Sedona News – As part of an effort to inspire donations from the millions of visitors who use the trails in the Red Rock Ranger District, the Sedona Red Rock Trail Fund (SRRTF) launched a new fundraising appeal, kicking off over the Columbus Day weekend and running through the holiday season.
The campaign is part of a collaboration between the SRRTF and the National Forest Foundation (NFF). The NFF is the official nonprofit partner to the U.S. Forest Service and was created with the mission to bring people together to restore and enhance National Forests and Grasslands. In 2023, the NFF was responsible for investing $22 million in National Forests.
The new campaign involves messaging boards in English and Spanish on trails along Sedona’s Red Rock Scenic Byway – Bell Rock, Little Horse and Yavapai Vista – during periods of high visitation by tourists. Messaging to in-bound users reinforces trail courtesy, warning bikers to yield to hikers and equestrians. Out-bound sign messaging speaks to the high cost of trail maintenance and includes a QR code to make a donation. In accordance with the agreement between NFF and the SRRTF, donations are split between two entities.
The program is being implemented on a trial basis and was co-funded by the two organizations. Depending on the outcome, this effort may be rolled out to other National Forests.
SRRTF Vice President Sandi Heysinger, explains, “SRRTF and NFF are both looking for ways to educate national forest visitors about the importance of trail maintenance, and to inspire giving. “On the trail” signs like these have never been authorized on Coconino National Forest before and they might just be the first example nationwide.”
Sasha Stortz, the Southwest Region Director at the NFF shares, “Partnerships like this are so valuable locally and provide important opportunities to get more done on the ground. We know that trails in the Red Rock community are direct connectors to the outdoors, creating safe access for everyone that resides in or passes through Sedona and beyond. By working together with local communities, agencies and volunteers, we ensure that our National Forests are cared for and maintained for future generations. It’s through collaboration and a shared commitment to stewardship that we truly make a lasting impact.”
Last fiscal year (ended September 30, 2024) the SRRTF raised over $530,000 for the maintenance and enhancement of the non-motorized National Forest trails in the greater Sedona area, and to educate the public regarding their use. Sources of donations include residents, businesses, government entities and non-profits. SRRTF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and an official partner of the US Forest Service Red Rock Ranger District. Learn more about the SRRTF at redrocktrailfund.org.