Press Coverage April 2020
we’ve worked closely with the lake Weekend wrap-up: The Maricopa County Parks staff to develop a plan that will Here are the biggest Department says it’s been able to provide a safe environment for both enforce social distancing at Lake our park visitors and my team,” said Arizona stories from Pleasant, reporting about half as R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks April 24-26 many park visitors as usual. and Recreation Department BY KTAR.COM Director. APRIL 26, 2020 AT 5:30 PM But during the first weekend of the year with triple-digit temperatures, Officials announced the following Lake Pleasant implements additional Parks Department spokesman R.J. changes set to take effect this restrictions to limit coronavirus Cardin says the county will be Saturday: spread restricting access to the lake between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. both Saturday Main Entrance Lake Pleasant Regional Park and Sunday. • The park will enter into adopted new closure guidelines a temporary mandated hard starting Saturday to mitigate the "If you’re planning to get in the closure from 11 am to 4 spread of coronavirus. park, obviously be here early in the pm on Saturday and Sunday at Park officials announced Friday the morning," Smith said. "We’ll close the main park entry. new weekend changes included a the entrance at 11 a.m., but there • No new entries/re-entries will hard close of the park’s main may be folks that are here at 10:45 be allowed into the park during entrance from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. all that won’t get in because the line is this period. weekend. backed up. So make sure you’re here well ahead of the 11 a.m. hour, and North Entrance (4-lane boat There were no new entries or you’ll be able to get into the park." ramp) reentries allowed into the park • The north entrance will be open during the closure. Those with campground on Saturday and Sunday from 6 reservations should arrive before 11 am to 9 am. Entrance into the There were also no same-day a.m. as well, but they will be allowed area will close at 9 am, and all camping reservations allowed for to call the park and arrange special boaters must exit the area by 4 Friday, Saturday or Sunday. access if necessary. pm on these days. • No new entries/re-entries into Maricopa County Weekend changes the area will be allowed after 9 a.m. Restricting Access made at Lake • A closure may be implemented To Lake Pleasant Pleasant to begin before 9 a.m. if physical- distancing park capacity This Weekend Saturday standards are reached in this By Scott Bourque Changes are being made to the area prior to the mandatory Published: Saturday, April 25, 2020 - weekend hours of Lake Pleasant and closure. 7:47am other lakes. • Updated: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 - By: abc15.com staff The area will remain closed 9:30am Posted at 9:56 AM, Apr 24, 2020 Monday through Friday. KJZZ PHOENIX — The Maricopa Camping Reservations County Parks Department is • Campers are encouraged to announcing new weekend changes at enter the park after 4 p.m. to Lake Pleasant and other parks to avoid closure protocols and to allow for physical distancing. remain inside the park during the mandatory closure periods. “This has been a learning experience • Same day camping reservations for all of us, and we’ve come to for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday realize that the COVID-19 strategies may not be booked at this time. that are working well in our mountain parks do not fully meet Shoreline Camping Rebecca Brisley/Cronkite News the lake’s needs. Over the past week, Lake Pleasant north of Phoenix. Page 1
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• There is no primitive, shoreline, Changes are coming to Lake • No new entries/re-entries will or boat camping available at the Pleasant. be allowed into the park during lake. this period. Starting this Saturday and Sunday, Trailheads Maricopa County Parks at Lake North Entrance (4-lane boat • The Beardsley Trailhead is Pleasant will be closing the entrance ramp) currently closed. on both days between 11 a.m. to 4 • The north entrance will be open p.m., meaning if you’re not inside on Saturday and Sunday from 6 Payments the park by 11, you’re out of luck. am to 9 am. Entrance into the • Payment may be made via They are doing this to ensure the area will close at 9 am, and all credit/debit card and/or annual safety of park employees and boaters must exit the area by 4 pass. visitors. pm on these days. • No new entries/re-entries into “What we want to do is promote Scorpion Bay Marina the area will be allowed after 9 opportunities for people to practice • Marina slip renters and a.m. good social distancing, and as a individuals with boat • A closure may be implemented result, closed all major picnic areas." reservations should be in the before 9 a.m. if physical-
park by 11 am or after 4 pm on distancing park capacity “I’m surprised that they’re now Saturday and Sunday if at all standards are reached in this making restrictions on the weekend possible. area prior to the mandatory but maybe they see that it’s way too closure. • Individuals visiting Scorpion crowded,” said park visitor Karen Bay Marina should contact the Puddy. • The area will remain closed marina for further information Monday through Friday. on how the changes will impact “We saw probably 2 miles of people their visit. coming out,” said another visitor Camping Reservations • These changes only impact Lake referencing the park last weekend. • Staff will contact those with Pleasant Regional Park and do camping reservations to provide not impact the rest of Maricopa Scorpion Bay Marina’s general instructions on how the sites County’s regional park system. mangers said last weekend people may be accessed during the waited more than five hours, sitting closure. All changes will remain in effect in their cars just to get in. • Campers are encouraged to until COVID-19 restrictions have enter the park after 4 p.m. to been lifted. Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand avoid closure protocols and to Canyon. These are the stars of the remain inside the park during For additional COVID-19 regional United States' national parks system, the mandatory closure periods. park system updates, and with good reason. • Same day camping reservations visit MaricopaCountyParksCOVID- for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 19. “What we have been doing in the may not be booked at this time. past was one in one out. That has New weekend park just been too busy and crowds on Shoreline Camping the highways,” said Cris McSparen, • There is no primitive, shoreline, hours at Lake general manager at Scorpion Bay or boat camping available at the Pleasant Marina. lake. Monica Garcia Posted Apr 24, 2020 Officials announced the following Trailheads Source: 3TV/CBS 5 changes will take place Saturday, • The Beardsley Trailhead is April 25 currently closed. PEORIA, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) - Maricopa County Parks and Main Entrance Payments Recreation is set to roll out changes The park will enter into a temporary • Payment may be made via mandated hard closure from 11 am at Lake Pleasant Regional Park credit/debit card and/or annual this weekend. to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday at pass. the main park entry.
Scorpion Bay Marina
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• Marina slip renters and those visiting the parks would have a • Educating staff sick-leave, individuals with boat safe environment to hike, bike and teleworking policies, and reservations should be in the recreate in. COVID-19 preventative actions park by 11 am or after 4 pm on • Reviewing the CDC’s guidance Saturday and Sunday if at all For the past month, our department for businesses and employers possible. has been relying heavily on guidance • Individuals visiting Scorpion and expertise from Maricopa These guidelines, coupled with the Bay Marina should contact the County’s Public Health Department guidance we’ve received from Public marina for further information for the most up-to-date information Health, provide me comfort in on how the changes will impact on COVID-19 best practices and knowing we’ve taken the appropriate their visit. safety protocols for the parks. recommended actions to promote Our departments agree that exercise physical-distancing and safe is an important component of recreational experiences in the parks. Maricopa County overall health and wellbeing. Physical activity also helps support mental And, our parks will continue to Parks takes health and outdoor activity can be a follow these additional safety preventive actions great way to maintain mental health precautions until we are informed by to protect visitors while practicing physical distancing. the Board or Governor that they are Posted Thursday, April 23, 2020 3:08 no longer needed. pm Over the past month, our April 23, 2020 department has made difficult The department would also like to Daily Independent operational decisions to ensure remind the community that they MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS physical distancing in County parks. should continue to: AND RECREATION While the decision to close several • Stay home if they are sick or do DEPARTMENT popular trail heads and the northern not feel well. section of Lake Pleasant Regional • Visit parks that are close to your Park, while limiting the capacity for home. each park, was a difficult one for us • Prepare before you visit. Make to make. The majority of our park sure you bring sunscreen, water, visitors understood why these hand-sanitizer, and personal decisions were made and support hygiene items. our efforts. • Use physical distancing and maintain at least six feet Last week, the Centers for Disease between individuals in all areas Control and Prevention released of the park. COVID-19 guidance for park • Stay at least six feet away from R.J. Cardin administrators to offer guidance to others to ensure physical- By R.J. Cardin local, state and national parks distancing and help stop the Maricopa County’s regional parks, managing the resources. spread of COVID-19. trails and open spaces provide spaces The guidelines cover the following • Move to another area if the trail for respite, health and wellness; safety precautions: head or area of the park you are however the temporary closures of • Promoting everyday preventive visiting is crowded. local gyms, entertainment services, actions and recreational opportunities has • Guidance on maintaining and We are all in this together and need made open space parks and trails ensuring restrooms remain open to work together to help stop the some of the most sought after for public visitation spread! spaces to exercise, relieve stress and • Proper operation, maintenance, relax. and disinfection of swimming R.J. Cardin is director of the pools Maricopa County Parks and The first weekend the Governor’s • Canceling or postponing large Recreation Department. Visit closure of non-essential services was events and gatherings www.maricopacountyparks.net. put in place, the regional parks saw a • Social-distancing in popular 26% increase in park attendance. We areas of the parks quickly realized we had to modify • Postponing or canceling Maricopa County our operating procedures to ensure organized activities and sports takes precautions
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pandemic, according to a press • Postponing or canceling amid COVID-19 release. organized activities and sports; pandemic • Educating staff sick-leave, Posted Wednesday, April 22, “Exercise is an important teleworking policies, and 2020 1:32 pm component of overall health and COVID-19 preventative Scottsdale Independent Newsmedia wellbeing,” Marcy Flanagan, actions; and executive director for Maricopa • Reviewing the CDC’s guidance County Department of Public for businesses and employers. Health, said in a prepared statement. “These guidelines, coupled with the “Physical activity also helps support guidance we’ve received from Public mental health and outdoor activity Health, provide me comfort in can be a great way to maintain knowing we’ve taken the appropriate mental health while practicing recommended actions to promote physical distancing.” physical-distancing and safe recreational experiences in the The parks department has made parks,” Mr. Cardin said. FILE PHOTO operational decisions to ensure Usery Mountain Regional Park is one of many parks physical distancing in county parks. “And, our parks will continue to within the county that is taking precautions and remaining open amid the COVID-19. follow these additional safety “While the decision to close several precautions until we are informed by Maricopa County’s parks, trails and popular trailheads, the northern the Board or Governor that they are open spaces provide spaces for section of Lake Pleasant Regional no longer needed.” Park and limit the capacity for each respite, health, and wellness, but the • The department also reminds park was a difficult one for us to temporary closures of gyms, the community to continue to: entertainment services and make, the majority of our park visitors understand why these • Stay home if they are sick or do recreational opportunities has made not feel well; open space parks and trails popular decisions were made and support our efforts,” R.J. Cardin, Maricopa • Visit parks that are close to your spaces to exercise, relieve stress and home; relax. County parks and recreation • Prepare to visit. Make sure you department director, said in a bring sunscreen, water, hand- “The first weekend the governor’s prepared statement. sanitizer, and personal hygiene closure of non-essential services was items; put in place, our regional parks saw a Recently, the Centers for Disease 26% increase in park attendance,” Control and Prevention released • Use physical distancing and Maricopa County Board of COVID-19 Guidance for Park maintain at least six feet Supervisors Chairman Clint Administrators to offer guidance to between individuals in all areas Hickman, District 4, said in a local, state and national parks of the park; prepared statement. managing the resources. The • Stay at least six feet away from guidelines cover the following safety others to ensure physical- “Our team quickly realized we had precautions: distancing and help stop the to modify our operating procedures spread of COVID-19; and to ensure those visiting the parks • Promoting everyday preventive • Move to another area if the would have a safe environment to actions; trailhead or area of the park hike, bike, and recreate in.” • Guidance on maintaining and they are visiting is crowded. ensuring restrooms remain open For the past month, the Maricopa for public visitation; County Parks and Recreation • Proper operation, maintenance, Regional, state Department relied heavily on and disinfection of swimming parks still open, but guidance and expertise from the pools; Public Health Department for the • with precautions Canceling or postponing large Limited day-use capacity among most up to date information on best events and gatherings; safety measures in place practices and safety protocols for the • Social-distancing in popular By Steve Stockmar parks amid the COVID-19 areas of the parks; Peoria Independent
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April 14, 2020 and our experts at Public Health find an alternate location,” have reminded all of us that we have Maricopa County Parks and to be responsible about the threat of Recreation Department director spread outdoors as well. We urge R.J. Cardin states. “Fortunately our people to do their research, be department manages the Maricopa responsible when seeking outdoor Trail which is a 315-mile trail system areas and have a backup plan in case that links our regional parks the location they’ve selected is together. There are quite a few congested. Please don’t put yourself connections and trailheads from or others at risk.” neighborhoods to the trail where you can walk your dog or take a bike ride In addition to maintaining a with your family.” [SUBMITTED PHOTO] minimum of six feet of safe Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant in Peoria is distancing from others, other things Meanwhile, at this time all among the Maricopa County regional parks still open to be aware of at Maricopa County’s recreational state parks and trails are for recreation but with safe social distancing guidelines regional parks during coronavirus open to the public with appropriate in effect. include: restrictions. Posted Tuesday, April 14, 2020 4:49 • pm Park hours have changed. Historic parks and gift shops are Mountain parks are open 6 closed. State parks are metering the Maricopa County regional parks are a.m.-6 p.m. Lake Pleasant number of people entering a park to still open for safe recreation during Regional Park is open 6 a.m.-8 help maintain social distancing these times of coronavirus p.m. and the Hassayampa River guidelines. Expect temporary precautions, and another option still Preserve is now open Thursday closures at busy parks and reduced is to “visit” the Arizona State Park through Sunday. parking spaces. trail system virtually with Google • Facility closures. The nature
Maps. centers, group picnic areas and Residents can opt to take a virtual park playgrounds are closed. hike on an Arizona State Park trail The county’s regional parks remain Restrooms in closed areas with Google Maps, through spots open and are operating with limited remain locked. The northern like Flatiron and Picacho Peak, Dead services and capacity limits to adhere entrance/area at Lake Pleasant Horse Ranch State Park, and more. to physical-distancing guidelines and Regional Park, Waterfall Trail at
Gov. Ducey’s Executive Orders. White Tank Mountain Regional In 2019, State Parks staff carried a West Valley sites include Adobe Park and Goldmine Trailhead at heavy Google Trekker camera over Dam Regional Park, 23280 N. 43rd San Tan Mountain Regional 200 miles to map every trail in the Ave., Glendale; Desert Outdoor Park are also closed. state parks, and Google processed Center at Lake Pleasant, 41402 N. • Camping. Primitive, shoreline or and uploaded the data to Google 87th Ave., Peoria; Estrella Mountain boat camping at Lake Pleasant Earth and Maps. The information Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard Regional Park is prohibited. gives everyone the opportunity to Ave., Goodyear; Lake Pleasant Reserved campsites are still take a virtual tour of a trail without Regional Park, 41835 N. Castle Hot available but residents are having to physically climb or travel. Springs Road, Morristown; and strongly encouraged to secure a
White Tank Mountain Regional reservation before heading to a Visit www.azstateparks.com. Park, 20304 W. White Tank park. Mountain Road, Waddell. • Limited day-use capacity. Once a park has reached limited 5 Perfect “Exercise and fresh air play an capacity, the entrance into the important role in keeping us healthy park will be restricted to a one- Wildflower Hikes In and everyone is anxious to get out, one-in practice or close Arizona outside,” Board of Supervisors completely and reopen when CINDY BARKS Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4, capacity is at a safe number APR.11.2020 stated again. Visitors should expect TravelAwaits.com at www.maricopacountyparks.net. delays and long lines. “However, (Maricopa County disease control division medical “If you find yourself at a crowded director Rebecca) Dr. Sunenshine trailhead or area in the park, please Page 5
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Of course, spring is also the time when the trails tend to be busiest, so it pays to seek out lesser-used trails. Here are five perfect Arizona wildflower hikes, a mix of off-the- beaten-path options and well-known spots.
Expect to spend about 2 hours on a 3-to-4-mile round trip. As with any hike in the desert, remember to wear On the scale of things that sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty universally make people happy, of water. Even in the spring, the wildflowers are certainly up there -- temperatures can soar into the 80s hovering somewhere between and 90s, and there is little shade waterfalls and rainbows. along the route. Although you will
1. Black Canyon National encounter plenty of other hikers, I In the Arizona desert, where have found that the Black Canyon springtime ushers in wildflower Recreation Trail, Black Canyon City Trail is less busy than Phoenix’s season, there is plenty of delight to popular Camelback Mountain and go around. Especially after a wet Showcasing some of the best of the wide-open Sonoran Desert, Piestewa Peak Trails. winter, the spiky and sometimes forbidding Sonoran Desert can the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail runs 80 miles along Highlight: The trail runs along a become softened by endless fields of ridge that opens up to spectacular yellows, purples, and reds. a north-south route once used by prehistoric Native American views of the Agua Fria River that twists through the canyon below. Thankfully, 2020 is one of those travelers and traders. The flow is somewhat seasonal, but lucky years. While the spring flowers in the spring, the Agua Fria is often are perhaps not as plentiful as they For quick access to towering saguaro cacti and nonstop clusters of full and robust. Long before you were in 2019 -- a truly remarkable reach the pebbly banks of the river, year in the desert -- they are still wildflowers, head to the Black Canyon City Trailhead, near the you will hear that most beautiful of showing up in ample numbers. desert sounds -- rushing water. On Interstate 17 outpost of Rock Springs. Walk south along the hot spring afternoons, families The colorful flowers can be seen gather along the river’s banks, taking clustered along busy highways and undulating single-track trail, and you’ll soon reach the middle of a careful dips in the cool water. interstates, but the best way to savor the bounty of Arizona’s wildflowers cactus forest. is to take a hike. The trail surface is rocky and rough, but the grade is fairly gentle. An out- Wildflowers are not the only appeal and-back hike of 3 to 4 miles will of Arizona’s trails in the springtime. yield great views and a moderate It is also the time when the desert workout. Along the way, you will be climate is at its best for hiking the treated to regular stands of lavender rugged terrain. The Phoenix lupine, purple owl clover, and area enjoys average high numerous clusters of golden temperatures in the high 70s in sunflower-like globe chamomile March, the mid-80s in April, and (albeit an invasive species). into the 90s in May. Hiking is generally discouraged in Phoenix’s brutal summer heat, but late autumn and winter can also be great times to visit.
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2. Jojoba Trail, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest Known as one of the best places in the Phoenix area to spot delicate poppy blooms, Bartlett Lake is located in the Tonto National Forest about an hour northeast of Scottsdale. 3. Lime Kiln Trail, Dead Horse Adventurous hikers or mountain Ranch State Park, Cottonwood bikers might want to try the entire One of the beauties of the Bartlett For a truly remote high-desert 15-mile route. But for those who Lake wildflower scene is that the experience, head to the Lime Kiln want only a taste of the Lime Kiln blooms are easily accessible along Trail in Dead Horse Ranch State Trail, I suggest parking at Dead the paved roads that wind around Park, located in Cottonwood, about Horse Ranch State Park and hiking the reservoir. Flower peepers often 1.5 hours north of Phoenix. in for 2 to 3 miles for a round trip of drive the scenic route and park 4 to 6 miles. alongside the road at spots like While the state park is popular for its Rattlesnake Cove to photograph the lush riparian area along the Verde The trail is rough and steep in places fields of yellow-orange poppies. River, it is also the trailhead for the and is rated as strenuous. Traffic is rugged Lime Kiln Trail. The 15-mile- light, though, so you are likely to see It is not necessary to hike to see the long trail runs northeast few other hikers and bikers on the best of Bartlett Lake’s wildflowers, toward Sedona and ends near the route. but if you are in the mood for a scenic Red Rock State Park. fairly easy walk through the desert The trail follows a historic route that Highlight: The trail passes by ancient with the blue waters of the lake as a dates to the 1880s, when it was built cottonwood trees with glossy leaves backdrop, head to Jojoba Trail. The to serve a kiln that produced lime for and transitions quickly to desolate 1.3-mile route stretches from the mortar used for construction of white cliffs that offer sweeping views Rattlesnake Cove to the Jojoba early homes in the area. of the Verde River Valley. boating site, passing by flowering ocotillo cacti, tufts of poppies, and In the springtime and early summer, sweeping views of the rugged the otherwise desolate route comes Mazatzal Mountains to the east. The alive with white daisies and 2.6-mile round trip should take blooming cacti. about 1.5 hours to complete.
Remember that a Tonto Pass is needed to park at many of the developed sites around Bartlett Lake. The passes can be purchased at the Cave Creek Ranger Station near 4. Wild Burro Trail, Lake Cave Creek. Pleasant Regional Park, Morristown Highlight: The coves that dip deep Water and desert converge into the desert terrain make secluded beautifully at Lake Pleasant, a spots to view the wildflowers as well regional park located about 45 as the picturesque boating scene on minutes northwest of Phoenix. For Bartlett Lake. the best of both, head to the Wild Burro Trail, a busy 3.1-mile trail that
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passes by saguaro and cholla cacti website, adding that the hike would before ambling down to hug the take at least 5 hours to complete. lovely lake shoreline. I recommend hiking up the first mile Along the way, the trail showcases and a half or so of the Siphon Draw some of the best of Arizona’s spring Trail, where you will be surrounded wildflower scene. Interspersed in the by wildflowers and be treated to a rocky terrain are pretty little stands nonstop view of the Superstition of purple owl clover, complemented Mountains. perfectly by the yellow chamomile flowers. In some places, the pink- Entry to the state park requires a fee. purple flowers of the strawberry 5. Siphon Draw Trail, Lost hedgehog cacti serve as centerpieces Dutchman State Park, Apache Highlight: The rugged mountain for the wildflowers. Junction view, set off by fields of wildflowers, Arizona’s mining history is the main is an iconic Arizona landscape. The trail gets heavy traffic, especially focus of Lost Dutchman State Park, on sunny spring weekends, so a but in the spring, wildflowers weekday visit is recommended. dominate the landscape. Lake visitors react Regardless, expect to encounter to Maricopa County plenty of other hikers, as well as Located in Apache Junction at the fishermen and campers clustered far eastern edge of Phoenix’s Valley park regulations By: Chloe Mar along the lake’s beautiful coves. of the Sun, the park was named after Posted at 3:32 PM, Apr 11, 2020 the fabled lost gold mine. ABC 15
Walk along the popular Siphon MORRISTOWN, AZ — Maricopa Draw Trail, and you will be County is placing restrictions on surrounded by yellow wildflowers park usage in hopes of stopping the that seem to stretch as far as the eye spread of coronavirus in Arizona. can see.
According to a press release from Although rated as difficult, the lower Maricopa County, the new stretches of Siphon Draw are fairly restrictions include: easy and offer great vantage points • to take in not just the wildflowers Mountain parks are open from and plentiful flowering cacti, but the 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lake Pleasant awe-inspiring backdrop of the Regional Park is open from 6 Superstition Mountains as well. a.m. to 8 p.m. and the Hassayampa River Preserve is I recommend walking as far as you now open Thursday through Sunday. feel comfortable on the 4-mile (round-trip) Siphon Draw Trail. The • Facility closures: The nature The terrain is rocky and rough, but state park website describes the trail centers, group picnic areas and the elevation gain is relatively minor, as a very scenic hike that winds into park playgrounds are closed. at just over 200 feet. Expect to a canyon known as Siphon Draw. It Restrooms in closed areas spend 2 to 3 hours hiking the entire is possible to continue on to the remain locked. The northern 3.1-mile route. I recommend packing Flatiron, although the 5.8-mile round entrance/area at Lake Pleasant a picnic lunch and stopping at one of trip is not a designated trail, and it is Regional Park, Waterfall Trail at the coves for a break. known as one of the toughest hikes White Tank Mountain Regional A fee is required to enter Lake in the area. Park and Goldmine Trailhead at Pleasant Regional Park. San Tan Mountain Regional “It’s advised that only experienced Park are also closed. Highlight: The views of the lake -- hikers in good shape attempt to hike • Camping: Primitive, shoreline or set off by saguaros and cholla cacti -- to the top, as the climb is steep and boat camping at Lake Pleasant are stellar along most of the route. difficult to follow,” says the park’s Regional Park is prohibited. Reserved campsites are still
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available but residents are However, Dr. Sunenshine and shoreline camping at Lake Pleasant strongly encouraged to secure a experts at Public Health have Regional Park," Cardin said. "As a reservation before heading to a reminded all of us that we have to be reminder, most of the campsites will park. It is anticipated that responsible about the threat of be full this weekend, so it would be campgrounds will be full this spread outdoors as well. very wise to book a site online weekend. before you head out to a park.” • Limited day-use capacity: Once "We urge people to do their a park has reached limited research, be responsible when The Easter holiday is one of the capacity, the entrance into the seeking outdoor areas and have a most important holidays on the park will be restricted to a one- backup plan in case the location Christian calendar. Many families out, one-in practice or close they’ve selected is congested. Please gather for large celebrations — but completely and reopen when don’t put yourself or others at risk.” this year the Center for Disease capacity is at a safe number Control and Prevention advises again. Visitors should expect against that. delays and long lines. Maricopa County Parks Tighten Maricopa County Disease Control “We come out here to get away but Director Rebecca Sunenshine, it looks like everybody has the same Restrictions For speaking in an online Q&A session, idea," says William Garcia, one of Easter Weekend recommends families turn to many spending the weekend on the By Scott Bourque technology for togetherness this water at Lake Pleasant. Published: Friday, April 10, 2020 - year. 3:31pm Garcia says the restrictions are far Updated: Saturday, April 11, 2020 - "Maybe take a lesson from our from a burden, “It gives everybody 2:17pm businesses and use something like the chance to get their social KJZZ Zoom or another video chat distancing in right now and I think 8 application, so you can actually have o’clock is a sufficient time to get As restaurants, bars, and gyms a meal with your family but have back in at your house.” remain closed for the foreseeable everyone in their own homes," she future, park attendance continues to said. "That’s something that I really Other lake visitors agree. Kris climb. recommend, you can connect but Nielsen is a frequent lake goer. He maintain that physical distancing." says, “The flow kind of seems the Over the holiday weekend, same. Same amount of people out Maricopa County Parks are here.” imposing additional restrictions, as Maricopa County County Parks and Recreation Parks increasing Across the shore, Sami Kiel, who Director R.J. Cardin explains. doesn’t visit Lake Pleasant often restrictions ahead says, “There's definitely more people “We have the playgrounds all taped of Easter weekend than I anticipated there would be," off with caution tape, same with the BY DANNY SHAPIRO | APRIL adding, “We’ve definitely been large group picnic areas," Cardin 10, 2020 AT 5:00 PM keeping our distance, staying home said. "We will be having staff in the UPDATED: APRIL 10, 2020 AT as much as possible and, if not, parks trying to guide people to the 7:48 PM doing stuff like this where we can get appropriate locations. We have KTAR out, get the kids out and stay apart.” certain parking lots that have been closed off, that have been PHOENIX — Maricopa County Allowing Arizonans safe barricaded.” Parks and Recreation on Friday opportunities to get outside is announced new restrictions in Maricopa County's ultimate goal. In Cardin says most camping and day- preparation for Easter weekend as a press release Board of Supervisors use areas will enforce capacity limits, the coronavirus outbreak continues Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4 and may resort to one-in one-out to plague the state. says, “Exercise and fresh air play an once those areas are full. important role in keeping us healthy Most of the county’s regional parks and everyone is anxious to get “Our developed campgrounds are will remain open but will begin outside." still open; however, we will not be operating from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. allowing primitive camping or indefinitely.
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Lake Pleasant Regional Park will stay open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. while the That’s on top of ongoing restrictions Two popular trails will also be closed Hassayampa River Preserve will only the city placed on its outdoor this weekend: Waterfall Trail at be open from Thursdays to Sundays recreation space to encourage White Tank Mountain Regional Park for the time being. physical distancing. and Goldmine Trailhead at San Tan Mountain Regional Park. Parks will only be open for a limited For all articles, information and amount of people at a time and updates on the coronavirus from If a park reaches capacity, Maricopa entrance into parks will be restricted KTAR News, County will implement a one-in, to a one-out, one-in practice or close visit ktar.com/coronavirus. one-out system, or close the park completely and reopen when temporarily, until a safe capacity is capacity is at a safe number again. reached to adhere to social Maricopa County distancing guidelines. Visitors should expect delays and cuts regional park long lines because of the new policies. capacity in half What to know starting this before heading out “We urge people to do their research, be responsible when weekend to Maricopa seeking outdoor areas and have a By: Adam Waltz County’s regional backup plan in case the location Posted at 7:34 PM, Apr 10, 2020 they’ve selected is congested,” Board and last updated 4:57 PM, Apr 12, parks of Supervisors Chairman Clint 2020 Kristine Harrington Hickman, District 4, said in a press Posted Apr 10, 2020 release. “Please don’t put yourself or PHOENIX — Maricopa County is AZFamily.com others at risk.” cutting its regional park capacity in half starting this weekend. MARICOPA COUNTY Nature centers, group picnic areas (3TV/CBS5) -- Easter is one of the and park playgrounds are closed at All nature centers, restrooms, group most popular weekends to go to the parks as well as primitive, shoreline picnic, group campgrounds and park, with so many families or boat camping at Lake Pleasant playgrounds at Maricopa County gathering for egg hunts, picnics and Regional Park. Regional Parks will be closed this celebrations. weekend. Reserved campsites are still available But this year, many city parks are but residents are strongly Lake Pleasant will have new hours, 6 closed. And Maricopa county parks encouraged to secure a reservation a.m. to 8 p.m. The north entrance of have restrictions in place to make before heading to a park because Lake Pleasant, including the four sure everyone has "room to roam." most campgrounds are expected to lane boat ramp, primitive camping, be full for the holiday weekend. shoreline camping and boat camping “What we want to do is promote will be closed. Reserved camping opportunities for people to practice The city of Phoenix last week spots will still be available. good social distancing, and as a announced additional policies at its result, closed all major picnic areas,’ parks for Easter weekend to curb “If you find yourself at a crowded said R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County overcrowding and violations of trailhead or area in the park, please Parks and Recreation social distancing guidelines. find an alternate location. Department Director. “Do picnic Fortunately our department manages at home, then come to parks and use Flatland park access will be limited the Maricopa Trail which is a 315- trails, get some exercise and to walking paths and green space. mile trail system that links our sunshine and then head back home regional parks together. There are for family gatherings.” Picnicking will be prohibited, but quite a few connections and restrooms will remain open. trailheads from neighborhoods to The Maricopa County Parks and the trail where you can walk your Rec. Dept. has seen a 26% increase Parking lots at flatland parks will be dog or take a bike ride with your in visitation in recent weeks, as folks closed except to vehicles with family," said R.J. Cardin, Maricopa seek fresh air and exercise during disabled parking placards. County Parks and Recreation this coronavirus quarantine. Department Director. Page 10
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Normally, the increase in popularity County Sheriff’s Office if we had would be great news. But under any issue,” said Cardin. The online reservation system will be these circumstances, the county is used to book developed and semi- having to limit the number of With so many people expected, it is developed campsites. No visitors to just half of park capacity all hands-on deck for park staffers. reservations will be taken after in order to ensure people have ample “We will be at peak staffing levels. hours. There is no primitive space to practice social distancing. We will be cleaning restrooms 2-3 camping. times a day, emptying trash cans and Once a park has reached limited doing all we can to maintain a Do not use trails if you have capacity, the entrance into the park healthy and safe environment for symptoms of COVID-19, which can will be restricted to a one-out, one-in folks out there in the parks.” include fever, cough and difficulty practice, or will close completely and breathing. Avoid social gatherings of reopen when capacity is at a safe more than 10 people. Ensure there is number again. Visitors should expect County parks six to eight feet between each delays and long lines. respond to COVID- person. “There are many parks and trails and outdoor areas within this region, so 19 For more information about the have a series of alternates selected Apr 9, 2020 regional parks and activities before you head out,” said Cardin. Fountain Hills Times pertinent to the CO.
Certain high-volume areas and The Maricopa County Parks and facilities are closed. The nature Recreation Department has made Invasive yellow centers, group picnic areas and park some operational changes in area weeds take over playgrounds are closed. Restrooms regional parks in response to in closed areas remain locked. The COVID-19. parts of Phoenix northern entrance/area at Lake Parks remain open, but hours have area Pleasant Regional Park, Waterfall Sean McLaughlin changed. They are open from 6 Trail at White Tank Mountain Posted Apr 9, 2020 a.m.to 6 p.m. Sunday through Regional Park and Goldmine Saturday. Day-use capacity limits are Trailhead at San Tan Mountain PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) - My joke in place. Once a park has reached Regional Park are also closed. Most of "Are we there yet?" falls a bit flat day-use capacity, entrance to the other areas are open with minor on a recent hike with my in-laws. park will be restricted to a one-out, restrictions. But both the avid hikers know the one-in practice. ins and outs of their neighborhood,
Park hours have also changed. and they are quick to point out Parks will accept payments via credit Mountain parks are open from 6 something I and many others have or debit cards, and annual passes at a.m. to 6 p.m. Lake Pleasant clearly ignored. entry stations only. Cash payments Regional Park is open from 6 a.m. to are strongly discouraged but may be 8 p.m. and the Hassayampa River Pete and Chris stumbled upon made by envelope. The exact change Preserve is now open Thursday something that was just added to should be included; there is no cash through Sunday. Arizona's noxious weed list in in the entry stations. Checks will not January. It's called 'Globe be accepted. Primitive, shoreline or boat camping Chamomile,' otherwise known as
at Lake Pleasant Regional Park is 'stinknet.' This desert invader is fast Nature centers are closed, as are all prohibited. Reserved campsites are becoming a huge problem within our park playgrounds. Group and youth still available, but residents are parks and recreational spaces. strongly encouraged to secure a campgrounds, as well as group picnic areas are closed. Restrooms in reservation before heading to a park. Not only does it crowd out native closed areas will be locked. It is anticipated that campgrounds plants, but it also takes over open
will be full this weekend. desert spaces, even empty, Popular trailheads at some parks neighborhood lots. may experience parking restrictions The hope is that everyone will to limit capacity. If parking respect the restrictions. “As a last "It outcompetes the natives," said restrictions are in place, don’t park resort, we would call Maricopa Maricopa County natural along the roadway or create parking places. specialist Juanita Armstrong- Page 11
Press Coverage April 2020
Ullberg, "It's pungent, it smells and "It's pungent, it smells and its highly point stressed throughout his March its highly allergenic to a lot of allergenic to a lot of people. Not just 30 executive order was that while people. Not just the pollen, but the the pollen, but the actual liquid the residents should follow all possible actual liquid the plant has." plant has," said Armstrong-Ullberg. protocols to stay safe, sheltered and maintain an appropriate distance She says this invasive species is from But until rangers and volunteers can from others in a public setting, they South Africa and came to the U.S. in get their hands on the desert invader, should not restrict their physical the 1980s. It arrived in Arizona knowledge is power. activity. sometime in the 1990s. It was first documented here in Maricopa "So the more people know about it, In particular, as the order states, County in 2003, but really took off the more likely we are to control this among the “essential activities” in the very wet fall/winter seasons of plant from spreading further," said included is “[e]ngaging in outdoor 2016, 2018, 2019 and now 2020. Not Armstrong-Ullberg. exercise activities, such as walking, only does it crowd out native plants, hiking, running, biking or golfing, but it also takes over open desert To volunteer to map these plants, but only if appropriate physical spaces, even empty, neighborhood people can contact CAZCA at distancing practices are used.” lots. email [email protected] or call 480- With that said, and considering the 481-8187, or contact Maricopa recent stretch of warm weather, to "When an invader comes in, then it County Parks Volunteer Coordinator say nothing of the increasing desire fills in all those voids. Every void at [email protected] of many to simply get out of the that was there, it fills it in. So now or call 602-506-9510. house, the Maricopa County Parks when a wildfire comes and these and Recreation department is plants dry out, it enhances the spread People can check out the Collector remaining as accessible as possible of that fire by creating a continued App NNP Observer Map. while also staying vigilant. fuel," Armstrong-Ullberg explains. For Control and Management of Park hours for Maricopa County’s The county parks department has these species, please visit the this mountain parks are 6 a.m.-6 p.m., formed regional partnerships with website. There is also a website for Sunday through Saturday, an conservancy groups across the the USDA Forest Service exception being Lake Pleasant Valley to train volunteers to map and Southwestern Region (Region Regional Park, which is open 6 a.m.- remove this invasive plant. 3) Weed Field Guides. 8 p.m. Sunday through Saturday.
The county parks department has Also announced, pertaining to Lake formed regional partnerships with Parks and rec Pleasant, the north entrance and conservancy groups across the department shares north Lake Pleasant area will be Valley to train volunteers to map and closed until further notice. remove this invasive plant. COVID-19 updates, precautions, Park hours for the Hassayampa "We've developed a collector app, River Preserve will remain the same GIS, or geographical information suggestions (closed Monday and Tuesday, open system that volunteers can use on Posted Tuesday, April 7, 2020 10:12 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through their smartphones," said Armstrong- am Sunday. Ullberg. Daily Independent Newsmedia Parks will limit the day-use capacity COVID-19 has obviously put to comply with Executive Order mitigation efforts on hold for now. 2020-12 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "We had great plans this spring. We which call for social-distancing. had Luke Air Force Base was going Once the park has reached day-use to come out with 300 people at the capacity, entrance into the park will White Tanks and Estrella Park to be restricted to a one-out, one-in hand-pull the sticknet. But COVID- practice or closing completely and 19 canceled that and other volunteer When Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey reopened when capacity is at a safe events," said Armstrong-Ullberg. imposed a stay-at-home order to number again. slow the spread of the coronavirus, a
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Press Coverage April 2020
Parks will accept payments via in the park is experiencing MESA, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) -- Rural credit/debit cards and annual passes overcrowding and congestion, find Metro Fire and the Maricopa County at entry stations only. Cash payments another area in the park to visit to Sheriff’s Office rescued a woman are strongly discouraged but may be practice safe social-distancing who fell down a cliff on Friday made via envelope. Visitors are (Maricopa County's regional park morning. asked to include the exact change as system contains 596-miles of trails, team members will no longer have including the 315-mile Maricopa The incident happened at Usery cash in the entry stations. Checks Trail — click here for maps for the Mountain Regional Park north of will not be accepted. Maricopa Trail); bring water, snacks the Las Sendas Golf Club. and sunscreen; and, if hiking with Nature centers will remain closed pets, clean up after them. Rural Metro said the woman fell 15 and staff are available by feet down a cliff and was about a appointment only, excluding Lake To comply with these and other half-mile up the trail when she Pleasant Regional Park. All park recommendations, the parks reported a head injury. playgrounds are closed, as are department is canceling all park group/youth campgrounds and all programs, events and Special Use Exclusive video from Arizona’s group picnic areas. Restrooms in Permits, closing group/youth Family News Chopper showed the closed areas will be locked. campgrounds, canceling group MCSO helicopter using a basket to Popular trailheads at some parks ramada reservation and will stop airlift her to an ambulance in a may experience parking restrictions accepting reservations for group nearby neighborhood. The woman’s to limit capacity or will be closed to ramadas and group/youth current condition is unknown, but help ensure safe social-distancing. If campgrounds. The use of she was seen moving her arm before parking restrictions are in place, playgrounds is also not being airlifted. visitors should not park along the recommended at this time. roadway or create parking spots. In addition, all fees related to Caution advised The online and phone reservation COVID-19 cancelations will be while hiking system will be used to book waived and returned or may be used Apr 3, 2020 developed and semi-developed for a future date. These actions are The Fountain Hills Times campsites. Reservations may be scheduled to run through April 30, made during business hours by 2020. calling 602-506-2930 ext. 1. No reservations will be taken after hours The department will continue to and no primitive, shoreline or boat monitor county, state, and federal camping is allowed. health department recommendations for guidance and provide updates as Although Maricopa County’s they impact park and trail regional parks and trails, including operations, and/or public safety. campgrounds, continue to remain open for public use, officials are Email maricopacountyparks@maric adopting the president’s and CDC’s opa.gov or With businesses, restaurants and “15 Days to Slow The Spread visit maricopacountyparks.net/covid other forms of entertainment closed, Coronavirus Guidelines for -19. lots of folks have taken to the trails. America.” Maricopa County Parks and The new guidelines recommend: Recreation Department reminds social-distancing; avoiding social WATCH: Woman walkers, hikers and bikers to be gatherings in groups of more than airlifted from Usery mindful of overcrowding. ten people; not using trails if having symptoms of COVID-19, which can Mountain Regional The department reminds everyone include fever, cough and breathing Park after falling off that the following guidelines issued trouble; ensuring there is six to eight by the Center for Disease Control feet between other people on the cliff and Preventions (CDC) remain in trail, following social distancing azfamily.com News Staff place: guidelines from the CDC; if a Posted Apr 3, 2020 • Social-distancing. favorite trailhead or recreational spot
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Press Coverage April 2020
• Avoid social gatherings in many of us staying home for long groups of more than 10 people. hours, and with mild spring weather, • Ensure that there is six feet it seems like a good time to go for a between you and other people. healthy hike. And it is. Cave Creek • Practice good hygiene. has about 50 miles of dedicated public trails. • Wash your hands, especially As in Phoenix, the most popular after touching any frequently trails have become so crowded that used item or surface. maintaining a safe 6-foot “social • Avoid touching your face. distance” can be impossible, • Sneeze or cough into a tissue, or especially trails at the Spur Cross the inside of your elbow. Ranch Conservation Area. The • Disinfect frequently used items past two weekends those parking and surfaces as much as areas have been overflowing. The possible. popular trail up Black Mountain is • Those planning to visit a county also one I’m avoiding. park, remember to: • Bring ample water for all Meanwhile, less popular trails have members of your party. been more safe. The trails adjacent • Ensure all members of your Spur Cross Road and Schoolhouse party are dressed in recreation Road, have been relatively empty, attire (i.e., hats, hiking shoes, even on the weekends. An image of etc.). the public trail along Spur Cross • Have enough sunscreen for Road is included. There are several everyone. maps showing trails within and close to Cave Creek, including the Green The nature centers are closed. The Trails map: #2810S. Town staff or department reminds visitors that the anyone who regularly uses the trails soap and toilet paper in restrooms can help you find the less popular, are there for all park visitors. but still beautiful, Upper-Sonoran Desert trails and trailheads.
Cave Creek’s Trails Protecting ourselves in this difficult time of COVID-19 is an important Are Open” part of protecting others who may By Sonoran News be more vulnerable to deadly April 1, 2020 complications of this disease.
The General Plan community survey can be found prominently displayed on the Town of Cave Creek web site. After several months, the survey is scheduled to end on Friday, April 3. It’s quick and easy, so let your voice count. Thomas McGuire
In a letter to Sonoran News, Cave Creek councilman Councilman McGuire addresses several current issues Cave Creek
To the Editor, Comments coming into the on-line survey regarding the next formulation of the General Plan indicate that trails are very important to Cave Creek residents. With so
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