Mcrae Fence Removal

 

On August 4th 2001 Arizona RMEF volunteers from around the state gathered in game management unit 9 near the Grand Canyon to remove three miles of barbwire fence.

The fence was originally constructed to exclude elk and livestock from an area of seedling ponderosa pines commonly referred to by locals and hunters as the Christmas tree farm. Over the years the fence had deteriorated and became a hazard for elk, mule deer, and antelope in the area.

 

Arizona Game& Fish officer Tom Finley approached RMEF state chairman Dan Hunter about a possible volunteer work project to remove the fence. Information was sent out to the local chapters and news media about the project. On the morning of the scheduled project Tom arrived at the RMEF campsite expecting a handful of volunteers but was overwhelmed when 38 members were on hand and ready to go about the process of removing the fence. The entire three miles of 3-strand wire was rolled up as well as the t-post removed. In what was originally intended as a 2 day project the members were able to complete in less than eight hours. With the project being finished early several members who were lucky enough to get drawn for elk and deer in the area were able to do a little scouting and get information on the areas hotspots from Tom, while others enjoyed a nice campfire after a hard day of working for wildlife. From the outstanding results of this volunteer project Tom and Dan are planning more projects in the near future , if you are interested contact AZ RMEF State Chairman Dan Hunter at 623-582-2217, or e-mail dhuntersco@aol.com