Contributed article
WILLCOX — Chiricahua National Monument is one of southeastern Arizona’s most remarkable landscapes, protecting more than 12,000 acres of Madrean Sky Islands habitat, cultural resources, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. As part of the broader Madrean Sky Islands region spanning southern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and northern Mexico, Chiricahua is an important conservation anchor within a connected landscape of mountain ranges, forests, grasslands, desert valleys, and wildlife habitat. These connected landscapes support exceptional biodiversity and help communities and ecosystems remain resilient in a changing climate.
Designating Chiricahua as Arizona’s fourth national park would elevate recognition of this special place while supporting outdoor recreation, nature-based tourism, and rural economic opportunity in Willcox and southeastern Arizona. It would also highlight the importance of conserving connected landscapes that sustain wildlife, watersheds, recreation, and long-term climate resilience across the Southwest.
Join HECHO for a conversation about the case for making Chiricahua our next national park. Presenters will explore the landscape’s ecological, cultural, recreational, and economic significance, share perspectives from southeastern Arizona, and discuss the bipartisan effort to advance the Chiricahua National Park Act.
The discussion will also consider what national park status could mean for the surrounding community and the future of the area, including its potential to support local businesses, outdoor recreation, tourism, and long-term rural economic opportunity.
With the legislation now ready to be signed into law, the program will highlight the opportunity ahead and conclude with a call to action to help make Chiricahua Arizona’s fourth national park.
Webinar Details:
Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026
Time: 11 AM AZ, 12 PM MT
Duration: 1 hour (including Q&A and actionable takeaways)
