News writer
Earth Month was first recognized in April 1970. By 1990, it had become a global celebration with over 200 million participants in more than 141 countries. Today, Earth Month continues its focus on raising environmental awareness and taking action against climate change.
This April, in recognition of Earth Month, the Arizona Lottery is celebrating its commitment to conservation with its partnership with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) Southwest Program. In previous years, the Grand Canyon State has joined with the NFF in support of its “Wood for Life" and “Save our Saguaros” campaigns. In 2024, the combined forces of the Arizona Lottery and the NFF are running the Rim Country Campground Project.
A $50,000 investment aims to revitalize this popular recreational area and improve accessibility, safety, and sustainability. It will also provide needed resources to create new campgrounds and a set of trailheads in the Tonto National Forest's Payson Ranger District. The Arizona Lottery has contributed $17,000 to this project, which has enabled the addition of potable water upgrades at Christopher Creek.
Rim County Campgrounds upgrade
In a press release, Arizona Lottery CEO Alec Thomson said:
The Arizona Lottery is honored to support this program that enhances the camping experience for all who enjoy our public campgrounds. Additionally, the potable water upgrades will ensure that Arizonans and visitors alike have access to drinking water while visiting our beloved campgrounds.
In 2023, when the NFF resumed oversight of the Rim Country Campgrounds, their managers saw that the campground's infrastructure desperately needed updating. Each year, thousands of visitors flock to Rim County communities to camp and enjoy the outdoors. The combined efforts of the NFF and the Arizona Lottery Give Back program are helping to improve the outdoor experience for visitors by adding safe drinking water and facilitating easy access.
Angie Abel, Recreation Manager for Payson, Tonto Basin, and Pleasant Valley Ranger Districts, said:
There will be an improved user experience while reducing impacts on the environment.
How the Arizona Lottery helps the environment
The Arizona Lottery has an ongoing commitment to the environment. This is reflected in its annual contribution of up to $10 million to support statewide programs and services that help with conservation efforts.
Since 1994, the Arizona Lottery has contributed more than $453 million to conserve and protect wildlife and natural areas throughout the state. Lottery revenue has also been used to procure land for sensitive species and protect endangered species, as well as provide outdoor recreational areas and opportunities to educate adults and children about Arizona wildlife.
About the National Forest Foundation
The NFF is dedicated to inspiring and facilitating meaningful connections between people and America's National Forests. The organization leads conservation efforts and encourages responsible recreation.
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