TUCSON, Ariz. - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is re-opening the San Pedro House recreation site, located in the San Pedro Riparian Conservation Area (SPRNCA), now that the pruning of the two ailing cottonwood trees is complete.
“The work was done to mitigate a public safety concern and provide for the long-term sustainability of the San Pedro House," stated Tucson Field Manager Jayme Lopez. “We are pleased that the work is complete and the public can again enjoy recreating near the cottonwoods."
Work began the week of Oct. 16. During this time, public access to the SPRNCA and parking remained available at the Hereford, Murray Springs, Millville, Little Boquillas, and Fairbank Townsite Trailheads.
In the future, the two-cottonwood trees will be pruned on a regular basis to ensure public safety,
and to protect the San Pedro House.
In 2015-16, several large limbs fell on the San Pedro House, damaged the structure and others fell on the walking paths and picnic areas, presenting a public safety hazard. Future work at the San Pedro House will include repair of damaged roof rafters and replacement of the existing roof with a Firewise metal roof. To accommodate this work, the BLM will close the area immediately surrounding the house in the interest of public safety and will issue a new closure order prior to the start of the roof work.
The decision, located at http://bit.ly/SanPedroTree, was signed on March 23, after significant public input. No protests were received during the subsequent 30-day appeal period.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
