08/02/2017 President’s Corner

A quick update to let folks know what is going on with Southern AZ Quail Forever.

-Southern AZ including Tucson, Sonoita and Patagonia are as green as I have seen it in the last 15 years.  The news reported July Tucson rainfall is the highest ever recorded for the month of July and second highest for any month.

-The rain bodes well for mearns although we need to keep the rain going a little longer.  AGFD gambels call counts indicate a significant increase in the gambels population.

-Out next scheduled event is a scaled quail covey count northeast of Wilcox.  Wade Zarlingo from AGFD has tentatively scheduled the covey count for 29/30 Sep.  Expect more detail in early Sep.

-AZ dove season opens 1 Sep, desert quail 6 Oct and mearns 8 Dec.  Need to get you and your dogs in shape.

-Habitat projects.  Border 2 Fuels Reduction and Mearns Quail Habitat Improvement Project is tracking.  We are sending a $10,000 check to AGFD which will transfer it to USFS to support this effort.

-We are still considering a mountain mearns project although more study is required before a decision is made.

-We expect an update report on our mearns diet study this fall.

-Sonoita fires.  The area around Sonoita has been hit with several smaller fires.  These are mostly lightning caused and have not had a significant impact on habitat.  Unfortunately there were several homes lost.

-Hog and Adobe Canyon access.  The homeowners and AGFD are still working agreements that will prevent the FS from closing the access.

-Our first fall meeting is planned 16 Nov at Steakout and our banquet is planned 3 Feb at Santa Cruz Fairgrounds.  Let me know if you are interesting in helping on the banquet committee.

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