TP BioBlitz-November 19
Save the date! On November 19, the Tortolita Alliance (TA), Marana Parks & Recreation (MPR), Coalition For Sonoran Desert Protection (CSDP), Pima Naturalists (PM) and Arizona Game & Fish (AZG&F) are sponsoring the first Tortolita Preserve (TP) BioBlitz. Stay tuned for more details.
A BioBlitz is defined as "an event that focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a specific area over a short period of time". The BioBlitz can include scientists and community volunteers. They have been successfully performed in Arizona with assistance from AZG&F, CSDP, PM and others. In fact, a very large and successful BioBlitz occurred at the Saguaro National Park (SNP) in 2011. Click on the button below for a short article and video of the SNP BioBlitz.
SWC Tangerine-Thornydale
Thanks to the many TA members and other concerned citizens that attended the Planning Commission (PC) Hearing on 8/31/22 regarding the proposed 51-acre development at the corner of Tangerine & Thornydale. Despite overwhelming opposition by the many speakers, the PC approved the rezoning. We have another chance to make our case at a Public Hearing before the Town Council on 9/20/22 at 6:00 PM. Please attend and voice your concerns about this project that will adversely impact our unique Sonoran Desert environment.
Strong-Arm Condolences
Strong-arm passed on 8/4/22 but condolences keep coming in. Stories about Strong-arm have appeared in media outlets around the world. We've heard reports from as far away as New Zealand!
MPR prepared a nice video of Strong-arm with Jay Grodman (Natural Resources Supervisor) narrating. Click on the button below to view the video.
Moore Road TP Trailhead Improvements
The design work is 50% complete for the proposed improvements at the Tortolita Preserve (TP) Moore Rd Trailhead (see map-right). This includes a new entrance, signage, parking and more. Construction is expected to start the summer of 2023.
TP West-Fence
Survey and design work is progressing and construction will begin in March 2023.
Cattle Concerns
Relocation of the cattle water tank is underway. MPR and Marana Public Works are currently assisting with the relocation in preparation for fencing the western end of TP (see above).