By Bill Van Nimwegen
Apache Junction Gold Canyon The News
Patience and persistence paid off for the East Valley Back Country Horsemen (EVBCH). With the cooperation of Mesa Ranger District Head Ranger Gary Hanna and Tonto National Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth, the horsemen now have a safe place to park their horse trailers.
“Closed for the Season” was posted on the barricade at the Tonto National Forest parking lot that Ann Adkins of EVBCH previously used weekly to park her trailer and ride her horse.
The parking area along the Salt River is near Saguaro Lake Vista Trail #242, a beautiful area enjoyed by hikers, photographers, artists, and nature lovers—including horseback riders.
Adkins wrote to Head Ranger Hanna, and Tonto Forest Supervisor Bosworth, describing the impossibility of accessing a favorite riding spot due to the closure of the parking lot.
Hanna replied, explaining that the Forest Service had chosen to close the parking Tonto National Forest Parking Reopened Horsemen’s group and Ranger District work together, strike a deal lot to save money. Adkins appealed to the EVBCH membership and Russell Wright, EVBCH Coordinator, wrote to Hanna.
