This memorandum analyzed fourteen mapping efforts that have taken place in the past decades, or that are ongoing. About half of these initiatives created data that is useful for a basemap for regional bio-planning purposes. Analysis provides advice about how future research and mapping initiatives within Pima County can gather data in a more effective manner.

Describes methods that are used in order to prepare reserve design alternatives in the area of biological conservation. The report also provides a brief history of reserve design theory, and demonstrates how the principles of biological reserve design have been extended to the other Elements of the Sonoran Desert conservation plan.

We have an opportunity now that we have not had in the past 25 years to develop some comprehensive planning so that we can continue to enjoy the environmental amenities that make it so nice to live in Tucson. These species include not only the common one that we live with on a day to day basis, but also some of the rare species that most of us are not lucky enough to see (but still care about preserving).