On May 1, the Coconino National Forest will implement the Travel Management Rule, which is mandated across all national forests and prohibits motor vehicle use off designated routes and roads. The purpose of the Rule is to provide for appropriate motorized access and motorized recreation opportunities while protecting important forest resources and non-motorized recreation opportunities. “This will be a big change requiring users to only drive on those routes and areas shown on the Motor … [Read more...] about Travel Restrictions on Coconino Forest Beginning Soon
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Region Embracing Renewables
In many ways, Northern Arizona – and Coconino County in particular – is poised to harvest great benefits from renewable energy potential that outpaces the potential in much of the rest of the country. But the first wave of utility-scale projects has met with some resistance – and it has sent local land use planners to the drawing board. Coconino County has a draft of its new renewable energy guidelines out for review in a document called “Energy Element,” available on the web. County planners … [Read more...] about Region Embracing Renewables
City Building New Water Tank in West Flagstaff
The City of Flagstaff is currently preparing to build a new water tank at the Railroad Springs tank site this summer. The tank will be an addition to the existing one, as a requirement for the Presidio in the Pines development on the west side of town. Ryan Roberts, utilities engineering manager for the City of Flagstaff, said the development is part of a Master Planned Subdivision and needs supplemental water storage to provide for homeowners. “The Presidio in the Pines development was a … [Read more...] about City Building New Water Tank in West Flagstaff
Restrictions Affecting Forest Off-Roading
Plans to close more than 3,000 miles of Coconino National forestland to motorized vehicles is raising the ire of many groups. The closure means nearly half of the rural forest roads currently open will close in February. Groups on both sides of this issue have been meeting for six years to come up with a plan that offers a compromise. The groups have been offering opinions on the plans being set forth by the U.S. Forest Service. According to Brady Smith with the Coconino National Forest, … [Read more...] about Restrictions Affecting Forest Off-Roading
Lowell Observatory’s Discovery Partnership
Lowell Observatory announces that Boston University (BU) has signed a long-term agreement to become a partner for the Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT). The agreement in perpetuity grants BU astronomers use of the world-class, four-meter telescope for 40 or more nights each year. “Lowell Observatory has a strong relationship with BU that we expect will get stronger as a result of this agreement,” says Lowell director Dr. Jeff Hall. “We look forward to increased scientific and outreach … [Read more...] about Lowell Observatory’s Discovery Partnership
Volunteers Sought on National Public Lands Day
In celebration of National Public Lands Day and to encourage a shared sense of land stewardship, the Forest Service announces another “fee free day” Saturday, September 24, along with several volunteer events. Day use fees will be waived at all standard amenity fee sites operated by the Forest Service including the Red Rock Pass. This includes access to Palatki and Honanki Ruins, V Bar B Cultural Site and approximately 300 miles of multiple-use trails. National Public Lands Day … [Read more...] about Volunteers Sought on National Public Lands Day
Utilizing Health Management Concepts
Aug. 8 System Health Management; it's not about managed health care; rather it encompasses the features of a system that ensure its ability to function as intended. All types of systems can benefit by incorporating health management concepts. In this lunch seminar you'll get a taste of the what, why, and how of System Health Management. The intended audience includes managers, engineers, marketing, and anyone interested in learning more. The applicable markets include: Aircraft, Alternative … [Read more...] about Utilizing Health Management Concepts
Additional Fire Restrictions for Flagstaff and Coconino
Coconino National Forest officials are implementing additional fire restrictions. Under these restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal, coal or wood stoves continue to be prohibited on the forest, including in developed campgrounds. The restrictions also limit smoking to within enclosed vehicles or buildings. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest System lands. Additional restrictions prohibit: chainsaw use from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m, discharging a firearm unless engaged in a … [Read more...] about Additional Fire Restrictions for Flagstaff and Coconino
Arizona’s New Smokin’ Deals
Editor's Note: The Arizona Department of Health Services Director Will Humble is refusing to accept applications for dispensaries. He is concerned that Arizona will be subject to lawsuits and he is waiting for a federal court ruling on the issue. In the meantime, Arizona is issuing identification cards to patients who have a doctor's recommendation for use of marijuana. In November 2010, Arizona voters approved Proposition 203, the “Arizona Medical Marijuana Act.” Proposition 203 allows … [Read more...] about Arizona’s New Smokin’ Deals
Moving Toward Semi-Public University
Northern Arizona University is reinventing itself as a semi-public institution amid record enrollment increases and diminishing state support, President John Haeger said during a public forum at the High Country Conference Center. More than 200 people attended the event to hear the president address how the university will mitigate the $30 million cut for FY2012, with nearly 700 more participants tuning in via live web stream. The president said university budget reduction strategies … [Read more...] about Moving Toward Semi-Public University