New Food and Trash Regulations Take Effect Across Prescott National Forest

The Prescott National Forest is implementing new measures to improve wildlife safety for visitors. As of Sept. 29, 2026, a closure order requires visitors to store food and trash in their vehicles or in other wildlife-resistant containers. When using a Prescott National Forest trash bin, all refuse must be placed inside the container with the lid fully closed. The order applies to all lands within the forest. The measures come in response to increased bear activity in the area. Over the past two