[ATM] Graham mountain observatory

["The Alarm Co." <tac@i1.net>]

Last week, one of the high points (literally and figuratively) of my
vacation should have been a visit to the Large Binocular Telescope under
construction at the University of Arizona's observatory at Graham mountain
in Coronado National Forest.  Their brochures sounded friendly, but when we
arrived, we were greeted by "NO TRESPASSING" signs.  Seems to get in, you
have to apply in person in town (at least 26 miles away), and then
admittance is granted only on weekends, according to the USFS Ranger we
talked to.  Even then, she wasn't sure "just anyone" could get in.  After
the warm welcome I received on multiple visits to McDonald Observatory, I
was left cold, to say the least.  No cell service, no public phone to call
the gatekeepers to see when we might be let in.
At least the National Forest Service is doing us all a favor by establishing
a Red Squirrel Refugium (that's right; not just a refuge -- a refugium) to
protect an endangered species.  Since 1994, nobody has been allowed in this
area, even on foot, to avoid annoying the squirrels.  Can you guess where
the Observatory is?  Right at the center of the Red Squirrel Refugium.  So,
let's get this straight.  If I walk through the forest, I will fatally
disturb the squirrels.  Howevery, astronomers driving to the observatory and
doing Heavy Construction won't bother them at all.  Somehow, the squirrels
know that the astronomers (and the construction workers they hired) are
really special and so won't mind their intrusion.  Do I sound angry?  Yeah,
I am very, extremely angry.
On the other hand, I spend over a week's worth of days before and after
riding fabulously twisty, hilly roads and hiking incomparable canyons and
mountainsides in the area.  Also enjoyed several wonderfully clear, dark
nights with my 12x50's (all I could pack on a backpacking/motorcycling
trip).
And the squirrels?  They aren't even native.  They're an invasive, exotic
species!  According to one man we met, they were live-trapped in Missouri
(by his grandfather) only 50 years ago and turned loose in the mountains so
Gramps could do some squirrel hunting!

Oh, well, life is good (if only you can ingnore the not-so-good).

 *  Best regards, Bob
*
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