Close old mines in Tucson Mountain Park
Historic mining exploration in Tucson Mountain Park left behind dozens of open pits. These holes trap and kill wildlife—reptiles, mammals, birds—and they create serious hazards for people hiking and recreating in the park. Over the 2024-25 season, volunteers closed 15 of these features by hand. We’re doing it again this year!
WHERE: Tucson Mountain Park
WHEN: Saturday, October 17 | 7:30 – 11:30 AM
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll be filling mine holes: shoveling, picking, moving rock and dirt. The work is straightforward and you don’t need experience. You do need to be physically capable of sustained manual labor: digging, bending, hauling.
What You Need to Know
This is demanding work in the desert, on rocky ground around open pits. Wear close-toed boots, long pants, and long sleeves. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. Pima County will provide tools, gloves, dust masks, and refreshments; bring your own if you prefer.
We’ll meet at a site in Tucson Mountain Park at 7:00 AM. (Details forthcoming for those who RSVP).
Who’s Organizing This
This is a coordinated effort between the Pima County Conservation Lands and Resources Department, the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, and the Tucson Herpetological Society.
Why It Matters
Every hole we close is wildlife we save and a safety hazard we remove. Last season, 15 volunteers made a measurable difference. With your help we can do more.
RSVP today!
Contact Brian Powell for more information and to RSVP: brianforbespowell@gmail.com
