Kofa Mountains | Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy

This COA includes the Kofa Mountains within the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1939 to protect desert bighorn sheep. The mountains are named for the King of Arizona Mine which was in operation from 1896 until 1910. The rugged, steep terrain and sheltered canyons and springs also form Arizona’s westernmost outpost for many plants and animals characteristic of upland Sonoran Desert. Precipitation with the Kofas drains to King Valley, Palomas Plain, La Posa Plain, and Ranegras Plain. The highest peak within the range, Signal Peak, stands at 4,877 feet. Palm Canyon to the west of Signal Peak is also home to a relict population of California fan palms, tucked high in a narrow canyon.

A number of mines have operated within the range but are also now closed. Several mining claims remain as private inholdings within the refuge boundaries however. The shafts from these abandoned mines provide habitat for bats and other species. Bighorn sheep from the Kofas have been used as a source population in their reintroduction to other suitable ranges around southern Arizona with struggling or extirpated populations. The Kofa Mountains are also a popular destination for recreational activities including hunting, OHV touring, and wildlife watching.

Conservation Goals

Collaborate with refuge staff to implement projects which will maintain stable, healthy species populations including desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, and small game.

Map

Primary Threats

3. Climate Change and Severe Weather

3.1: Habitat shifting and alteration

3.2: Droughts

7. Human Intrusions and Disturbance

7.1: Recreational activities

7.3: Work and other activities

Potential Conservation Actions

2. Land and Water Management

2.1: Site/area management

Develop and enhance artificial waters on the landscape to support wildlife.

2.3: Habitat and natural process restoration

Implement projects focused on improving the quality of altered systems creating suitable habitat and/or habitat features for wildlife.

3. Species Management

3.1: Management of specific species of concern

Conduct research that includes surveying and monitoring species and habitats to determine status and conditions so that resources can be appropriately allocated where they are most needed.

4. Education and Awareness

4.3: Awareness and communication

Increase awareness of effects of specific threats (i.e. climate change, invasive and problematic species, illegal take) on wildlife species and habitats with an emphasis on how the threats can be reduced.

7. External Capacity Building

7.2: Alliance and partnership development

Collaborate with federal and state agencies to address unsafe or illegal off-road travel.
Build partnerships with energy developers to reduce impacts to wildlife and their habitats while striving to reach goals of renewable energy initiatives.