Keeping Forest Service Trailheads Clean and Welcoming

For many of us, the first stop within the natural surroundings in the Sedona area is at a recreation trailhead within the Coconino National Forest. This is the place where outdoor adventure begins, and, in addition to providing a literal starting point, a visitor’s...

A Day in the Life of a Friends of the Forest Trail Ambassador

From Aerie to Yucca, Bell Rock Loop to Bell Trail, and Dry Creek to Turkey Creek —  these are just a few of the trails within the vast expanse of Coconino National Forests’ Sedona-area trail system. And they represent one of the coolest volunteer gigs ever. Friends of...

Volunteers Respond to Graffiti Vandalism on Public Lands

It is hard to believe that — amid the remarkable beauty and wonder of Sedona’s natural setting — there are people who intentionally deface and otherwise damage rock formations and other parts of the landscape. Perhaps you have noticed such acts of graffiti when on a...

Giving Back to Your Community

Have you ever wondered how Sedona’s hiking and biking trails are maintained, or who removes unsightly graffiti, or how the quality of the water is monitored in Oak Creek? Maybe you’ve visited one of the heritage sites and wondered how the docents are so knowledgeable...

Safer Summer Strolls

Sedona Fire Department. Copper Canyon Fire Department. Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office. Verde Search and Rescue. We see and hear them in the news all too many times during summers in Sedona, responding to heat-stress-related calls. These calls involve both...

Happy 30th Anniversary, Friends of the Forest!

​The U.S. Forest Service was founded in 1905, under the leadership of President Teddy Roosevelt. Its motto is “caring for the land and serving the people”. The Forest Service is mandated to balance five uses of national forest land: recreation, timber, range, wildlife...