Cochise Stronghold is rich in history, nature and archaeology. Home of famous Apache leader Cochise and his band of Chiricahua Apache's. Throughout 10,000 years of human habitation many cultures have made this area their home. Ancient Hunter/Gatherer culture, Mogollon People and the Apache culture. All of these Peoples shared the same goal to Preserve and Protect this Land. Hands are now reaching across time and history to accomplish that very goal. Doug & Roma Payne have worked for years to permanently protect this Ranch from development. In addition ~ we have partnered with the Arizona Raptor Center to

rehabilitate injured and orphaned Golden Eagles and when well will be released into the wild. The methodology is 2000 years old dating back to the Mongolian people. The system is well recognized by avian and raptor organizations nationwide. That being said no Goldens have ever been successfully rehabbed and released in the United States to include Arizona. We have now successfully released 3 Golden Eagles and

currently have 3 more in residence. Over time we will also assist

Falcons, Hawks and Owls. Our aviary (hack) area is the first of its’ kind in the U.S.

Our efforts are fully supported and endorsed by these organizations:

National Forest service, Arizona Land & Water Trust, Cochise County Supervisors & Water Resource Dept, Arizona Game & Wildlife, The Amerind Foundation, Fort Huachuca Sentinel Landscape, Audubon Society, Archaeology Southwest & Arizona Raptor Center