In this initial (interim) report, 21 different natural resource based outdoor recreational activities are identified. These activities are believed to represent the most popular natural resource based recreational activities in eastern Pima County. Based on the best information available, the document provides an overview and description of each of the noted activities. Information is also provided regarding the primary or preferred locations where the subject activity occurs. Data on participation in the individual activity is included where available. Use patterns, such as seasons when the activity is most prevalent, have been identified and trends related to changes in participation levels are discussed. Finally, issues related to the recreational activity vis-a-vis the goals of the Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan are also presented.

Compiles information on plants and animals that are already recognized by the federal government as imperiled species, species which have been extirpated, and a much larger number of species that are in decline either locally or nationally. Descriptions of status, location, distribution, and habitat needs are presented for each species proposed. The report also considers vegetative communities, their history of decline and modification, and recommends priorities for their protection.

Documents the representation of aspects of biodiversity within both the existing system of protected land and the biologically preferred alternative of the SDCP. It is necessary to think not only in terms of species, but also in terms of vegetation communities. Aspects of both were incorporated into the design of the SDCP. This study provides a detailed look at the twenty-one special element conservation targets that were considered by the Science Technical Advisory Team for the Plan.

The cornerstone of any habitat conservation plan is the establishment of a set of reserves that are ultimately managed to preserve or enhance populations of a particular species or suite of species. Also, with any priority species in a particular region there are geographic areas that are much more important to the species than others. Identifying those areas is an important part of the planning process and a required activity to help assure that the best habitat areas for each species are identified and targeted for inclusion within the reserve system.

A thoughtful and many ways ground breaking study on the potential impacts that future climate variability might have on plants, animals, people and ecosystem processes. It describes the geographic setting of Pima County, the history of weather data collection; variables such as precipitation, variability of rainfall, drought, floods, groundwater, temperature, frost and potential evapotranspiration; and the potential responses of over forth species of concern to short term climate variation.

Describes the relation of the current and proposed system of mountain parks and preserves to the ongoing multi-species conservation planning process. Business interests will be able to pursue land uses which impact habitat, so long as defined conservation standards are met. This report simply frames planning possibilities by outlining the known potential of twelve park and preserve areas in eastern Pima County.