MSA FIELD TRIP INFORMATION

MEET TIME: 9:30 AM near Hayden (exact meeting location will be sent after registration)

END TIME: The trip will end by 4 PM

LIMITED TRIP:  Limit 25 Vehicles

TRAVEL NOTE: Please allow at least 1/2 hour more time than normal to get to the meeting spot. The delays may not be noted on the state of Arizona highway condition website.

RATE PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 1 to 10. This is an abandoned open pit mine with miles of road to explore. Staying on or near the roads is easy (1) but climbing rubble slopes can be rigorous and dangerous (10).

VEHICLE: The road into the mine to the first parking area requires moderate clearance (rocks in roads and ruts). There are many side roads to explore that will require high clearance 4WD. The road to the Velasco Pit requires high clearance.

SAFETY: We will be using masks when close and practicing social distancing.
Please bring a whistle in case we need to find you or gather up the participants.

RECOMMENDED: Safety glasses, gloves, clothing, hard hat, other: Gloves, safety glasses and sturdy boots are required. There are many angular rocks along the slopes and wearing heavy, durable pants can offer some protection. 2 way radios for your group can be very helpful. Sunscreen, hat, water, lunch, bug spray, bucket, first aid kit, other: Yes, all of these as well as all-purpose-paper.

TOOLS: hammers, chisels, other: The material to be collected consists of rocks that can simply be picked up to boulders that need sledge hammers, wedges, pry bars, etc.

MATERIAL: Chrysocolla/Copper Minerals. The Chilito Mine is a copper mine with an extensive oxidized zone. Copper silicates, oxides and carbonates are found here. Some very nice mineral specimens to very colorful yard rocks can be collected. I have not explored much of the area so there may be other interesting rocks to collect.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This area has many steep and potentially unstable rubble slopes that can be dangerous to children (under 16) and pets (all ages). The trip is not open to children under 16. ADDITONALLY, we are still being influenced by COVID 19. Bring a mask with you in case you congregate in small groups. You may not think it is necessary, but others in the group may appreciate your efforts on being safe. While out and about, a mask is optional, but have one in your pocket just in case.

RSVP REQUIRED: THIS MSA TRIP IS FOR MSA MEMBERS IN GOOD-STANDING - NO GUESTS. Trip Leader can Cancel Trip if Under (5) members RSVP. 

TRIP LEADER: Stan and Sue Celestian

RSVP REQUIRED by Thursday @ 12 Midnight - MSA Members Only