Yup- many mints in Az, the ones that smell good are all introduced. True peppermint is a hybrid that only reproduces clonally-no seeds. There are many native mints without much smell. And, yes, beavers are making a steady comeback.

I didn't see the Agua Fria damage,but I have seen the Keyhole Sink damage-makes my blood absolutely boil...I don't even know what an appropriate punishment is.(the restoration isn't perfect but pretty good) How do you keep knuckleheads from being knuckleheads?

Is the ban for the entire canyon or just the first 5 miles from the trailhead?

I just looked at my maps-Ive been up Jacks from Waldroup for a couple of miles,to a big pourover -there might be a way around it 'but that was my turnaround point.

Are you going in from Waldrip Place?If so it's rugged but quite doable-the springs start in 1/2 mile or so downcanyon-be prepared to swim almost immediatly -it may be too cold yet for most people.The road in is 4 wheel only in a couple spots.