In the vast and varied landscape of Arizona, where deserts meet mountains and rivers meander through canyons, lies a thriving ecosystem of fish populations meticulously managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). At the heart of this management strategy are fish hatcheries and watershed management plans, crucial tools that guide conservation efforts and sustainably support recreational fishing opportunities across the state. Inside the Hatcheries in Arizona Since its inception in 1922, the Arizona Game and Fish Department has operated 15 fish hatcheries. Six of them remain active today! These facilities serve as vital hubs for fish production, with
Before Le Mans became synonymous with endurance racing, a daring group of adventurers carved out their place in automotive history. Racing across the rugged desert terrain between Los Angeles and Phoenix, giving birth to what became known as the Cactus Derby. The Timeline of the Cactus Derby In November 1908, when traversing the vast expanse between these two cities. A notable achievement in itself, the inaugural Cactus Derby took place. Covering a distance of over 500 miles, this race was no small feat. The victor of this maiden event was Colonel F.C. Fenner, navigating a White steamer at an average
In the 1930s, Arthur Weber wandered the rugged expanse of Peralta Canyon with dreams of discovering the fabled mother lode (i.e. a main spot where you might find gold or silver). Though his search never unearthed the sought-after riches, Weber established something far more enduring—the Dons of Phoenix. Named in honor of the Spanish dons who once traversed these lands in the 1600s, this group emerged from the young men of the Phoenix YMCA, where Weber served as the physical education director. Their mission was simple yet profound: to preserve the rich folklore of the Southwest. Over time, the Dons
Ever wondered about that distinctive scent that fills the air just before it rains in Arizona? It’s not just a prelude to the typical brown wall of dirt on the horizon. No, it’s something far more evocative—it’s the unmistakable fragrance of rain in the desert, a scent that many of us associate with home. This magical aroma owes its existence to the larrea tridentata, commonly known as the creosote plant, which thrives exclusively in the arid Southwest regions of the United States and Mexico, encompassing deserts like the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan. When rain finally graces these parched lands, the
Artist credit: Charlie Burchmore In Arizona folklore, the Red Ghost stands out as a figure of intrigue and fear. Allegedly roaming the Arizonan frontier during the late 19th century, this creature was said to be a large, red camel bearing a human skeleton upon its back. The legend of the Red Ghost gripped the imaginations of Arizonans, spreading far and wide until its supposed demise at the turn of the 20th century. The story took a chilling turn in 1893 when a farmer encountered the creature in his yard and fatally shot it, only to discover the shocking truth: a
Beneath the sun-baked soil of Glendale lies a hidden treasure: a sprawling underground expanse deeper than the Grand Canyon itself. This colossal phenomenon, known as the Luke Salt Body, spans an estimated 10,000 feet in thickness and covers an expansive 40 square miles of desert terrain. Fueling Arizona’s Economy A geological marvel boasting a remarkable purity of 99.9 percent, the Luke Salt Body played a pivotal role in driving Arizona’s late postwar economic boom. Even decades later, it continues to be a cornerstone of productivity. Morton Salt, a company that has mastered the art of mining the deposit, is responsible
Nestled within the beautiful and unique landscape of Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo has been a popular destination since its start in 1962. Spanning 125 acres, it is the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States, offering a haven for animals and humans alike. One of the hallmarks of the Phoenix Zoo’s dedication to excellence is its accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This prestigious recognition underscores the zoo’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of animal care, welfare, conservation, and education. Accreditation by the AZA signifies that the Phoenix Zoo adheres to rigorous criteria
Get your hiking gear ready and prepare to witness the vibrant spectacle of wildflowers adorning the desert landscape in the Greater Phoenix area. March and April herald the peak bloom season in the Sonoran Desert, offering an array of hiking trails for enthusiasts of all levels. Essential Facts Bloom Period: Late February to May marks the peak of the wildflower season. Variety: Over 20 species of wildflowers and flowering plants grace the Arizona landscape, including poppies, brittlebush, chuparosa, and marigolds. The abundance of these blooms varies based on elevation and the preceding year’s rainfall. Trail Etiquette: Treat hiking trails and
Between Maricopa and Pinal Counties in Arizona lies the charming town of Queen Creek, rich in history and brimming with unique landmarks that tell its story. From century-old buildings to remnants of the past, Queen Creek’s historic properties offer a glimpse into its fascinating heritage. The Story of Queen Creek Before Queen Creek became the vibrant community it is today, it was home to the Hohokam, an ancient Native American tribe who cultivated the fertile lands along the Queen Creek Wash. In the early 20th century, Charles Rittenhouse established the Queen Creek Farms Company, transforming the area into a thriving
Arizona, known for its unique identity and diverse landscapes, is home to various state symbols representing its rich heritage. From the iconic saguaro cactus to the resilient cactus wren, each emblem tells a story of Arizona’s natural beauty and cultural significance. Let’s look closely at some of Arizona’s state symbols and key facts about the state. AZ State Flag The Arizona State Flag features alternating red and yellow rays, symbolizing the 13 original colonies and the setting sun of the western landscape. The blue bottom half represents the U.S. flag, while the copper star signifies Arizona’s leading role in copper
