The Beginning
The Tortolita Alliance (TA) was formed four years ago in response to efforts by the Town of Marana (Marana) and the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) to reconfigure and re-zone the Tortolita Preserve (TP) and surrounding lands.
With the support of hundreds of concerned citizens we were able to get Marana to change course and TP was put back on the maps and protected.
Mission & Strategic Plan
This early success was wonderful but we knew that TA had to continue to ensure ongoing attention to environmental issues in Marana and the region. In early 2020, just before COVID-19 hit hard, we were able to meet together at the first TA General Meeting and adopted the mission statement and strategic plan. As a refresher, TA's mission:
Tortolita Alliance advocates for the continued conservancy of the Tortolita Preserve and associated lands, ensuring protection of open space, wildlife habitat, watershed, and compatible recreational use.
TA's Strategic Plan covers seven (7) primary categories; (1) Environment & Education, (2) Water, (3) Development/Financial, (4) Government Watchdog/Political, (5) Agency/Group Collaboration, (6) Communication and (7) Organization.
Significant progress has been made over the last four years on most of the strategic initiatives. The current status of the strategic initiatives is summarized in the following table:
TA now has 800 members! They are kept informed with over 320 blogs published on topics including plants, wildlife, water, trails, recreation, open space, development, Marana government and more.
It is now wonderful to see Marana embracing TP---especially Marana Parks & Recreation (MPR) with their support with the new Moore Road Trailhead, Western Fence and Entrance Bollards/Gates and TP environmental programs, e.g., Bioblitz, Nature Treks, Horseback Riding Events, Saguaro Plantings and more! Thanks so much MPR!
TA Budget & 2023 Fundraiser
TA has a normal annual budget of $3,400 consisting of: (1) Website Fees-$600, (2) Communication (Print & Room Rental)-$800 and (3) Insurance-$2,000.
The 2023 Fundraiser was a huge success with $8,356 raised (net after fees and advertising expenses). This helped cover a good portion of 2023 expenses and we now have approximately $5,000 in the bank which will cover expenses for 2024 and a portion of 2025. Another fundraiser will most likely be required in 2025.
Thanks to all that contributed to the 2023 Fundraiser!
The Future
TA plans to continue its work well into the future with the following special initiatives in the works for 2024:
General Meeting w/Strategic Plan Update-Fall 2024
Saguaro Plantings & Inventory
Environmental Education For Children