I am saddened to report another case of vandalism at the Tortolita Preserve (TP).
The TP barbed wire boundary fence at the northwest corner of the drainage arroyo on Rim Trail, just south of Del Webb Trail in the Del Webb Dove Mountain (DWDM) subdivision was cut, presumably to create an easy access to the TP Trail. In addition, the cattle gate in the same area was removed. See map above.
The parties responsible for these actions need to be aware that TP is private property owned by the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) and leased by the Town of Marana (Marana). The fencing infrastructure is owned by Marana. It is illegal to cut boundary fences and remove gates without permission.
The boundary fence/gates delineate TP property boundaries, provide controlled access to TP and keep cattle from leaving TP into Dove Mountain neighborhoods.
Marana Parks & Recreation (MPR) has been informed of these incidents and replacement wire fencing was initiated today. Signage will also be installed at these locations.
The Tortolita Alliance (TA) has been working diligently to conserve TP. We have collaborated closely with MPR on a variety of TP topics. These illegal activities make our efforts so much harder. Now MPR has to expend time and expense to make these repairs during difficult economic times.
There are three official entrances to TP; (1) Moore Road, (2) Highlands and (3) North- Mattamy. See map below. TA is working with MPR to develop other convenient official entrance(s) to TP. This will take time and plenty of coordination with HOAs and residents.
In the interim, we urgently request that everyone respect TP plants, wildlife, associated habitat and TP infrastructure.
