McDowell Sonoran Preserve

I posted this 2 years ago. Even then I could tell something wasn’t right. Today it’s 10x worse than it was 2 years ago. There are large areas in the Preserve that don’t have any saguaros over 4 feet. All the big ones are gone.

I use to see 1-2 saguaros each year that had fallen due to environmental damage/natural causes. This year I’ve seen 40+. Some in the Preserve, some in desert green belts, and some that were part of landscaping. If you look closely this photo has 3.

When it’s this hot, you need to get up early.

The entire Conservancy team would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the agencies and first responders bravely battling the Diamond Fire City of Scottsdale - Government , Scottsdale Fire Department , Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management .

Our hearts are with the evacuees and first responders on the front lines risking their lives fighting this dangerous brush fire to protect lives, property, and the environment.

📸: Conservancy Steward Mary

There are many great ways to get involved and learn more about the Sonoran desert and local conservation organizations like us during the City of Scottsdale - Government Earth Week 2023 from April 22nd - 28th.

Check out all the fun coming up this Earth Week here: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/news/scottsdale-earth-week-celebrates-commitment-to-sustainable-future

Great time of the year in

I’m not sure there’s a more terrifying plant in the world. But they are cool to look at.

Fun hiking in the rain.

Remember, it’s hunting season in the Preserve. Oh, you didn’t know they allowed hunting in the Preserve. Yep. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not anti-hunting. I just don’t think it should be allowed annually in the Preserve. If you agree, contact Scottsdale city 480-312-3111 or Arizona Game and Fish who govern hunting in the Preserve 602-942-3000.

Looking to learn more about the environment you call home? Sign up for Scottsdale Community College's "Discovering the Sonoran Desert" on October 15th from 8am - 10am for just $20! Find all the details and sign-up information here: bit.ly/3LZ07bW

Hike with biologist Dr. John Weser and explore the ecology of Sonoran Desert organisms. You'll discuss the amazing interactions between plants, animals, and microbes encountered on the trail. You’ll learn about current conservation efforts used to preserve Sonoran Desert biodiversity.

The Monsoon always brings the best sunsets.

We could really use some good rain in the Preserve.

Love Patagonia for several reasons.

Supreme Negligence - Patagonia This morning’s least-bad, bad ruling on climate, and some options President Biden still has. Earlier this morning, the US Supreme Court preemptively ruled

If you're planning to hike in the Valley this time of year, taking proper safety precautions is essential. 🥾🌄

To help you plan ahead for your next hike,
Scottsdale Fire Department and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve created this new video series on hiking safety: YouTube.com/playlist?list=PLOKBvBs_6yw8Jl6i846UtIA3dj_03i3_Q

This time of year, early morning hiking is best.

Can’t you see I’m sleeping?!

Preserve closes early July 4. ☀️

To reduce the threat of wildfire, Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve will close at noon Monday, July 4. All trailheads into the Preserve will have "closed" signs posted. Scottsdale police, City staff, and stewards will patrol the area to advise visitors about the closure and fire threat. Violating the closure is a misdemeanor punishable by up to four months in jail and a $750 fine. The Preserve will re-open around 5 a.m. Tuesday, July 5. Pinnacle Peak Park, 26802 N. 102nd Way, will be open from 5 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday, July 4. For more information, contact staff at 480-312-0990.

Today, June 4, 2022, is National Trails Day. This day is dedicated to promoting the awareness, discovery, and support of local trails. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers an array of fabulous desert trails. Our 30,580 acre Preserve is home to stunning geography, lush cacti forests, and diverse wildlife. We encourage you to explore and support our more than 225 miles of trails. https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/visit-preserve

I did not expect to find a bunch of snails on top of a rocky butte.

It’s an invasion of hungry, hungry, hungry caterpillars.

Anyone know what this plant is?

Have I discovered a of insect in the ?