Red Rocks, Sedona

Arizona's public lands are one of state's greatest attractions.

A question that comes up from time to time, particularly during hunting seasons, is who has the right-of-way when recreating outdoors on Arizona's 50 million acres of public land?

It's a one-word answer: Everybody.

The Arizona Game And Fish Department (AZGFD) reminds all outdoor user groups that the state's vast and treasured public lands sustain multiple uses for enjoyment by hunters, hikers, anglers, mountain bikers, wildlife photographers, campers, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders and more.

As the pandemic continues to wear on, even more people are headed outdoors as a means of coping with the challenges of the health crisis. To that point, different users are bound to bump into each other from time to time.

All encounters should be handled with politeness and respect, of course. A simple "hello" or wave of the hand often can suffice. A cheerful exchange, if only for a moment or two, can leave both users with a good feeling, even though they might not be sharing in the same recreational activity.

Arizona's hunters already know that conducting themselves respectfully and responsibly in the field only strengthens public opinion of their time-honored tradition. With hunting seasons in full swing, AZGFD offers these basic reminders:

• Show respect for other outdoor user groups. They share the same rights as you do to use the land.

• If you encounter users who are engaged in recreational activities other than your own, be polite. Be willing to make conversation and share information.

• Offer assistance if needed or requested.

• Be courteous to non-hunters when transporting game from the field. Transport animals discreetly.

For questions about outdoor recreation opportunities in the state's national forests, contact the appropriate land-management agency:

• Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest: (928) 333-4301.

• Coconino National Forest: (928) 527-3600.

• Coronado National Forest: (520) 388-8300.

• Kaibab National Forest: (928) 635-8200.

• Prescott National Forest: (928) 443-8000.

• Tonto National Forest: (602) 225-5200.

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM): (602) 417-9200.