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As the temperature rises, so does the danger of wildfires.
As a result of long-term drought, climate change, and the prevalence of highly flammable invasive plants, wildfires are considered a year-round concern in Pima County. But summer, with its triple-digit temperatures, still brings the highest risk of out-of-control, rapidly spreading wildfires.
That’s why Pima County Flood Control has teamed up with Northwest Fire District to reduce wildfire risks in some of the County’s most fire-sensitive areas. This month, teams from both agencies are working along the Santa Cruz River and Rillito Creek on various wildfire mitigation activities, targeting areas near critical infrastructure such as bridges as well as important utilities such as power lines.
Rescued from surplus store, veteran mannequins find a new mission
One Marine stands, left hand extended, mouth open as if shouting a command. Another soldier is on one knee, amid foliage, crouched low, weapon ready.
These two life-sized military mannequins – rescued from the closing sale of Miller’s Surplus – now stand guard inside the Kino Veterans’ Workforce Center, looking like they have already lived a thousand stories.
For many veterans who visit the center for employment services, the figures are more than conversation pieces. They serve as a reminder of shared experiences and military service, helping make the center feel a little more like home.
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Green Geek ruminates on car batteries, popsicle sticks and Countywide glass recycling
Is it safe to drop a leaking car battery in your curbside trash bin? Is a used popsicle stick destined for the landfill? And what should residents of unincorporated Pima County do about recycling their glass? The Green Geek is ready to answer your questions about all things green!
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County green team turns buffelgrass into bricks
Rachel Loubeau lifted a muddy bundle of grass stalks from a wheelbarrow. She examined it carefully.
Loubeau likes playing in the mud as much as the next person, but this was work. She was part of a small group of volunteers gathered on a Flood Control property near A Mountain to pull buffelgrass – the Sonoran Desert’s most notorious invasive weed – and turn it into adobe bricks.
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Health's new Public Health Stations offer easy access to life-saving resources
The Pima County Health Department is launching seven Public Health Stations to provide residents with free life-saving overdose prevention and public health supplies. The self-serve vending machines offer easy access to life-saving resources, including Naloxone, fentanyl test strips, menstrual products, gun locks, and wound care kits.
The first two stations were installed on June 5. One is in the downtown branch of the Pima County Public Library and the other is in the emergency room at Tucson Medical Center.
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A new way to drop off your ballot on Election Day
Pima County voters who receive an early ballot will have a new option for returning it on Election Day.
In addition to the regular ballot drop-off process, voters can now choose ID Verified Early Ballot Drop-Off at any of 120 Vote Centers for the July 21 Primary Election. This new option allows voters to show approved identification when they drop off their ballot, instead of having their signature checked later.
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Beat the Heat with PACC this summer
Now that it’s really starting to heat up around Southern Arizona, Pima Animal Care Center (PACC) is reminding pet parents about ways to keep their pets cool.
All walks should happen early in the morning before the sun gets too hot, or long after the sun has gone down. Walkers should also test the pavement temperature by placing the back of their hand on the pavement. If they can keep it there, then it’s safe to walk.
PACC is also hosting a special “Beat the Heat” event on Saturday, June 13, 2026, and Sunday, June 14, 2026. All dogs and puppies will be free to adopt.
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Celebrate the grand re-opening of Richard Elías-Mission Library
Join Pima County Public Library to celebrate the grand re-opening of the newly renovated Richard Elías-Mission Library on Saturday, June 13. The festivities include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live entertainment, Family Storytime, and a collaborative community mural. Adult Seed Giveaway bags and complimentary books will be given away, while supplies last.
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