SEDONA, Ariz. (AP) - A Sedona businessman has agreed to pay a fine and restitution for conducting a ropes training course near Oak Creek Canyon without a permit and for damaging resources.
The Coconino National Forest on Wednesday announced the resolution of the case against Reed Thorne, who owns Ropes That Rescue.
Officials say Thorne started a fire within a narrow canyon that is home to rare plants and animals, and a sensitive riparian community during the weeklong training course last September. He was issued two citations.
Under an agreement with federal prosecutors and the U.S. Forest Service, Thorne will pay a $500 fine and $5,000 in restitution.
Thorne has said his lack of a permit was the result of a misunderstanding and that the small fire carefully was monitored.
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