By Lori Dugan/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College’s Discovery Park recently received valuable assistance from the Fort Grant Wildland Fire Crew. The crew spent two days on an important project to improve safety and maintain the park’s natural beauty. The crew also used the opportunity to hone their forestry and equipment skills in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season.
A team of 18 firefighters diligently cleared and managed specific areas of the park, ensuring a safer environment for visitors and enhancing the park’s natural landscape. Their efforts will support ongoing improvements at Discovery Park and help staff continue their work on critical conservation and maintenance initiatives.
The crew also created several carefully placed slash piles—stacks of tree debris that will be safely managed over the winter months. These piles will provide natural materials for birds returning to Discovery Park in the spring, contributing to the park’s rich ecosystem.
A Valued Partnership for the Community
“It’s always an honor to have the Ft. Grant Wildland Fire Crew lend their expertise to Discovery Park,” said Paul Anger, director of EAC Discovery Park. “They take their work seriously, and their dedication to protecting both our community and the environment is truly commendable. The commercial value of the work they completed would have been in excess of $40,000—an incredible contribution that we are deeply grateful for.”
Anger added, “Their hard work has made Discovery Park safer and more enjoyable for everyone. I encourage the community to visit and appreciate all that has been accomplished.”
Discovery Park Hours and Visitor Information
Discovery Park’s outdoor grounds, including the Meadows Park area and Nature’s Hideaway trails, are open from 8 a.m. until sundown Monday through Saturday.
The Discovery Park buildings, including the Polaris Shuttle Simulator and the Native American Heritage Museum, are open during the following hours:
· Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.
· Tuesday and Thursday: 1 to 3 p.m.
For more information, call (928) 428-6260 or email discoverypark@eac.edu.
About Eastern Arizona College
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive and forge connections that last a lifetime. Students experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your brilliant higher education destination. For more information, email admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
