To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Kaibab National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. Up to 5 trees may be purchased on a single permit at $15 per tree. A small processing fee will be applied to the transaction.
FLAGSTAFF — From astronomy to rocket science and everything in between, young people had a wide variety of hand-on activities to enjoy and learn from at the 2026 Snook Science in the Park presented on Sept. 26, 2026 by the Flagstaff Festival of Science.
More than 60 exhibitor booths crowded Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff as children had a wide variety of activities to choose from. Unofficially, more than 3,500 people attended the event, according to event organizers.
Some of the exhibitors ranged from The Arboretum, CCC&Y, Coconino Community College, the Coconino Astronomical Society, Coconino High School’s CocoNuts Robotics, Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition, Flagstaff Fire Dept., Lowell Observatory, Meteor Crater Education Alliance, Momentum Aerial, the Museum of Northern Arizona, Northern Arizona University, Riordan Mansion, Slide Rock State Park, Tynkertopia, to the U.S. Geological Survey.
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COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) is offering vaccinations against flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumonia at our Walk-in Vaccination Clinics. These clinics are held at the CCHHS Health and Wellness Clinic, located at 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Sept. 22 through Nov. 4. Appointments are not needed to receive your vaccination at these clinics.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park will begin modified fall operations at the North Rim on Oct. 15.
As part of this transition Cape Royal Road and Point Imperial Road will be temporarily closed from sunset Oct. 15 through sunrise Nov. 3, 2026, to accommodate critical road repair and rehabilitation work in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration. The closure is necessary to maintain a safe work environment for crews while they complete these critical repairs.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County announces the retirement of Lucinda Andreani, Administrator of the Coconino County Flood Control District. Andreani’s departure marks the close of a distinguished career in public service defined by leadership, collaboration and steadfast commitment to the safety and resilience of Coconino County communities.
A trail to healthier communities
A trail that will connect Arizona from the border town of Douglas to Bullhead City will open the door to outdoor recreation, better health, stronger communities and potentially higher property values. With the help of NAU faculty and both undergraduate and graduate students, the Sun Corridor Trail is closer to becoming a reality.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Join City staff and the project team on Thursday, Oct. 15, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth Street) to learn more about the Butler-Fourth Improvements Project! This community meeting will give you the opportunity to view the current design plans, ask questions and share your feedback. This is an open house with no formal presentation, join us anytime between 5 and 6:30 p.m. Can’t make the meeting? Displays will be available on the project website, www.butlerfourthimprovements.com, after the event.
Community Potable Water Tank Update
The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team has updated the size and, in some cases, location, of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village in order to serve residents who have relied on the tanks during the current water emergency.
The potable water tank placement plan was developed with input from park leadership and based off usage reports. There are a total of 16 tanks at various locations, for a total of approximately 15,000 gallons. Although the total amount of water has been reduced, it still exceeds the average daily use of approximately 6,000 gallons per day.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Fire managers will be igniting piles in the Walker Hill and Kendrick Park area today, which will produce noticeable smoke to those in and around Flagstaff.
Whether you’re exploring a new passion or building on years of experience, Sedona Arts Center offers inspiring classes and workshops for every skill level. Learn from working artists in a welcoming, hands-on environment while exploring painting, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, photography, mixed media, and more.
Join us in the heart of Sedona and discover where creativity can take you.
Not To Be Missed: Snook’s Science in the Park
Driven by Curiosity comes to life at Snook’s Science in the Park! Explore more than 50 interactive exhibits for all ages featuring hands-on science activities, solar telescope viewing, aerial demonstrations, cool car photo ops, and much more. Fun for the whole family!
Join us at Wheeler Park on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10am – 2pm. FREE
Snook’s Science in the Park is generously sponsored by Northern Arizona Healthcare and Peak Engineering.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Anthony Garcia has notified the City of his resignation from the Flagstaff City Council, effective immediately. Mr. Garcia is stepping down to focus on his health and well-being.
The City thanks Mr. Garcia for his service to the Flagstaff community and for the time and commitment he dedicated to serving on the City Council.
Mr. Garcia shared “It has been a true honor to serve the Flagstaff community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to a city I care deeply about and to the residents who took the time to share their hopes, concerns, and ideas for Flagstaff. At this point in my life, I need to step back and make my well-being a priority.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — On Tuesday, Sept. 15, the United States Supreme Court ruled against an executive order instructing the United State Post Office (USPS) to only deliver ballots to voters on the approved mail-in ballot list.
This decision ensures that the vote-by-mail process will remain unchanged for the Nov. 3 General Election. Coconino County early ballots will be mailed on Oct. 7 to voters who are on the Active Early Voting List or have requested a ballot be mailed to them.
Snook’s Science in the Park
Wheeler Park
The headlining event for the Flagstaff Festival of Science, Snook’s Science in the Park offers hands on science events, activities, and workshops for all ages! If you are interested in a career or knowledge in a STEM field, this is the event for you.
Discover something new and interact with over 50 vendors from a variety of Flagstaff scientific institutions! 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. FREE!
Update on Potable Water Storage Tanks
The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team (IMT) recognizes that the recent removal of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village raised questions among residents, particularly those who have relied on the tanks during the current water emergency.
Immediately after the flash flood, the tanks were installed as an additional source of potable water and provided approximately 46,000 gallons of total storage capacity. Actual use was significantly lower, with approximately 6,000 gallons used daily. Because the water was not being used as quickly as anticipated, it was remaining in the tanks for longer periods of time. Water that remains in storage can lose its chlorine residual over time, which can eventually affect water quality. Testing of the water found no identified health risk, but the IMT took the underused tanks out of service as a precaution to ensure the water did not remain stored long enough to become a water-quality concern
Recently, the Dollywood Foundation – which runs Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – announced a new tradition to carry forward Dolly’s extraordinary legacy and her belief in giving back, especially to children. The first annual Give Like Dolly Day will take place this Friday, September 25th, and United Way of Northern Arizona is planning on honoring it in two ways.
First of all, check out that date, 9/25 (or if Dolly were singing it, “9 to 5”). In the spirit of that song, we invite you to join us for “a cup of ambition” at Cedar House Coffee Shop and Bakery (2009 E. Cedar Ave., Flagstaff).
You don’t want to miss this! F-cube’s helpful City Council Candidate Forum. This Monday, 6:00 PM at the Lonetree Campus of CCC. This forum is free and is open to the entire community.
Co-sponsors include Indivisible Northern Arizona, Flagstaff for Affordable Housing, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona, and Northern Arizona Climate Change Alliance (NAZCCA). Find more details about the forum organization below.
Saturday, October 3, 6:30 pm
Flagstaff Takes the Stage is BACK!
The Northern Arizona Theatre Alliance (NATA) is thrilled to announce the return of Flagstaff Takes the Stage on Saturday, October 3rd at the Coconino Center for the Arts!
Join us for a celebration of Northern Arizona theatre as we come together to announce our participating organizations’ 2027 seasons and give you an exciting sneak peek at what’s coming to local stages next year. Expect show announcements, snippets from upcoming productions, and plenty of reasons to get excited about another year of theatre in Flagstaff!
This is a FREE event, with opportunities to make a donation at the event. All donations directly support NATA and our efforts to strengthen Northern Arizona’s theatre community through resource sharing and collaboration.
While admission is free, seating is limited and tickets will be required.
Create, repair and upcycle at the MakerLab
Need a quick fix? The MakerLab at Cline Library and the Office of Sustainability are partnering to offer RepairLabs, where people can get clothing and jewelry (and more!) repaired, keeping items out of the landfill for longer. Got repair skills? Sign up to volunteer for an upcoming RepairLab.
WILLIAMS — With early forecasts signaling a potentially severe winter across northern Arizona, the Kaibab National Forest is encouraging visitors to obtain their personal‑use fuelwood permits and gather their wood as soon as possible.
Snow and winter storms can arrive quickly, and once conditions deteriorate, many wood‑gathering areas become difficult or impossible to access. Planning ahead now helps ensure both safe access and plenty of time to gather wood before winter weather sets in.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.
The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.
When you become 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.
READ MORE
Are you curious about the Flagstaff Festival of Science?
The Festival is full of fascinating people, big ideas, and science you may not get to hear about during the event itself. Our Festival Insights blog gives you a closer look at the stories and science behind some of this year’s talks and activities.
Go a little deeper and learn more about the people, ideas, and science behind some of this year’s talks and events.
Join us Friday, October 2nd for our Disability Culture Revealed; Art, History, and Community Voices exhibition opening! In partnership with NAU’s Disability resources, and the Hozhoni Foundation’s Residential Art Program the CCAZ team has created this exhibition to help viewers explore disability culture through art, history, and community voices. Stop by the Historic Ice House during First Friday ArtWalk to see it yourself!
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County court system, with funding support from the State Justice Institute and strategic facilitation by Dr. Nancy Wonders and Dr. Fred Solop, convened an all-day strategic planning forum on Sept. 17 at the High Country Conference Center. Stakeholders provided input and assistance in determining the types of services the courts should provide by the year 2045.
Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona’s Starter Home Program approaches affordable home ownership in an entirely new way, the organization stated on its website.
Starter homes are energy efficient, 500-square-foot stand-alone homes that provide an attainable path to homeownership for Flagstaff’s workforce.
COCONINO COUNTY — In April, Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) launched the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey to help identify the health priorities, community needs, strengths and risk factors within Coconino County. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to share their input, we’ve extended the deadline to take the survey to Saturday, Oct. 31.
Is a nearby advanced alien civilization out there waiting to pounce on Earth?
Unlikely, according to a new study led by Chris Doughty. (But … maybe?) The study proposes that potential evolution on exoplanets isn’t based only on time, but also on how much cumulative photosynthesis happens, so even if planets outside our solar system had life billions of years before Earth, life likely evolved so slowly that it’s still in the microbial stage.
Free community showers
Free shower facilities are available to Grand Canyon residents until further notice. Residents are strongly encouraged to use these facilities whenever possible to reduce household water use and help conserve the park’s limited water supply. This week ADA showers were also placed at four locations throughout the park.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park today announced tentative dates for the restoration of water services to the South Rim residences and concessionaires within the park.
Based upon construction timetables, the National Park Service Incident Management Team projects the park will be able to start pumping water by Nov. 16 from the Bright Angel Creek intake to the new water treatment plan. The National Park Service estimates distribution from the new treatment plant to residents will begin by Thanksgiving, allowing concessionaires to begin a phased approach to providing services to overnight guests at that time. These dates are tentative and residents and concessionaires will be notified as construction is completed.
Whether you’re exploring a new passion or building on years of experience, Sedona Arts Center offers inspiring classes and workshops for every skill level. Learn from working artists in a welcoming, hands-on environment while exploring painting, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, photography, mixed media, and more.
Join us in the heart of Sedona and discover where creativity can take you.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff has begun replacing the City Hall roof. As part of the project, the contractor will place plywood on areas of the City Hall lawn for vehicular access, which is required before driving on park grounds, athletic fields and civic grass spaces. The plywood will be in place for approximately four weeks and will likely cause the grass beneath to die. The City expects to be able to install new sod in late May and early June of 2027, when turf becomes available in our region.
FLAGSTAFF — On the same evening the Coconino County Board of Supervisors was recognizing Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, it seemed only fitting that the county also recognized and honored a local community leader who has worked hard to ensure that the contributions of the local Hispanic community are also remembered.
The Board of Supervisors honored Ruth Eaton, former chair and member of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) during a ceremony held at the board’s meeting room on Sept. 15.
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County recognized Sept. 15, 2026 as National Voter Registration Day during a ceremony held at the county’s First Floor Board Room. Coconino County Recorder Aubrey Sonderegger read the official proclamation.
The remarks can be seen on the county’s YouTube site at the 42.25 minute mark
On Sept. 14, the county posted the following announcement.
Every fall, parents ask themselves the same question: what can I really do to help my child succeed in school this year? The good news is that research points to a handful of everyday habits that make a real difference.
As a nonprofit with a focus on youth opportunity, here’s what we know works and where you can turn if your family needs extra support.
Get them to school – every day. It sounds obvious, but it matters more than people realize.
“FLG is excited to be a recipient of the SCASDP grant and eager to provide more connectivity to the northern Arizona region. More flight options create easier opportunities for travelers and stimulate economic growth throughout our community,” said Claire Harper, Airport Communications Manager. “The Small Community Air Service Development Program is unique in that it empowers communities to design solutions that reflect their specific air service needs and circumstances. FLG is ready to address northern Arizona’s air service challenges.”
Igniting a love of STEM in Tuba City
They say success is nothing without someone to share it with. That’s certainly true in Tuba City, a small community on the Navajo Nation: Whenever any of its citizens score a big win, the town always shows up to celebrate. That’s why, armed with $50,000 from the National Science Foundation, researchers at NAU’s Center for STEM Teaching and Learning aren’t just partnering with Tuba City educators to improve STEM learning opportunities. They’re also working with town leaders to brainstorm ways to celebrate the kids’ success, from public robotics challenges to parades.
At the recent annual conference of the League of Arizona Cities & Towns, APS President and CEO Ted Geisler reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to protecting reliability and rates for current APS customers while serving new companies and industries investing in the state.
The APS Pledge for Responsible Energy Growth comes at a time of increasing demand for centers that service cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other data-driven “extra-large customers.”
The pledge is built on three principals, Geisler said.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park crews are assessing damage after an additional flash flood moved through Bright Angel Canyon Wednesday afternoon, damaging temporary water infrastructure being constructed as part of the park’s ongoing recovery from the Aug. 29 flood.
There were no reported injuries. With severe weather approaching and flash flood warnings in effect, the National Park Service had reduced the number of personnel working in the canyon. Crews remaining in the area were able to reach safety before the flood moved through. The affected area remains closed to public access.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget is seeking public input regarding the potential appointment of Renee Hatch to fill the current vacancy on the Willaims Unified District Governing Board.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The voter registration deadline for the November 3, 2026 General Election is Monday, October 5, 2026.
“Registering to vote and participating in elections is an important civic right that ensures your voice is heard. Now is the time to check that your registration is up to date and that you are ready for the upcoming General Election,” County Recorder Aubrey Sonderegger said.
To register to vote, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old by Election Day, reside within Coconino County and have no felony convictions, unless civil rights have been restored.
Efforts to restore the park’s water supply are advancing at the delta, where contractors used excavators to establish the footprint for the new water intake project. A wastewater treatment operator was also brought to Phantom Ranch to test the wastewater treatment plant as crews prepare to return the system to limited service.
On the South Rim, the water treatment plant contractor is preparing to begin startup and testing once the new delta intake is able to provide raw water to the plant. The contractor is coordinating closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality as testing and the process to return the plant to service move forward.
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest firewood permits are now available online via the Forest Service’s new e-permit system at https://epermits.fs2c.usda.gov/
Permittees must possess a printed physical permit while harvesting and transporting products. The permit does not need to be attached to the load or displayed on a vehicle dashboard.
Load tags will not be issued with online permits. Collection is limited to dead and down materials only, and permits are only valid for the specific forest they are purchased for.
Whether you’re exploring a new passion or building on years of experience, Sedona Arts Center offers inspiring classes and workshops for every skill level. Learn from working artists in a welcoming, hands-on environment while exploring painting, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, photography, mixed media, and more.
Join us in the heart of Sedona and discover where creativity can take you.
ew year, healthier you
Campus Health Services isn’t just for students—it’s also for faculty and staff! Now is a great time to establish care at CHS, whether you’re looking to schedule annual physicals and immunizations, renew your prescriptions, explore preventive health resources or even access urgent care.
SEDONA — The temporary closure of Oak Creek that has been ongoing since July will be lifted on Thursday (Sep. 17, 2026), allowing for the public to access the creek and nearly all recreation sites along Oak Creek.
Under a new forest order, the West Fork watershed, its trail, and Call of the Canyon will remain closed until Oct. 1, 2026, since that specific watershed had a higher percentage of fire damage and still poses a higher flooding risk.
Oak Creek has been closed to the public since the start of the Pocket Fire in June and remained closed after the fire danger was gone, out of an abundance of caution prior to monsoon so that if any flash flooding occurred no one would be injured or caught in it.
In just under two weeks, the Flagstaff Festival of Science kicks off!
And the best part? All Festival events are FREE!
While most events are open to everyone, some do require advance registration. We don’t want you to miss out on something you’re excited about because registration filled up—or because you didn’t know you needed to sign up ahead of time!
There are 32 events that require advance registration, from a full moon hike in Picture Canyon to tagging a Monarch butterfly and more.
We’ve highlighted a small sampling of these events below, so take a look, find something that catches your curiosity, and register early!
South Rim Water Update — September 11, 2026
The August 29 flash flood caused extensive damage to water infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon, including portions of the Transcanyon Waterline and the Bright Angel Creek intake. The South Rim remains under Stage 4 water restrictions and is relying on stored water while crews conduct repairs and advance temporary water-supply solutions. We know this has required significant adjustments in homes, workplaces and park operations, and we are deeply grateful to every resident, employee, business, partner and visitor who has helped conserve water during this difficult time.
WILLIAMS — The Kaibab National Forest and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) are partnering to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health on nearly 14,000 acres of National Forest lands in northern Arizona. Through a new Good Neighbor Agreement (GNA), DFFM will administer forest restoration activities that help protect communities, strengthen water security for millions of Arizonans, conserve natural resources, and support the state’s forest products industry and rural economies.
FLAGSTAFF — THe City of Flagstaff Housing Division’s recruitment for 5 seats on the Housing Commission, including 3 community resident seats. Applications can be found at this link and are due September 23.
Want to help shape housing in Flagstaff?
The Housing Commission advises City Council on housing policies, needs, and programs in our community. The City of Flagstaff Housing Division is seeking Flagstaff residents (within City limits) with experience in building, real estate, development, or community issues.
Tynkertopia Logo
You’re invited to Tynkertopia’s
8th Birthday Bash!
We’re so excited to celebrate 8 years of Tynkertopia! Come join us for hands-on STEAM activities, outdoor games, cake, snacks, and drinks!
We’ll be partying from 2 to 4PM on Saturday, September 19th at Tynkertopia!
3330 Elder Dr, Flagstaff AZ 86004
See you there!
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Following this morning’s press release regarding the Flagstaff Minimum Wage effective Jan. 1, 2027, City staff identified the need to revise the calculation. After revising the calculation, the minimum wage will increase to $18.95 per hour Jan. 1, 2027, not $19.00 per hour as previously reported.
Set within the galleries and theater at Coconino Center for the Arts, NightVisions: Savor the Night Sky is a constellation of a chef-curated dinner, live music & dancing, musical theater, and stargazing.
Featuring:
Amber Hour social with cash bar celestial cocktails & mocktails
Harvest Moon Dinner served within the NightVisions: AMBER gallery exhibition. Catered by SOSTA, inspired by the texture and flavors of an autumn evening around the open fire.
Moonlit Melodies by Stargazer Collaborative Theater
Stargazing guided telescope experience by Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition
…and more!
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County officials celebrated another successful County Fair with the local Hispanic community turning out for a variety of Latino-themed performances on Sept. 6 at the 77th annual Coconino County Fair.
“Thousands turned out to Get Your Kicks and Fair Fix at Fort Tuthill County Park this Labor Day weekend!” County officials stated. “Thank you to our incredible community, local businesses, and everyone who came together to make the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair one to remember. We hope to see you again next year!”
Entertainment on Sunday at the Main Stage included the morning dance performances by Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff, the afternoon performance by Banda La Excepcional and the evening concert by Grupo La Kana.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff commemorated the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with a ceremony during the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.
“Today, we remember and honor the heroes of September 11, 2001, who showed incredible bravery and sacrifice. Flagstaff stands united in reflection, paying tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of our nation,” the city stated on its Facebook page.
The event included the presentation of the Colors and the display of hundreds of flags. The 9/11 Flag Memorial Field honors the 2,977 people who lost their lives on 9/11/2001.
PHOENIX – Secretary of State Adrian Fontes (on July 2, 2026) has launched a statewide PSA campaign reminding Arizona that voters in all 15 counties have the ability to sign up for BallotTrax, the real-time ballot status update system. In tandem, the Secretary has also launched a redesigned Arizona.Vote website, providing voters with an updated, user-friendly destination for official election information and voter services.
FALL-PAW-LOOZA
Flagstaff Mall
Join us for an exciting time at the FALL-PAW-LOOZA to support Shadows Foundation and their new adoption network, R-FAN!
Food, Bar, Games, Giveaways, Vendors, Cornhole Tournament, K9 Demonstration, Pet Adoptions, Live Music, Kids Crafts Hosted by Flagstaff Walmart Locations, and More!
Shadows Foundation R-FAN will have puppies available for adoption from 2-5pm!
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — On January 1, 2027, the minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase from $18.35 to $19.00 per hour for all workers.
On November 8, 2016 the voters of Flagstaff wrote and passed The Minimum Wage Act as a citizen’s initiative (Proposition 414). Accordingly, the City’s minimum wage is adjusted annually by the change in the cost of living.
