Eastern Arizona College’s Discovery Park benefits from Wildland Firefighters’ Efforts
Eastern Arizona College’s Discovery Park recently received valuable assistance from the Ft. Grant Wildland Fire Crew, which spent two days working on an important project to improve safety and maintain the natural beauty of the park. The crew used the opportunity to hone their forestry and equipment skills in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season (EAC – Submitted photos).
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College’s Discovery Park recently received valuable assistance from the Ft. Grant Wildland Fire Crew, which spent two days working on an important project to improve safety and maintain the natural beauty of the park. The crew used the opportunity to hone their forestry and equipment skills in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season.
A team of 18 firefighters worked diligently to clear and manage specific areas of the park, ensuring a safer environment for visitors while also enhancing the park’s natural landscape. Their efforts will support ongoing improvements at Discovery Park, helping staff continue their work on important conservation and maintenance initiatives.
The crew also created several carefully placed slash piles—stacks of tree debris that will be safely managed over the winter months. These piles will provide natural materials for birds returning to Discovery Park in the spring, contributing to the park’s rich ecosystem.
A Valued Partnership for the Community
“It’s always an honor to have the Ft. Grant Wildland Fire Crew lend their expertise to Discovery Park,” said Paul Anger, director of EAC Discovery Park. “They take their work seriously, and their dedication to protecting both our community and the environment is truly commendable. The commercial value of the work they completed would have been in excess of $40,000—an incredible contribution that we are deeply grateful for.”
Anger added, “Their hard work has made Discovery Park safer and more enjoyable for everyone. I encourage the community to visit and appreciate all that has been accomplished.” Discovery Park Hours and Visitor Information
Discovery Park’s outdoor grounds, including the Meadows park area and Nature’s Hideaway trails, are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until sundown.
The Discovery Park buildings, including the Polaris Shuttle Simulator and the Native American Heritage Museum, are open during the following hours:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.