Hikers Highlight Economic Impact of Federal Lands on Arizona Economy

Amidst a clear yet gusty morning, a small group of individuals assembled at Sandy’s Canyon Trailhead near Flagstaff. Their purpose was to honor Arizona Public Lands Day, highlighting the advantages that federally managed lands offer to both local residents and the state economy.

The gathering coincides with the release of a recent study by the Arizona Wildlife Federation, Arizona Trail Association, and the Nature Conservancy, which underscores the economic contributions of federal land management to Arizona.

The report emerges at a time when some lawmakers are advocating for the transfer of these lands to state control.

Michael Cravens, the Conservation and Advocacy Director for the Arizona Wildlife Federation, participated in the hike. He expressed concerns that areas such as Sandy’s Canyon might face risks if transferred to state authority.

Cravens stated, “Right now, everyone listening here owns these lands. If they were transferred to the state, they would become de facto private lands, private lands owned by the state.” He emphasized the value public lands add to every American’s life.

The report indicates that shifting federal lands to state jurisdiction could elevate Arizona’s financial obligations by approximately $800 million, while simultaneously reducing the state’s economic output by $1 billion.

Presently, federal public lands contribute over $5 billion annually to Arizona’s economy, according to the study.

Additionally, the state would face an extra $645 million yearly expense if it were responsible for addressing and managing wildfires on these lands.

Cravens also voiced his apprehension about the proposed relocation of the U.S. Forest Service headquarters to Utah, where state and federal legislators and local authorities have supported initiatives to sell federal lands and have opposed national monuments like Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante.