Poll Reveals

Nearly Two‑Thirds of Pima County Voters Oppose Copper World Mine

Polls can be dry, but this one lands with real weight for Pima County. A new public opinion survey shows broad and intensifying opposition to Hudbay Minerals’ proposed Copper World mine in the Santa Rita Mountains.

The July 20th FM3 poll shared by Save the Scenic Santa Ritas found that 63% of likely Pima County voters oppose the mine—including 56% who strongly oppose it—while only 19% support it. After hearing arguments for and against the project, opposition rose to 67%, showing that public sentiment hardens as voters learn more about Copper World’s impacts.

Yet this overwhelming opposition collides with a permitting process that appears tilted in the project’s favor. Although financing is largely secured, Copper World must still navigate Arizona’s environmental review system—one in which ADEQ has signaled support despite Pima County Supervisors passing a resolution opposing it, community concerns and mounting environmental questions.

While regulatory approval remains possible, the issues raised in the poll mirror the very risks that could still derail the project, from water use to long‑term ecological damage.



To learn more—and to find out how you can help stop this environmental disaster from destroying much of the Santa Rita Mountains and surrounding communities—click here.

Speaker Series Reminder

RSVP Below

Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson

Wednesday, August 5th • 6:00–7:00 PM

Oro Valley Public Library

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson for an inspiring look at how traditional dryland farming can guide resilient agriculture in the desert Southwest. Dr. Johnson blends culture, science, and lived experience to show how Indigenous food systems offer powerful lessons for thriving in arid environments.

Join us, invite your family and friends, for this free event and an evening of insight, hope, and community connection.

Doors open at 5:45pm. Presentation starts at 6:00pm.

Third Act Arizona:

Post‑Primary

Community Conversation

Tuesday, July 28 • 6:00 PM

Third Act Arizona is hosting a virtual meeting next Tuesday, July 28 at 6:00 PM—just one week after the state primary.

With November approaching, Arizonans are entering a period when public participation matters deeply. Many of the decisions that shape daily life—energy policy, community planning, environmental protections, and the issues debated at the Capitol—are made by leaders in state and local offices. Understanding how these roles work helps voters make informed choices and engage more confidently in the democratic process.

This virtual gathering is designed to help community members learn how their voice and vote influence these decisions. Down‑ballot offices, including the Arizona Legislature and the Arizona Corporation Commission, determine which bills move forward and how Arizona approaches long‑term challenges like climate resilience and energy affordability. Several U.S. Congressional races also play a role in how national policy supports local communities.

Sandy Bahr of the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter and community leader Lauren Kuby will discuss practical ways Arizonans can engage with state leadership, elevate climate and democracy in public conversations, and participate effectively in civic decision‑making. Attendees will also have time to share ideas and connect with others committed to strengthening Arizona’s future.

RSVP here. A virtual link will be sent before the event.

Join in to speak directly with state leadership and learn how your voice—and your vote—can make a meaningful difference.

Back to School:

Climate Conversations with Youth

Tue, Aug 4th, 12:00–1:00 PM

101 W Irvington Rd, Bldg 9, Tucson

The Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter is hosting Back to School: Climate Conversations with Youth, an educational community event designed to give young people a direct voice in local climate dialogue.

As students prepare to return to school, many are thinking about climate change, its impacts on daily life, and the role they can play in shaping solutions. This event brings youth into conversation with state officials and leaders from multiple environmental organizations, creating a rare opportunity for meaningful, face‑to‑face engagement.

Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva and Councilwoman Selina Barajas will join local environmental advocates to discuss current initiatives, legislation, and collaborative efforts focused on environmental justice, extreme heat, energy affordability, and climate impacts across Southern Arizona. They will also highlight ongoing work to protect clean energy development, climate science, and foundational environmental safeguards. Youth attendees will be able to ask questions, share their perspectives, and learn about pathways for civic participation and climate leadership.

Please share this opportunity with the young people in your family and community—your encouragement can help them show up, speak up, and take part in this important local conversation.

Click here to register and learn more.

A Family Firefly Adventure Awaits!

Get ready for a glowing

summer adventure!

August 1st & 8th, 7pm - 10pm

Watershed Management Group is hosting its 1st annual “I Spy Fireflies!” event—two magical Saturday nights in August dedicated to exploring Tucson’s creeks and rivers after dark and discovering where fireflies make their home.

On August 1, join them for a Community Celebration at Danny Lopez Park, where families can learn all about these remarkable insects before heading to the Santa Cruz River. Enjoy hands‑on activities, meet local experts, and get inspired by the nighttime world that comes alive along our waterways.

Then on August 8, take part in their Community Count, venturing out to your chosen river site with a survey lead and fellow explorers. You’ll observe plants, flowing water, and the nocturnal wildlife that thrives in our riparian corridors. And with a little luck, fireflies will light up the night as you document their presence and help protect and expand their habitat.

This is your chance to experience Tucson’s rivers in a whole new way—while contributing to real community science and watershed restoration.

Register here for both events. Invite your family and friends to join!

STOP I‑11 Yard Signs are Still Available.

Our Desert Needs Every Voice!

The Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection has launched a major STOP I‑11 yard‑sign effort to boost community visibility ahead of the upcoming federal Draft Environmental Impact Statement.

Once the comment period opens, our region’s voice will be critical to protecting wildlife corridors and open space.

Yard signs—free and available across Tucson and Picture Rocks—help show broad opposition. Pickup instructions will be emailed with each request along with ways you can donate to support this effort.



• Order sign(s)
• Learn more about the impact of I-11 on our desert environment.
• 07/09: 13News: Pima County updates Interstate 11 project proposal

Your yard sign is a visible stand for the future of our desert home.