Arizona is one of the most highly urbanized states in the nation with 87.5% of the population as of 1990 lives in an urban area. Corporate American views Tucson for tourism and mining. It is also known for aviation, missiles and aerospace; and for its astronomy and optics like Kitt Peak and Mt. Graham observatories. "Economic success will increasingly be determined by how effectively an area can spur technological innovation, entrepreneurship, education, specialized skills, and the transition of all organization -- public and private -- from bureaucratic hierarchies to learning networks."

Takes a comprehensive view of ironwood habitats in both the United States and Mexico, evaluating the ecological and cultural resources supported by the ancient ironwood tree. The study provides an overview of the history and ecology of desert ironwood, and a discussion of the binational research effort undertaken to produce the report.