Two hundred and forty-three volunteers recently gathered at the Table Mesa Recreation Area just north of Phoenix. Among them were 94 people who identified themselves as hunters including 16 members of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Table Mesa Recreation Area covers more than 11,000 acres and is a destination for those who enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, OHV riding, mountain biking, horseback riding, target shooting and other outdoor activities. It’s also home to the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail and provides access to Lake Pleasant.
Due to its popularity as well as its easy access and proximity to a high population base, it is prone to illegal dumping, littering and other misuse. Volunteers brought work gloves, buckets and a great attitude as they ignored gray and drizzly skies. When all was said and done, they removed more than 13 tons of trash and other debris.