Category: Health

Library and Sustainability Office team up to promote resilience in Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • September 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library and the Flagstaff Sustainability Office invite community members to join us for the new Climate Resilience Project. The project will offer intergenerational knowledge building, discussions, and hands-on learning opportunities to promote individual and community resilience in Flagstaff. The City is excited to explore our community’s ability to prepare for, recover from, and flourish after climate events with residents and learn what resilience means to them.

Monthly events will rotate between:

Climate Conversations – Community discussions where residents can collaboratively learn and discuss a unique topic, facilitated by an expert for guidance, information, and insights.
Resilience Work Sessions – Opportunities to put learning into action by supporting ongoing resilience efforts in Flagstaff. These sessions might include work at wildfire or flooding sites, citizen science projects, or neighborhood and household emergency planning.

The NAU Review — Big data bootcamp, finding one’s roots and researching the stigma of drug addiction

by Community Contributor • September 6, 2022 • Comments Off

How do you find a needle in a haystack? You write an algorithm that can scan the haystack and identify the tiny needle amid all the hay. That’s what seven undergraduate students did during an inaugural astroinformatics bootcamp, only the haystack is the entire universe, and the needle is some outlier event that may not even be identified yet. The bootcamp, a collaboration between the Department of Astronomy and Planetary Science and the School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems, was geared toward students from underrepresented groups and aimed to give them experience that will jumpstart their career or journey to grad school.

Grand Canyon National Park initiates water conservation for both North and South rims

by Community Contributor • September 6, 2022 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park will re-implement mandatory water conservation measures on both the North and South rims of the park. This is due to diminished water supplies as a result of a major pipeline break discovered…

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2022

by Community Contributor • September 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Community level LOW–masking requirement indoors OPTIONAL

On Thursday, September 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Coconino County Community Level to LOW. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

Grand Canyon management has received updated information from the DOI and NPS on COVID guidance. We are reviewing this information and hoping to apply changes soon.

Additionally, the NPS Washington office has submitted new COVID guidance for concessionaires that removes mitigations that have been in place for building capacity, social distancing, and masking. We are working with the park’s concessionaires on these changes and expect most facilities to increase capacity indoors. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

HECHO August Newsletter

by Community Contributor • September 1, 2022 • Comments Off

As the summer draws to a close and students head back to school, the dog days can be seen as a time of significant positive signs, beginning, of course, with the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (see the main feature). This sweeping piece of legislation signals a strong step forward in the battle against climate change.

HECHO continues to monitor and advocate for the Colorado Water Plan, but also played co-host to the 2nd Colorado Water Education Night.
HECHO National Policy and Advocacy Manager José Gaona recently visited New Mexico, meeting with the state’s Senior Field Coordinator Max Trujillo to tour the areas that were devastated by the state’s largest wildfire. See José’s blog here.
San Miguel County Commissioner Janice Varela, a member of HECHO’s Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council discussed the importance of the New Mexico Water Quality Control Commission designation of the Pecos River and many of its tributaries as Outstanding National Resource Waters. See her blog on the matter here.
While on the New Mexico theme, Santa Fe City Councilors Carol Romero-Wirth (an HECHO HCLC member), and Renee Villarreal published an op-ed in the Santa Fe New Mexican looking at the Caja del Rio and the council’s decision to join other organizations in seeking greater protections and oversight of the area.
In Arizona, we’re still working hard to pass legilsation to protect the Grand Canyon watershed from uranium mining. This issue needs to be resolved in a manner that will protect one of the world’s special places. See more here.
Internally at HECHO, there are some big changes afoot as Daniela Zavala has been brought on as Communications Director and Gabriel García-Contreras as the new Communications Coordinator. See their stories here. And while browsing the website, look for new updates on the site, particularly for members of the Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council, as there has been quite a bit more activity and information posted. See more information here.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Ticket sales now open for the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth’s 50th anniversary celebration on Oct. 27

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2022 • Comments Off

50 Years of Creating Better Lives for Children and Families!

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — Ticket sales are now open for the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth’s 50th anniversary celebration on Oct. 27.

You are invited to a delicious evening of fun and music as you support CCC&Y and celebrate our 50th Anniversary!

Please help us celebrate the stars in our community who helped make this last 50 years such a success – and come help us get the next 50 years off to a great start!

The event is open to all – and we are thanking our members with special discounted rates.

Bat tests positive for rabies along the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park biologists have received confirmation that a bat collected along the Colorado River in mid-August has tested positive for rabies. Wildlife managers generally report an increase in human-bat interactions in summer months. Individuals who have had physical contact with a bat are advised to seek medical attention and be assessed for appropriate medical treatment.

Rabies is a serious disease that can kill both animals and humans. Humans can contract rabies through contact with an infected animal’s saliva, such as a bite or scratch. Possible rabies infections should be considered in animals that exhibit unusual or aggressive behavior or that are not afraid of humans. All mammals are susceptible to rabies, including bats, skunks, and foxes. Although primarily nocturnal, bats observed flying during daylight is not indicative of a rabid bat.

Closure areas open on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park following the Dragon Fire

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, all Dragon Fire closure areas on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park have been reopened to the public. These areas include the Tiyo Point Trail, the Widforss and Outlet Canyon backcountry use areas, and the Widforss Forest Trail.

The 1,362-acre lightning-caused fire began on July 17, 2022. The Dragon Fire has been allowed to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem.

Application for Neighborhood Sustainability Grants open Sept. 1

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office invites the public to apply for a Neighborhood Sustainability Grant. The Neighborhood Sustainability Grant program is a competitive grant program that funds community projects related to food, waste, climate action, resilience, building energy, public health, and transportation.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — How can you help families and children locally?

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2022 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY —
As CCC&Y celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, we are committed to:
Our Mission: We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families
Our Vision: We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community
To help us continue and expand our mission in 2022, please consider supporting the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth through your individual, family, student or group membership
By becoming a member of CCC&Y your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.

First Monkeypox Cases Identified in Coconino County

by Community Contributor • August 23, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) announced the first confirmed cases of monkeypox in Coconino County. The two cases were tested in separate healthcare facilities and are unrelated. The individuals are recovering while following isolation guidance. As of August 22, 2022, 258 monkeypox cases have been reported in Arizona and more than 15,000 cases have been identified in the United States.

Monkeypox symptoms can be similar to the flu with a rash and usually resolve within 2 – 4 weeks. The illness can produce a rash that can look like pimples or blisters on the face, the inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Infection typically starts with a fever and can be accompanied by chills, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Action Alert: Flagstaff Regional Plan Visioning Starts This Week!

by Community Contributor • August 23, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s time to start providing input into the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County’s Planning Process.

The Regional Plan is a policy guide and serves as the general plan for the City of Flagstaff and an amendment to the Coconino County Comprehensive Plan. It reflects the community’s vision for the future, and describes how the community wants to grow and change over the next 20+ years. The current Regional Plan was adopted in 2014 and this new update will guide future growth and development in our region.

Coconino County Flood Control District Briefs Federal Officials on Long-Term Flood Mitigation Plan

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Flood Control District hosted Congressman Tom O’Halleran and officials from the United States Department of Agriculture, United States Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Federal Highway Administration, and the City of Flagstaff for a comprehensive briefing and tour of the Schultz/Pipeline Flood Area.

Flood Control District officials presented the District’s long-term plan for flood mitigation, briefing Congressman O’Halleran and federal officials about the new situation communities now face after nine critical watersheds were severely damaged by the recent Pipeline Fire. Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani, along with engineering partners, also presented a thorough long-term plan for flood mitigation on the east and west side of the San Francisco Peaks.

Community celebrates renaming county park for former District Supervisor Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Archuleta

by AmigosNAZ • August 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Under often Monsoon storming skies, more than 100 community members gathered at the now former Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park to rename the park for former District Supervisor Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Archuleta.

Sheltered under the large canopy, well-wishers gathered to hear speeches from members of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, local officials, friends, and most movingly family members of Archuleta on Aug. 13.

The event also included live music, park tours, children’s activities, a book signing, and recognition of the new amenities at the park, including a new mural design.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Aug. 15-19, 2022

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2022 • Comments Off

On Thursday, August 18, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Coconino County Community Level to LOW. People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

Updates on local community levels for Coconino County will be posted and updated on the main nps.gov/grca webpage under the ‘Alerts’ section. This information will be updated weekly on Thursdays by the CDC.

We will keep employees, our stakeholders, and the public informed of any new developments as soon as they become available. For those wishing to post this signage outside of buildings and in workspaces, please see the attached signage.

United Way of Northern Arizona — A Busy Summer for Volunteers

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s been a non-stop summer for United Way of Northern Arizona volunteers as we worked together to help with post-fire recovery efforts, prepare for the increased possibility of flooding, and even help out at a couple of this year’s KinderCamp™ events.

Before we take a look at the work done – and a few upcoming events – we’d like to take a moment to thank everyone for their hard work so far this season.
The Numbers So Far: More than 1,500 Volunteer Hours

New Opioid Recovery Program Funded by Grant from Arizona Attorney General

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2022 • Comments Off

In 2017, the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a public health emergency and announced a strategy for law enforcement and health professionals across the country to combat the opioid crisis, with an emphasis on improving access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

This year, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has been awarded a grant from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office for Local and Tribal Government Opioid Abatement in the amount of $2.5 million. At the August 9 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board took swift action to authorize the addition of the grant funds to the CCSO budget. With these funds, CCSO now commence a collaborative partnership with the Jail District and Coconino County Health and Human Services to provide a new service and support-oriented diversion program focusing on assisting those recovering from opioid addiction in their recovery and re-entry into the community.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y provides variety of free training webinars for families, community organizations

by Community Contributor • August 17, 2022 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY —
Coconino County has endured a number of challenges in recent years, including the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the resulting physical closures of schools, daycare centers and afterchool education programs and the switch to a more virtual world.
As we return to some semblance of normal, challenges still remain for families, youth, educators and organizations.
Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth wants to help. As we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary on Oct. 27, 2022 at the High Country Conference Center, we want to remind the community of our growing library of on-demand webinars, to help the public gain the tools they need to provide trauma-informed care, tips to help strengthen family protective factors, examine the effects of historical trauma and adverse childhood experiences, address issues such as bullying and the support to adults and youth through the use of mindfulness practices.

South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park lifts water onservation measures as water levels return to normal

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park lifted its mandatory water conservation measures for the South Rim when water storage reached an acceptable level on August 15.

Water conservation measures are generally prudent in the desert west to conserve water resources. Measures such as watering lawns/plants only as needed, washing cars infrequently; filling the sink with water while washing dishes; reporting drips, leaks, or other water loss to appropriate offices; turning off water while not in immediate use for shaving and brushing teeth; running dishwashers or washing machines with only full loads (and in eco mode if available), and taking shorter showers are all good conservation practices to have everyday.

City of Flagstaff announces volunteer opportunities available to create sandbags

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2022 • Comments Off

Flagstaff community members who would like to volunteer to support residents impacted by Pipeline Fire post-wildfire flooding on the west side of Flagstaff are invited to assist in filling sandbags. Volunteers are encouraged to visit either of the City’s self-fill sandbag stations (locations below) anytime during daylight hours, seven days a week to create sandbags. Empty sandbags and cinder sand are provided at the sites. Volunteers are encouraged to bring gloves, sun protection, shovels, and water for hydration. Completed sandbags can be left at the sites, where they can then be picked up by residents impacted by flooding. Self-formed groups, such as school groups, church groups, or other organizations are especially encouraged to volunteer. Volunteers can learn more about how to properly build sandbags a twww.flagstaff.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/72613/Sanbags-Poster.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Aug. 8-12, 2022

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2022 • Comments Off

On Thursday, August 11, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Coconino County Community Level to LOW. People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

Please note that this standard is flexible depending on conditions in Coconino County. It is possible that we may return to a mask requirement under this guidance if conditions in Coconino County returns to a HIGH community level.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y provides a variety of options to help families, community members

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2022 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — As we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary on Oct. 27, 2022 at the High Country Conference Center, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth continues to connect families and community members with a number of options, including free educational resources, city resource guides, calendars of upcoming family events and a variety of programs offered by our more than 100 individual and nonprofit members.

Coconino County Health and Human Services Ready to Respond to Monkeypox

by Community Contributor • August 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS), in partnership with state and federal partners, is responding to the recent increase in monkeypox illness in the United States. Although no cases have been identified in Coconino County, 102 monkeypox cases have been reported in Arizona as of August 5, 2022, and more than 7,000 cases have been identified in 49 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC).

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Aug. 1-5, 2022

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2022 • Comments Off

Native American Heritage Days take place this weekend on North Rim

The 27th Annual North Rim, Native American Heritage Days will take place on the grounds of Grand Canyon Lodge, this Friday, August 5, through Sunday, August 7.

Heritage Days provide visitors and staff with the opportunity to experience and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Colorado Plateau, Arizona Strip, and the Grand Canyon region. Starting around 9:30 a.m. each day, special programs will be presented by tribal members on a variety of subjects, including, astronomy, cultural connections, and Native American music and dance performances. A variety of cultural artisan demonstrations will also be taking place, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day.

Some of this year’s demonstrators will include:

Richard Graymountain from Southern Paiute – Basket Weaving
Jessica Lomatewama – Hopi – Katsina Carving and Basket Weaving
Henry Nez Dine (Navajo) – Silversmith Jewelry making
Duane Maktima – Hopi/Laguna Pueblo – Silver Jewelry/metalsmithing
Leann & Tavavee Shearer “Kaivavich” Kaibab Paiute – traditional clothing creation
Lyle Harvey Dine Navajo – Loom Construction/Weaving

A full flyer of all the Heritage Days Demonstrators is available here.

Heritage Days began in 1993 as “Paiute Days” which celebrated the Paiute, the tribe most associated with Grand Canyon’s North Rim. In 1997, the event was expanded to include all 11 of Grand Canyon’s Associated Tribes with cultural ties to the canyon.

The schedule for each day is available on the Park’s website and mobile app, by clicking on the “calendar” button. A full flyer on the event is also available here.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Providing an Alternative Route to Homeownership

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2022 • Comments Off

Becoming a homeowner in Flagstaff has never been easy, but this year the barriers have been particularly high, with the median average price of a single-family home well above $700,000 by this summer.

Combine that with hikes in mortgage rates and overall inflation pressures, and it was a triple whammy that dashed the dream of homeownership for many who live and work in northern Arizona.

Public, nonprofit, and private entities are working together to give some relief by producing starter homes through Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona (HFHNA) that are small-scale, affordable, and meant to create equity quickly for homeowners.

The group is currently building the first of these homes in Flagstaff’s South Side, but it is likely the effort will grow exponentially in the next five years under a plan to build at least 40 of the units at the new Timber Sky development on West Route 66.

“The escalation of home prices has closed the window for a huge amount of middle-class people,” said Eric Wolverton, Executive Director of HFHNA. “This isn’t about serving the poorest of the poor. We are looking to create workforce housing.”

Flagstaff launches two new residential food scrap drop-off locations

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff’s Sustainability Office invites the public to use two new residential food scraps drop-off locations at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth St) and Bow and Arrow Park (3701 N Cochise Dr). To use the free drop-off locations, residents can take the City’s brief online survey to receive a bin access code, collect acceptable items at home, and bring them to either location.

Drop-off locations are serviced by contractors who weigh, sort, and transport materials to several small-scale farms in and around northern Arizona. Materials are processed onsite at the farms and incorporated into the soils to support regenerative agriculture, the local food system, and healthy ecosystems.

South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park lifts Water Conservation measures as water levels return to normal

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2022 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park lifted its mandatory water conservation measures when water storage on the South Rim reached an acceptable level, Aug. 1.

Water conservation measures are generally prudent in conserving our water resources at any given time, such as watering lawns/plants only as needed, washing cars infrequently; filling the sink with water while washing dishes; reporting drips, leaks, or other water loss to appropriate offices; turning off water while not in immediate use for shaving and teeth brushing; running dishwashers or washing machines with only full loads (and in eco mode if available), and taking shorter showers.

Board of Supervisors Approves Transfer of Emergency Funds to Flood Control District

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the immediate transfer of $5 million from the General Fund’s emergency reserve to the County’s Flood Control District to address the ongoing costs of flood response and mitigation.

In a special session on Tuesday, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the immediate transfer of $5 million from the General Fund’s emergency reserve to the County’s Flood Control District to address the ongoing costs of flood response and mitigation in the Schultz-Pipeline and West Pipeline flood areas.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — July 25-29, 2022

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Community level HIGH–masking requirement indoors remains in place

As of Thursday, July 28, Coconino County remains in High Community Level and masking requirements will remain in place at least until Thursday, August 4.

The CDC Community Level tracks a county’s ability to provide health care to COVID patients. In Arizona, 10 counties are in High. Across the United States, 42% of counties are in High, 38% of counties are in Medium, and 20% are in Low. Due to the High Community level, masks are required indoors within all government facilities, vehicles and shuttle busses, as well as commercial facilities operating within the park.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y provides variety of free online training including ‘Thriving Families’

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2022 • Comments Off

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth provides a variety of free online training programs for parents, caregivers and all community members.

Our free Thriving Families webinar is a great starting place for parents, caregivers and community members brand new to the topics such as brain development, adverse childhood experiences, resilience and mindfulness. It is a great jumping off place to go deeper in knowledge and support through the rest of our library of webinars.

With thousands of views across our various topics, we are sure there is something for all community members and professionals. Whether you are seeking the best info for your family, your community or a program you work for, get a taste for our research supported prevention and community work.

A very special thank you to all of our partners who help get this information out to our community!

Flagstaff declares State of Emergency for 2022 Post Pipeline Fire Flooding Response

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2022 • Comments Off

lagstaff’s Mayor Paul Deasy declared a State of Emergency on behalf of the City of Flagstaff due to the impacts of monsoonal flooding in areas impacted by post-Pipeline Fire flooding that started on July 16, 2022.

Dragon Fire holding and meeting resource objectives at 1,309 acres

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Over the last several days, the Dragon Fire has been holding at approximately 1,309 acres in size. The 135-personnel assigned fire has had minimal spread due to monsoonal precipitation over the Kaibab Plateau.

Naturally ignited wildland fires play an important role in fire-adapted ecosystems by reducing dead wood accumulations to ash and releasing nutrients that stimulate new plant growth, and helping to regulate insect and disease levels. These fires also create a mosaic of burned and unburned vegetation, which increases habitat diversity and breaks up continuous fuels on the forest floor (branches, fallen trees, etc.) which can help limit or slow the intensity and spread of large wildfires in the future.

Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez District 2 Newsletter — 14th Edition

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Message from Jeronimo
Flood and Fire Resources
District 2 Highlights
Service Positions Open in District 2
Services and Programs
And more!

Dragon Fire grows at a steady pace to 733 acres

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2022 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — As of July 22, the Dragon Fire grew to approximately 733 acres and has 47 personnel assigned. The fire spread across the planning area with low to moderate fire behavior. The lightning-caused fire began July 17 and is…

Water Conservation Implemented on South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park Due to Water-System Issues

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park will implement mandatory Level 2 water conservation measures due to diminished water resources. At Level 2, measures require that all concessions operations switch to disposable dishes and utensils; alter menus to use less water for food prep and dish washing; adopt low water use for hotel room cleaning; and serve drinking water at restaurants by request only.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — July 18-22, 2022

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2022 • Comments Off

In this edition:

Community level HIGH–masking requirement indoors remains in place
Arizona and Grand Canyon Community Statistics
Vaccine Clinics in Grand Canyon and Tusayan on August 2
Reporting COVID symptoms is critical to limiting exposure and keeping our staff and community safe
Water conservation begins for South Rim Friday, July 22
Dragon Fire grows to 200 acres on North Rim
Tuweep day use pilot reservation program takes effect Thursday, July 21
Transcanyon Waterline Project Contract Solicitation
Closure of southwest boundary/Rowe Well Road beginning August 2
Desert View Construction update
Tusayan Pueblo Stabilization-2022
More …

North Rim Dragon Fire updates now available on Inciweb

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Why is there smoke? Dragon Fire on the North Rim

This lightning cause wildfire is being managed for resource benefits including improved wildlife habitat and forest health.

Fire personnel are containing the wildfire in areas where it may pose threats to park resources or visitor safety

Dragon Fire on North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park grows to 85 acres

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2022 • Comments Off

The Dragon Fire, located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is approximately 85 acres in size. The lightning-caused fire began July 17 and is being allowed to fulfill its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem.

Located 5 miles west of the North Rim Grand Canyon Lodge, the Dragon Fire is burning in continuous ponderosa pine forest. Fire managers plan to continue monitoring fire activity while buffering containment lines to the north and east of the fire. All actions are being based on firefighter and public safety as well as current and expected fire weather and environmental conditions.

United Way of Northern Arizona — How Agencies Came Together During This Fire Season

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2022 • Comments Off

In less than two months this spring, three major wildfires dominated our news as they charred land, displaced residents, and destroyed structures in their path.

One of the few silver linings during those eight weeks was how well individuals, nonprofit organizations and local governments came together to deal with the crises.

“What I find in Coconino County is that everyone works together like a family,” said Joel Bunis, who joined Coconino County Health and Human Services in January as its Outbreak Response Division Manager. “It’s all about connecting people with what they need.”

Red Cross Disaster Services Seeking Flagstaff Supervisor

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2022 • Comments Off

We are currently seeking a Disaster Services Supervisor (Flagstaff, AZ) to work in our Flagstaff, AZ chapter. This position will work 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday, and some weekends and evenings will be required during times of business need. Travel will also be involved up to 35% of the time.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Early registration ends on July 24 for First Things First’s Early Childhood Summitt on Aug. 18

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2022 • Comments Off

By First Things First

You have two weeks left to register at the early registration rate of $45 for the virtual First Things First Early Childhood Summit 2022. The standard registration rate increases to $55 on July 24.

FTF EARLY CHILDHOOD SUMMIT | AUGUST 18, 2022

You won’t want to miss keynote speakers Liz + Mollie. Based on their book, “Big Feelings,” their session will provide participants with tactical tips for how to combat burnout and effectively navigate uncertainty.

All Summit attendees will have access to all of the recorded sessions up to 60 days after the event.

Grand Canyon National Park ALERT: Roaring Springs System Failure to Meet Water Treatment Requirements; No potable water available along North Kaibab Trail

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park’s water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct this situation.

On the morning of July 13, 2022, for more than 4 hours, we did not meet one or our treatment requirements to provide sufficient levels of disinfectant due to a waterline break near Ribbon Falls on the North Kaibab Trail. The break triggered loss of the chlorination and pressure for pumping in sections of the waterline, impacting the following areas: Manzanita, Cottonwood, Phantom Ranch, and the North Rim.

What should I do?

The NAU Review — What a martian meteorite means, meet HSI advisor Claudia Rodas and why we should all care about snake fungal disease

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Astronomy postdoctoral scholar Valerie Payré is on an international team that discovered the origin of the martian meteorite known as Black Beauty, one of the most-studied meteorites in the world. It may hold clues to the development of Earth and other terrestrial planets and help explain why Earth sustains life when its closest neighbor does not. The results of this study are shared in the latest Nature Communications.

Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim returns to normal water operations

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2022 • Comments Off

Park staff and contractors have successfully repaired the electrical system that supports water delivery from the Roaring Springs Pumphouse to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Water restrictions have been removed and the park has resumed basic water conservation measures.

An electrical failure north of Roaring Springs was identified on June 26, resulting in limited water services and water conservation measures.

Grand Canyon National Park always operates under water conservation measures, encouraging all residents, visitors, and businesses to mindfully use water and adopt basic water conservation practices.

Invasive smallmouth bass found in Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2022 • Comments Off

On July 1, 2022, juvenile smallmouth bass were found in the Colorado River below the Glen Canyon Dam. Smallmouth bass are a predatory non-native fish that have adversely impacted native and federally protected fish in the upper basin of the Colorado River over the last 20 years. The National Park Service (NPS) is working closely with partners and stakeholders to coordinate rapid response actions to address this finding in accordance with previously approved management plans.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Mayoral Forum Recording, City Bonds, JW Powell and more!

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s been a packed couple of months and there’s a lot of information in this newsletter. This newsletter contains important updates and multiple opportunities for community input into important city projects. I encourage you to take time to read it!

In This Issue:
F3 Mayoral Candidate Forum Recording Available
Pipeline Fire Flooding Updates
City Bonds on November Ballot
Update: JW Powell Blvd Extension
Update: Pilot Bike Lanes Program, Beaver and Butler Avenues
Lone Tree Overpass Design Public Meetings in July
Apply for Flagstaff’s Climate Equity Advisory Committee
Community Input Sought
Featured Nonprofit: Townsite Community Land Trust

Urgent Call for Sandbag Volunteers

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County’s Flood Control District, in partnership with the United Way of Northern Arizona, are once again making an urgent request for volunteers to help fill and place sandbags to mitigate the serious threat of post-wildfire flooding threatening homes in the Timberline, Wupatki Trails, Fernwood and Doney Park areas.

Beginning Saturday July 9, and operating daily through at least July 17, the United Way will be organizing volunteer events in an ongoing effort to meet the anticipated need of 800,000 sandbags as soon as possible.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Arizona Voter Information Portal — Are you ready to vote?

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2022 • Comments Off

By the Arizona Voter Information Portal

The Arizona Primary Election is coming up on Tuesday, August 2! Take a moment to get ready to vote.

Check your registration status ASAP to make sure it matches your current address: https://tvote.org/3czO01W.
Still need to register to vote? Go to your state’s registration website.
Register online on or before Tuesday, July 5 to vote in this election.
Request your mail ballot; or
Any voter in your state can request an early/mail-in ballot. You can request an early/mail-in ballot online: https://tvote.org/2uFCvpc.
We recommend you request your early/mail-in ballot at least two weeks before the Friday, July 22 deadline to make sure you have time to receive and cast your ballot before the election.
Make a plan to vote in person.
Did you know you can vote early from Wednesday, July 6 to Friday, July 29? (Dates and times may vary by location.) Learn more about where you can vote early in your area: https://tvote.org/2Wn1pp9.
Planning to vote on Election Day? Great. We’ll send info about your voting location the day before the election so you know where to go.
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The NAU Review — Preparing for the next pandemic, SAC President Erin Kruse and why digital equity matters

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2022 • Comments Off

Is a universal coronavirus vaccine in our future? Possibly, according to a recent study from TGen and NAU. The research team, which includes assistant professor Jason Ladner, found that COVID-19 vaccination activates antibodies targeting parts of virus spike protein shared between coronaviruses. This technology could help fine-tune future vaccines.

Flood risk assessment map available for Pipeline West area

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2022 • Comments Off

Some homes and businesses in Flagstaff face a heightened risk of post wildfire flooding due to the Pipeline Fire. Residents who live in the northwest area of Flagstaff, including the neighborhoods of Creighton Estates, Forest Hills, Lynwood, Cheshire, Valley Crest, Coyote Springs, Ridge Crest, Coconino Estates, and Rock Ridge Estates are encouraged to visit flagstaff.az.gov/PipelineWest to view the flood risk assessment map and determine how their residence is impacted.

Coconino County Removes Fire Restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2022 • Comments Off

In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, at noon on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, Coconino County removed all staged fire restrictions formerly in place in unincorporated communities and recreation areas.

Most Forest Service restrictions and related forest closures on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, as well as City of Flagstaff restrictions, will expire at that time as well. Forest closures in and near the Pipeline and Haywire Fire zones will remain in place. (https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/coconino/landmanagement/?cid=stelprdb5331631&width=full)

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — UArizona to provide tuition-free education for Native American undergraduates in Arizona and more news

by AmigosNAZ.com • June 29, 2022 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Undergraduate students from the state’s 22 federally recognized Native American tribes will no longer have to pay tuition and mandatory fees at the University of Arizona main campus in Tucson.

Beginning in the fall, new and continuing full-time, degree-seeking undergraduates will be eligible for the Arizona Native Scholars Grant, the first program of its kind in Arizona. The program, funded through a reallocation of financial aid dollars, will be administered by UArizona Enrollment Management.

“Serving Arizona’s Native American tribes and tribal students is a crucial part of the University of Arizona’s land-grant mission, and the Arizona Native Scholars Grant program is another important step among many to do that,” said University of Arizona President Robert C. Robbins. “I am so proud that that this university has found a way to help hundreds of students more easily access and complete a college education, and I look forward to finding ways to take these efforts even further.”

Fire restrictions lifted at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2022 • Comments Off

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.

Self-fill sandbag stations available in west Flagstaff for residents impacted by Pipeline Fire

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff has established two self-filling sandbag stations for those impacted by the Pipeline Fire who live on the west side of Flagstaff. The first station is in Thorpe Park, at the parking lot at the north end of N. Aztec St. between Frances Short Pond and the softball fields. The second station is located at the intersection of Schultz Pass Rd and E Mt Elden Lookout Rd. (commonly called the Schultz “Y”). Maps of these locations are attached.

Grand Canyon National Park — ALERT: Drinking Water Advisory for North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, the National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a drinking water advisory for Manzanita Rest Area, Cottonwood Campground, and Phantom Ranch along the North Kaibab Trail within the backcountry of Grand Canyon National Park.

All drinking water in these areas should be treated or boiled. These processes should be applied to water for any consumptive use including drinking, making ice, preparing food, brushing teeth, and washing dishes. All other park drinking water is safe for consumption.

If treating water:

Follow manufacturer’s instructions on water filtration systems.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions on water treatment tablets.
To boil water, fill a pot with water, heat at ground level and allow bubbles to form. Allow water to boil for at least one (1) minute. Cool completely before drinking.

Voto Latino — Latinos in Battleground States support gun control & abortion rights

by Community Contributor • June 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Also see:

NBC News — Poll: Majority of Latinos in battleground states support abortion rights, gun reform

By Voto Latino

Latinos are the second largest voting bloc in the country and disproportionately reside in critical battleground states where they are also the fastest growing voting bloc. Candidates hoping to win in November and beyond will need to appeal to Latinos and the issues that matter to them. In order to understand how Latinos feel about two of the most salient issues in the country – abortion rights and mass shootings – Change Research surveyed 1,033 registered Hispanic and Latino voters in the seven key battleground states of Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania from June 2-7, 2022 on behalf of Voto Latino.1

A strong majority of Latinos are concerned about their personal safety from gun violence and believe weak gun laws are a major reason why perpetrators are capable of inflicting such carnage. Overwhelming majorities support many common sense gun safety laws Democrats have proposed and believe there would be fewer mass shootings if they were to be enacted. Latinos are also ready to reward leaders who take action on gun laws: an overwhelming 69% are more likely to support candidates who support the gun laws tested in this poll, including roughly half of Republican Latinos.

Latinos also fear for their reproductive freedoms as the conservative majority on the Supreme Court indicates it is prepared to overturn Roe v. Wade. Over two-thirds of Latinos support the right to an abortion in all or most cases.

United Way of Northern Arizona — A Crowning Achievement — UWNA Grant Helps Launch New Shelter Service

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2022 • Comments Off

When COVID-19 made congregant shelter living a dangerous option for those experiencing homelessness, Flagstaff Shelter Services (FSS) stepped up by renting hotel rooms for their most immunocompromised clients. It was a successful – if expensive – way to continue to serve the homeless at the height of the pandemic.

It also led to an innovative idea: tap into funds available through the American Rescue Plan Act to acquire a hotel and rehab the units into emergency housing. With the support of the Arizona Department of Housing, FSS purchased a Route 66 hotel that years ago was the The Crown Motel and more recently operated as a Howard Johnsons.

Other groups helped support the launch of the new site, including the Forest Highlands Foundation and the Arizona Diamondback. A grant from United Way of Northern Arizona allowed FSS to hire a full-time manager for the new shelter complex, which is being renamed The Crown in a nod to the building’s history.

Grand Canyon National Park Weekly Wrap-up: June 20-24, 2022

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2022 • Comments Off

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.

Burned Area Emergency Response team assessing Pipeline Fire damage

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2022 • Comments Off

A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team has started surveying the fire-affected areas located within the Pipeline Fire perimeter.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.

The team, led by Forest Service Soil Scientist Eric Schroder, began conducting field surveys yesterday. In addition to field surveys, BAER teams use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Participates in 2022 Juneteenth Celebration

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2022 • Comments Off

A couple of pre-monsoon season downpours didn’t dampen the spirits of participants of the 2022 Juneteenth Celebration held Saturday, June 18 at the Flagstaff Murdoch Center.

The event featured musical performances, food, games, arts, crafts and information booths including Building Community, Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, Coconino Community College, Coconino County including its African Diaspora Advisory Council and Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) diversity councils, Flagstaff Police Dept., Friends of Flagstaff Future, Northland Family Health Center, Northern Arizona University and North Country Healthcare.

Hosted by the Coconino County African Diaspora Advisory Council, the Flagstaff Lived Black Experience Project, and the Southside Community Association (SCA).

The Juneteenth celebration commemorates the day Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, granting them freedom. Juneteenth today, celebrates African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures.

Sponsored by Northern Arizona University, APS, Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, Southside Community Association (SCA), African Diaspora Advisory Council, Findlay Toyota, the Arizona Community Foundation, Coconino County and the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth.

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