The US Forest Service is revising its management plan for the 3 million acre Tonto National Forest. The 4-year plan revision process is at the first stage with an assessment of forest resource conditions and trends.
Public comment on the assessment is invited and a number of community forums have been scheduled between May and July.
The Tonto is a popular area for hunting and recreational shooting, but as the Forest becomes more urbanized, areas now open to hunting and shooting could be closed in the revised plan.
Hunters are encouraging others to attend the forums and speak up for continued access and opportunities to hunt. They say that the US Forest Service needs to hear that continuing the traditional and popular pursuits of hunting and shooting are public values that must be protected and continued in the revised forest plan.
The Tonto is the fifth largest forest in the United States. It is one of the most-visited “urban” forests in the U.S. (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are from Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.
Forums will involve presentations from Tonto NF staff and partners on key Forest Plan topics, followed by small group discussions to bring forth technical and local knowledge about these topics.
Community Forum Goals:
• Create shared understanding of the Forest Plan and key Assessment topics
• Provide an avenue to the public to give input on the Assessment
• Lay the foundation for Forest Plan Revision
Schedule:
Monday, May 19: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Terrestrial Resources (Wildlife & Vegetation)
Skyline High School, 845 S Crismon Rd, Mesa, AZ
Wednesday, May 21: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Fire/Fuels, Forestry, Range
Julia Randall Elementary School, 902 W Main St, Payson, AZ
Wednesday, June 4: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Recreation, Scenic Resources, Designated Areas
Tonto Basin Ranger District Office, 28079 Hwy 188, Roosevelt, AZ
Monday, June 16: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Cultural Resources, Terrestrial Resources (Wildlife & Vegetation)
Julia Randall Elementary School, 902 W Main St, Payson, AZ
Tuesday, June 17: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Air, Soil, Water Resources, and Infrastructure
Skyline High School, 845 S. Crismon Rd, Mesa, AZ
Thursday, June 19: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Minerals, Range, Infrastructure
Gila County Community College – Gila Pueblo Campus
8274 S. Six Shooter Canyon Rd, Globe, AZ
Monday, June 30: 6:30 – 9:00 PM
Topics: Recreation, Scenic Resources, Designated Areas
Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N Schoolhouse Rd, Cave Creek, AZ
Wednesday, July 2: 6 – 8:30 PM
Topics: Fire/Fuels, Forestry, Range
Pleasant Valley Community Center, Hwy 288, Young, AZ