SAFFORD — The U.S. Forest Service has some big plans for Mount Graham.
In a recent e-mail highlighting the Safford Ranger Districts’ accomplishments over the past year, district officials discussed projects that will take place in 2023, including:
● Install a new Riggs Lake fishing pier
● Improve wayfinding signage on Mount Graham
● Distribute camping educational video to be played on the new TV at the Columbine Visitor Center
● Replace the roof of the Columbine Visitor Center
● Create a Mount Graham visitor guide to provide detailed information regarding recreation opportunities on the mountain
● Add an option of a new day use fee in two campgrounds
Those improvements will be a continuation of work the Forest Service has undertaken on the mountain over the past year. Highlights include maintenance of more than 50 miles of trails, bear-resistant lockers installed at Soldier Creek Campground and the re-opening of the Hospital Flat Campground, following its closure four years ago.
