A tree knocked down a powerline in Lochiel, starting a fire. Within 24 hours, that fire had traveled 12 miles, burning over 11,000 acres and triggered mandatory evacuations of 80 people. PVFR Chief Zay Hartigan recounts how the fire was fought — and how it could have been even worse.
Zay Hartigan
Posted inLocal News
Firewise Program Provides Protection
Each year has been getting hot and dry earlier. This year we face another elevated threat due to fuel loading from last summer’s rains. Here’s what we can do as a community to increase our chances of surviving a firestorm this summer.
Posted inLocal News
ATA, Veterans Program Bring Vets to the Santa Ritas
The Arizona Trail Association has a new VETS program ( Veteran Engagement & Trail Stewardship ) that provides guidance, leadership, and opportunities for veterans to connect with other service members in a naturally therapeutic setting while they continue their contributions to our country. The crews are composed entirely of veterans, who organize and execute one- […]
Posted inCommunity
New Route Connects Town, Arizona Trail
The new Arizona Trail route crosses grasslands owned by Hudbay. Photo by Zay Hartigan Construction has been completed this spring on Phase 2 of the Train Track Trail (TTT) that now connects the town of Patagonia with the Arizona National Scenic Trail (AZT) at Casa Blanca Canyon. The TTT was originally envisioned by Betsy McGee […]
Posted inLocal News
New Section of the Train Track Trail Completed
[From left) Tomas Jonnson, German Quiroga and Zay Hartigan celebrate the opening of the new section of the Train Track Trail in Patagonia. Photo by Robert Gay In 2007, Betsy McGee and Cornelia O’Connor decided to pursue a Rails-To-Trails conversion of the old rail bed between Patagonia and Sonoita. With strong support from the County, […]
Posted inCommunity
Plans Afoot on the Arizona Trail
Patagonia LOVES the Arizona Trail. And the Arizona Trail LOVES Patagonia. What’s not to love? Having a national scenic trail that runs right through the town provides great recreational opportunities and brings in revenue from travelers from all over the world. Patagonia provides the trail and its users a safe and convenient location for shuttling […]