Save Our Sonoran Preserve
Fast Facts
get involved!
- JOIN the Facebook group to become a member and learn about volunteer opportunities!
Q & A with Founder Dr. Gary Kirkilas
What does Save Our Sonoran Preserve do to support the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve?
We advocate at the local and state levels to maintain the protective measures already in place for the Preserve. This occurs primarily from rezoning requests from home developers attempting to change or remove the Desert Character Overlay and Edge guidelines zoning ordinances, both of which were developed in the creation of the Preserve. We also have adopted a stretch of road that runs along the Preserve and perform quarterly clean ups.
What makes the Preserve special?
The Sonoran Preserve is an oasis of natural beauty in the rapidly expanding suburban landscape of North Phoenix. The Preserve includes a variety of unique desert microecosystems, from creosote bush flats to large canyon-lined washes to beautiful saguaro-studded hillsides and mountainsides.
Why does the Preserve merit conservation?
As the Phoenix urban sprawl marches further north, it was imperative that the City of Phoenix preserve this land from development. In addition, it was also imperative to effectively manage the area immediately surrounding the Preserve to maintain the natural desert experience for users of the Preserve.
What challenges are there to the health and future of the Preserve?
Home developers are consistently trying to remove protective zoning ordinances around the Preserve.
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