This photo was taken from the Tortolita Crag (north of the Wild Mustang Trail at elevation 3,900'). This view demonstrates the beauty and value of the Tortolita Preserve from a higher perspective.
We are most grateful to all the Tortolita Alliance (TA) supporters who helped shape the Town of Marana's decision to conserve the Tortolita Preserve and eliminate the Special Planning Area designation in the Make Marana 2040 General Plan. This was a great outcome but our work is just beginning!
The TA Core Team met on 1/8/20 to review 2019 events and discuss activities for 2020 and beyond. Here is an outline of proposed activities:
Make Marana 2040 General Plan-review final report and engage for the August 2020 general election vote.
Town of Marana-collaborate on activities that support the TA Mission.
Marana Unified School District-collaborate on public education opportunities at the Tortolita Preserve and associated lands.
Coalition For Sonoran Desert Protection-collaborate and support.
Tucson Audubon-collaborate, support and implement Tortolita Preserve eBird system and bird count.
Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists-collaborate and support.
Pygmy Owl & Other Species Listings-meet with US Fish & Wildlife Service staff and determine status of endangered species listings.
University of Arizona-collaborate on research project (s) to support the TA mission.
Public Water Supply-conduct comprehensive evaluation of public water supply situation in Tucson/Marana region.
Stormwater/Drainage-conduct comprehensive evaluation of stormwater/drainage and watershed recharge in the Tortolita Fan.
Development/Financial-complete the analysis of Dove Mountain development and tax revenue versus Tortolita Lease payments.
Funding-investigate public and private funding sources for the Tortolita Preserve.
Arizona State Land Department-monitor and collaborate on activities that support the Tortolita Alliance mission.
Bufflegrass-inspection, identification and removal within the Tortolita Preserve and associated lands.
Communication-finalize TA logo, implement social media links and continue media interaction.
Organization-finalize non-profit corporation filing and establish TA funding mechanisms.
Political Action-endorse candidates that support the TA mission.
We will be holding a General Meeting of the Tortolita Alliance in late January or early February to discuss these initiatives, receive your input and present volunteer opportunities. The date, time and location will be announced soon.