Fast Facts:
The Tumacacori Highlands Wilderness Proposal
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Common Ground and Collaboration
The Tumacacori Highlands wilderness proposal is a local effort undertaken in collaboration with ranchers, hunters, conservationists, biologists, faith groups, residents, state and federal government agencies, border patrol, local businesses, elected officials and many others who share a common desire to preserve the Tumacacori Highlands.
Threats
Arizona's population is growing exponentially. With a growing demand for outdoor recreation, off-road vehicle use is the greatest and most pressing threat to this pristine remnant of the American West. Roads and tracks created by unrestricted off-road vehicle use cause habitat damage, erosion, wildlife disturbance and can even decrease effective border security. Both the quality of the landscape and a person's feeling of solitude are adversely affected. Read more.
Permanent Protection
Wilderness designation is the best, most permanent, protection the Tumacacori Highlands could have, requiring a federal bill passed through Congress and signed by the President of the United States to become law, or to be rescinded or amended. Wilderness designation prohibits the creation of more roads that degrade the habitat, preserving for future generations a place to visit that is contains the biodiversity and remoteness of America as she used to be.
Preservation
Wilderness designation would preserve for future generations a piece of the American West as it used to be...
... high quality habitat with abundant game for backcountry hunters.
... a refuge for the diverse wildlife still existing or returning from southern ranges, like the jaguar.
... a livelihood for ranchers who continue to work the land sustainably, as they have done for generations.
... an escape from modern life - a jump in time - to a serene and beautiful place of rest and solitude.
Natural Barrier
The Tumacacori Highlands are rugged and remote, keeping illegal immigrant and drug traffic minimal as these travelers seek quick and easy routes to paved roads and populated areas. Read more.
Habitat Protection
Wilderness designation in the Tumacacori Highlands keeps motorized vehicles on designated access roads to prevent destruction of habitat caused by an increasing trend in off-road vehicle use. Tracks created by one off-road vehicle directly impact the environment though erosion, compaction and wildlife disturbance. Wilderness designation preserves the ability for people to enjoy an altogether different outdoor experience.. of quiet recreation, backcountry trekking, traditional hunting and wilderness adventure.
Economy
Wilderness boosts the economy as tourists and frequent visitors eat, stay, and shop at nearby towns, community events, restaurants, historical sites and other attractions. Read more.
> Read through our Frequently Asked Questions for more talking points!
