The Alliance Insider
In this Issue: All-Partners Meeting recap, Greenprint virtual training, project updates and more
2021 All-Partners Meeting Recap
Thank you for joining us at the 2021 All-Partners Meeting!

Our keynote speakers from White Tank Mountains Conservancy shared an amazing story map showcasing innovative leadership in partnering with local government and developers to build habitat connectivity of the White Tank Mountains. The story map will be available here soon.

We also held breakout sessions about the Regional Open Space Strategy (ROSS) goals:

Maricopa County Parks led ROSS Goal 1: Protect and Connect and delved into the Parks Vision 2030, which will have lasting impact on habitat and recreational connectivity of Central Arizona. Contact Eileen Baden for more information and to get involved.

ROSS Goal 2: Sustain and Restore was led by McDowell Sonoran Conservancy and focused on gathering feedback about a regional coordination strategy for invasive plant species. Contact Mary Fastiggi to join the invasive species working group.

ROSS Goal 3: Love and Support focused on the development of a regional framework for environmental education and outreach on important themes and topics for conservation. These core concepts will support the Environmental Literacy Plan for Arizona. if you want to assist please contact Annia Quiroz.

ROSS Goal 4: Elevate and Coordinate discussed the importance of sharing information about initiatives across the partnership, as well as the pivotal role the CAZCA Collaboration Hub will play in facilitating collaboration. If you are interested in learning contact Aireona Raschke.

If you would like to watch a recording of the All-Partners, please contact Aireona Raschke. It was great working with our partners, community members and stakeholders. We look forward to our next meeting in February 2022!
Progress and Updates
Share your Feedback

The All-Partners Meeting would not be possible without the input and participation of our partners. We are grateful for your feedback and on-going efforts towards conservation in Central Arizona.

We would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on the meeting. Help us by completing this 2 minute survey.
Partner Initiatives

Support the CAZCA Collaboration Hub and efforts to grow awareness of regional initiatives. Share any projects or work you or your organization may be doing that fall under objectives or goals identified in the ROSS and support this growing network.

To contribute, please complete this 5 minute survey.
Bills to Be Aware Of

There are several bills we would like to make you aware of as they are relevant to the ROSS and our collective work. Please note that CAZCA is not taking a formal position on this or other legislation at this time. This is merely being provided for informational purposes.

AZ SB 1384 regarding the AZ Heritage Fund, State Parks and Lottery.

There are also two outdoor resolutions moving through the Arizona legislature: AZ HCR2034 and AZ SCR1046.

The City of Tempe is seeking feedback on its updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan draft through March 31.

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is raising awareness for the Active Transportation Networks in Arizona. Learn more about this effort below.
Speaker Series: The Greenprint

Join us for a free webinar on March 16 to explore the Greenprint–a mapping tool designed to support planning and to facilitate the inclusion of natural resource data and community development in decision-making.

In order to protect our natural areas, we must plan accordingly. The Greenprint can help us visualize the valley's natural resources–plus, it's free to use.
CAZCA Project Updates
March EcoQuest

Wildflower season is a cherished time in the Sonoran Desert. Observing wildflowers provides data on populations and how environmental conditions, like lack of rainfall, extreme temperatures or longer periods of heat, could be impacting them.

Take some time to slow down and appreciate the artistic characteristics of these short-lived wonders.
Volunteer with Us!

We have amazing opportunities with two of our programs–the Sonoran Insiders project and Desert Defenders. Support with social media, event planning or coordination around conservation in the region.

These key programs have a big impact on local natural areas and their protection.
Share Your Events

We know there are many wonderful events and opportunities happening in the area. As we adapt to virtual gatherings this past year, we invite you to share your upcoming events with us.

Fill out the simple form below and we will share your events and opportunities through our website and on social media.