Opinion

Richards: What about preserving our sensitive Arizona desert?

The Hawes Trail System in Mesa is a win for mountain bikers but a loss for our Sonoran Desert and its unique plants and animals. Sixty-two miles of trails have carved up 10 square miles of the Tonto National Forest.

Now the Hawes Trail Alliance wants to add even more trails to its system by expanding into Usery Mountain Regional Park.

You must be a member to read this story.

Join our family of readers starting at $5 for your first month and support local, unbiased journalism.

Already have an account? Log in to continue.

Otherwise, follow the link below to join.

I am anchor

Opinion

Richards: What about preserving our sensitive Arizona desert?

Posted Wednesday, September 8, 2021 11:00 am

Your community, your voice

What do you think about this important topic?

Join the civil community discussion in the comments below or email your ideas and opinions to: AzOpinions@iniusa.org

Letter by Ben Richards of Mesa

The Hawes Trail System in Mesa is a win for mountain bikers but a loss for our Sonoran Desert and its unique plants and animals. Sixty-two miles of trails have carved up 10 square miles of the Tonto National Forest.

Now the Hawes Trail Alliance wants to add even more trails to its system by expanding into Usery Mountain Regional Park.

Whatever happened to preserving our sensitive and spectacular desert? When is it ever enough?