Canyon Views Winter 2023/2024 Vol.30 No.3 by Grand Canyon Conservancy

CANYON

VIEWS

VOL.30, NO. 3 WINTER 2023/2024

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F G R A N D C A N YO N C O N S E R VA N C Y

Canyon Views is published by Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC). As the official philanthropic and collaborative partner of Grand Canyon National Park, GCC’s mission is to inspire generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon. For more information about Grand Canyon Conservancy, please visit grandcanyon.org. Board of Directors: Mitchell Walker, Board Chair; Shantini Munthree, Board Vice Chair; Lizabeth Ardisana; Ann Becker; Randall Brown; Awenate Cobbina; Jason Coochwytewa; Aaron Craft; Ann Figueredo; Nigel Finney; Deborah Gage; Charlie Galbraith; Alejandra Lillo; Carissa Rollins; Rich Rudow; Mick Rusing; Stephanie Sklar; Stan Sutherland; Merl Waschler; Tyson Winarski Chief Executive Officer: Theresa McMullan Chief Philanthropy Officer: Bonnie Baker Director of Marketing & Communications and Canyon Views Managing Editor: Mindy Riesenberg Editing and Writing Support: Off Madison Ave Graphic Design by Charla Keyaanie Printing by Prisma Copyright ©2023 Grand Canyon Conservancy Cover photo courtesy Mark Chen

Grand Canyon Conservancy P.O. Box 399 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023-0399 (800) 858-2808 grandcanyon.org

Photo courtesy NPS.

In this Issue 02

A Message from Ed

Bringing Bison into Balance with the Landscape

Dye Tracing at Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon’s Education Branch

PSAR Symposium

Polk Internships Help Students Find Their Path, Purpose, and Passion

Shifting Narratives: Honoring and Amplifying Indigenous Voices

What’s in a Name? Newly Dedicated, Havasupai Gardens Shows Words Have Power

Reconciliation of Place Names Committee Hosts First In-Person Meeting at Grand Canyon

Heritage Days Highlights a Rich Tapestry of Art, Craft, and Culture

Governor Hobbs and Tribal Leaders Convene at Grand Canyon

Member Spotlight: Ann and Bruce Peek

Ways to Give

Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute

Shop Grand Canyon Conservancy

2 | C A N YO N V I E W S

From the CEO DEAR FRIENDS, We are coming off an incredible year for Grand Canyon Conservancy. Thanks to your support, our impacts have been as vast and varied as the landscape of Grand Canyon itself. In this issue of Canyon Views, we share the many ways that we’ve furthered the work of the National Park Service Staff. From projects with Indigenous communities to science and education, you’ll read about programs that protect and make Grand Canyon a better place for future generations. I’m especially encouraged to share the stories of and about our youth. On page six, a young park scientist, Hannah Chambless, shares the work she and others are doing to understand the canyon’s groundwater. I had a chance to spend time on a river trip with Hannah this summer. Her passion and enthusiasm for her work are contagious. She has a whole raft of volunteers ready to help her inject tracing dye in sinkholes on the North Rim. You can also read about Tania Parra Guardado and Baylee Christensen, two Polk Intern alumni who are furthering their work with the National Park Service. The dedication and hard work of Grand Canyon National Park’s staff is making a profound impact on the canyon, and with your continued support, we look forward to even greater accomplishments in the year ahead! Happy trails, Photo courtesy GCC.

Theresa McMullan Chief Executive Officer

A Message from Ed B y Ed Keable, Superintendent , Gra nd Canyon N at ional Park

Photo courtesy NPS.

Entering the winter season is a good time to reflect on all that we have done over the past months, recognizing the value of the work we do together. This issue of Canyon Views highlights the importance of partnerships and the range of projects Grand Canyon Conservancy and its many members support in the park. In this edition, you will notice the breadth of work being accomplished (from bison to school groups, internships to first-voice interpretation) and the importance of partners. The National Park Service has limits to how far we can outreach, and real limitations on our financial resources. Each of the program areas highlighted in the following pages requires group effort. It is the rare project or program we implement that does not involve strong relationships with other entities. GCC is at the heart of virtually every project we do. Our partners represent the many stakeholders who chose to work with the NPS to better protect, preserve, and manage the many wonders of Grand Canyon. State and federal agencies are natural partners, given their similar land management

mandates. We sometimes forget the importance of our academic partners, the many scientists who provide the data needed by park managers in making decisions about park resources now and into the future. The article on dye tracing in the aquifer points to the importance of engaging really smart people on a project that is critical for our literal survival. Water is life, and understanding groundwater is essential for the future of the park and community. Future stewards of park resources need to come from the youth of today; our education programs are the avenue for creating the next generation, a generation that will hopefully be able to learn from current park stewards and elders within communities. The cadre of preventive search and rescue (PSAR) volunteers represents a group of park stewards volunteering their time and expertise to educate park visitors through their actions and outreach on the trails. As we continue our outreach efforts, we could not amplify Indigenous voices without the partnerships we have with local communities, tribal

colleagues, and tribal governments. Grand Canyon has been a homeland since time immemorial. For over 100 years, the first residents were excluded, their homes and histories largely erased from the park narrative. We are changing that dialog through hearing their voices, allowing for an honest representation to emerge. Our staff, working with Indigenous colleagues, have developed a variety of programs such as “Minute Out In It,” Heritage Days, cultural demonstrators, and podcasts, each offering insight into the rich history of the first peoples of the canyon. I hope you are inspired by the stories and partners who are committed to ensuring that Grand Canyon is cared for today and into the future. I have said many times, and I am happy to say again, that I could not manage Grand Canyon without GCC and its dedicated members. Thank you for your generous support for this special place.

4 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Bringing Bison into Balance with the Landscape B y Miranda Ter w illig er, Grand Canyon N at ional Park W ildlife Biologist , S c i e nc e & Res ourc e Manag ement A herd of bison gather in Little Park Meadow on the North Rim of Grand Canyon. All photos courtesy NPS.

illions of bison once ranged the North American continent. Then, westward expansion and colonial policies pushed them to the brink of extinction, bringing their numbers to as low as 300. The bulk of today’s North American bison herds descended from remnants preserved by private citizens. That includes the Kaibab Plateau Herd (KPH). Charles “Buffalo” Jones brought the herd to what was then the Grand Canyon Game Preserve in the early 1900s. Today, this herd resides primarily on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, at the edge of, or just outside, the species’ original range. Since 2018, Grand Canyon National Park staff, working with many partners, have worked to 1) reduce a quickly growing herd that was damaging park resources, 2) learn more about herd, and 3) learn more about the role of bison in this ecosystem. In four years, the park captured 182 live bison and transferred them to the InterTribal Buffalo Council (ITBC), which, in turn, transferred them to eight member tribes in five states.

Park staff have also experimented with using volunteers from the public to remove bison from the landscape lethally, but that process was costly and ineffective. In future years, park managers will be working with members of the traditionally affiliated tribes of Grand Canyon to take bison to meet cultural purposes. This will give tribes access to an important cultural resource while meeting the park’s reduction goals. In the last two years, the winter bison population has been around the goal of 200, but removal continues because of high calving rates. Research on the herd yielded more information about the herd’s genetics, range, seasonal range use, and response to hunting outside the park’s boundaries. Despite a small number of legacy cattle genes introduced into the herd 110 years ago, research found that the KPH has unique nuclear bison genes that do not occur in other bison herds. (Hartway, Oyler-McCann, Zimmerman in press). This genetic pattern emerged under three types of testing: microsatellite analysis, SNP analysis, and whole genome analysis.

Careful management can reduce those cattle genes even further. Tracking collars worn by bison have shown that this herd is one of only four in the contiguous United States that is seasonally migratory (Salganek, et al. 2019). They also show that bison stay mainly within the park, moving only about five miles onto the neighboring Kaibab National Forest. Further research suggests that bison actively avoid the boundary between the park and the forest because of hunting and move differently in the forest than in the park (Salganek, et al. in press). It’s evident to North Rim visitors that bison are, at the very least, having an aesthetic impact on park resources. This is particularly obvious when driving into the park from the forest where no bison are grazing. But what does that mean for the ecosystem? Several researchers have partnered with the park scientists to answer these questions in paired studies comparing areas where bison graze in the park with similar regions of the forest where they do not.

5 Kaibab Plateau water sources are not connected and do not contain unique wetland vegetation. Bison use of these water sources resulted in more bare ground and cropped vegetation at wetlands, but there is no significant difference in soil compaction (Reimondo 2011). Bison grazing on meadows appears to increase net primary productivity and nutrient quality of available forage, suggesting that bison may be creating better conditions for their needs (Musto, 2023). Contrary to expectations, these studies indicate that current bison population levels are ecologically sustainable, and this system may be far more resilient than previously thought. Other studies include looking at pollinator populations and environmental DNA (trace amounts of DNA that organisms shed into the environment) in water sources to compare diversity and relatedness. All this research aims to provide park and herd managers with information to inform future decisions about the long-term management of the KPH.

Right: Three adult bison and one juvenile bison gather and drink out of a small puddle in an open meadow on the North Rim. Bottom: A small herd of bison kick up dust within the corral.

6 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Dye Tracing at Grand Canyon: Snapshot of a Complex Groundwater System B y H annah Chambles s , H ydrologist , Gra nd Canyon N at ional Park

ost of the snow that falls on the rims of Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) makes its way into the groundwater and flows from hundreds of springs across the canyon. Many aspects of the park’s groundwater system are poorly understood, including the pathways water takes through thousands of feet of rock, how quickly water travels through those pathways, and the vulnerability of springs to contamination and climate change. To better characterize the park’s groundwater resources and answer these questions, park scientists and cooperators have conducted groundwater tracer studies on the North Rim (Jones et al. 2018; Tobin et al. 2021) and on the South Rim by injecting and tracing dye from sinkholes and faults on the rims to springs in the canyon. With the forecasted decrease in groundwater in the Grand Canyon region because of climate change (Tillman et al. 2020) and continued development on the rims, these studies are crucial for determining areas of vulnerability that will inform park management decisions on protection of the park’s water supply.

Methods of Dye Tracing in Remote Wilderness: North Rim The first dye trace study ever conducted in the Grand Canyon region took place from 2015 to 2017 and was the deepest and longest dye trace in the United States to date (Jones et al. 2018; Tobin et al. 2021). The goal of this project was to outline an area on the North Rim that directly contributes water to Roaring Springs,

Fig. 1. Map of the North Rim and Grand Canyon with sinkhole density, major faults, Bright Angel Creek (BAC) and its watershed, and the locations of the five dye injection sites (colored circles) and 29 receptor sites (colored triangles) from the 2015-2017 dye tracer project. Note that all three detected dyes showed up at Vasey’s Paradise Spring to the east. Gray arrows indicate the potential generalized flow paths estimated by these dye trace results. The location of the new water intake from BAC surface water is shown by the star. Courtesy NPS.

7 the park’s only drinking water supply for developed areas. Four food-grade, fluorescent dyes were injected into five sinkholes on the North Rim over this period, and monitoring occurred at 29 remote locations in the canyon (Fig. 1). Packets of activated charcoal (dye receptors) were installed at these locations to capture dye by adsorption or molecular bonding to the surface of the charcoal (Fig. 2c). These dye receptors were replaced every month for three years to test for dye presence, requiring thousands of hours of field work by park scientists, technicians, cooperators, and volunteers. Access to these remote sites was extremely difficult and was achieved through backpacking in off-trail terrain, by helicopter, and by rafting on the Colorado River. Once dye receptors were collected, they were analyzed for the presence of any of the four dyes. If one or more of the dyes was detected at a location, the associated spring would be considered connected to the sinkhole with the matching dye(s). Three of the five dyes were received at 20 receptor sites across a 50 km distance (about 31 miles) during this study. Although dye could only be detected at monthly intervals, other evidence suggests that water moves through the system in a matter of days (Jones et al. 2018). However, dye detection at this large number of sites represents an incredible success considering the huge distance dye traveled through the system, the complexities of groundwater flow paths, the extreme remoteness of receptor sites, and the risk of dye degrading in the sun once discharged at springs. The results of the North Rim dye trace revealed that springs are part of a large, interconnected groundwater system (Tobin et al. 2021) and that flow paths are more complicated than previously thought. While the

Fig. 2. a) Image of former park Hydrologist Ben Tobin pouring dye into a sinkhole on the North Rim before snowmelt in 2017. Photo courtesy NPS.

sinkhole injection locations were chosen based on their theorized contribution to Roaring Springs (Jones et al. 2018), only one of the injected dyes was received there. A preliminary contributing area for Roaring Springs was outlined on the North Rim based on this result, and a water budget—an account of the water entering, leaving, and stored in a groundwater system—was calculated using this contributing area (Chambless et al. 2023).

Methods of Dye Tracing in Remote Wilderness: South Rim

This first pass at a water budget showed imbalanced accounts, further indicating the complexity of the system, and highlighting the need for additional dye tracing to refine this contributing area. Spring contributing areas and water budgets can then be used with climate data to forecast how springs may be affected by climate change. Dye tracing is therefore an integral part of projecting changes in the GRCA groundwater system.

In 2021 and 2022, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) collected water samples from treated wastewater discharged from the South Rim Wastewater Treatment Plant into Bright Angel Wash (a channel underlain by a major fault) and from springs below the rim to test for non-natural contaminants that are indicators of wastewater influence (Beisner et al. 2023). These include per- and polyfluoroalkyl

Dye tracing is also being used to assess the influence of treated wastewater on springs below the South Rim. Understanding the vulnerability of these springs to contamination is critical, as many riparian species rely on these springs for habitat, and backcountry users rely on them for drinking water.

8 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Dye Trace and Grand Canyon Drinking Water Over the next decade, the Grand Canyon National Park water delivery infrastructure and wastewater treatment systems will be upgraded. There are also plans to change the South Rim and most of the inner canyon water supply from Roaring Springs groundwater to Bright Angel Creek (BAC) surface water (Fig. 1). This change in the drinking water source should increase resiliency to climate change, as water volume of Bright Angel Creek is much larger than that of Roaring Springs. There are at least 34 springs that contribute water to Bright Angel Creek, so the creek’s contributing area on the North Rim is much larger than the Roaring Springs contributing area. This larger contributing area increases the vulnerability of the water supply to contamination from activities on the North Rim, especially considering that water can travel through the system in a matter of days (Jones et al. 2018).

Fig. 2. b) Dye fluorescing bright green after being released into treated wastewater in Bright Angel Wash on the South Rim. Photo courtesy NPS.

substances (harmful manufacturing chemicals, referred to as PFAS), pharmaceuticals, nitrates, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and other chemicals that indicate human influence and are not yet regulated in wastewater by the Environmental Protection Agency. Several of the contaminants that were detected in treated wastewater were also detected at two springs below the South Rim: Monument and Horn springs. To follow up on these contaminant detections, the USGS partnered with the GRCA Hydrology Program to conduct a major dye trace project on the South Rim of the park, funded by a USGS/NPS Grant and Grand

Canyon Conservancy donor funds. The purpose of this dye trace is to better understand groundwater flow paths and rates below the South Rim. In April 2023, scientists released dye into the treated wastewater in Bright Angel Wash, which quickly sunk into the subsurface (Fig. 2b). The methods of this ongoing dye tracer are the same as those of the previous study, though there is a higher resolution instrument at Monument Spring to continuously measure dye concentrations there. As of July 2023, no dye has yet been detected at springs below the South Rim, but scientists will continue to monitor these sites over the next two years.

These activities may include infrastructure development, road work, vehicular accidents, oil and chemical spills on State Highway 67, possible leaks from gas stations, construction staging areas, contamination from bison and cattle wallowing in and around sinkholes, and a wastewater treatment plant. Therefore, outlining the BAC contributing area and calculating its water budget with additional dye trace studies on the North Rim will be crucial to determine spring vulnerability to contamination and how climate change will affect the connected springs. The GRCA Hydrology Program plans to begin additional dye injections on the North Rim and tracing in the canyon beginning in spring 2024 and will continue through spring 2026.

9 This project will be carried out in cooperation between GRCA, GCC, Northern Arizona University, and USGS. Already, GCC 2023 donor funds are facilitating preliminary work on the North Rim to select sites for dye injection. This dye tracer project will face the same access limitations and exceptionally high field work costs as the 2015–2017 dye trace project. It will also include 20 additional dye receptor sites and a continuous dye detection instrument at selected sites to capture flow rate through the system hourly rather than monthly. We hope to continue unraveling the complexities of this groundwater system through this cooperative project to inform park management about contamination vulnerability and how declining groundwater recharge from climate change may affect springs in the canyon. These vital pieces of data will be used by park management to best protect Grand Canyon National Park springs for the millions of annual visitors and ecosystems that depend on them. Fig. 2. c) a dye receptor packet attached to a rock in a stream (with an image of the packet overlain), one of the 29 dye receptor packet locations for the 2015-2017 North Rim dye tracer. Photo courtesy NPS.

References Beisner, K.R., Paretti, N.V., Jasmann, J.R., Barber, L.B. (2023) Utilizing anthropogenic compounds and geochemical tracers to identify preferential structurally controlled groundwater pathways influencing springs in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA, Journal of Hydrology. 48(1010461). https://doi.org/10.1016/j. ejrh.2023.101461. Chambless, H.E., Springer, A.E., Evans, M.A., Jones, N.A. (in press) Deep-karst aquifer trends in a water-limited system, Grand Canyon National Park. Hydrogeology Journal. Jones, C.J.R., Springer, A.E., Tobin, B.W., Zappitello, S.J., Jones, N.A. (2018). Characterization and hydraulic behavior of the complex karst of the Kaibab Plateau and Grand Canyon National Park. Geological Society Special Publication. 466(1), 237–260. https://doi.org/10.1144/ SP466.5

Tillman, F.D., Gangopadhyay, S., Pruitt, T. (2020). Recent and projected precipitation and temperature changes in the Grand Canyon area with implications for groundwater resources. Scientific Reports. 10 (19740). https://doi. org/10.1038/s41598-020-76743-6 Tobin, B.W., Springer, A.E., Ballensky, J., Armstrong, A. (2021). Cave and karst of the grand canyon world heritage site. Zeitschrift Fur Geomorphologie. 62, 125–144, https:// doi.org/10.1127/zfg_suppl/2021/0693

1 0 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Grand Canyon’s Education Branch: Engaging Students with Curiosity and Connection B y Moniq ue N avarro, M .Ed . , Resourc e Educ at ion Branc h Lead , Grand Canyon N at ional Park

“I

wanted to reach out and let you know about my experience as an educator at the Grand Canyon for a field trip with one of your rangers,” began a letter from a sixth-grade teacher. “I was blown away by the ranger’s ability to engage our sixth graders, integrate science and art, and allow for fun and exploration. She kept a consistent pace and was able to gauge students’ interest to know when to move forward. During the tour, she was knowledgeable and patient with students’ curiosities. I have been on many field trips over my teaching career, and this will stand out as one of the best.”

Grand Canyon’s Education Branch creates, implements, and supports inclusive and meaningful opportunities for students and youth to learn, explore, and serve on their public lands. Each spring, Education Rangers deliver field trip programs to second through eighth graders. During the spring 2023 season, the staff served more than 1,300 students from throughout Arizona and Nevada. Students learned about geology, ecology, and natural and cultural resources by exploring and discussing the rocks, trees, and plants they observed in programs that support Arizona and national academic standards. During the season, 35 percent of students came from the Phoenix area, 28 percent from Flagstaff, 20 percent from rural Arizona, 7 percent from Grand Canyon School, 6 percent from Las Vegas, and 4 percent from tribal schools.

Photos courtesy NPS.

The Education Program is uniquely poised to recruit and serve youths that would otherwise not visit Grand Canyon National Park. During one field trip, for example, more than half the students from Williams Elementary School—an hour’s drive from the South Rim—shared that it was their first time visiting Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon Conservancy makes these experiences possible by funding bus transportation for

students who attend tribal and Title 1 schools—those eligible for federal funds to educate disadvantaged or underserved children. Grand Canyon Education Rangers act as guides on the side to create space for students to explore and leave with a sense of curiosity and connection that inspires engagement with the world. We also hope students will want to protect this place, all public lands, and the planet.

11 The strategic goals of the Education Program for the next year include: • Creating culturally relevant programming, • Integrating education programming into a continuum of learning centered on climate change on the Colorado River and the Colorado Plateau, and • Engaging in strategic outreach to build relationships with teachers at rural schools on the Colorado Plateau and schools of the 11 associated tribes. Through these goals, we connect with and serve our gateway communities through education centered on the stories that the Colorado River and Colorado Plateau are teaching us about climate change and aridification, the importance of the Colorado River as a vital waterway to 40 million people, and as the sacred landscape and lifeway of those who have inhabited these lands since time immemorial. These are stories we need to be telling our young generations. The place—the canyon and the river—are the teachers.

1 2 | C A N YO N V I E W S

PSAR Symposium: Creating Community and Support for Preventive Search & Rescue Teams B y Meg han S mit h , Prevent i ve S earc h & Rescue Super v isor, Grand Canyon N at ional Park

n 2019, Grand Canyon National Park Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) hosted the first-ever in-person PSAR symposium to celebrate Grand Canyon’s centennial and our hard-working PSAR volunteers. The event, supported by Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC), provided training to staff and volunteers, and offered a venue for PSAR managers to gather and discuss trends, learn about other programs, and build community. This symposium came out of the changes created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our annual training for staff and volunteers was restricted to those who were new and who needed training. Throughout the pandemic, Grand Canyon PSAR received more and more requests from other parks seeking information about the program, how it’s funded and managed, and how they could receive tips about starting or overhauling PSAR programs across the agency. By 2023, it was clear there was high demand, and PSAR was at the forefront of beginning to meet those needs. We cast a wide net with the help of Grand Canyon Superintendent Ed Keable, who reached out to his constituents to let them know about the opportunity. On the first day of signups, we were clearly on the right track. This year’s symposium was held April 27–29, 2023, at the South Rim of Grand Canyon, with the support of GCC and in conjunction with Joshua Tree National Park. The event kicked off with keynote speakers Jennifer Proctor and Ina Hysi from the Washington Office of Risk Management. Of the 150 people who attended each day, 40 were managers from 31 park sites across the U.S. and as far away as Haleakala, Hawaii. The curriculum included preparedness and risk assessment, heat illness, and radio operations. There was an afternoon split track for managers covering topics such as volunteer management, signage, and messaging, and open forums to discuss the growing PSAR needs across the system. Since the event, engagement among program managers has continued, and new members have reached out to join the larger conversation. Grand Canyon PSAR is so grateful for the continued dedication and hard work of its volunteers, as well as the support of GCC. We could not run our day-to-day operation or put on such a successful event without that support. Top photo courtesy NPS. Middle and bottom photos courtesy Fresh Focuses Photography.

Polk Internships Help Students Find their Path, Purpose, and Passion

rand Canyon Conservancy sponsors internships each summer at Grand Canyon National Park as part of the Eugene T. Polk Science Fellowship. This program gives college and graduate students the opportunity to participate in a 10-week paid internship with the Science and Resource Management Department, providing valuable growth and development experiences for the fellows and beneficial research, documentation, and conservation support to the park. The program is also a pathway to federal employment, with many alumni becoming park rangers and scientists at our country’s national parks. Two recent Polk Internship alumni did just that. Using the education and hands-on skills they received during their internships at Grand Canyon, Tania Parra Guardado and Baylee Christensen are now employees of Yosemite and Grand Canyon National Parks, respectively.

Tania Parra Guardado A 2021 Polk Intern focused on vegetation at the North Rim,

Tania Parra Guardado is now working as a Biological Science Technician (Restoration) at Yosemite National Park.

wildlife biology. However, learning about plant species was a hobby of hers, and she had always wanted to get into plant biology and restoration.

“My family has been camping in Yosemite since I was around 10 years old,” said Guardado. “We tried to get to Yosemite every summer, and I fell in love with nature.”

So, Guardado applied for the internship and was thrilled to be selected as a vegetation intern on the North Rim.

This love of nature led her to pursue a career in science. After receiving a B.A. in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of California Santa Cruz, she began working on a master’s degree in environmental science at Cal State Fullerton. During that time, Guardado assisted the team at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area with bat monitoring. Her master’s degree capstone focused on explaining which habitats were important for bats in Glen Canyon, and what limiting factors pushed bats to certain areas of the park. After finishing her master’s degree, Guardado saw the listing for the Polk Internship at Grand Canyon, but it was for the vegetation department and not

“I absolutely loved it!” she said. “It was the first time I did official restoration work with plants, and I learned techniques to monitor plants and think about my work from a restoration perspective. This was hands-on work, and it pushed my career to become a biologist focused on working with plants.” During her internship, Tania monitored endangered sentry milkvetch populations and contributed to restoration efforts around wastewater treatment plant pipes. Guardado also learned a lot from her Grand Canyon co-workers. “I saw how happy they were in their jobs, and it was very inspiring,” she said. “They are passionate and driven, and very encouraging, especially Photo courtesy NPS.

1 4 | C A N YO N V I E W S

[Vegetation Program Manager] Lonnie [Pilkington]. He was an amazing boss and wanted me to succeed. He helped me get to where I wanted to be.” After completing her internship, Tania was hired as a crew lead on the North Rim, doing more handson work with the restoration efforts around sentry milk-vetch. Her career has now brought her back to Yosemite where she is working to restore the Merced River’s banks and meadows. “We’re aiming to restore the Merced River, its banks, its meadows,” she said. “We’re also restoring the riverbank by the Ahwahnee Hotel, where there’s a lot of rip-rap (rock along the river to harden the banks). We are taking that out and replacing it with native plants, which act as riprap but enhances wildlife.” Guardado’s time as a Polk Intern has been a guiding force in her career, and

now she’s sharing that with others. “I’m currently working with an intern and I’m talking to her about my journey and my time as a Polk Intern, encouraging her to follow this career path because it’s so rewarding,” she said.

Baylee Christensen Baylee Christensen’s path to the National Park Service was marked by a desire to find her purpose and passion. While a student at Dixie State University, her partner at the time found the Polk Internship and encouraged her to apply. The internship became her gateway into federal employment, fueling her dedication to ecological restoration. During her internship, Christensen’s research project involved assessing juniper tree dieback and establishing native pollinator gardens at the North Rim. She also published an

article detailing this experience in the 2022 fall/winter issue of Canyon Views. Her hands-on experiences as a Polk Intern broadened her horizons, leading her to work as a fire effects monitor at Grand Canyon National Park after graduation. This unique field combines fire ecology and data collection, which she had hands-on experience with during her internship. Through her work, she contributes significantly to preserving the ecological balance of the park and its diverse ecosystems. “I must say, I’ve really been loving my job!” she said. “Our day-to-day job is the data collection, in which we travel to pre-established locations on park service land and collect information about the land itself. This helps us understand the impacts of fire on the landscape. We gather all sorts of information, such as plants and shrubs present, ground fuels (how much sticks/logs/litter are on

Left two photos of Baylee Christensen during her time as a Polk Intern, courtesy Baylee Christensen; right two photos of Tania Parra Guardado (and friend) during her time as a Polk Intern courtesy Tania Parra Gaurdado. Bottom photo courtesy NPS.

the ground), tree health data, and counting new tree seedlings. “Another part of our job is working on wildfires and prescribed burns, in which we get the opportunity to go on fire assignments, where applicable. Fire effects monitors actually monitor fires as they’re happening, which means that we are taking weather measurements, calculating the fire rates of spread, reporting our findings, and doing other duties as assigned.” The Polk Internship was a transformative stepping stone for Christensen, introducing her to

the culture of federal employment and navigating the USAJobs.gov application process. It allowed her to forge connections, develop valuable skills, and set her on a path of exploration and growth while finishing her college degree.

individuals and providing an introduction to federal employment. The experiences gained during the internship prepare participants to navigate the intricacies of conservation careers, fostering a strong foundation for future job opportunities.

Inspiring Future Generations of Environmental Stewards

The Polk Internship also provides invaluable opportunities to work on essential conservation projects, contributing directly to restoring and protecting Grand Canyon’s unique ecosystems. Guardado and Christensen’s experiences highlight the program’s role in fostering the next generation of environmental stewards.

The impact of the Polk Internship extends beyond Guardado and Christensen. The program is instrumental in helping interns make connections with like-minded

1 6 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Colorado River in Grand Canyon, Mile 96.5, Upstream view in the Upper Granite Gorge in early morning light. © John Blaustein from THE HIDDEN CANYON: A River Journey

1 8 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Shifting Narratives: Honoring and Amplifying Indigenous Voices

rand Canyon is more than a breathtaking wonder of the world. It’s also home to Indigenous communities that have revered and protected this land for thousands of years. Fostering open, heartfelt conversations is an ongoing journey— one that is vital for cultivating trust, transparency, and responsibility.

Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC) and Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) staff have been working together to elevate Indigenous voices through social media, video, website content, and other digital media that can reach people worldwide. This is an ongoing project to present accurate and respectful information to foster an understanding of the Grand Canyon region’s rich Indigenous history and culture. “We have some park employees doing really exciting things with Indigenous communities on social media,” said Mike Lyndon, the park’s tribal program

manager. “They’re really elevating firstperson stories, talking about their own stories and connections.” GCC and GRCA staff regularly coordinate on posts to ensure that Indigenous culture is accurately reflected. For example, Kelkiyana Yazzie, a park ranger and a member of the Navajo Nation, helped with a GCC Valentine’s Day post. “Originally, we had written a ‘love letter’ to Grand Canyon that included narratives from Euro-American explorers,” said Lauren Cisneros, GCC Marketing Coordinator. Although well-intentioned, they didn’t sit well with Yazzie and wouldn’t have shown the right respect to the tribal communities of the canyon. “With [Yazzie’s] assistance, we made some changes to focus on the love for the land in relationship to the living beings that inhabit it and referenced the canyon as a place of emergence for some tribes.”

Photo courtesy NPS.

19 As a fourth-generation National Park Service employee as well as a member of one of Grand Canyon’s 11 associated tribes, Yazzie hopes to inspire equity and inclusion at Grand Canyon National Park. And with high engagement numbers, it’s evident that GCC’s social media audience is interested in learning more about Indigenous connections to the canyon. “We can’t tell these stories enough,” said Mindy Riesenberg, GCC Director of Marketing & Communications. “By posting several times a month about Indigenous issues and stories, we create an ongoing educational pathway between the tribes and our audiences.” Added Caity Varian, GCC Marketing Manager, “Social media followers need to hear or see a message about seven to eight times before it sinks in, so consistently posting stories of Indigenous connections to the canyon is extremely important.” “I respect GCC’s social media posts because they highlight that native voice,” said Yazzie. “For example, on Memorial Day, GCC highlighted the Navajo Code Talkers. Choosing this group whose stories aren’t always told is great and means something to native people. Continuing this for other holidays and events is appreciated.” Social media posts highlighting native park employees were also popular with followers. “People responded to these posts,” said Yazzie. “Some employees mentioned generational trauma and shared their connections to Grand Canyon, which captivated both of our audiences.” Yazzie herself was featured in one of GCC’s top-performing posts so far this year, with almost 50,000 people engaging with the Facebook post that tied in the annual GCC Trailblazer fundraiser event with the news that Yazzie had won the 2022 Interpretation and Resource Education Staff Person of the Year Award.

GCC’s and GRCA’s social media teams regularly post about the Cultural Demonstration Series and the diverse demonstrators sharing their crafts with park visitors. For example,

park ranger Rader Lane produced a series of interviews, some focused on handicrafts, some about personal feelings about the canyon. Those posts also help provide an economic boost for the demonstrators, as many people ask how they can purchase the artwork in the social media chats. Some of the artists have websites, and the GCC website has all the links to cultural demonstrators. GCC’s partnership with park staff extends to audio and video storytelling. Currently, senior staff at GCC and the park are working to develop a Tribal Welcome Video, which will be shown at the Visitor Center. This video will welcome visitors to Grand Canyon National Park from the perspective of the people of Grand Canyon—the 11 tribal communities who call the canyon home. Filmmaker Ryan Christensen of Bristlecone Media has been working on the project for the past several years, interviewing tribal members across the Grand Canyon region about their connections to the canyon and

2 0 | C A N YO N V I E W S Cisneros also tries to represent that diversity in her social media posts for GCC. “Heritage Days is a great example of several different tribes at one location,” she says. “It’s been interesting listening to conversations back and forth between different tribes.”

their thoughts on how visitors should respect and acknowledge the land and its people. Christensen, a former National Park ranger, said his role in creating this video is to act as a bridge between the tribes and park visitors. “When we started this project, the park and I held a series of interviews with each of the tribes to hear what they wanted to get out of this film and what they wanted to share with visitors,” he said. “I am only acting as a funnel for the tribal members to convey the message that Grand Canyon is a sacred place for tribal peoples, not just a tourist destination.” A lot of that work has been done in collaboration with the Intertribal Working Group (ItWG). Formed in 2013, the ItWG includes representatives from Grand Canyon’s 11 associated tribes. Over the last two years, the ItWG has invested a great many person-hours in working with park staff to develop exhibits for the new Tribal Welcome Center at Desert View. It’s a unique resource for a federal agency to have an inter-

tribal collaborative body to meet with regularly, and it results in the park, GCC, and ItWG doing a lot of great work together. GCC supports that partnership by hosting regular meetings with the members of the group and park service officials. Indigenous voices are also prominently featured in the “Minute Out In It” series of short films, which can be viewed on the park’s website and on YouTube. Viewers learn about the tribes’ unique connections to, and views of, the canyon and how they can be very different—even within tribes. “Each tribal nation has their own lived experiences and their own teachings,” said Yazzie. “In the ‘Minute Out In It’ with Diné storyteller Sunny Dooley, she mentions what she considers the four sacred mountains in Navajo culture. But it’s different from what I was taught and I’m also Navajo. So, when we do interpretation, we mention that they are Sunny’s teachings from the Salt Clan. Sunny said she knows it’s against what most Navajo believe, but it’s what she learned from her grandmother.”

Curtis Quam, a member of the Pueblo of Zuni who also serves on the ItWG, participated in the Heritage Days event. “It was actually a really interesting bonding moment, with not only my family but for other people, too,” he said. He also appreciates the park service and GCC’s efforts to have tribal people interpret their own cultures. “The things I’ve seen I’ve really enjoyed,” he said. And he sees opportunities to dive deeper with sensitivity, a challenge that the teams at the park and GCC are ready to take on.

Photo courtesy NPS.

2 2 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Havasupai Tribal Members gather at the rededication ceremony for Havasupai Gardens, May 2023. L-R: Ophelia Watahomigie Corliss, Carletta Tilousi, Uqualla, Kris Sijuya, Dianna Sue Uqualla. Photo by Mindy Riesenberg.

What’s in a Name? Newly Dedicated, Havasupai Gardens Shows Words have Power

n 1928, the National Park Service forcibly removed the last Havasupai farmer living in Grand Canyon. Captain Burro resided in a lush oasis halfway down Bright Angel Trail called Ha’a Gyoh. The Park Service renamed the place “Indian Garden,” and so it remained until recently.

Grand Canyon National Park. The federal government established the Havasupai Reservation through an Executive Order in the 1880s. These lands, within Havasu Canyon, comprised 518 acres, a fraction of the lands previously used by the Havasupai people.

In May 2023, that farmer’s descendants attended ceremonies to bless and dedicate the sacred place, formally renaming the site Havasupai Gardens.

Every year, approximately 100,000 people visit Havasupai Gardens while hiking the Bright Angel Trail, largely unaware of this history. Now, Havasupai history will be front and center. The renaming marks a new era of collaboration between the park and Indigenous tribes that call the canyon home.

Havasupai Tribe Vice Chairman Edmond Tilousi, a descendant of Captain Burro, spoke of the significance of this part of the canyon, saying that “by renaming it Havasupai Gardens, it has finally made right what was done to the tribe those many years ago.” Despite policies that forced them from their land, Havasupai people continued to live and work within

“It took some time to build some trust with the tribes because of the history of how this land was established as a national park, against the will of the peoples who have lived here since time immemorial,” said Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable.

A public ceremony was held at Bright Angel Trailhead on May 4th. Dozens of Havasupai and other tribal representatives, National Park Service staff, visitors and bystanders came together to rededicate the site. A private ceremony was held the following day four miles down the trail at Havasupai Gardens, where signage has already been updated to reflect the name change. The park is working closely with the tribe to develop programming that will tell Havasupai stories in their words.

Photo courtesy NPS.

Reconciliation of Place Names Committee Hosts First In-Person Meeting at Grand Canyon

n November 19, 2021, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland signed Secretary’s Order No. 3405 (Addressing Derogatory Place Names), which directed the National Park Service to establish a new Advisory Committee on Reconciliation in Place Names on behalf of the Department of the Interior. The committee aims to identify existing federal land unit and geographic feature names that may be derogatory and recommend potential replacement names to the Secretary of the Interior. The committee held its first in-person public meeting June 14–15, 2023, at the Horace Albright

Training Center in Grand Canyon National Park. The committee includes 17 appointed members and four “ex officio” members from the Department of Defense, Department of Agriculture, Department of the Interior and Department of Commerce. Committee members represent a broad spectrum of constituents, from academic leaders to Indigenous tribal members, who come from across America, from Hawaii to Alaska to Washington, D.C. In addition to committee members, representatives from the Inter-tribal Working Group were in attendance

to bring perspectives from Grand Canyon about the importance of place names in the identification of their homelands and history. First-hand accounts of the impact names have on tribal members today were an essential part of the committee’s time at Grand Canyon. The committee heard from representatives of the Havasupai Tribe, Hopi Tribe, Pueblo of Zuni and Navajo Nation. Committee members also toured the South Rim, seeing first-hand (from the rim) Havasupai Gardens and the work in process at Desert View to transform the site into the Intertribal Cultural Heritage Site. Photo courtesy NPS.

2 4 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Left: Native harvest from Pipe Spring National Monument. Right: Autumn Gillard and her grandmother at the Kaibab Paiute demonstration table. Photos by Lauren Cisneros.

Heritage Days Highlights a Rich Tapestry of Art, Craft, and Culture

he annual Heritage Days event returned to the North Rim this past July with cultural demonstrations and special programming near Grand Canyon Lodge. The event gave Grand Canyon visitors the opportunity to experience and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Colorado Plateau, Arizona Strip, and the Grand Canyon area.

“Grand Canyon has been home to 11 tribes since time immemorial,” said Interpretive Ranger Luke Anders, who led the planning team. “The annual Heritage Days event is “Star” and Chairwoman Bow of Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah. Photo by Lauren Cisneros

a way for citizens of those tribes to share their perspectives and demonstrate traditions directly to the visiting public in their traditional homeland.” The event began in the early 1990s as “Paiute Days.” In a 2022 video, retired park ranger Marcia Martin recalled that the Park Service was beginning to repatriate artifacts about that time, and she had the idea to honor the Indigenous tribes who had ties to the North Rim. After a few years, the event expanded to include all 11 associated tribes. This year’s festivities included:

• Dance performances by the Dineh Tah’ Navajo

Dancers, who shared Navajo (Diné) tradition and culture with visitors.

• Cultural demonstrators showcasing silversmithing,

weaving, basketry, and more from multiple tribes, including the San Juan Southern Paiute, Hopi, Kaibab Paiute, and Navajo (Diné).

• A discussion of Southern Paiute astronomy, ethnobotany, and anthropology.

• Musical performances by Southern Paiute and Navajo (Diné) flautists.

• A presentation of the film Zuni in the Grand Canyon, which explores the Zuni experience of the Grand Canyon through a river trip.

The event was made possible by the generosity of Grand Canyon Conservancy donors, ensuring the preservation and celebration of the region’s rich Indigenous history and culture.

Governor Hobbs and Tribal Leaders Convene at Grand Canyon

n September 12th, Arizona Tribal leaders and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs convened at Grand Canyon National Park to address mutual concerns and explore opportunities for responsible tourism and other initiatives that benefit tribal communities and the state of Arizona. Hosted by Grand Canyon National Park and Grand Canyon Conservancy, the convening was attended by 36 tribal leaders from 13 tribal communities, as well as the directors of the Arizona Office of Tourism, Arizona Department of Gaming, Arizona Gaming Association, and the Director of Tribal Engagement from Senator Mark Kelly’s office. “It’s important for us to have these conversations about how best to

foster growth and sustainability concerning tourism and economic development while safeguarding Arizona’s cultural institutions and natural resources,” said Governor Hobbs. “Having diverse voices come together to share their perspectives on the issues that impact all of us is a valuable exercise in exploring solutions and opportunities.” Superintendent Ed Keable and GCC CEO Theresa McMullan gave an overview of the work the park is doing on Indigenous Affairs, and other presentations featured tourism and economic development opportunities. The group also toured Desert View, where they saw first-hand the work being done to develop the Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site.

Photos courtesy NPS.

“In hosting Arizona’s leadership at the convening, we strengthen our Tribal and State partnerships and build a shared vision for responsible and sustainable economic development and tourism,” said Superintendent Keable. “It is wonderful to see so many leaders focused on how best to preserve and protect our state while sharing all that Arizona has to offer with visitors.” GCC sends a special shout-out to Jason Coochwytewa, Grand Canyon Conservancy board member, who was instrumental in making this event happen, and who provided a welcome statement and introduction of Tribal leaders and guests.

2 6 | C A N YO N V I E W S

Photos courtesy Ann and Bruce Peek.

Member Spotlight: Ann and Bruce Peek, Grand Guardians

s National Park enthusiasts, retired cardiologist Bruce Peek and his wife Ann have visited about 80 parks around the country. But Grand Canyon is special. Bruce first visited the canyon in the 1960s. “All I can remember is it was truly pretty rough,” he said. “The village was not mature. Roads were a nightmare.” Conditions had improved considerably by the time Bruce and Ann moved to Arizona in 1982. After moving to Cottonwood 16 years ago, they became regular visitors, and Ann signed up for a beginning backpacking course with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. “I had done it as a Boy Scout and I said I’d go, too,” Bruce said. “We had the most marvelous time.” Since then, the couple has backpacked all the southern corridor trails.

On one trip, they encountered a Boy Scout troop, kids around 13 or 15, all carrying backpacks. “It was reassuring to see that Scout leaders were bringing a younger crowd in,” Bruce said. “And not one of them was complaining. They were having the time of their lives.” Bruce and Ann joined Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC) about 20 years ago while visiting Kolb Studio because the membership entitled them to discounts in the park. Running into friends who were also members, they started attending annual members meetings and tours, which taught them a lot about what happens behind the scenes. The tour that had the most impact on Bruce involved Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR). Knowing many visitors enter the canyon with no idea what they’re getting into, Bruce immediately

recognized the value of the program. He called 10 days after he retired to volunteer. Now in his sixth season as PSAR volunteer, Bruce estimates that 80 percent of the job is providing a reassuring presence to hikers who become emotionally distraught when they realize they’re in trouble. “Once we show up people calm down,” Bruce says. “We walk them out. It took over six hours to walk an 80-year-old gentleman out. We have pictures of him giving us a hug.” As a physician, Bruce is well qualified to fulfill the program’s secondary purpose of providing first aid. In one memorable case, a Tennessee woman who thought she could hike to the river and back needed IV therapy. “I saw her on the way out and she was emotionally spent,” Bruce recalled. “I offered to sleep at 3 Mile to be with

27 her. They decided to send a helicopter to get her out. I told her to come back after she got decent equipment and exercise and do it right. I always wondered if she came back.” The first GCC priority project Bruce and Ann got involved with was the Bright Angel Trailhead Restoration, completed in 2013. The trail is one of the park’s most popular, but the trailhead was difficult to find, had only temporary restroom facilities, and no comfortable place for people to sit and prepare for their hike. GCC supporters contributed $827,000 to add amenities that included a new shade structure, benches, and permanent restrooms with flush toilets. The restoration also included the addition of more than 6,000 landscape plants and 90 paved parking spaces. “That was our first large donation, and we saw our funds go into something extraordinary,” said Bruce. “Every time since then, GCC has used the donations they receive exactly as they indicate, and the results are always positive for the park and the public.” Whether or not you love the outdoors and wilderness areas, Bruce believes it’s important to protect them, and GCC plays an important role in doing that. “The Grand Canyon is one of the top parks,” he said. “It requires love and maintenance to make sure it doesn’t become inaccessible or people are harmed. GCC is a fierce watchdog in making sure things are done. We ran out of bottled water for PSAR, and I said, ‘Why don’t we call GCC?’ Suddenly there were four or five cases of water! From $10 cases of water to $1,000 radios, whatever we need, GCC recognizes the value that PSAR represents.”

2 8 | C A N YO N V I E W S

WAYS TO GIVE There are so many ways to give to Grand Canyon Conservancy and help preserve and protect Grand Canyon National Park!

Grand Canyon National Park: El Tovar Hotel in Winter. Photo courtesy NPS.

Monthly Giving/Canyon Caretaker Canyon Caretakers are a community of monthly supporters committed to GCC’s vision to provide enriching and fulfilling visitor experiences and protect the park for future generations. Your donation helps support every facet of our work. No gift is too small! Whether you give $5 a month or $50 a month, your donation is enhancing the park you love. As a Canyon Caretaker, we’ll show you our appreciation with:

• An official Grand Canyon Conservancy Member card;

• Discounts in our park and online stores; • A subscription to our magazine Canyon Views;

• Reciprocal discounts at other participating Public Lands Alliance stores around the country (over 400 nationwide!);

• Invitations to Members-only events and experiences.

When you give monthly, your specified monthly contribution will be charged to your credit or debit card each month—no extra mail and stamps for you! Rest assured, you’ll have the security of knowing you’re in complete control and can cancel your monthly commitment whenever you choose.

Planned Giving/Bright Angel Circle Through a planned gift to GCC, you qualify for lifetime membership in our most esteemed giving club—the Bright Angel Circle! By making a planned gift, you leave a lasting legacy to your loved ones, as well as the causes you hold dear, directing the impact of your life’s work to the things you care most about. And you may be able to do so while conserving your financial security and achieving other important goals concerning your taxes and your estate. By far, the most common way to make a planned gift is to designate GCC in your will or trust. There are many other ways to make planned gifts that may offer significant advantages to you and your family, including gifts of property other than money. With a planned gift, you can protect your hard-earned assets while also building a legacy of conservation that will stretch far into the future.

Gifting Appreciated Stock

Important 2024 Dates to Remember

Making a gift of securities is simple and offers a number of financial benefits:

Grand Gathering South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park May 3–5, 2024

• You receive an immediate income-tax deduction for the fair market value of the securities on the date of transfer, no matter what you originally paid for them.

• You pay no capital gains tax on the securities you donate to Grand Canyon Conservancy.

• When you donate your appreciated securities to GCC, you are making a significant contribution to the protection and preservation of Grand Canyon National Park.

For more information on giving to GCC, please contact: Bonnie Baker, Chief Philanthropy Officer bbaker@grandcanyon.org Office: (928) 556-5296

Trailblazer Online and in-person at Grand Canyon National Park June 2024 Celebration of Art Online and in-person at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park September 17, 2024–January 15, 2025

3 0 | C A N YO N V I E W S

"The guides were awesome—so educational and patient! It was such an amazing first visit to the canyon, and it was lifechanging to have experienced Grand Canyon up-close and personal. Thank you so much!" – Amy Waits

Photo by Terri Attridge.

Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute: Reserve Your Spot Now! If you're looking to take the adventure of a lifetime, or just enjoy a day hike with family and friends, make sure to check out the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute's (GCCFI) exciting slate of classes and tours. From half-day rim tours to 18-day river trips, GCCFI’s unique offerings highlight Grand Canyon’s amazing culture, wildlife, geology, and history. You’ll learn from those who know the canyon best—geologists, historians, ecologists, archaeologists, and other experts—who will help you gain a deeper connection to Grand Canyon.

Some highlights for 2024 include: • Multiple Rim-to-Rim programs, both North to South and South to North • Multiple Bright Angel Loop hikes • Colorado River trip • Lots of Basecamp hiking options • Several backpacking trips that will take you outside of the corridor Space is limited. For more information or questions, please contact us at GCCFI@grandcanyon.org or visit us online at grandcanyon.org.

We look forward to seeing familiar faces and can’t wait to introduce new visitors to the wonders of Grand Canyon!

SHOP GRAND CANYON CONSERVANCY Shopping GCC’s stores supports Grand Canyon National Park, and GCC Members receive 15% off!

Scout Moore, Junior Ranger Plush Doll $25.00

Scout Moore is a Junior Ranger Extraordinaire! Scout and her family love discovering all the wonders of the nation’s most beloved parks, forests, and public lands. She is featured in several books published by GCC.

Grand Canyon Paint-by-Number Kit $42.00

This kit is recommended for adults and teens age 13 and up. Kit Includes: • (1) 8x10 ready to paint numbered illustration • (8-12) American-made, non-toxic, acrylic paints in custom colors • (2) Reusable synthetic sable hair paintbrushes (vegan)

Scout Moore, Junior Ranger: Grand Canyon by Theresa Howell, Illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler $15.95

When her family takes a special trip to the Grand Canyon, which is WAY bigger than her own backyard, Scout is totally amazed. She cannot wait to explore.Hardcover, 32 pages of color illustrations, ages 4–8.

3 2 | C A N YO N V I E W S Pendleton “Canyon Storm” Blanket Designed by Dr. Tyler Nordgren $360.00

Our 2023 custom Pendleton Blanket “Canyon Storm” was designed by Dr. Tyler Nordgren. He is an astronomer, artist, and Professor of Physics at the University of Redlands. Dr. Nordgren was the first Astronomer in Residence at Grand Canyon National Park in 2021. • 65” x 80” • Made in USA

Grand Canyon Ladies Landscape Mesh-Back Hat by Wild Tribute $30.00

Grab this fun trucker hat featuring a colorful landscape of Grand Canyon and hit the trail! Wild Tribute donates 4% of its proceeds to protect historic and wild places.

“Canyon Storm” Tote Bag $25.00

This tote bag is the perfect accompaniment to your new blanket! Featuring the same “Canyon Storm” design by Dr. Tyler Nordgren that is featured on the Pendleton Blanket, the bag features the words “Grand Canyon National Park.” 100% polyester. · Sturdy webbed handles with a 9” drop · Machine wash and dry

33 Tribal Medallion Soft Touch Water Bottle $28.00

The tribal medallion, a collaboration between National Park Service staff and Tribal colleagues, was developed with the artistry of Andy Dufford, Chevo Studios, as a way to introduce park visitors to the American Indian cultures that maintain strong cultural and spiritual ties to the canyon. The original medallion, embedded as a landmark, can be seen at the Mather Point area of Grand Canyon National Park. 17 oz., stainless steel inner and outer, smooth rubberized finish, bamboo lid, BPA free.

Grand Canyon Barrel Stoneware Mug $32.00

Designed by American artists, this 16 oz. Grand Canyon stoneware mug features an intricate landscape image of the park and has a bottom stamp that is a quote from Theodore Roosevelt encouraging everyone to “leave it as it is.” As these are handmade, each mug is unique. Glazes are leadfree, food safe, and dishwasher safe.

We Call the Canyon Home: Indigenous Peoples of the Grand Canyon Region Contributing Editor Stephen Hirst $15.00

Indigenous tribes have inhabited the area we know as the American Southwest since time immemorial. Discover the deep cultural, traditional, and historical connections between these peoples and Grand Canyon. The Indigenous peoples of Grand Canyon tell their own stories, in their own words, and in their own way. Softcover. Traditionally Associated Tribes: Havasupai Tribe, Hopi Tribe, Hualapai Tribe, Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians, Las Vegas Tribe of Paiute Indians, Moapa Band of Paiute Indians, the Navajo Nation, Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, Pueblo of Zuni, San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation.

G R A N D C A N YO N C O N S E R VA N C Y P. O . B O X 3 9 9 , G R A N D C A N YO N , A Z 8 6 0 2 3 W E I N S P I R E G E N E R AT I O N S O F PA R K C H A M P I O N S T O C H E R I S H A N D S U P P O R T T H E N AT U R A L A N D C U LT U R A L W O N D E R O F G R A N D C A N YO N .

grandcanyon.org

I N S P I R E . E D U C AT E . P R O T E C T . | P L E A S E R E C YC L E