by Mary Chisholm | Oct 5, 2026
The region of Central Arizona has a legacy of open spaces that have supported Arizona’s rapid growth to
this present day. Still, park systems’ growth and operating resources have not kept pace with population
and economic recovery since the 2008 recession. This limited financial capacity and additional demand,
compromise stewardship success in treasured natural areas and diminish quality visitor experiences
for residents and visitors alike. Therefore, Sonoran Institute (SI), in partnership with the Central Arizona
Conservation Alliance (CAZCA), investigated the “state of the parks” within the region to identify the areas of
greatest need among natural, desert open space parks.
by Mary Chisholm | Oct 5, 2026
The Regional Open Space Strategy (ROSS) is a first iteration road map and action agenda. It is in no way exhaustive. It lays out fundamental initial steps toward unified, cohesive, regional open space conservation, but acknowledges there still exists gaps in information, collaboration, and coordination. In the ROSS, we put forward clear, concise objectives and specific on-the-ground, highly achievable strategies inclusive of the social, cultural, environmental values of communities. When fully implemented, the ROSS will deliver a connected, distinctive, well-managed open space network that will enhance the unique character of the region and enable Maricopa County to realize the full benefits of open space for people, environment, and economy. This is the 2018 update.
by Mary Chisholm | Oct 5, 2026
The Regional Open Space Strategy (ROSS) is a first iteration road map and action agenda. It is in no way exhaustive. It lays out fundamental initial steps toward unified, cohesive, regional open space conservation, but acknowledges there still exists gaps in information, collaboration, and coordination. In the ROSS, we put forward clear, concise objectives and specific on-the-ground, highly achievable strategies inclusive of the social, cultural, environmental values of communities. When fully implemented, the ROSS will deliver a connected, distinctive, well-managed open space network that will enhance the unique character of the region and enable Maricopa County to realize the full benefits of open space for people, environment, and economy. This is the 2019 update.
by Andrew Ruelas | Aug 31, 2026
Learn how Floristic Quality Assessment (FQA) can help us better understand and evaluate the ecological health of natural areas across Maricopa County.
by Andrew Ruelas | Aug 30, 2026
Watch an insightful presentation by Biophilia Foundation CEO, Jennifer Gooden, on the psychology behind engaging with private landowners! Successful landscape conservation necessitates that we work proactively with private landowners. Yet how, exactly, to engage is less clear. This session will highlight principles drawn from the psychology of human motivation that can help us engage with others more effectively. We’ll discuss intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, factors that facilitate or thwart intrinsic motivation, and how to put it into practice.
by Andrew Ruelas | Aug 30, 2026
Watch the recording of our speaker series event, featuring a panel of Women Leaders in Conservation. Esteemed speakers Claire Miller, Tice Supplee, Sarah Webber, Brooke Duffy (Wheelock) & Laurel Arndt share their insights and expertise on the conservation and natural resources fields!
by LTDEVTeam | Mar 13, 2025
This primer is designed to assist communities and open space advocates in crafting a compelling case for open space protection, find funding, and start meaningful dialogue on this topic. The primer focuses on activities, information sources, talking points about the benefits of open space, successful local case studies, and key messaging strategies that can be incorporated in a case statement.
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