Town of Tusayan July 4th Events
The Town of Tusayan has many events planned for July 4th, including music, food vendors, a kids corner, Native American Dancers, and a silent auction.
There will be a bike decorating contest and activities for kids at 3:30 p.m., a parade at 4:40 p.m., live music from 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., and a drone and laser show beginning at dusk.
More information is available at the Town of Tusayan website here.
Effective immediately, Stage 2 fire restrictions are rescinded for the entire Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity throughout northern Arizona has significantly lowered the fire danger risk within the last week.
Grand Canyon National Park will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 4.5 million visitors to Grand Canyon National Park in 2021 spent an estimated $710 million in gateway regions near the park. That spending supported 9,390 jobs in the local area.’
“Grand Canyon is proud to be welcoming back more visitors from across the country and world since the beginning of the pandemic,” said superintendent Ed Keable. “We appreciate and rely on the partnership and support of our neighbors and are glad to be able to give back by helping to sustain local communities.”
Grand Canyon Star Party 2022 underway for 2022
The 32nd annual Grand Canyon Star Party is currently underway and is being held through Saturday, June 25, on both South and North rims. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States. This is the first onsite event since 2019.
The event is sponsored by the National Park Service, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from Grand Canyon Conservancy and in partnership with the International Dark-Sky Association.
Amateur astronomers from across the country are volunteering their telescopes and expertise for the enjoyment of park visitors. Numerous telescopes offer views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies—and the Moon, earlier in the week. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!
For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party visit http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm, or contact Rader Lane at 928-638-7641.
Grand Canyon Star Party 2022
The 32nd annual Grand Canyon Star Party will be held from Saturday, June 18, 2022, through Saturday, June 25, 2022, on both South and North rims of Grand Canyon National Park. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States. This is the first onsite event since 2019.
The event is sponsored by the National Park Service, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from Grand Canyon Conservancy and in partnership with the International Dark-Sky Association.
Amateur astronomers from across the country will volunteer their telescopes and expertise for the enjoyment of park visitors. Numerous telescopes will offer views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies—and the Moon, earlier in the week. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!
For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party visit http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm, or contact Rader Lane at 928-638-7641.
Cultural Demonstration Program resumes in-person at Desert View
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the Cultural Demonstration Program has resumed in person. The Cultural Demonstration program provides an opportunity for visitors and community members to interact with Tribal artisans from Grand Canyon’s Traditionally Associated Tribes – and for them to share their history and crafts, along with the skills, knowledge, and efforts involved in creating each craft. This series is made possible with grants from Grand Canyon Conservancy and ArtPlace America.
On Thursday June 9 and Friday, June 10, from 9 AM to 4 PM, Gerald Lomaventema, Hopi silversmith and Jerrel Singer, Diné painter, will be demonstrating their arts at the Desert View Visitor Center shade structure, just north of the main parking lot. For more information on the Cultural Demonstration Program, please visit the park’s website here.
Below are the two demonstrators’ profiles:
Gerald Lomaventema is a traditional Hopi silversmith. He is known for one-of-a-kind silver overlay masterpieces, with designs inspired by nature and Hopi culture.
Jerrel Singer, a Diné Painter, originally from Tuba City, is an abstract landscape artist. His work captures the light, colors and shadows of the Diné Nation and the Desert Southwest.
Starting June 2, 2022, the Cultural Demonstrator Series returned to Desert View within Grand Canyon National Park. After an absence of more than two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the series returns in-person every Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The series will run for 14 weeks from June 2 through September 2, 2022.
The Cultural Demonstrator Series provides park visitors and residents the opportunity to interact with members of Grand Canyon National Park’s Traditionally Associated Tribes and for the artisans to share their history and crafts. Weavers, carvers, potters, painters, sculptors, jewelers are just some of the disciplines presented by cultural demonstrators. This series is made possible with grants from Grand Canyon Conservancy.
Cultural Demonstration Program resume in-person at Desert View
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the Cultural Demonstration Program resumes in person beginning this week! The Cultural Demonstration program provides an opportunity for visitors and community members to interact with Tribal artisans from Grand Canyon’s Traditionally Associated Tribes – and for them to share their history and crafts, along with the skills, knowledge, and efforts involved in creating each craft. This series is made possible with grants from Grand Canyon Conservancy and ArtPlace America.
This week, on Thursday and Friday, June 2 & 3, we welcome Zuni fetish carver, Jimmy Yawakia and Zuni inlay jeweler, Duran Gasper. They will be located at the Desert View Welcome Center under the large shade structure at the north end of the main parking lot from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. In addition, park rangers are staffing an information desk at the same location, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information on the Cultural Demonstration Program, please visit the park’s website here.
Northern Arizona transitions to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions this Thursday, May 26
Due to increased fire danger, Grand Canyon National Park, as well as the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests will elevate to Stage 2 fire restrictions beginning at 8 a.m. on Thursday, May 26. Under Stage 2 restrictions, building or maintaining an outdoor fire of any kind is prohibited as well as smoking.
Additionally, operating or using any internal combustion engine such as chainsaws, wood splitters, weed eaters, generators, welders, or any other devices that can cause a fire are prohibited. This prohibition does not include street legal vehicles. Exception for locals and contractors: Permits for work with these devices can be granted through the GRCA hot work permit process managed by GRCA Structure Fire. For more information and to submit a hot work permit, either see this attached flyer or fill out this online form.
More information on fire restrictions and fire danger ratings, please visit the park’s fire information page here.
U.S. Department of Interior National Park Service Grand Canyon National Park P.O Box 129 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 Contact: Office of Communications 928-638-7779 www.nps.gov/grca For high resolution photos visit Grand Canyon’s Flickr Site. Grand Canyon News Release For Immediate Release May 25,…
Visitors to Grand Canyon National Park this Memorial Day weekend should expect long lines and full parking lots. Traffic regularly backs up at all entrance stations, with the longest wait times between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking lots, especially near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, will reach capacity by 12 p.m. and shuttle bus lines will be long.
Visitors should follow these tips in preparing to visit the South Rim:
Desert View Groundbreaking Ceremony and Inter-tribal Working Group meeting
On Tuesday, May 17, we held a ceremony at Desert View to celebrate the near completion of the initial phases of work being done at Desert View to turn it into the park Inter-tribal cultural heritage site.
Members of the Inter-tribal Working Group, Grand Canyon Conservancy, park staff and other partners attended a short celebration of the accomplishments to date. James Uqualla from the Havasupai Tribe, offered a blessing for the work and the efforts for all who have been involved.
In addition to Superintendent Keable, Theresa McMullan from GCC offered words of support, along with individual Working Group members. The Working Group will continue its efforts to develop the exhibit plan for the Desert View Welcome Center and has begun work on the next strategic plan.
The CDC Community Level tracks a county’s ability to provide health care to COVID patients. We continue to register Low at the community level, and we have been at this level since early March.
The Coconino County Community Transmission looks at the number of COVID cases and positive tests. Coconino County is now High, which has increased from Substantial as of Thursday, May 5. COVID transmission in the county is continuing to rise and although we have relaxed mask mandates and other mitigation strategies in the park, we are reminded that the pandemic is not over.
As we continue to make decisions about park operations, we want to emphasize that we are considering the current transmission status and trajectory of cases nationwide. We want to acknowledge and recognize that there is a lot of information being shared by agencies, and some are conflicting. Our goal is to share pertinent information with you and also to use the best data to make decisions about park operations.
Starting Saturday, May 28, the National Park Service (NPS) will offer shuttle bus service between the Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Center and the gateway community of Tusayan, Arizona. The Tusayan Route will run at 20-minute intervals between 8 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. daily through September 9, 2022.
Summer can be very busy at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. During busy periods, visitors can expect up to two-hour wait times at the South Entrance Station between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and parking lots can reach capacity as early as 12 p.m. Riding the shuttle from Tusayan can help visitors avoid entrance station lines and parking frustrations and reduce vehicle congestion in the park.
Fire restrictions remain in Stage 1 for Grand Canyon
Fire restrictions for the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, as well as the Town of Tusayan, will be in effect beginning today Thursday, May 5. Under these restrictions, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove fire, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site is prohibited on these lands. Additionally, smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle or building. Smoking is also prohibited in all federal buildings.
Grand Canyon National Park will remain in stage 1 fire restrictions, as we do year-round, which requires that campfires always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.
A burst of fushia in the inner canyon this week (NPS Photo/D. Yurcik)
This year’s fire season is off and running in the Southwest with four Type 1 Incident Teams already deployed for fires in the region. Earlier this week our wildland fire seasonal staff arrived and began fire training and annual pack tests continued through this week (see photo above).
In the coming weeks, park managers will be coordinating with the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests to assess fire restrictions and determine if the park will need to transition to fire restrictions in the near future. As of Thursday, 4/28, the Tunnel Fire north of Flagstaff, was at approximately 19.075 acres with 43% containment. More information on the Tunnel Fire can be found by visiting the Tunnel Fire Inciweb site here.
Sign up now—Coconino County Emergency Notifications
When emergencies happen, be the first to know.
The Coconino County Emergency Notification System uses Alerts powered by Rave Mobile Safety’s Smart911 to send official, real-time alerts to the public with information about potentially life-saving actions you may need to take to keep you and your family safe.
This service allows you to receive voice, text, and email emergency notifications generated by Grand Canyon Dispatch and public safety officials. More information on this program can be found on the county’s website and a link to sign up can be found here.
Grand Canyon Visitor Center changes in operations
Due to low staffing levels, there will be modified operations to Grand Canyon Visitor Center information desk hours this spring.
From April 8-23, the outdoor GCVC Information Desk will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday to Monday. Please note, the building is still closed to the public and the GCVC Theater is under construction. Ranger programs will continue at 11 a.m. at the Yavapai Geology Museum Amphitheater, Thursday to Monday through April 23
Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC) and Grand Canyon National Park are proud to announce the selection of the next Grand Canyon Astronomer in Residence, biologist, landscape and nature photographer, and conservationist Imma Barrera. She will live and work at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, with visits to the North Rim and Tuweep, from April 28 to May 23, 2022.
Barrera’s current project, “Under the Night Sky,” involves raising awareness about the importance of protecting the night sky by presenting different features of select National Parks in the format of a published book, combining photography and nature education and illustrating the efforts these parks have undertaken as part of their mission to preserve the environment. Barrera’s goal is to capture those inspiring landscapes under the night sky.
Tuweep day-use civic engagement period ends April 6
Last week the park initiated civic engagement to solicit comments on implementation of a proposed day-use reservation system at Tuweep, including all park areas within Toroweap Valley and the Kanab Plateau. A $2 ticket fee per vehicle is proposed and would be available through recreation.gov.
On busy, high visitation days, especially during the weekends, up to 50+ vehicles often travel into Tuweep around the same time of day, causing road congestion, long waits to access the Toroweap overlook, overcrowding in popular locations, impacts to property, and excessive noise. As a result, the overall visitor experience has deteriorated, and sensitive natural and cultural resources have been damaged.
Arizona and Grand Canyon Community Statistics
As of March 17, Coconino County community transmission remains moderate, and the community level is low. In Arizona, 13 of the 15 counties have low community levels.
Total cases for the week of March 10-16 is 5,153, which is an average of 736 cases per day for the seven-day rolling average for the week. No new cases have been reported this week within Grand Canyon National Park or in the 86023 zip code.
Coconino County reports the Grand Canyon community is 73.1% fully vaccinated as of March 18.
This week we are taking a diversion from our regular communications on COVID-19 and park operations to highlight some of the amazing places (and people) here at Grand Canyon through photographs taken by NPS, GCC, and Xanterra staff over the last several months. From the North Rim, to the Colorado River, to the South Rim, take a moment and enjoy these awe-inspiring landscapes.
March is Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month and a time for us to honor and celebrate the many women who have helped to shape our nation and the National Park Service. The national theme for Women’s History Month in 2022 explores the role of women of all cultures in providing both healing and hope throughout history.
In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, we would like to highlight the great feat of accomplishing goals and dreams, specifically one woman’s journey of doing it by herself.
Grand Canyon National Park fire managers—working with resources from Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the National Park Service Utah Parks Group anticipate initiating prescribed fire treatments as early as Tuesday downriver from Lees Ferry, Az. within Grand Canyon National Park.
On Tuesday, March 8, ignitions may occur on the Paria Beach Riparian Restoration project. The project is not expected to last for more than one day and targets 5 acres of riparian vegetation and tamarisk along the banks of the Colorado River, approximately 1.25 miles downriver from the Lees Ferry boat ramp.
Outdoor mask zones now lifted throughout the park; masks still required in government buildings and transportation
More updates will be provided soon following DOI and NPS all employee emails this afternoon (Thursday, March 3)
This week, Superintendent Keable has made the decision to remove the outdoor mask zones in the park. This week, the outdoor sandwich board signs have been removed from Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza to Mather Point and Hopi Point. The remaining signs in historic district, Desert View Watchtower area, all shuttle bus stops, and entrance stations will be pulled beginning today, March 3. We will be modifying the Superintendent’s Compendium in the coming days to reflect these changes.
Effective July 1, 2022, Grand Canyon National Park will increase the cost of overnight backcountry permits. Grand Canyon began charging for overnight backcountry permits in 1997 and last modified backcountry fees in 2015.
The cost recovery charge for overnight backcountry permits will increase for all permits that begin on or after July 1, 2022. The charge of $10 per backcountry permit remains the same; the nightly per person fee will be increased from $8 per person to $12 per person or stock animal camping below the rim in designated backcountry camping areas. This increase does not affect camping fees at Mather, Desert View, or the North Rim campgrounds.
This week, the AMPO team discussed the process the park will follow to reopen NPS buildings that are currently closed, or partially closed, due to the pandemic and the status of the park outdoor mask zone areas.
The team talked about the lifting of mask mandates at several bordering states including California, New Mexico, and Nevada. With those restrictions being lifted, park managers are considering how to make mask restriction changes in the outdoor areas of the park that are currently identified as mask zones. These masking requirements were put in place through the Superintendent’s Compendium. Most of you have seen the sandwich board signs along the rim trail near the El Tovar, at Desert View and Mather Point alerting visitors to the requirement to wear a mask in these areas.
When changes are made, we will let staff know through our weekly calls and this newsletter, Changes will officially be implemented through the Superintendent’s Compendium. These steps will also include updated information for our visitors.
We have received several questions on how park managers make decisions and plans associated with the pandemic. We have been sharing information weekly since early in the pandemic and we have also decided to rebroadcast some of these plans on a regular basis to ensure employees and community members stay informed.
Superintendent Ed Keable established an Adaptive Management Park Operations (AMPO) Team in May 2020; this team replaced the Incident Management Team that acting Superintendent Mary Risser established at the beginning of the pandemic. Between them, these two teams have met weekly for the entire pandemic. This team now includes members of multiple divisions across the park to ensure that a wide range of disciplines are included in the discussions.
Grand Canyon National Park, located in northern Arizona, encompasses 277 miles (446 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. One of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world, Grand Canyon is unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.
NPS Mask Policy reminders
The current National Park Service mask policy, which follows the CDC recommendation is that everyone wear a mask that is over the age of two, regardless of vaccination status in the following settings:
In all NPS buildings and in congregate office settings; the only exception is when you are alone in a private, walled and closed door space;
Crowded outdoor spaces identified in the Grand Canyon Superintendent’s Compendium (pages 5-6), and
In all forms of enclosed public transportation, which includes Grand Canyon shuttle buses, and all government vehicles and aircraft.
What qualifies as a mask according to the NPS and CDC are masks that have two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric, completely cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly against the sides of your face and don’t have gaps, and have a nose wire to prevent air from leaking out of the top of the mask. For the latest information on types of masks and respirators, please visit the CDC’s website here.
On Tuesday and Wednesday this week, South Rim fire managers were successful in treating 10 acres of woody debris piles near the South Entrance station. This pile burning will continue over the next several months, as conditions allow, and will take place between the South Entrance Station and Desert View Drive Junction (mile markers 238-240).
Prescribed fire plays a vital role in decreasing wildfire risks to life, resources and property by reducing available hazardous fuels. Fire staff carefully plan prescribed fires, initiating them only under environmental conditions that are favorable to assuring firefighter and visitor safety and to achieving desired objectives.
Realizing the demand for vaccines is still high in the community, Coconino County Health and Human Services Mobile Vaccine Team is planning two separate events over two days this week. The County event will have all types of vaccines (first, second, third, and boosters for J&J, Moderna, Pfizer) and will have the pediatric Pfizer doses (first and second) for children ages 5-11-years-old.
Severe winter weather has returned to the Grand Canyon this week, so it’s time to offer a few reminders on winter preparedness!
If you haven’t done so already, sign up for the Coconino County Emergency Notifications to receive voice, text, and email emergency notifications generated by Grand Canyon Dispatch and public safety officials.
When Driving: Slow down! Try to keep a nearly full tank of gas in your personal vehicle throughout the winter. Keep an emergency kit in your personal vehicle. Suggested items are extra blankets, water, extra gloves, warm hat, snow pants, snacks, traction devices, jumper cables, flag, flashlight, first aid kit, plastic sheeting, and phone charger. Be prepared for any type of emergency.
At Home: Keep extra food, water, light sources, and blankets available in case of a power outage.
When Walking: Always have the appropriate gear, clothing, and footwear. The potential for slips, trips, and falls increases dramatically in winter. It is recommended that shoe traction devices be worn while walking in icy conditions.
Last week the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a new COVID-19 variant, Omicron, as a “Variant of Concern.” This new variant appears to have originated in the southern part of Africa. However, there have been reported cases in Canada, Australia, Israel, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, France, Hong Kong, and now the United States (California and Minnesota).
President Biden has added some precautionary measures until we know more about the new variant and has restricted air travel from South Africa and seven other nations in the southern region of Africa.
The best protection against Omicron is getting fully vaccinated — and getting a booster shot as soon as you can. The CDC recommends people follow prevention strategies, such as wearing a mask in public indoor settings and congested outdoor settings, washing your hands frequently, and physically distancing from others.
Beginning December 1, 2021, visitors traveling to Grand Canyon National Park this winter season should be prepared for modified changes in operations. Visitors should also plan ahead and anticipate temporary road closures and poor driving conditions whenever winter storms pass through the area.
The following operational changes will be in effect beginning on December 1, 2021:
Shuttle Bus Operations
Holiday COVID Reminders
This time last year, we saw a spike in COVID cases. As a reminder, please continue to follow these tips from the CDC and all NPS guidance both inside and outside the park so that we can minimize the spread of COVID-19 this holiday season.
Protect those not yet eligible for vaccination by getting yourself and other eligible people around them vaccinated.
Wear well-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are in public indoor settings.
Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
If you are sick or have symptoms, do not host or attend a gathering.
Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have a close contact with someone who has COVID-19.
Upcoming Vaccine Event-Monday, December 6
We are pleased to announce that we are once again partnering with Coconino County Health and Human Services and the Grand Canyon Rec Center to host a vaccine event for the Grand Canyon community. This event is scheduled for Monday, December 6 inside the Rec Center in the large community room.
We are still working with the County to finalize specific times as well as what vaccines will be available to what age groups for this event. More information, including a flyer, will be shared in the near future on these details.
Honoring Our Veterans
On Veterans Day, we take a moment to salute the men and women who serve, and have served in our nation’s military. Many people have repeated Colonel Walter Hitchcock’s famous words, ‘Freedom is not free’ because it succinctly captures the essence of military service.
We want to express our great appreciation for every GRCA employee and resident who has served in the armed forces. We especially want to thank all of those who sacrificed and shared in the sacrifices of military service members. The nation owes a debt of gratitude for service members and their families and their sacrifices.
Thank you, Veterans!
Throughout November, the NPS and Grand Canyon will be celebrating Native American Heritage Month. We gratefully acknowledge the Native peoples on whose ancestral homelands we gather, as well as the diverse and vibrant Native communities who make their home here today.
Recently, the affiliated tribes of Grand Canyon have been helping the park holistically address our history while we work collaboratively on the Desert View Inter-Tribal Cultural Heritage site.
On Monday, November 1, Coconino County Health and Human services will be holding two COVID-19 and flu vaccine events in the community. Similar to previous events, no registration is required ahead of time.
Tusayan (behind the IMAX Theater) from 12:00 p.m.-2 p.m. (flyer here)
Grand Canyon Recreation Center Ramada from 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. (full flyer here)
Vaccine Events in Tusayan and Grand Canyon
On Monday, November 1, Coconino County Health and Human services will be holding two COVID-19 and flu vaccine events in the community. Similar to previous events, no registration is required ahead of time.
Tusayan (behind the IMAX Theater) from 12:00 p.m.-2 p.m.
Grand Canyon Recreation Center Ramada from 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Flyers will be distributed on these events once guidance from the CDC on booster doses is finalized (hopefully by early next week).
Federal Workforce Vaccination for NPS Employees
As a reminder, November 22 is the deadline for federal employees to be fully vaccinated.
To meet the November 22 deadline, NPS employees must receive their first dose by October 11 if getting the Moderna vaccine or October 18 if getting the Pfizer vaccine
November 8 is the deadline for the second dose of both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, and for receiving the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine
By November 22, all federal employees must be fully vaccinated or actively working with their supervisor and HR on a reasonable accommodation request. More information can be found on the vaccine FAQ page on the Safer Federal Workforce website.
Indigenous People’s Day, October 11
This year we recognize Indigenous People’s Day on Monday, October 11. At Grand Canyon, park leadership continues to work on the Indian Affairs Strategy with positive feedback coming to us from our NPS colleagues in the Intermountain Region and Washington. The draft strategy is gaining traction to the point where the work we are doing may be shared at the Tribal Nations Summit being planned for the White House in November.
There will be virtual events held in recognition of Indigenous People’s day across the nation, and the city of Flagstaff is hosting an event on Monday, October 11 through a virtual platform. The event, titled Honoring the Four Sacred Elements of Life: Mother Earth, Father Sky, Grandparents Water and Fire, will be available on-line from 8:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Registration can be made in advance for this event is free and can be made by following this link. NPS Fire Archaeologist, Jason Nez, will be speaking at this event about Diné cultural relationships to Fire between 3:15-4:30 p.m.
A COVID and flu shot vaccination event will be held next Monday, October 4th from 3-5 p.m. at the Grand Canyon Rec Center Ramada. If there is inclement weather, the event will be held inside the Rec Center in the Piano Room. Please bring your vaccination card if you are seeking a second or third dose of the COVID vaccine. More information on this event can be found in the attached flyer.
A follow-up vaccination event will be held on Monday, November 1, for those individuals getting their first shot at the October vaccination event who need a second shot for full vaccination. The November 1 vaccination event will also take place from 3-5 p.m. at the Rec Center.
There are no updates on a North Rim vaccination event at this time.
This Saturday, September 25 will mark the 26th annual Condor Release at the Vermilion Cliffs as part of National Public Lands Day.
Due to high Covid-19 transmission levels in counties surrounding the condor release site, and to help prevent further spread of the virus, partners hosting the event are strongly encouraging the public to attend the live stream event online. In 2020, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the team took the celebration online with more than 10,000 viewers of the event. Because of that success, the event will be live streamed again this year.
The programming for the live virtual event will begin at 10:30 am (Arizona time). The release pen will be open at 11 a.m. (Arizona time).
The virtual event can be viewed here on the Peregrine Fund’s YouTube Channel.
On September 9, President Biden issued new Federal COVID vaccine guidance by Executive Order. While we don’t yet know the specifics of implementation, we do know that all federal employees, contractors and partners will be required to be vaccinated. According to the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force, “Federal Executive Branch employees must be fully vaccinated, except in limited circumstances where an employee is legally entitled to a reasonable accommodation. Agencies must work expeditiously so that their employees are fully vaccinated as quickly as possible and by no later than November 22, 2021.” The full document can be viewed here.
The purpose of this and related orders are to protect the American public, since COVID-19 continues to be spread in the US primarily by unvaccinated people, and because unfortunately, not enough people have been vaccinated to generate herd immunity to prevent the virus from mutating into new and more dangerous variants such as the Delta variant.
Specific guidance will be coming out soon on implementation of the vaccination requirement.
From August to early winter, male elk are in a period known as the rut. During this time they become territorial and will attack if approached or threatened. Please do not approach elk, stay a safe distance of 100 feet (30m) away, and never water or feed them for any reason.
National Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off next week
September 15 to October 15 is celebrated nationwide as National Hispanic Heritage Month. It traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. During this month and throughout the year, we, and our partners, share history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans of past and present. More information can be found here:
Hispanic Heritage Month – NPS Celebrates! (U.S. National Park Service)
Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC) and Grand Canyon National Park are proud to announce the selection of the second Grand Canyon Astronomer in Residence, renowned educator, author, and astronomy expert, Dean Regas. He will live and work at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park from November 16 to December 8, 2021.
Regas has been the astronomer for the Cincinnati Observatory since 2000 and was co-host of the PBS program “Star Gazers” from 2010 to 2019. He is the author of the books “Facts from Space” and “100 things to See in the Night Sky,” and is a contributing editor to Sky and Telescope Magazine and a contributor to Astronomy Magazine, from which he won the 2008 “Out-of-this-World” Award for astronomy education.
GCC Celebration of Art Kicks off in September
The 13th annual Celebration of Art kicks off this month at Grand Canyon. Beginning September 11th, artists will be coming to the South Rim to paint outside on location for one week. During this time, the public will be able to view the artists as they paint, capturing the ever-changing light and shadows of the canyon.
This year’s event will be a hybrid of on-site and online programming to welcome a wide variety of art enthusiasts. Here is the current schedule of events.
Now through September 18: Interested people can view the online catalog and preview studio paintings. Studio painting intent-to-purchase request forms are available to submit online, and are linked from each painting in the catalog.
September 3-18: There will be an online silent auction featuring specially selected original pieces from each participating artist.
September 11-17: Artists will be painting “en plein air” (or, outside on location) throughout the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
September 17: A featured artist will paint outside near Verkamp’s Visitor Center from 3 – 6 p.m.
Park staff have been busy with Search and Rescues (SARs) recently. Unfortunately, many of these events have been recoveries for apparent suicides. Times continue to be full of turmoil and stress—please, take a moment to check in with loved ones and with yourself. Working in remote areas away from close family and friends can add additional challenges during an already stressful time.
We would like to thank all of the search and rescue personnel and additional searchers from many other work groups who helped with two major SARs in Surprise Valley and Hermit Trail. Luckily, in both instances, all visitors were transported safely to the South Rim. Additional thanks go to Arizona Department of Public Safety for their support during multiple SARs over the last few weeks.
On Monday, August 16, NPS Acting Director, Shawn Benge, issued an update for masking requirements for shared indoor and designated outdoor spaces. Outdoor mask zones have been identified for all people regardless of vaccination status (see NPS Memo here). These are the same zones that previously required mask-wearing for unvaccinated people due to the crowded nature of the area and the inability to effectively socially distance.
Grand Canyon National Park Deputy Superintendent Louis Rowe has announced the selection of Angela Boyers as Chief Ranger for the Division of Visitor and Resource Protection.
As Chief Ranger of Grand Canyon National Park, Boyers will manage a complex program that includes law enforcement, emergency services, wildland and structural fire, aviation, fee collection, backcountry operations, and a regional dispatch center.
The number of cases nationally and locally continues to increase.
The rolling 7-day average for Arizona increased to 2,408 new cases per day this week, which is a substantial increase over last week’s average number of cases of 1,825. Arizona has now had seven consecutive days cases with over 2,000 new COVID cases per day.
According to the CDC, Coconino County remains in high community transmission status (while the county is in substantial or high transmission, all individuals, whether vaccinated or not, must wear masks while indoors in all government buildings unless you are in a private office space).
World Ranger Day July 31
On July 31, the park will celebrate World Ranger Day. World Ranger Day is commemorated worldwide on July 31st to commemorate rangers killed or injured in the line of duty and to celebrate the work Rangers do to protect the planet’s natural treasures and cultural heritage. Be on the lookout for NPS-wide messaging on our social media pages.
Be on the lookout for NPS social media posts celebrating World Ranger Day later this week.
Flash Floods and Lightning Awareness
As we continue to navigate monsoon season, we would like to take a moment to discuss the dangers of flash floods and lightning within the Grand Canyon. Flash floods are distinguished from regular floods by having a timescale of fewer than six hours between rainfall and the onset of flooding.
On July 20 at approximately 2:50 p.m., the Grand Canyon Communications Center received a report of multiple individuals struck by lightning at the Bright Angel Trailhead during a monsoonal thunderstorm.
A 30-year-old male and 28-year-old female victim were initially found unresponsive; the male regained consciousness without intervention. CPR and advanced life-saving interventions were initiated on the female, and she regained a pulse. Due to significant storm activity, air transport was not available, and both patients were transported by ground to the Flagstaff Medical Center. The female victim is reported to be in stable condition at a regional burn center. At least two other patients self-transported to the Grand Canyon Clinic with lightning splash injuries.
On July 14 at approximately 6:00 p.m., the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of two individuals missing and multiple parties injured after flash flood activity impacted Tatahatso Camp near River Mile 38 on the Colorado River. Grand Canyon Search and Rescue sent two paramedics to the scene to assess and treat patients. Active monsoonal weather in the area limited access to the scene for overnight search and rescue operations.
At approximately 2:30 a.m., one patient who was in critical condition was flown out via Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter from the area. Four additional patients were evacuated by air on July 15 to the Flagstaff Medical Center; they are in stable condition at this time.
If you test positive for COVID-19, immediately inform your supervisor and our NPS Public Health Consultant. This is to ensure proper public health protocols are followed and that any exposure is minimized.
Ronan King, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Public Health Service
Mobile: (202) 891-8599
Email: ronan_king@nps.gov
For all email correspondence, please also cc: Chris Glime, Captain, U.S. Public Health Service
Mobile: (202) 641-3518
Email: christen_glime@nps.gov
Due to monsoonal activity and heavy rainfall, Grand Canyon National Park will rescind Stage 2 fire restrictions as of 6 a.m. Friday, July 16.
Grand Canyon National Park will remain in stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.
Visitors should continue to be fire aware and use extra care when visiting their public lands.
