fpper Agua Fpper Agua Fpper Agua Fpper Agua Fria Dria Dria Dria Dria DayhikeayhikeayhikeayhikeayhikeOn this 10-mile, mostly off-trail hike we’ll ex-plore the canyon bottom and rim of the UpperAgua Fria Gorge in Agua Fria National Monu-ment near Black Canyon City. We’ll enjoy manyscenic views, visit an interesting cultural site andview rock art, and learn about Perry Mesa andthe prehistoric peoples who inhabited it. Expectsome wading, rock hopping, boulder scrambling,and encounters with vicious vegetation. Glovesrecommended. 50 miles from Phoenix. Call KenMcGinty at (602) 265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 4-5 (SAFEB 4-5 (SAFEB 4-5 (SAFEB 4-5 (SAFEB 4-5 (SATTTTT-SUN) “-SUN) “-SUN) “-SUN) “-SUN) “A-” A-” A-” A-” A-” WhetstoneWhetstoneWhetstoneWhetstoneWhetstoneMountains Hike and Car CampMountains Hike and Car CampMountains Hike and Car CampMountains Hike and Car CampMountains Hike and Car Camp (7-9 mi,2500' - 2800' EC) Join us for a challenging ex-ploratory off-trail hike of the seldom-visited highpoint of the Whetstone Mtns, Apache Peak,about 30 miles SE of Tucson, and enjoy a fantas-tic view of SE Arizona. As the Whetstones are aroadless area inventoried by the Coronado Na-tional Forest, we’ll examine the natural resourcesand condition of the area so the Sierra Club canbetter contribute to management issues. The turn-off, is a 45 mile drive from Tucson, followed by10 miles requiring good high-clearance, 4WDvehicles. We’ll have a nice canyon walk and carcamp Sat. night in French Joe Canyon and climbApache from the east Sun. morning. NearbyFrench Joe Peak may be considered as an option.Most of the hike is a rough bushwhack throughoften heavy vegetation, steep hillsides and cliffs.It is famous for ripping clothing and skin, sowear tough old clothes, gloves, eye protectionand a good hat. Experienced easy-going mas-ochists only. Come prepared for temperature andweather changes. Bring plenty of water for camp-ing and the climb. Trip limit 10. Contact tripleader David Mowry (623) 915-5509,[email protected],, in Phoenix; or PaulHuddy, (520) 881-4772, [email protected],in Tucson. PPPPPhoenix/Thoenix/Thoenix/Thoenix/Thoenix/Tucsonucsonucsonucsonucson

FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (WED) “D”WED) “D”WED) “D”WED) “D”WED) “D” 8 AM Bev’s WednesdayHike in the Hassayampa preserve. Observe andenjoy the habitat that has been set aside by Na-ture Conservancy. Lunch in Wickenburg. CallBev Full (480) 595-2306. N. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. Phoenix

FEB 11 SAFEB 11 SAFEB 11 SAFEB 11 SAFEB 11 SAT “C” PT “C” PT “C” PT “C” PT “C” Prrrrrescott, Hescott, Hescott, Hescott, Hescott, Haisley aisley aisley aisley aisley WWWWWoodsoodsoodsoodsoodsand Cougar and Cougar and Cougar and Cougar and Cougar TTTTTrailrailrailrailrail 4 miles RT. Meet 11:00.Optional lunch in town afterwards. Call to con-firm no later than Jan. 9. Carolyn York (928)541-1952 PrescottPrescottPrescottPrescottPrescott

FEB 11 “B” BFEB 11 “B” BFEB 11 “B” BFEB 11 “B” BFEB 11 “B” Bluff Sluff Sluff Sluff Sluff Springs Loopprings Loopprings Loopprings Loopprings Loop This loophike will take us by a superb view of Weaver’sNeedle in the Superstition Mountains, thendown to Bluff Springs where there are large standsof sugar sumac, net leaf hackberry and oak shadetrees. Then we loop around past Miner’s Needleto return to the car park. This trail is 9.1 miles,but we’ll go at a nice mellow pace. Optional din-ner in Mesa after. Contact Denise Aston, e-mail(preferred) [email protected] or (623) 910-7978 PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SATTTTT) “C” B) “C” B) “C” B) “C” B) “C” Bear Mear Mear Mear Mear Mountain ountain ountain ountain ountain TTTTTrail Drail Drail Drail Drail DayayayayayHHHHHike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sedonaedonaedonaedonaedona (4.8 miles RT, 1200’ EC) This isa hard, steep trail which features terrific views

and the beautiful red rock cliffs of Sedona. Thefirst part of the hike is flat until the base of themountain is reached. Then a climb which putsyou right in amongst the red rocks. After walk-ing around the base of the cliffs, there is anothersteep climb with breathtaking views from thetop. About 9miles southwest of the Sedona Y.Trip Leader: Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309, for meeting time and location. FlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaff

FEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SAFEB 11 (SATTTTT) “B” A) “B” A) “B” A) “B” A) “B” Atascosa Ptascosa Ptascosa Ptascosa Ptascosa Peak, Coreak, Coreak, Coreak, Coreak, CoronadoonadoonadoonadoonadoNational Forest, Nogales DistrictNational Forest, Nogales DistrictNational Forest, Nogales DistrictNational Forest, Nogales DistrictNational Forest, Nogales District Offeringgreat views across the Santa Cruz and Altar Val-leys as well as into Mexico, Atascosa Peak is a gemof a half-day hike not to be missed. A great work-out with inspiring views and accompanying pal-ette of altiplano colors to please the senses. Totaldistance: About 5 miles. Elevation gain: about1,500’ to the 6,249’ summit. Call Stu Williamsat (520) 465-0322 or e-mail him [email protected]. Meet-up is around 8a.m. Minimum of seven and maximum of 12.TTTTTucsonucsonucsonucsonucson

FEB 12 (SUN) “C” RFEB 12 (SUN) “C” RFEB 12 (SUN) “C” RFEB 12 (SUN) “C” RFEB 12 (SUN) “C” Rustlerustlerustlerustlerustler’’’’’s Rs Rs Rs Rs Rooste Hooste Hooste Hooste Hooste HappyappyappyappyappyHour /South Mountain Sunset, MoonlitHour /South Mountain Sunset, MoonlitHour /South Mountain Sunset, MoonlitHour /South Mountain Sunset, MoonlitHour /South Mountain Sunset, MoonlitHikeHikeHikeHikeHike. Come join us for some socializing and asunset/moonlit hike through the South Moun-tain Preserve, right out the front door of Rustler’sRooste. We will meet in the upstairs bar area andmingle from 4:30 – 5:30. At 5:30 we will hitthe trail that offers great views of the setting sunand then the moon rising over the city’s lights.There will be some darker valleys as well, to en-joy the full effects of the full moon’s light. Don’tforget your flashlight, a light jacket and somewater. We will hike a 2- mile loop at a leisurelypace with approximately 500’ EC which willtake about two hours. Rustlers Rooste is at 7777South Pointe Parkway West in Phoenix, (602)431-6474. If further info is needed contactDarrell Foster at [email protected] (pre-ferred) or (602) 569-5549, otherwise just showup. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (FEB 8 (WED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM BWED) “D” 8 AM Bevevevevev’’’’’s s s s s WWWWWednesdayednesdayednesdayednesdayednesdayHike in the Hassayampa PreserveHike in the Hassayampa PreserveHike in the Hassayampa PreserveHike in the Hassayampa PreserveHike in the Hassayampa Preserve Observeand enjoy the habitat that has been set aside byNature Conservancy. Lunch in Wickenburg. CallBev Full (480) 595-2306. N. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. Phoenix

FEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SATTTTT) “C” B) “C” B) “C” B) “C” B) “C” Brins Mrins Mrins Mrins Mrins Mesa esa esa esa esa TTTTTrail Drail Drail Drail Drail DayayayayayHHHHHike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sike, Sedona edona edona edona edona (8.6 miles RT, 500’ EC) Thistrail climbs to the top of Brins Mesa where lovelyviews can be enjoyed. It crosses the mesa top anddescends the other side where the trail meets theVultee Arch Road. 2 miles from the Sedona Y.Trip Leader:Nancy Sutherland, (928) 774-9309,for meeting time and location.FlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaffFlagstaff

FEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SATTTTT) “) “) “) “) “A” BA” BA” BA” BA” Battleship Mtn Sattleship Mtn Sattleship Mtn Sattleship Mtn Sattleship Mtn Summitummitummitummitummit(Superstitions) Hike. (Superstitions) Hike. (Superstitions) Hike. (Superstitions) Hike. (Superstitions) Hike. Join us for this verychallenging, somewhat fast-paced hike/scrambleto the top of this prominent landmark in theWestern Superstition Wilderness. This 12 mile,2,100’ accumulated EC hike will start at theFirst Water TH. We’ll hike the trails of SecondWater and Boulder Canyon, before departingthe trail to our scramble up to the summit ofBattleship. The views from the peak will beincredible, as we eat our lunch and discuss thearea’s diverse geology and history. Requires strong,agile, hiking/scrambling abilities, without a fearof slightly exposed heights. This is NOT a climband requires NO technical gear. Afterward wewill go out for dinner and conversation in AJ.Contact Darrell Foster [email protected] (preferred) or 602-569-5549. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SAFEB 18 (SATTTTT) “C+” B) “C+” B) “C+” B) “C+” B) “C+” Bulldog Canyulldog Canyulldog Canyulldog Canyulldog CanyonononononDDDDDayhikeayhikeayhikeayhikeayhike The southern end of the GoldfieldMtns north of Apache Junction is bisected byBulldog Canyon, a colorful and scenic desertvalley. This 8-mile hike will follow a streamsidetrail and winding jeep roads (gaining and losing

elevation) from Apache Junction to the Salt River.Although we’ll have to share the canyon with apowerline, we should have an enjoyable walk.30 miles from Tempe. Call Ken McGinty at (602) 265-2854. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 19 (SUN) “FEB 19 (SUN) “FEB 19 (SUN) “FEB 19 (SUN) “FEB 19 (SUN) “A” HA” HA” HA” HA” Harararararquahala Mquahala Mquahala Mquahala Mquahala MountainountainountainountainountainSummitSummitSummitSummitSummit 10.8 miles in/out, 3361' EC- (mostover the last 2-3 miles on a mule trail leading tothe peak). 75 miles W of the Phoenix, Thetrailhead is at 2320', the top at 5681' and is thehighest peak in SW AZ. A bit further out thanthe city mtns, the peak hosts clearer views withCA 75 miles to the west, NV 110 miles to thenorth and Mexico 120 miles to the south. Thetrail starts along a wide dirt path, past a supplybase for an old Smithsonian atmospheric obser-vatory seen at the top, thru a former mine camp,a dry wash and some nice desert. Contact BrianCrawford, (preferred) [email protected] or(480) 882-8755. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SATTTTT) “C” Rainbo) “C” Rainbo) “C” Rainbo) “C” Rainbo) “C” Rainbow w w w w VVVVValley Dalley Dalley Dalley Dalley Dayayayayay (7miles, +-1100' EC) Hike over the Rainbow (Val-ley, that is) on this scenic figure 8 in the northernreaches of the wild and spectacular Sierra Estrella!We’ll start on the Rainbow Valley Trail, loop bythe Rock Knob, and return on the Spur Trailthrough the beautiful desolation of the SierraEstrella foothills. 25 miles from Phoenix. CallTed Tenny, (480) 396-3389. PPPPPhoenixhoenixhoenixhoenixhoenix

FEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SATTTTT) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” Whiskey SWhiskey SWhiskey SWhiskey SWhiskey Spring Looppring Looppring Looppring Looppring LoopHikeHikeHikeHikeHike (14 mi., 2000' EC). Enjoy a peaceful dayin the Superstition Wilderness as we enjoy spec-tacular vistas and learn about its diverse vegeta-tion. We’ll start at Peralta TH and head out onthe Dutchman Trail, passing through an area richin saguaro cacti, ocotillo, brittlebush, and jojoba.We’ll then climb a long, gradual ascent to Miner’sSummit, after which we’ll branch onto the Whis-key Spring Trail. This will take us through Whis-key Spring Canyon to La Barge Creek, and ontothe Red Tanks Trail. We’ll stop at La Barge Spring,which lies in a grove of tall cottonwoods andsycamores, and then tie into the Dutchman Trailagain, going through Bluff Spring Canyon toCrystal Spring. We’ll return to the TH via the

Bluff Spring Trail, along which we’ll see scruboak, sugar sumac, and netleaf hackberry trees.Gary Hendrickson: [email protected] or(480) 423-3898. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 25-26 (Sat-Sun) “B” Sycamore Wil-FEB 25-26 (Sat-Sun) “B” Sycamore Wil-FEB 25-26 (Sat-Sun) “B” Sycamore Wil-FEB 25-26 (Sat-Sun) “B” Sycamore Wil-FEB 25-26 (Sat-Sun) “B” Sycamore Wil-derness Bderness Bderness Bderness Bderness Backpack ackpack ackpack ackpack ackpack This will be a moderatelystrenuous backpack that will take us to an over-night stay at historic Taylor Cabin, which is listedon the National Register of Historic Places. Theleader will talk about a few other sites in Arizona.Our first day will be spent in scenic Redrock coun-try west of Sedona. Our second day will take usup and out of the red rocks. We will lunch on the2nd day at the “Winter Cabin” on a bench in theCoconino Sandstone. Hike 9 miles with 2000 ft.elevation change per day. For reservations, meet-ing time and place; call your leader, Jim Vaaler at(602) 553-8208 or email Jim [email protected]. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

FEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SAFEB 25 (SATTTTT) “C” 8 AM H) “C” 8 AM H) “C” 8 AM H) “C” 8 AM H) “C” 8 AM Hike in the Limeike in the Limeike in the Limeike in the Limeike in the LimeCCCCCrrrrreek Reek Reek Reek Reek Roadless Aroadless Aroadless Aroadless Aroadless Area to the ea to the ea to the ea to the ea to the VVVVVerererererde Rivde Rivde Rivde Rivde Rivererererer. Ob-serve first hand the reasons this area should bedesignated for protection by the Forest Service.Bring sack lunch and water. Call Louis Lantz forinformation. (480) 488-4581. N. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. PhoenixN. Phoenix

FEB 26 (SUN) “C” PFEB 26 (SUN) “C” PFEB 26 (SUN) “C” PFEB 26 (SUN) “C” PFEB 26 (SUN) “C” Prrrrrescott, escott, escott, escott, escott, Thumb BThumb BThumb BThumb BThumb Butteutteutteutteutte(4.5 miles RT, slight elevation) View city, pan-oramic views. Bring water and snack. Meet12:00. Call to confirm no later than Feb. 24,(928) 541-1952. Carolyn York. PPPPPrrrrrescottescottescottescottescott

MAR 4 (SAMAR 4 (SAMAR 4 (SAMAR 4 (SAMAR 4 (SATTTTT) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” ) “B+” WWWWWeaveaveaveaveavers Ners Ners Ners Ners Needle Loopeedle Loopeedle Loopeedle Loopeedle LoopDayhikeDayhikeDayhikeDayhikeDayhike Join us in circumambulating this land-mark formation in the Superstition Mtns. Theroute takes us on several different trails: somesteep, some rocky, some both, and some not sobad. Good views are guaranteed! Good bootsessential. 13 mi. RT, 2850’. EC. Optional din-ner follows at a special place. Limited space. Con-tact Jon Radtke at [email protected]

JAN 21 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway CleanupJAN 21 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway CleanupJAN 21 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway CleanupJAN 21 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway CleanupJAN 21 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mountain Road Adopt-a-Highway CleanupProjectProjectProjectProjectProject In the eastern foothills of the McDowell Mountains, our 5-mile stretch of scenicblue highway meanders in and out of McDowell Mountain Regional Park, from FountainHills to Rio Verde. Nestled between Four Peaks and the Superstition, McDowell, andMazatzal Mountains, there’s no finer place in the Sonoran desert to provide this communityservice. 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 known asthe “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’ EC. Call MichaelBrady (602) 534-1355. PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

JAN 28 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing North Maricopa Wilderness DayhikeJAN 28 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing North Maricopa Wilderness DayhikeJAN 28 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing North Maricopa Wilderness DayhikeJAN 28 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing North Maricopa Wilderness DayhikeJAN 28 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing North Maricopa Wilderness DayhikeThis will be an easy day hike with our Mesa group. We will hike along a portion of thehistoric Butterfield Stage route and then go look at a crested Saguaro. These rare cacti areactually a genetic mutation that happens to about one out of 30,000 Saguaro’s. Afterscrambling up some boulders to a low pass we will loop back to our starting point. Hike 5mi. with 500’ elevation change. Registered volunteers please contact Jim Vaaler at (602)553-8208 or email Jim at [email protected]. Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix

FEB 4 (SAT) “C” Tamarisk removal in Agua Fria National Monument FEB 4 (SAT) “C” Tamarisk removal in Agua Fria National Monument FEB 4 (SAT) “C” Tamarisk removal in Agua Fria National Monument FEB 4 (SAT) “C” Tamarisk removal in Agua Fria National Monument FEB 4 (SAT) “C” Tamarisk removal in Agua Fria National Monument Wewill be removing non-native Tamarisk from Badger Springs Wash. The goal is to get aboutone half mile of this wash clear of Tamarisk down to the confluence with the Agua FriaRiver and then monitor the wash to see what changes take place. This outing will be donein conjunction with the “Friends of Agua Fria”. We will work about one half day and thenvisit a very nice rock art site. For reservations, meeting time and place; call Jim Vaaler at(602) 553-8208 or email at [email protected] PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

MAR 11 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing Hike, Juniper Mesa Wilderness andMAR 11 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing Hike, Juniper Mesa Wilderness andMAR 11 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing Hike, Juniper Mesa Wilderness andMAR 11 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing Hike, Juniper Mesa Wilderness andMAR 11 (SAT) “C” Inner City Outing Hike, Juniper Mesa Wilderness andPioneer CemeteryPioneer CemeteryPioneer CemeteryPioneer CemeteryPioneer Cemetery Join us for a hike through the beautiful Juniper Mesa Wilderness(near Prescott) ending at the very old pioneer cemetery. The pioneer cemetery holds oldhistory of this area and many animal sightings such as javalina have been spotted here.Contact Lisa Vaaler (602) 468-4158 or Jim Vaaler (602) 553-8208 PhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenixPhoenix

Sierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service OutingsSierra Service Outings

APR 20-24 (THU-MON) 5th AnnualAPR 20-24 (THU-MON) 5th AnnualAPR 20-24 (THU-MON) 5th AnnualAPR 20-24 (THU-MON) 5th AnnualAPR 20-24 (THU-MON) 5th AnnualSSSSSpring Gpring Gpring Gpring Gpring Grrrrreen Riveen Riveen Riveen Riveen River Canoe/Kayak er Canoe/Kayak er Canoe/Kayak er Canoe/Kayak er Canoe/Kayak TTTTTripripripripripSee p. 6 for more details about this exciting trip!

January - February 2006 Canyon Echo

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