On April 1, around 5:30 PM, a tragic head-on collision between a car and truck occurred near Ramblin Dan’s restaurant in Congress. In that moment, Samir and Deb Rafeedie were killed along with the driver of the truck. Ruger Ranch owners are caring for their animals until family members can make long term arrangements. This post will be updated as more information becomes available.
Fire Danger Level 2 – Moderate
When the fire danger is “Moderate,” it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually pretty low. If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately. Average fire intensity will be moderate except in heavy concentrations of fuel, which may burn hot. Fires are still not likely to become serious and are often easy to control
Peeples Valley Fire District crews will conduct burns when appropriate weather conditions allow. Outdoor fires are allowed in an established screened pit. Burn permits will be issued on a limited basis.
For clarifications, please call the department at 928-427-9400 or use the website “contact PVFD” link, peeplesvalleyfire.org.
Traffic Alert – March 29 & 30
Next weekend if you are traveling up for the POA meeting, be advised there is a AZ Game and Fish Expo at the Ben Avery facility from 9 AM – 3 PM on both Saturday and Sunday. This can cause significant traffic delays. If you’re travel plans take you north on I-17 to Carefree Highway, it is advised to take the 303 from I-17 to Lake Pleasant Parkway, then go north to West Carefree Highway (74) to continue your drive. Use this route for your return trip to Phoenix.
2025 Annual POA Meeting
The big meeting is coming up!! March 29th at 10:00 am. Refreshments will be there starting at about 9:45.
We’re having it at the Yarnell Community Center this year, so we hope to see you there in person!
If you’re unable to attend in person, and you’d like to attend via Zoom, contact the POA secretary for Zoom meeting information at secretary@blackhawkpoa.com
Hope to see you there
2025 Vegetation Mitigation (updated)
Soon (mid February), another vegetation mitigation will begin. This will be happening between State Route 89 and the Ruger Ranch gate, primarily on the North side of the road. This year’s work will be 2500 acres (compared to last year’s 700 acres). Though most of the work will be done further away from Ruger Ranch Road, support vehicles and workers will be present. Please slow down and follow directions and signage. They are working to protect us.
Please inform your visitors and contractors. We don’t want to see anyone get hurt.
Firewise Meeting Feb 27, 2025
Do you wan to learn how to better protect your home, property and investment? Thought this meeting is directed towards the residents of Wilholt, the information applies to Ruger Ranch. Firewise representatives will be available to answer your questions. See flyer for more details.
Cows and Calves
The cows are back and starting to birth their calves. SLOW DOWN! You do not want to hit one. Please inform your visitors and contractors.
Meat Raffle
The Peeple’s Valley Fire Department Corporation and Auxiliary is holding a meat raffle. To purchase tickets, contact the Auxiliary via email at auxiliary@peeplesvalleyfire.org or call/text: 928-421-1929.
June 17 Blackhawk POA meeting
The next quarterly board meeting will be on June 17th at 5:30 pm. The agenda and zoom link will be sent out about a week prior, so keep an eye out for more messaging.
We’ve got plenty to talk about and we love your participation, so block that date and time off and come join the fun!!
Firewise Community Action Day
Following the POA meeting on March 30, 2024 there will be a Ruger Ranch community Firewise action event.
Although the PVFD did a splendid job limbing up the trees within Ruger Ranch 
the state’s processes was not as elegant. 
There will be an effort to clean up the trees closest to the road between the cattle guard and the Ruger Ranch gate. If you have the time and wish to help, bring gloves, chainsaw, sturdy shoes. This will start around following the meeting, around 1:30 and you can leave when you’ve had enough. Meet at the Ruger Ranch gate. This effort will count towards our Firewise 15 hours of community involvement. Hope to see you there!