Monthly Archives: August 2011
Wallow Fire area access better defined with White Arrow System
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (ASNFs), in coordination with Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZG&F) is working to define how you can travel in and around within the fire area. The use of the White Arrow System is a method to define forest users as they move through the area where it is safe to travel. A very key point is the efforts taken to define how hunters can use the area.
We have attached the AZG&F news release. It has great definations for all of us. It actually explains how each level of forest user is to
move around and use the forest. The AZG&F News Release of August 21, 2011, Forest Service opens additional roads within Wallow Fire perimeter using White Arrow System as one looks at the information it is quite clear there is a lot of work going on to get ready for the Fall hunts. As you look through the links defined in the release you have a chance to really drill down to the level of information of where and how you can access the area.
The bottom line is to be very safe and as said again and again in the release, Look Up, Look Down, and Look Around for hazards.
Arizona Spring Hunts Open for YOU Now!!!
The Spring hunts is Arizona are some of the greatest experiences with your family. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZG&F) has just opened the applications process. At the very end of the latest AZG&F news release is a great statement that involves AES.
“For those kids that are considering hunting, or are new to big game hunting, we are offering juniors-only hunting camps and outdoor skills workshops (see page 26 of the spring regs). These events are a perfect place to start learning about the excitement and traditions of hunting,” McMullen added.
The Arizona Elk Society has a great Spring program that involves the Spring Hunt season. The Youth Turkey Hunting Program give you and the youth in your life access to great information from the experts. This program is held in April, but now is the time to get prepared. Watch the AES website for information and applications for the Youth Turkey Hunting camp.
When the Midwest is cold and snowy, in Arizona the springtime is all about calling in a wild turkey in the pines, or stalking a javelina in the open desert.
The seasons for these two sought-after species are set and hunters can begin submitting applications for tags issued through the drawing process.
The 2012 Spring Turkey, Javelina, Buffalo and Bear Hunt Draw Information booklet and regulations are now available at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website, and applications for applying are available at www.azgfd.gov/draw.
“Javelina and wild turkey offer hunters, beginners and experienced alike, a challenge and a unique outdoor experience in the springtime,” said Wildlife Recreation Chief, Craig McMullen. “There’s nothing like stalking a javelina in the open desert or calling in a wild turkey when his tail-feathers are fully displayed. It’s sure beats watching television.”
Many of the spring hunts have a limited number of tags and are issued through a draw/lottery process. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011 by 7 p.m. (MST). Postmarks do not count.
The Wallow Fire Update from AZ Game & Fish Department
We continue to hear and see concern about the Wallow Fire area and what is access situation for the area. Arizona Game and Fish department has provided another great update with maps. Remember this area has had a lot of damage so use caution as you move through the area.
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Arizona Game and Fish Department Update:
Here is some updated information (posted Aug. 15, 2011) for hunters and other outdoor recreationists regarding public access to areas within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter, including a Frequently Asked Questions section (below) and a link to an updated map.Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department) personnel in Region I have been coordinating with Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (Forest) staff to finalize the Forest’s decisions related to public access to those areas within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter. With fall hunting seasons rapidly approaching, this is a process of significant priority for the Department.
The following information encompasses the key elements and framework the Forest has announced and will utilize in opening the area of the Forest (those portions of Game Management Units 1 and 27) impacted by the Wallow Fire. In reviewing this information, please be advised of the following key points:
- Many areas within the Wallow Fire perimeter continue to present significant public safety hazards, primarily associated with dead (falling) trees and flash flood impacts. The amount and level of public access provided is largely dictated by these public safety concerns and liabilities.
- A prerequisite to reopening the Forest within the Wallow Fire burn perimeter has been clearing and preparing designated, priority roadways for safe public travel. Roads are being evaluated in an ongoing process for consideration of opening, with open roads for motorized travel being designated with white arrows. Roads and trails not having white arrows are closed to all motorized travel. As a result, vehicular access will be limited to white-arrow roads for a certain time, but foot and nonmotorized access will be available to all areas that are not designated as closed by the Forest.
- Forest users are responsible for their own safety and are encouraged to use caution as they utilize their Forest, and to do so in a responsible manner to ensure the protection of life, property and natural resources. Be aware of your surroundings – “Look up, look down and look around.”
The entire report from Arizona Game and Fish Department
Forest Service Roads that are Open in Wallow Fire perimeter
MAPS of access to the Wallow Fire area that are open to the public.
