Make It Mesa

Arizona Game & Fish Department

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is partnering with the Dolly Steamboat at Canyon Lake to host a public workshop to see and learn about the state’s desert bighorn
sheep.

This fun and informational wildlife workshop starts with a classroom presentation from 7-9p.m. on Friday, June 24 at the Game and Fish Mesa regional office at 7200 E. University Drive, where participants will learn about bighorn sheep, their natural history, management and historical significance from a wildlife biologist.

The following morning, Saturday, June 25, from 9-11:30 a.m., participants will join
biologists aboard the boat and tour Canyon  Lake, located northeast of Apache Junction, to learn more about bighorn sheep natural history and view the animals in their natural environment.

The lake tour costs $25 per person. Advance registration is required. To register, call the
Dolly Steamboat at (480) 827-9144. All attendees must be at Canyon Lake at 8:30 a.m. for the 9 a.m. departure.

The Friday classroom session is free, but pre-registration is requested due to space limitations. Those planning on doing the lake tour are strongly encouraged to attend to maximize their knowledge and viewing experience. To register for the Friday evening classroom session, call the Game and Fish Mesa office at (480) 324-3546 or e-mail rbabb@azgfd.gov.

“June is the time of year when the bighorns stay pretty close to water. It will be hot on the lake, but that’s when bighorns come down to the water’s edge for a drink,” said Randy Babb, information and education program manager for the Game and Fish Mesa region. Babb added that the bottom level of the Dolly Steamboat is air conditioned.

Participants are encouraged to bring a camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and binoculars.
Only water will be allowed to be brought on board, but snacks can be purchased from the cantina. Space is limited, so those who have not registered prior to the event will be accommodated only as space allows.

“This is a great opportunity for people to learn about bighorn sheep and conservation efforts by the Game and Fish Department and its partners for bighorn sheep,” says Babb.

Anyone with questions about the workshop may contact Randy Babb at (480) 324-3546 or by e-mail at rbabb@azgfd.gov.