Hualapai Research

   The Hualapai Tribe is continuing on its course toward managing its own resources. The Hualapai Department of Natural Resources ( HDNR; formerly Wildlife Management) has expanded. It now encompasses several branches including; agriculture, water resources, cultural resources, wildlife (including fisheries and parks), forestry, and environmental services (EIS’s, EA’s, etc.). The HDNR is headed by a director with each branch having its own program manager. This new reorganization should provide more efficient coordination with government agencies, tribal interests, and the guiding community.

   HDNR is currently coordinating several research and monitoring projects in the fields of fisheries, riparian ecology, cultural resources and recreation. These projects are focused along the Colorado River from the Hualapai boundary near National Canyon downstream to near Emery Falls. Some trips begin at National Canyon and some at Diamond Creek. Most are supported by OARS, Inc. which deadheads to Havasu where the scientists hike in. Others launch at Diamond Creek and may be supported by Hualapais. As with all past science trips, they are trying to be low profile and would be happy to provide your trip with an impromptu lecture about their work.

   As we have seen during the GCES research in the upper Canyon, cooperation and communication are essential between scientists and guides. The Lower Gorge can get pretty small and prime camping beaches few and far between, especially when the lake is high around popular sites like Spencer Creek. So be prepared and talk to the researchers about campsite plans.

   There also may be times when HDNR personnel will be taking surveys for their recreation studies. Please cooperate. This information will be used to formulate future management plans and conserve the Lower Gorge resources.

Bill Leibfried