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Saguaro National Park Triumphs in Securing 150 Abandoned Copper Mines

TUCSON, Ariz. — Visitors to Saguaro National Park can now enjoy their time without the fear of falling into abandoned mines. This concern stems from past incidents, notably a boy’s fall down a 40-foot shaft in the 1970s, a situation that fortunately ended in rescue.
Wildlife, however, hasn’t been as lucky. According to Saguaro National Park Biologist Don Swann, abandoned mines have caused significant wildlife mortality for over a century. “Some of these are literally vertical shafts that go down into the earth,” he stated.
During the late 1800s, prospectors searching for copper did not consider environmental safety. After extensive efforts, park employees have now secured or backfilled these dangerous holes. A survey identified over 210 mines within the park, with nearly 150 posing substantial risks to both people and wildlife.
Many inaccessible mines required hand-filling, often undertaken by local youth crews. “Young people get a chance to work outdoors and gain experience in a national park,” Swann explained. This seasonal labor occurs mainly during cooler months; working under the intense Arizona sun can be grueling.
The standard method for mines under 65 feet deep involves backfilling, a process varying in duration from a few days to several weeks. Swann reflected on the challenging yet rewarding nature of this work, noting that seeing the level of dirt rise brings a sense of accomplishment.
Not all mines can be filled; historical significance, ecological value, or depth may require alternate methods, like metal grates or gates. For example, the Gould mine, which dates back to 1906, is protected by a grate that had to be transported via helicopter.
This mine, which ceased operations in the 1950s, produced significant quantities of copper, reflecting its historical importance. Conversely, shallower mines that posed little danger have been left untouched.
With the mines now secured, park staff can redirect their focus toward their primary goal: preserving the stunning landscape of the Sonoran Desert for future generations to enjoy. “For us, it feels really great,” Swann concluded. “It feels like a significant achievement.”