Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 7-11, 2024

Prescribed Burn Operations Delayed Due to National Preparedness Level 5

No Road Closure on Cape Royal Road from October 14-18

Fire managers from the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, who are part of the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program, have delayed the previously planned prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The timing of these operations will now depend on favorable weather conditions, resource availability, and the status of the National Preparedness Level, which is currently at Level 5.

National Preparedness Level 5 signifies that national firefighting resources are heavily committed, with numerous teams and equipment deployed to address active incidents across the country. Federal resources are also supporting the many communities in North Carolina who were impacted by Hurricane Helene, and preparing to and responding to Hurricane Milton, currently impacting communities in Florida. Because of this, the prescribed burn operations on the Grand Canyon’s North Rim are temporarily delayed.

Prescribed Burn Areas and Objectives:

Once conditions allow, fire managers plan to treat 25,371 acres on the North Kaibab Ranger District and 4,347 acres on the North Rim to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain the ecosystem’s natural fire processes. These prescribed burns are a critical part of the park’s fire management strategy, aimed at preventing larger, uncontrolled wildfires and promoting a healthier, more resilient forest ecosystem.

South and North Rims Transition to High Fire Danger

Starting Thursday, Oct. 10, interagency fire managers have elevated the fire danger rating to high for both the North and South Rims of Grand Canyon National Park, as well as the Kaibab National Forest.

The forecast calls for continued warm, dry conditions, and despite the green appearance of the landscape, dead and downed timber and other fuels are still highly flammable. These factors have prompted fire managers to raise the fire danger rating.

A high fire danger means fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly. Fire managers assess several key indicators to determine the risk, including the moisture content of vegetation, projected weather patterns (such as temperatures and winds), and the ability of fire to spread. They also consider the availability of firefighting resources, which are stretched thin across the country.

To help prevent wildfires, fire managers encourage visitors to avoid starting fires altogether, especially in areas where fire danger is high.

For those who choose to build a campfire, extreme caution is advised.Fires must never be left unattended, and they must be fully extinguished before leaving. Unattended or abandoned campfires can quickly escalate into wildfires, and visitors may be held financially responsible for suppression costs if their campfire causes a fire.

Stay safe and help protect the Grand Canyon’s natural resources by following all fire safety guidelines.

Astronomer in Residence South Rim Programs Starts Thursday

We welcome our next Astronomer in Residence and professional concert pianist, Dr. David Koerner! There are a variety of upcoming programs, and most will involve both an indoor theater presentation and an outdoor constellation talk/telescope viewing.

On Thursday, October 10, he will be offering a night-sky themed piano performance on his grand piano in the Shrine of Ages at 7 pm! Telescope viewing will also be available during the event.

On Thursday, October 17, he will be offering a Full Moon piano performance out at Mather Point—he will be playing piano pieces inspired by the Moon as the Full Moon rises over the Canyon! Telescope viewing will also be available during the event.

On Tuesday, October 22, he will be offering a night-sky themed piano performance on his grand piano in the Shrine of Ages at 6:30 pm! Telescope viewing will also be available during the event.

More information on these events can be found in the attached flyer here.

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Grand Canyon!

Join us for a meaningful celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Grand Canyon National Park from October 12 to 14. This event series will engage visitors and residents in discussions, cultural performances, and a deeper appreciation of Indigenous heritage.

Presentation Day – October 12

Kick off the festivities at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Theater from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Esteemed speakers Noah Collins, David Martínez, and Dr. Lyla June Johnston will share insights on contemporary Indigenous issues.

Panel Discussion – October 13

On Sunday, join us outdoors at the Visitor Center Plaza from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for a panel discussion with the same esteemed speakers. Attendees will have the chance to engage directly with the presenters, fostering an interactive dialogue about cultural representation and resilience.

Prayers & Dance Performances – October 14

Celebrate on the Canyon Rim Trail by Hopi House from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. with an opening prayer by Phyllis Kachinhongva at 12:15 p.m., followed by dance performances by ShanDien LaRance and the CBQ Apache Crown Dancers. The day will continue with additional performances at the Visitor Center Plaza from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., concluding with a closing prayer at 5 p.m.

Don’t miss this opportunity to honor and learn about the rich heritage of Indigenous peoples at Grand Canyon! More information on these events can be found in the attached flyer or on the webpage here.

Grand Canyon National Park and Arizona Public Service (APS) recently celebrated the completion of the Bright Angel Substation, a significant infrastructure project designed to meet the park’s increasing energy demands. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on October 9, marks a major step forward in supporting the park’s long-term growth and upcoming sustainability projects.

The new substation dramatically increases power capacity to Grand Canyon Village, boosting the park’s energy supply from 10 megawatts (MW) to an impressive 41 MW. This expanded capacity is critical for supporting a range of future initiatives, including the South Rim Wastewater Treatment Plant, Electric Vehicle (EV) buses, and the installation of enhanced EV charging stations. These developments are part of the park’s commitment to sustainability and its efforts to accommodate the millions of visitors who come to experience Grand Canyon each year.

A link to the remarks and ribbon cutting ceremony can be found here.

Important Reminder: Satellite Dish Installation Restrictions for Employees Living in Historic Residences

Are you a new Starlink or HughesNet customer? Are you wondering how to best install your new satellite dish at your NPS residence?

The Superintendent’s Office would like to remind you that installing any type of satellite dish on a historic home is prohibited under park policy, as outlined in theResidents’ Handbook for Government Furnished Quarters.

If you’re unsure whether your residence is considered historic, please contact Ellen Brennan, Cultural Resources Program Manager, atellen_brennan@nps.gov for clarification.

To avoid the lengthy compliance process (which can take 4-6 months), consider alternative installation options that don’t disturb the ground, such as:

• Ground mounting with sandbags
• Using a pole encased in a concrete bucket
• A tripod or other non-ground disturbing methods

Additionally, local carriers may offer options that don’t require any installation of equipment. Keep in mind that all ground disturbance in the park requires archaeological monitoring, so be sure to reach out to Ellen before proceeding with any digging or installation that could impact park resources.

Thank you for your cooperation in preserving the cultural integrity of our historic residences!

Grand Canyon Food Pantry Inc. Update

‘Things will be the same, only better.’

Hi Neighbors,

Next to raising a family, helping launch and lead the Grand Canyon Food Pantry Inc. (GCFPI) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. For the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of working with so many of you to make our Pantry a success.

As you may have heard through the grapevine, I am stepping down from day-to-day management of the Pantry. It was a difficult decision, but it is time to “retire” from what in many ways was a full-time volunteer job. I am pleased to announce, however, that GCFPI is leaving the Pantry in very good hands. As of October 1, Flagstaff Family Food Center (FFFC) has assumed management of the Pantry and hired Heather Lapre to manage it. Many of you know Heather, a long-time resident of the Canyon and a friend to many organizations here.

The bottom line for the people who benefit from the pantry is that things will be the same, only better, as FFFC is about 12 times our size in terms of resources. The Pantry will continue its Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday hours, as well as the Tusayan Town Pantry on the third Wednesday of the month. Most importantly, it will be managed by a great team with a proven track record of improving lives by reducing food insecurity.

In terms of administrative structure, GCFPI will continue to have a local Board of Directors, and two members of our Board will be joining FFFC’s Board. We will remain an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization and retain our 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status.

Right now, I feel like a parent sending their child off in the school bus for the first time. It’s not easy, but I know it’s for the best. And don’t think you’ll be seeing the last of me; I plan to continue to volunteer, just not at the level I was doing before.

There are not enough words to express my gratitude for all the help the Pantry has received – in time, labor, and treasure from individuals, Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon School, and concessionaires. And I am also grateful to the Park Service management team for working with us to make the Pantry a viable part of our community.

Thank you all for believing in the Pantry, and for allowing me to serve.

-Mike Scott

Tusayan Community Gathering and Drone Show on Thursday, Oct. 10

The Town of Tusayan has rescheduled its Fall Community Gathering and Drone Show to Thursday, Oct. 10 starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Tusayan Sports Complex. Free food, games, live music, and giveaways will be offered.

More information on this event can be found in the attached flyer here.

COVID and Flu Vaccine Clinic at Grand Canyon Rec Center on Friday, Oct. 25

On Friday, Oct. 25, Coconino County Health and Human Services will be offering vaccines at the Grand Canyon Community Recreation Center from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Flu shots and COVID-19 boosters will be available at the event for those ages 6 months and above. The CDC recommends the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines and the updated 2024-2025 flu vaccines to protect against severe COVID-19 and flu this fall and winter.

It is safe to receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same visit. Data continue to show the importance of vaccination to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and flu, including hospitalization and death. In 2023, more than 916,300 people were hospitalized due to COVID-19 and more than 75,500 people died from COVID-19. During the 2023-2024 flu season, more than 44,900 people are estimated to have died from flu complications.

No registration is required; however, residents are encouraged to arrive early based on past popularity of these events.

For more information, see the attached flyer here.

North Country Healthcare Fall Festival Slated for Oct. 29

On Tuesday, Oct. 29 from 4-6 p.m., North Country Healthcare will host a Fall Festival focused on health and wellness. This event offers an opportunity for you and your family to explore healthcare services and programs available to you.

Enjoy activity stations, a balloon artist, and learn about affordable health insurance assistance and behavioral health resources. There will also be a FREE dental screening and more. Costumes are encouraged.

For more information on this event, see the attached flyer here.

South Rim

Xanterra

• Maswik Cafeteria, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Maswik Pizza Pub, 4-10 p.m.
• Bright Angel Fountain, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Harvey House Café/Fred Harvey Burger Restaurant, Breakfast 6:30-10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner 4-9 p.m.
• Fred Harvey Tavern, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
• Arizona Steakhouse, Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9 p.m.
• El Tovar Dining Room and Lounge – Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9:30 p.m., Lounge, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Food until 9 p.m.)
• The Grand Canyon Kennel, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Rec Center, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Delaware North

• Yavapai Dining Hall:: Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m., Dinner 5-9 p.m., Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 12-10 p.m., Coffee Shop: 6:30 a.m. -5 p.m., Beginning on 10/14: Breakfast 7-10 a.m., Dinner 5-8 p.m., Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio 12-9 p.m., Coffee Shop: 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Deli, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Beginning on 10/14 the market will be open from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. and the Deli from 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily
• Trailer Village Kiosk: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Mather Campground Store: Closed for the season beginning 10/14

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Bright Angel Bikes, Rental: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Café 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Visitor Center (GCVC): Open daily from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., GCVC will be closed from Oct. 6-27 for winter seasonal staff training.
• Grand Canyon Conservancy stores: Verkamps and Yavapai Geology Museum-8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, Visitor Center Plaza-8 a.m.-7 p.m., Kolb Studio-8 a.m.-6 p.m., Beginning on 10/20, Yavapai and Verkamps will move to 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
• The Grand Canyon Community Library: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Food Pantry: Monday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday 5:30-7:30 p.m., Saturday 2-4 p.m.
• Canyon Community Yoga & Wellness (at the Rec Center): Full class schedule can be found here. Use discount GCLOCALS at checkout.

Desert View

• The last night to stay overnight at Desert View Campground is Sunday, October 13th. The campground closes for the season on Monday October 14th.
• Desert View Trading Post and ice cream and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Desert View Watchtower, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Last stair access at 4:40 p.m. with stairs closing at 5 p.m.
• The Desert View Deli, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• The Desert View convenience store, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily., Beginning on 10/14 the Desert View Service Station will be pay at the pump only

North Rim

• North Rim Visitor Center (GCC), 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. (last day Oct. 15)
• Ranger Roost (located at the Roaring Springs Overlook), daily 10 a.m.- 4p.m. through Oct. 15
• NPS Backcountry Information Center, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-5 p.m. daily through Oct. 31
• Camper Store by campground (Aramark), 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily, will close at 11 a.m. on Oct. 16
• Guest Laundry and Showers, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. staffed, unstaffed from 7-10 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Lodge Gift Shop (Aramark), 8 a.m.-9 p.m. daily, will close at 11 a.m. on Oct. 16

Please visit the Grand Canyon National Park website for a complete list of closures and available amenities.

• Northern Lights seen from the North Rim on Oct. 6, 2024 (Photo courtesy of L. Cisneros)
• Dr. David Koerner, Astronomer in Residence, presents a program at the North Rim Lodge on Oct. 3, 2024 (Photo courtesy of L. Cisneros)
• The Bright Angel Substation following a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 9, 2024 (NPS Photo/M. Quinn)
• Mike Scott, outgoing President of the Grand Canyon Food Pantry (Photo courtesy of M. Scott)