UPDATE!

TRICO Electric Transmission Line Across Tortolita Fan



On September 28^th, Mark Johnson, President of the Tortolita Alliance, shared the results of his September 26^th meeting with Trico Electric Cooperative, Inc. (TRICO) concerning their unpublicized electric transmission line stretching across Marana’s Tortolita Fan.

His well documented review shares important insights and public documents explaining the project’s scope and questionable tactics used by TRICO and other stakeholders who, though they may have followed the letter of the law, concealed the project from public scrutiny and input.

By doing so, an opportunity for a portion of the transmission line to be built underground was missed, and a significant number of native plants, including 322 saguaros (some with as many as 8 arms), were removed and destroyed. It appears it was easier for TRICO to pay the $196,000 "Native Plant Harvest Permit Fee" from its co-operative's membership fund than it was to take the time to work with established local plant rescue organizations to save them.

Johnson's report concludes with this message:

"This project is yet another example of Arizona OPACITY (opposite of TRANSPARENCY). And it’s not just TRICO. Municipalities, government agencies, utilities, developers, etc. purposely keep its constituents in the dark about very important matters. They believe they have all the answers that are best for us. Well, that is just not true. It's high time for these entities to respect its citizens, customers, members and engage us for respectful and thoughtful input at the beginning of projects and not after they are constructed."

Click here to review the entire TA meeting synopsis.

Click here to contact TRICO leadership to voice your concerns

• Brian Heithoff-CEO, General Manager
• Matt Fredericksen-VP Electric Operations

CAROLYN CAMPBELL "APPRECIATION DAY”



Last week, Tucson Mayor Regina Romero joined the Pima County Board of Supervisors declaring September 25th, 2024 as "Carolyn Campbell Appreciation Day”.

This declaration was brought forth in recognition of the incredible legacy and accomplishments of the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection CO-Executive Director, Carolyn Campbell.

In her proclamation, Mayor Romero recognized Carolyn’s many achievements protecting the Sonoran Desert over the last 26+ years, including her 1997 efforts to protect the pigmy owl that originally spurred the formation of the CSDP.

Mayor Romero also voiced her gratitude for Carolyn’s leadership in other areas such as the development of the groundbreaking 2006 Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan and her efforts to build the Wildlife Bridge and Underpass on Oracle highway 2016.

During her tenure, Carolyn has become a trusted environmentalist earning the respect of residents, conservation groups, developers, and elected officials.

Carolyn retired from the Coalition on September 30th. After a short reprieve, she will join the Coalition's Board of Directors as Co-Executive Director, sharing her wisdom and energy in their efforts moving forward.

Thank you, Carolyn Campbell, for your tireless efforts protecting the Sonoran Desert. Your example continues to inspire and energize all of us in the LDA as we move forward with our mission to Keep our Desert and Community Livable and Thriving.

Click here, then move the forward button to about the 4-hour mark, to hear Mayor Romero's proclamation and other statements of appreciation for Carolyn Cambell's efforts from leaders throughout Pima County.

Copper World Aquifer Protection Permit Approved by ADEQ

This morning the Arizona Daily Star reported that the “Aquifer Protection Permit for the Copper World mine southeast of Tucson is a done deal, now that opponents including Pima County officials and the group Save the Scenic Santa Ritas, have chosen not to appeal the state’s approval.”

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued the permit on Aug. 29 since no appeals were filed.

This clears a major legal hurdle for the construction of the mine to extract copper from six open pits in the Santa Rita Mountains southeast of Sahuarita.

Copper World developer Hudbay Minerals Inc. still needs an air quality permit, currently under review by the state, before it can build and operate the mine.

Although the public comment period is over, you can still send a letter opposing the mine directly to Governor Katie Hobbs and by writing directly to the ADEQ. Review the Save the Scenic Santa Ritas Asso. Comment Information  Information on how to send a letter opposing the mine. Page two contains a sample letter you can modify with your own information.

More to come in upcoming LDA newsletters.

Rio Vista Restoration Planting Workshop - October 5th

Join the Watershed Management Group, this Saturday, October 5th, from 8am-11am, to help them increase the shade and diversity of native Sonoran Desert plants at Rio Vista Natural Resource Park.

Volunteers will learn about native plants and planting techniques paired with rain basins and help with the restoration of the park.

The event will be led by Strategic Habitat Enhancements, a local native plant restoration business, with assistance from Watershed Management Group.

Meet at the main parking area of the park entrance at the north end of Tucson Blvd just north of Prince Rd.

Please wear closed-toed shoes, long pants, sun protection, bring a refillable water bottle, and be prepared to have fun and get your hands dirty. Gloves and tools will be provided.

This event is hosted in partnership by City of Tucson Parks and Recreation, Strategic Habitat Enhancements, and Watershed Management Group.

Click here to learn more and to register!