March 11, 2024

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality asks those planning a trip to Oak Creek this spring to help protect the environment and water quality by following Leave No Trace principles.

According to the Department, a few million people visit Oak Creek every year; and ADEQ has teamed up with partners including the City of Sedona, Sedona Chamber of Commerce and the Oak Creek Watershed Council to promote the Oak Creek Caretaker program.

They remind visitors that the creek is part of a watershed—which you can think of as a giant funnel—so human or pet waste, trash or other pollution can affect the water quality even if it doesn’t occur on the creek. Use the restrooms provided at trailheads and day-use areas; and if you have a pet or a small child in diapers, plan ahead for how to properly dispose of their waste.

Only use dog waste receptacles for their intended purpose, and not for general trash. Be prepared to take all your garbage out with you, in case trash cans are full—including fruit peels or other food waste—to protect sensitive wildlife species and maintain the area’s natural beauty.

Also remember to stick to trails, to avoid damaging the landscape and ecosystem.For more tips and information visit azdeq.gov/OakCreek; or find more Leave No Trace Principles at visitsedona.com.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com