• Fort Huachuca is on a mission to protect citizens and the environment.
  • How the military base works with agencies to protect the surrounding area.
  • The fort helps protect Arizona from devastating wildfires.

The United States Army has been on a mission to keep our country safe since this branch of the service was founded on June 14, 1775. The military has evolved many times, encompassing yet another mission: protecting the environment.

I've lived next to Fort Huachuca for decades. Many who live in Sierra Vista and Cochise County are surprised to learn that Fort Huachuca not only works to fulfill its mission to protect our citizens from foreign and domestic threats but is also deeply committed to environmental stewardship in Arizona.

Ft. Huachuca's environmental stewardship
"Fort Huachuca" sign by Val Davidson/TSM | Created with Canva
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Fort Huachuca: Protecting the Environment in Arizona

Many environmental groups pressured Fort Huachuca and the US Army to consider the environment, water supply, and other critical local resources when conducting their mission in Arizona.

READ: Arizona, You Must Report This Invasive Species Immediately!

Fort Huachuca hosts around 5,600 Military members8,000 Civilians, and over 11,000 family members. With that many individuals, the base is essentially a small city, and they function with that in mind.

Ft. Huachuca's environmental stewardship
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Fort Huachuca and the Army began working decades ago to safeguard the local environment, considering it to be in the best interest of both the military and the local community.

Military on a Mission to Protect the Environment in Arizona

The base actively protects local ecosystems. It participates in a wide range of efforts, like habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and water usage. The fort always works to protect safe drinking water for humans and wildlife.

READ: Arizona Bracing for Possibly the Worst Fire Season in Years

Ft. Huachuca's environmental stewardship
Photo by Val Davidson/TSM | Created with Canva
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Fort Huachuca is also part of the Sentinel Landscape Partnership. This collaboration focuses on conserving natural areas and reducing wildfire risks. The west has been devastated by wildfires the last few years, and the fort helps local agencies actively reduce the risk.

Ft. Huachuca's environmental stewardship
Photo (right) by Val Davidson/TSM | Everything else, Canva
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Fort Huachuca is always working on ways to protect the environment while supporting military operations - to protect Arizona into the future and for generations to come.

Sources: Fort Huachuca Environmental Command | Nature Conservancy | US Fish and Wildlife Service | US Forest Service | Military Installations

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