 An encampment inside The Pauline Crump Nature Preserve, March 2022  The dam located near Marr Road entrance. The Pauline Crump Nature Preserve is a short walk from our house. There's somewhat of a trail loop that leads to a low-head dam. There's access to the People Trail from 32nd Street and Griffa Avenue, and another entrance at Marr Road. The trail was developed in honor of Pauline Crump by Ed Niespodziani and the Columbus North Environmental Club. While the preserve seems to be becoming more well-known, it also seems to teeter between being a secluded, wooded hiking trail nestled within city limits and a haven for homeless encampments. The following are from reviewers who have paid a visit: I hauled 360 pounds of trash to the landfall this spring, included several abandoned tents where a homeless camp was set up.  Shopping cart pushed into Haw Creek near preserve entrance. The Pauline Crump Nature Preserve is owned by Jefferson Crump III, who has graciously allowed anyone who loves nature to come and explore this hidden gem. I would love to see the preserve restored to its natural habitat. It's currently overrun by invasives such as bush honeysuckle, as is much of the bank along Haw Creek, which leads to the US 31 and 25th Street overpasses and beyond to Newbern Bridge. Arizona State University Center for Problem-Oriented Policing recommends clear-cutting overgrown brush. They state: Transients like encampments to be surrounded by overgrown vegetation, but this can make the camps difficult for police to enter safely, especially at night. Homelessness is a public health and safety issue that touches every facet of our community.  A homeless man entering thicket of bush honeysuckle by Haw Creek. Comments are closed.
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AuthorI was born and raised in Columbus, and I've spent the last 24 years living and working here. I love our city, and together we can keep it great! |