Shades of Purple (TP-4/23/23)
Tortolita Alliance (TA ) has been working with Marana Parks & Recreation (MPR) for the last 3.5 years on four (4) important Tortolita Preserve (TP) projects. These projects are now coming to fruition and the following provides the status on each.
Moore Road TP Trailhead Improvements
The new trailhead will be located at the intersection of Moore Road and Wild Burro Road. See site plan below. The project includes new entrance, signage, parking and more.
A construction contract between Marana and Henry & Company, LLC has been executed and work is expected to begin in mid-August.
TP West-Fence
This project includes the installation of 14,800 feet of wildlife-friendly fencing at the western end of TP. See site plan below. This will prevent migration and cattle and Off Highway Vehicles (OHVs) into TP. When completed the new fencing will protect TP natural resources and enhance public safety. A construction contract between Marana and Henry & Company, LLC has been executed and work is expected to begin in mid-August.
Cattle Water Tank Relocation
A new cattle water tank has been constructed outside of TP and is now in service. The abandoned cattle water tank within TP boundaries remains and will hopefully be demolished soon. This accomplishment and the new western fence should keep cattle out of the TP and protect the native vegetation and provide a safer environment for all users.
TP Trail Counter
TA contributed $500 to MPR for the purchase of a trail counter to monitor hiking and biking activity in the TP and other MPR trails. The trail counter has been in service since March 20. Here are some of the stats and graphs.
2023 TP Year-to-Date Users (as of 6/30/23)
Total Days In Service = 103
Total Users (2023) = 5,637
Users/Day = 55
So glad to see this many outdoor enthusiasts visiting TP!
The 2023 monthly user and daily users during the month of June are depicted on the graphs below.
2023 TP Monthly Users
June 2023 TP Daily Users
