Unique opportunity to see bighorn sheep with AZ Game and Fish

TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) - The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering the public a second chance at a two-day event to see bighorn sheep this July.

"This is a great opportunity for people to learn about bighorn sheep and conservation efforts in an area virtually inaccessible except by boat," said John Dickson, AZGFD wildlife manager, in a recent release.

According to that same release those who weren't able to get a spot on the June event will have another chance July 15 and 16 to see the bighorn sheep in its natural environment.

AZGFD, in partnership with Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society (ADBSS), is offering this special event to view and learn about desert bighorns. According to a recent release the event begins with an optional classroom workshop from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the AZGFD regional office at 7200 E. University Drive in Mesa and continues with the boat tour at 8 a.m. Saturday at Canyon Lake.

Guests will be cruise around Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat, which offers both open-air decks and air-conditioned viewing areas during the tour. Light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are included in the event price, compliments of ADBSS.

Details of the event are as follows:

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, July 15, optional workshop at the AZGFD regional office at 7200 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ. This free presentation will give an overview of bighorn natural history and current management and conservation efforts. The presentation will be provided by Information and Education Program Manager Amy Burnett and Game Specialist Dustin Darveau. To register for the workshop session, RSVP by leaving a name and phone number at (480) 324-3548.
8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 16, bighorn sheep boat tour on Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat.
Cost is $35 for adults, $33 for seniors and $20 for children ages 5 to 12.
Attendees must reserve their spot by purchasing a ticket for the special Dolly Steamboat Cruise. Space is limited. The boat has restrooms, is accessible, and lower deck is air conditioned. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable light clothing and bring a camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and binoculars.
To register and reserve a spot on the boat tour, call Dolly Steamboat at (480) 827-9144 or book online at www.dollysteamboat.com.