BLM announces re-opening of San Pedro House
Organization:
Media Contact:
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.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.