Statement from CASA Regarding Falcon Closures in Cochise Stronghold
The Forest Service has lifted nesting raptor closures in the Stronghold and is trusting climbers to NOT disturb the birds. If climbers choose to disturb nesting raptors, the closures will be reinstated (and likely expanded). Please report nesting raptors on Mountain Project. Educate yourself and others.
CASA has been in communication with the Forest Service regarding the lapse in the raptor closures in Cochise Stronghold. Below is a summary of what we learned.
CASA has been in communication with the Forest Service regarding the lapse in the raptor closures in Cochise Stronghold. Below is a summary of what we learned.
Photo by Jeff Ladderud
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First, the closure was allowed to lapse because the falcons are doing well in the Stronghold. The areas that they are nesting have expanded beyond the boundaries of the old closure. Noting this, the Forest Service considered two options: expand the closure area, or allow a trial period without a closure to see how the raptors fare.
Fortunately, the Forest Service chose the latter option. In our conversations, the Forest Service specifically informed us that they are counting on climbers not to disturb nesting raptors (which is still illegal). If climbers are found to disturb nesting raptors anywhere in the Stronghold, or if the falcons do not continue to thrive, the Forest Service will reinstate the closures, and the closure area will likely be expanded. CASA asked the Forest Service to notify us immediately if there were any known issues so that we could try to remedy them before they lead to reinstated closures. |
Forest Service recommendations:
Please report nest sites on Mountain Project. CASA will make best efforts to maintain a current list of nest sites based on these reports. You may also contact us directly with nest location reports.
Thanks to everyone in advance for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
The Team at CASA
- Climbers should avoid areas with known nests and leave immediately if a raptor is disturbed.
- Climbers should publicly report known nesting sites so that they can be proactively avoided.
- Climbers should educate themselves on nesting raptor behavior so nests can be identified.
Please report nest sites on Mountain Project. CASA will make best efforts to maintain a current list of nest sites based on these reports. You may also contact us directly with nest location reports.
Thanks to everyone in advance for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
The Team at CASA
