The Alliance Insider
In this Issue: 2021 All-Partners Meeting, Desert Defender Events and Project Updates
2021 All-Partners Meeting: The Central Arizona Regional Conservation and Open Space Conference

Save the date for our annual meeting:

Thursday, Feb. 25, 1 - 4:30 p.m

This year's All-Partners Meeting will be a two-part virtual event. We will have a session of pre-recorded partner presentations and a second session of Regional Open Space Strategy implementation strategy discussions. We look forward to reconnecting with you, updating the partnership and learning more about the great work this community is doing.
Progress and Updates
CAZCA Speaker Series: Stinknet

Our 2021 speaker series kick-offs on Jan. 26, 2021. Stinknet (Oncosiphon pilulifer) will be the focus of our first talk with the Maricopa Cooperative Extension Office.

He will share valuable information and updates from the research community and provide resources for detection and treatment. Join us and be prepared for spring time.
Desert Defender Events

It's that time of the year! Join the upcoming Desert Defender events led by Maricopa County Parks and protect our open spaces.

There are opportunities at many of the county parks to participate in pulling invasive plants. You can explore the different events and opportunities beginning Jan. 15 on our website.
Black Canyon Heritage Park - Silent Auction

Due to COVID-19, the Winterfest has been canceled. However, you can still support this amazing community park by participating in their virtual silent auction beginning Jan. 25.

They are currently looking for donated items of at least $50 in value. All proceeds will support the park and its educational programs.
CAZCA Project Updates
CAZCA Seeks Volunteers

Are you passionate about protecting our local open spaces? As we embark on a new year, we are excited for the different projects and opportunities to come but we need your help!

We are seeking assistance with our Sonoran Insiders program, the Desert Defenders initiative and our Collaboration Hub. These are key programs which have a big impact on our local open spaces.
Metro Phoenix EcoFlora

Join the January EcoQuest: Seize the Cheese. Find and map as many cheeseweed plants (Malva Parviflora) as possible. This ambiguous leafy green plant, can be found all over metro Phoenix, growing in January.
This naturalized “weed” has both its uses and drawbacks. Documented in metro Phoenix in the early 1900s, it is assumed to be introduced to North America as an edible green in the early 1800s.
Share Your Events

As we adapt to virtual gatherings and new ways of sharing resources, we invite you to share your upcoming events with us. We know there are many things going on and we are here as a resource for our partners.

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