Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge encyclopedia topics

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History

In 1936, the Arizona boy scouts mounted a state-wide campaign to save the Bighorn sheep, leading to the creation of the Cabeza Prieta wildlife refuge. The Scouts first became interested in the sheep through the efforts of Major Frederick Russell Burnham, the noted conservationist who has been called the Father of Scouting. Burnham observed that fewer than 150 of these sheep still lived in the Arizona mountains. He called George F. Miller, then scout executive of the boy scout council headquartered in Phoenix, with a plan to save the sheep.

Several other prominent Arizonans joined the movement and a save the bighorns poster contest was started in schools throughout the state. The contest-winning bighorn emblem was made up into neckerchief slides for the 10,000 Boy Scouts, and talks and dramatizations were given at school assemblies and on radio. The National Wildlife Federation, the Issac Walton League, and the Audubon Society also joined the effort.

On January 18, 1939, over of Arizona by were set aside at Cabeza Prieta and at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and a Civilian Conservation Corps camp was set up to develop high mountain waterholes for the sheep. In 1941, Major Burnham delivered the dedication speech opening Cabeza Prieta. The Desert Bighorn Sheep is now the official mascot for the Arizona Boy Scouts and the number of sheep in these parks have increased substantially.

Visiting

The most popular time to visit the refuge is between November and March. A free permit is required to visit the refuge; obtain at the refuge office in Ajo, Arizona or by mail. A local organization gives evening presentations on the history, flora, and fauna during these months. Only lawfully-killed game may be taken from the area.

The historic Camino del Diablo 4WD road crosses the south part of the refuge, near the Mexican border.

Visitor safety

Visiting the refuge is a serious endeavor.

It is strongly recommended that visitors not attempt to drive through the refuge after a rain as the road, El Camino del Diablo, can be damaged when wet. Locals say it can be impassable after rains.
Four wheel drive is required to visit the central refuge and refuge staff say that bringing two spare tires, and/or other replacement parts, is necessary.
There are group trips, which can reduce the risks of visiting this remote area, several times a year.
The area has been used for aerial bombing. Do not disturb unexploded bombs (ordnance) found on the refuge.
Two gallons of water, sunscreen, all food, and toilet items must be brought with you. You must pack out all non-biodegradable materials when you leave.