Grijalva proposes Tumacacori bill

Green Valley News

Arizona Rep. Raœl Grijalva introduced legislation last week to preserve 80,000 acres of national forest lands as the Tumacacori Highlands Wilderness.

Democrat Grijalva said he was proud to introduce the legislation “that will help retain an important piece of our heritage.”

The area lies northwest of Nogales and includes Pajarito. the mountainous area around Atascosa and the Tumacacori Mountains west of Interstate 19.

Some opponents say the land is already preserved as part of the Coronado National Forest and that it may end cattle grazing.

Proponents said the area is home to many endangered and sensitive species such as the jaguar, the Mexican spotted owl and the Chiracahua leopard frog.

There are more than 2,000 plant species, 265 bird species and 75 reptile species in the proposed area.

Proponents said it will benefit outdoor enthusiasts by protecting historical sites and preserving hiking, backpacking, bird-watching and hunting.

The last state wilderness area protected by Congress was the Arizona Desert Wilderness 17 years ago. U.S. Sen. John McCain and the late U.S. Rep. Morris Udall worked to pass that act.

jlamb@gvnews.com | 547-9749