Park officials for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments have announced that alcohol consumption is no longer allowed in any area of the parks.
The change is effective at the Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well and Tuzigoot cultural sites. While drinking alcoholic beverages was permitted at park picnic areas in the past, officials say it is now illegal to do so anywhere within the monuments. Possession of an open container of alcohol is also prohibited.
Chief Ranger Ron Sams said the decision was made to better honor the historic ruins built by the Sinagua, who are the ancestors of the modern Hopi and several other tribes, including the Zuni. The Sinagua lived in the Verde Valley for approximately 700 years before migrating around 1450 C.E.
“Restricting the use of alcohol in these sacred places is a display of respect for the prehistoric people who made these places their homes and their ancestors,” Sams said.
The change in policy comes several months after Lloyd Masayumptewa was appointed superintendent of both parks July 18. The superintendent is authorized to restrict certain activities within park boundaries, according to Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1.
Sams said it is a fairly common practice to prohibit alcohol in a national park or monument.
“Restricting alcohol consumption in a National Park site is not uncommon,” he said.
According to section 36 CFR §2.35 of the compendium outlining park rules for Montezuma Castle National Monument, the consumption or possession of an open container of alcohol or other controlled substance is now prohibited in all areas of the park except for government-owned residential areas, which allows park employees who live there and their guests to consume alcohol if they wish.
Any undesirable behavior by a park guest indicating they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be investigated by park rangers, especially if said behavior could endanger someone.
“Closing these areas to the consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages is for public safety concerns and the orderly management of the facilities,” the compendium reads.
Anyone who violates the new rules will be subject to a minimum fine of $130 and could face criminal prosecution or arrest.
“Law Enforcement Rangers in national parks are commissioned federal officers and may choose to write a violator into the United States District Court or arrest depending on the circumstances,” Sams said.
