What is the IUCN protected area category assigned to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is designated under IUCN category V, which signifies a protected landscape/seascape. This category is used for areas where the interaction of people and nature over time has produced an area of distinct character with significant aesthetic, ecological, and cultural value, often with traditional land uses.

Where is Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument located, and what is its significance regarding unique flora?

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is situated in southern Arizona, United States, bordering the Mexican state of Sonora. It is notable as one of the few locations in the United States where the senita cactus (Lophocereus schottii) and the organ pipe cactus (Stenocereus thurberi) grow wild.

What is the total area of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and when was it established?

The monument covers an area of 330,688 acres, which is equivalent to 1,338.25 square kilometers. It was officially established as a national monument on April 13, 1937.

What is the nearest city to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and what are its geographical coordinates?

The nearest city to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is Ajo, Arizona. The monument's coordinates are 31°57′14″N 112°48′04″W.

How many visitors did Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument receive in 2018, and who manages the monument?

In 2018, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument welcomed 260,375 visitors. The monument is managed by the National Park Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

What is the size of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in square miles and square kilometers?

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument spans 517 square miles, which is equivalent to 1,340 square kilometers.

When was Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument recognized by UNESCO, and what designation did it receive?

In 1976, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, an international designation recognizing areas for their conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.

What portion of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument was designated as a wilderness area, and in what year?

In 1977, a significant portion of the monument, specifically 95%, was designated as a wilderness area. Wilderness areas are managed to preserve their natural conditions, offering opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation.

How was the land for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument initially acquired, and when was it officially established?

The land for the monument was donated by the Arizona state legislature to the federal government. It was officially established as a national monument on April 13, 1937.

What communities are located near the entrances of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

The unincorporated community of Why, Arizona, is situated at the park's north entrance. Lukeville, Arizona, located at the park's southern border, serves as a border crossing point into Sonoyta, Sonora, Mexico.

What federal lands border Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is bordered to the northwest by the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and to the east by the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation.

What significant event occurred on August 9, 2002, within the monument, and what was its consequence?

On August 9, 2002, Ranger Kristopher "Kris" Eggle was tragically shot and killed by a drug smuggler during a U.S. Border Patrol operation. This event, coupled with the ongoing flow of immigrants and drug runners, led to the closure of most of the monument in 2003.

How was the visitor center at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument recognized following Ranger Eggle's death?

In July 2003, the United States Congress re-designated the park's visitor center as the Kris Eggle Visitor Center in honor of the fallen ranger.

When did the National Park Service reopen the backcountry of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and what security measures were implemented?

The backcountry of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument was reopened in 2014, following the installation of surveillance towers, vehicle barriers, and pedestrian fences along the border.

When were the first sections of a new border wall installed within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and where?

The first 30-foot panels of a new U.S.-Mexico border wall were installed in August 2019 along a two-mile stretch of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

What concerns did a 2019 National Park Service report raise regarding the border barrier wall?

A National Park Service report issued on September 18, 2019, stated that the barrier wall construction threatened archaeological artifacts representing 16,000 years of human history within the monument.

Which government agency indicated that proposed border wall construction would impact archaeological sites?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicated that five archaeological sites fall within the area where they wished to construct the border wall.

What construction activities occurred in the Roosevelt Reservation in February 2020, and what is the significance of this area?

In February 2020, controlled demolition and other construction work took place within the Roosevelt Reservation, a federally controlled strip of land along the border. This area is significant because it contains sacred sites for the Tohono O'odham Nation, including Monument Hill and Quitobaquito Springs.

What sacred sites for the Tohono O'odham Nation are located within the Roosevelt Reservation?

Within the Roosevelt Reservation are important sites for the Tohono O'odham Nation, such as Monument Hill, which serves as a ceremonial and historic battle site and burial ground, and Quitobaquito Springs, a vital local water source and the location of an annual salt pilgrimage.

Who opposed the construction activities in the Roosevelt Reservation, and what was their reasoning?

Opposition to the construction activities came from various local figures and groups, including Representative Raúl Grijalva and Tohono O'odham Nation Chairman Ned Norris, Jr. They testified before Congress, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the sites being impacted.

What was the response from Customs and Border Protection regarding the construction and its impact on cultural sites?

Customs and Border Protection officials stated that no human remains or artifacts were discovered in the areas where explosives were used. They also noted that Monument Hill had been previously disturbed in 2010 during the installation of the existing border fence.

What type of climate does Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument experience?

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument experiences a hot desert climate. This climate type is characterized by very hot summers and mild winters, with minimal precipitation.

What is the Köppen climate classification for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

The Köppen climate classification for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is BWh, which denotes a hot desert climate.

What is the record high temperature ever recorded at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and in which month did it occur?

The record high temperature recorded at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is 119°F (48°C), which occurred in June. This highlights the extreme heat the region can experience during the summer months.

What is the mean daily maximum temperature during the hottest month in the monument?

The mean daily maximum temperature during July, typically the hottest month, is 111.5°F (44.2°C).

What is the mean daily minimum temperature in the coolest month at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

The mean daily minimum temperature in January, the coolest month, is 41.4°F (5.2°C).

What is the average annual precipitation for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

The monument receives an average annual precipitation of 9.28 inches (236 mm). This relatively low amount of rainfall is characteristic of a desert environment.

On average, how many days per year experience precipitation of at least 0.01 inches in the monument?

On average, there are approximately 33.3 days per year with measurable precipitation (0.01 inches or more) in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

What types of cacti are featured in the gallery images of the monument?

The gallery images showcase several types of cacti found in the monument, including the organ pipe cactus, hedgehog cactus, and the iconic saguaro cactus.

Besides cacti, what other desert flora is depicted in bloom in the gallery?

One of the gallery images shows the hedgehog cactus and brittlebush in bloom, indicating the seasonal beauty of the desert landscape.

What natural geological formations are mentioned in the gallery descriptions?

The gallery includes an image highlighting that the monument contains a pair of natural arches, showcasing the geological diversity of the area.

What does the initial video at the beginning of the article show?

The initial video provides short, panoramic views of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, offering a visual introduction to its landscape.

What does one of the gallery images depict regarding the monument's conservation status?

A gallery image presents a map illustrating the designated wilderness area within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, indicating protected zones.

What specific aspect of the monument is shown in the image described as 'Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument campsite'?

The image labeled 'Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument campsite' provides a visual representation of the camping facilities available within the monument.

What historic road, mentioned in the 'See also' section, passes through a portion of the monument?

The historic road known as El Camino del Diablo traverses a section of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

Which ranches listed on the National Register of Historic Places are located within the monument?

The "See also" section lists two ranches within the park that are on the National Register of Historic Places: Bates Well Ranch and Dos Lomitas Ranch.

What geographic features within the park are listed in the 'See also' section?

The geographic features mentioned in the "See also" section that are located within the park are Growler Valley and the Growler Mountains.

According to the provided text, what is the primary purpose of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?

The text mentions that Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which recognizes areas for their conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.

What is the significance of the Roosevelt Reservation in relation to the Tohono O'odham Nation?

The Roosevelt Reservation, a federally controlled strip of land along the border, contains sites considered sacred by the Tohono O'odham Nation, including Monument Hill and Quitobaquito Springs.

What types of protected areas are managed by the federal government in Arizona, as listed in the navbox?

The federal government manages various protected areas in Arizona, including National Conservation Areas, National Fish Hatcheries, National Forests, National Historic Sites and Historical Parks, National Memorials, National Monuments, National Recreation Areas, and National Trails.

Can you name a few National Monuments managed by the U.S. Forest Service that are listed in the navbox?

According to the navbox, National Monuments managed by the U.S. Forest Service include Admiralty Island, Bears Ears, Browns Canyon, and Gila Cliff Dwellings.

Which National Monuments managed by the Bureau of Land Management are listed in the provided text?

The Bureau of Land Management manages several National Monuments listed, such as Agua Fria, Bears Ears, Browns Canyon, Grand Staircase–Escalante, Ironwood Forest, and Vermilion Cliffs.

What are some of the Arizona State Parks mentioned in the navbox?

Some Arizona State Parks listed include Alamo Lake State Park, Catalina State Park, Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Homolovi State Park, Kartchner Caverns State Park, and Slide Rock State Park.

What is the official website for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

The official website for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is https://www.nps.gov/orpi/index.htm, maintained by the U.S. National Park Service.

What does the 'See also' section suggest regarding the history of travel through the monument?

The 'See also' section lists El Camino del Diablo, a historic road that traverses a section of the monument, indicating its historical significance for travel routes.

What is the significance of the Kris Eggle Visitor Center?

The Kris Eggle Visitor Center is named in honor of Ranger Kristopher "Kris" Eggle, who was killed in the line of duty on August 9, 2002, during a U.S. Border Patrol operation within the monument.

What is the approximate elevation change implied by the temperature data in the climate table?

While elevation isn't explicitly stated, the significant temperature difference between the record low of 14°F (-10°C) in January and the record high of 119°F (48°C) in June suggests a location with considerable diurnal and seasonal temperature variations, typical of desert environments which can occur at various elevations.

What does the term 'Biosphere Reserve' signify in the context of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument?

Being designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve means the monument is recognized for its importance in conserving biological diversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources, often serving as a site for research and education.

What does the presence of 'natural arches' in the gallery suggest about the monument's geology?

The mention of natural arches in the gallery suggests that the monument's landscape has been shaped by geological processes such as erosion, likely involving wind and water acting on rock formations over long periods.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Wiki: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: A Sonoran Desert Sanctuary

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Monument Overview

Designation & Location

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a designated U.S. national monument and a UNESCO biosphere reserve. It is situated in southern Arizona, sharing an international border with the Mexican state of Sonora. This unique location within the Yuma Desert section of the Sonoran Desert makes it a critical habitat for numerous desert species.

Unique Flora

The monument is renowned as one of the few places in the United States where the distinctive senita cactus (Lophocereus schottii) and the iconic organ pipe cactus (Stenocereus thurberi) grow wild. It supports a rich diversity of cacti and other plants native to this arid region.

Size & Conservation Status

Spanning approximately 517 square miles (1,338.25 km²), the monument was recognized for its ecological significance. In 1976, it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Further underscoring its natural value, 95% of the monument was designated as a wilderness area in 1977, preserving its pristine state.

Border Dynamics & Security

A Ranger's Sacrifice

The monument's history is marked by the tragic loss of Ranger Kristopher "Kris" Eggle, who was killed on August 9, 2002, during a United States Border Patrol operation involving a drug smuggler. This event, coupled with ongoing border security challenges, led to the closure of most of the monument in 2003. The park's visitor center was subsequently renamed the Kris Eggle Visitor Center in his honor.

Border Wall Construction

Following the installation of surveillance towers and barriers, the backcountry was partially reopened in 2014. However, border wall construction has continued to impact the monument. In August 2019, the first sections of a new border wall were erected, raising concerns about the potential destruction of archaeological sites representing 16,000 years of human history. This construction has faced opposition due to its impact on culturally significant areas, including Monument Hill and Quitobaquito Springs, which are sacred to the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Climate Profile

Desert Conditions

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument experiences a hot desert climate, classified as BWh under the Köppen climate classification. This climate is characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters, with limited annual precipitation.

The following table provides detailed climate data, including temperature extremes, means, and precipitation averages, compiled from NOAA data (1991-2020 normals, extremes 1944-present).

Climate Data: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record High °F (°C)	90 (32)	95 (35)	99 (37)	104 (40)	111 (44)	119 (48)	118 (48)	116 (47)	113 (45)	107 (42)	98 (37)	88 (31)	119 (48)
Mean Max °F (°C)	81.3 (27.4)	84.2 (29.0)	90.8 (32.7)	97.9 (36.6)	103.4 (39.7)	110.1 (43.4)	111.5 (44.2)	110.4 (43.6)	106.9 (41.6)	100.0 (37.8)	89.9 (32.2)	80.2 (26.8)	112.7 (44.8)
Mean Daily Max °F (°C)	70.7 (21.5)	73.0 (22.8)	79.2 (26.2)	85.8 (29.9)	93.3 (34.1)	101.8 (38.8)	103.8 (39.9)	103.2 (39.6)	99.1 (37.3)	90.0 (32.2)	78.9 (26.1)	69.9 (21.1)	87.4 (30.8)
Daily Mean °F (°C)	56.0 (13.3)	57.9 (14.4)	63.3 (17.4)	68.8 (20.4)	76.3 (24.6)	84.8 (29.3)	89.7 (32.1)	89.3 (31.8)	84.5 (29.2)	74.3 (23.5)	63.4 (17.4)	55.4 (13.0)	72.0 (22.2)
Mean Daily Min °F (°C)	41.4 (5.2)	42.9 (6.1)	47.3 (8.5)	51.9 (11.1)	59.3 (15.2)	67.8 (19.9)	75.6 (24.2)	75.3 (24.1)	69.9 (21.1)	58.5 (14.7)	47.9 (8.8)	40.9 (4.9)	56.6 (13.7)
Record Low °F (°C)	14 (-10)	18 (-8)	16 (-9)	31 (-1)	30 (-1)	46 (8)	52 (11)	50 (10)	46 (8)	29 (-2)	24 (-4)	18 (-8)	14 (-10)
Avg. Precipitation inches (mm)	0.99 (25)	0.89 (23)	0.78 (20)	0.31 (7.9)	0.18 (4.6)	0.11 (2.8)	1.32 (34)	1.82 (46)	0.75 (19)	0.56 (14)	0.44 (11)	1.13 (29)	9.28 (236)
Avg. Precip. Days (≥0.01 in)	3.2	3.7	3.0	1.1	0.6	0.5	4.3	6.0	3.0	1.8	2.1	4.0	33.3
Source: NOAA

Desert Flora

Iconic Cacti

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a vital sanctuary for desert plant life. It is particularly noted for being one of the few locations in the United States where the distinctive senita cactus (Lophocereus schottii) and the majestic organ pipe cactus (Stenocereus thurberi) thrive naturally. These species are emblematic of the monument's unique ecological value.

Sonoran Desert Ecosystem

The monument preserves a significant portion of the Yuma Desert section of the Sonoran Desert. This arid environment supports a wide array of resilient plant species adapted to extreme conditions. Visitors can observe various other cacti, shrubs, and wildflowers that contribute to the rich biodiversity of this protected landscape, including saguaro, hedgehog cactus, and brittlebush, which often bloom spectacularly after seasonal rains.

Historical Context

Establishment and Designations

The land for the monument was originally donated by the Arizona state legislature during the Prohibition era, anticipating improved north-south road access for potential contraband alcohol importation from Mexico. The area was officially established as a national monument on April 13, 1937. Its ecological importance was further recognized when UNESCO designated it a Biosphere Reserve in 1976. In 1977, a significant portion, 95%, was designated as a wilderness area, ensuring its preservation.

Geographic Context

The monument is strategically located near the border towns of Why, Arizona, at its northern entrance, and Lukeville, Arizona, at its southern border crossing point to Sonoyta, Sonora, Mexico. It is bordered by the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge to the northwest and the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation to the east, placing it within a significant corridor of protected lands.

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References

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Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

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Monument Overview ℹ️

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🚧 Border Wall Construction

Climate Profile ☀️

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Desert Flora 🌿

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🏜️ Sonoran Desert Ecosystem

Historical Context 📜

🏛️ Establishment and Designations

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Monument Overview

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Unique Flora

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Iconic Cacti

Sonoran Desert Ecosystem

Historical Context

Establishment and Designations

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