Zinke in Arizona

On March 17, 2018, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke traveled to Tucson, Arizona, with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to survey the United States-Mexico borderlands and to discuss how Interior can help in securing our borders to protect American lives. While in Tucson, the Secretary met with the Tohono O’odham Nation’s tribal leadership for a constructive conversation regarding the safety of our loved ones. In the words of the Tribe’s Chair of Domestic Affairs Committee, “safety is number one.”

Before heading north to Phoenix, Secretary Zinke spent the day hiking the Organ Pipe National Monument where he visited the memorial for fallen National Park Service Ranger Kris Eggle, an American hero. 

Bright and early on March 19, the Secretary discussed the importance of critical minerals and clean coal with the National Mining Association over breakfast and a hard hat. After breakfast, Secretary Zinke continued his travels to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community where he toured the brand new Way of Life Facility, a multi-purpose community center geared toward Salt River youth.

Following the tour, the Secretary sat down with Salt River leadership for a highly productive conversation on the opioid epidemic that is destroying families across Indian Country. Secretary Zinke and the leaders discussed how Interior can better serve as an ally in the fight against opioids. The Secretary heard personal stories from Salt River youth and was truly inspired by their resolve and determination to make a change for a brighter future. 

To wrap up his trip in Arizona, Secretary Zinke held a joint press conference with Salt River leadership in support for President Trump’s plan to combat the epidemic through education, treatment, enforcement, and community-based support.