Arizona State Parks - Press Release

ARIZONA STATE PARKS
For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, pio at azstateparks.gov or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997
*****************

March is Archaeology Month at Red Rock State Park

(Phoenix, Arizona - February 13, 2007) - In conjunction with Arizona Archaeology and Heritage Awareness Month, Red Rock State Park offers lectures and hikes in March.

The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting and the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants and wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes and programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.

On Sunday, March 4, Archaeologist Allen Dart presents "Arts and Cultures of the Ancient Southern Arizona Hohokam Indians." Dart's program features slides of the Hohokam culture. There will also be a display of authentic prehistoric artifacts. His presentation illustrates the material culture of the Hohokam to help the audience understand who the Hohokam were and how they lived. This program is sponsored by the Arizona Humanities Council and the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. For reservations call 928-282-6907.

On Sunday, March 11 at 11 a.m., Al Cornell, a retired U.S. Army Officer with 30 years active service, will present "Fire by Friction." Cornell will be demonstrating the four pre-historic fire-starting methods used in the New World prior to the arrival of the first Europeans. These methods include the hand drill, the Artic strap drill, the bow drill and iron pyrites.

Before the bow and arrow, there was the Atlatl and Dart. On Sunday, March 11 at 12:30 p.m., Robert Sizemore will demonstrate these instruments and participants may try their skill in this event. Sizemore will also discuss the origin and history as well as the continuing sport competition of the device.

On Sunday, March 11 at 2 p.m., volunteers will escort visitors on a guided geology hike throughout the park. This hike will include the Eagle's Nest trail for a great view of the park and surrounding area. Bring the entire family and enjoy an afternoon with our volunteers as we explore the rock formations that create the scenic backdrop of Red Rock State Park.

Join us on Sunday, March 18 at 2 p.m. at the Visitor Center. One of our rangers plants a Native American garden using authentic native digging sticks and seeds provided by Native Seed/Search. Parents and children are welcome to participate in this project.

On Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m. at the Visitor Center, join Bob Dick and Brenda Robinson for a hike to celebrate Archaeology Month. Learn about the pre-historic Sinagua Indians who inhabited the Sedona/Verde Valley area more than 1000 years ago. Learn how they utilized plants found in the area for survival and about traces of what they left behind.

Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m. will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.

At 10 a.m. daily, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 11&Mac218;2 to 2 hours and will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek and other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history and archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.

At 2 p.m. daily, the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approximately one-hour. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.

For information or reservations call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located on the Lower Red Rock Loop Road off Hwy 89A, southwest of Sedona. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitor Center hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Park Entrance Fee is $6 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $45 (some restrictions apply) and Premium Annual Pass is sold for $100.

For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit the website at www.azstateparks.com.

-end-