FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Ever wonder what it would be like to see hundreds of elk in one place at one time? That opportunity is possible during the elk viewing workshop hosted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department with support from the Arizona Watchable Wildlife Experience (AWWE) and Mormon Lake Lodge. Workshop presentations are scheduled for the morning on Saturday, Aug. 18. The workshop includes a presentation and a field trip to watch elk at Mormon Lake.

 

Mormon Lake is unique as it is only one of two natural lakes found in Arizona. During late summer and early fall, hundreds of elk can be observed at the site and along Lake Mary Road.

 

“This is always a popular event, people want to escape the summer heat and get outdoors in northern Arizona and enjoy wildlife,” says Shelly Shepherd with Game and Fish. “This workshop is a great way for people to learn about the watchable wildlife opportunities in Northern Arizona.”

 

AWWE is a collaborative group represented by dedicated individuals from Willow Bend Environmental Education Center, City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, US Forest Service, the Arizona Wildlife Federation, and the Game and Fish Department. The group provides 30 watchable wildlife sites within 30 miles of Flagstaff.

 

The workshop will include a nominal fee of $10 a person; kids 12 years and under are free. Presentations will start at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Saturday. Participants will attend a presentation, located in the Kachina room at Mormon Lake Lodge, and also go on a field trip. The field trip location will be determined that day based on where the elk are observed.

 

Spotting scopes will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, water, snacks, and to wear appropriate clothing.

 

To register for the workshop, visit the Willow Bend Environmental Education Center Game website (registration page is at http://willowbendcenter.org/family-science-registration/). 

 

Mormon Lake Lodge is located about 25 miles south of Flagstaff (take Lake Mary Road and turn off on Mormon Lake Road). For directions, visit www.mormonlakelodge.com.

 

Contact:

Shelly Shepherd

Information/Education Program Manager, Flagstaff region

(928) 606-3070, sshepherd@azgfd.gov