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.

In the early 1990s, a study of the Tanque Verde Creek by Dr. Julie Stromberg and others described the relationship between the depth to groundwater and the health of the mesquite woodland habitat in the area. This report revisits the Stromberg study to describe variations in groundwater levels since the report was completed early last decade. They identified around 3,000 acres of riparian vegetation in the Tanque Verde-Agua Caliente shallow groundwater zone.