Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council council unanimously (7-0) approved the a detailed plan for restoring the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Yesterday we discussed some of the challenges that thie rebuild is facing. Today, we discuss the plan, presented by consultant Rebecca Field, to begin the rebuilding.
Show some real progress
One of the main goals of the plan is to deliver tangible results early on, providing visible progress to keep momentum going and show the community that restoration is happening.
Rebecca Field, Consultant from Kimley-Horn, emphasized that the project needs to achieve quick wins in the initial phases: "We want to show some real progress early on, even if it’s just on the perimeter or in small sections." By focusing on more manageable areas first, the restoration team aims to demonstrate that the project is viable and that the Preserve is gradually returning to its natural state.
This approach also allows the team to manage expectations, given that desert ecosystems take decades to fully recover. By showing early progress, they can maintain community support and continue seeking funding and resources for the broader effort.
Restore the preserve from the outside-in
Field explained the strategy of restoring the Preserve from the outside in, a method designed to maximize efficiency and create a natural flow of restoration from the edges of the site toward the interior.
Show some real progress
One of the main goals of the plan is to deliver tangible results early on, providing visible progress to keep momentum going and show the community that restoration is happening.
Rebecca Field, Consultant from Kimley-Horn, emphasized that the project needs to achieve quick wins in the initial phases: "We want to show some real progress early on, even if it’s just on the perimeter or in small sections." By focusing on more manageable areas first, the restoration team aims to demonstrate that the project is viable and that the Preserve is gradually returning to its natural state.
This approach also allows the team to manage expectations, given that desert ecosystems take decades to fully recover. By showing early progress, they can maintain community support and continue seeking funding and resources for the broader effort.
 |
| Click To Enlarge |
Field explained the strategy of restoring the Preserve from the outside in, a method designed to maximize efficiency and create a natural flow of restoration from the edges of the site toward the interior.
"We’re starting with the perimeter, working inwards," Field explained, noting that this approach is necessary given the size of the site and the challenges posed by limited funding. By focusing on areas that are easiest to access and control, the restoration team can stabilize the landscape and prevent further degradation.
This phased strategy also aligns with the available budget. With the town investing $2 million per year in the project, and seeking additional grants, the outside-in approach allows for steady progress while staying within financial constraints. The ultimate goal is to gradually restore the entire 202-acre Preserve, but starting with the outer edges ensures that early efforts will be effective and sustainable.
Involve the community
A key element of the restoration plan is the inclusion of community involvement. Field was clear that this is not just a restoration project for experts but a collaborative effort with the local residents.
Involve the community
A key element of the restoration plan is the inclusion of community involvement. Field was clear that this is not just a restoration project for experts but a collaborative effort with the local residents.
"The community is critical to this project," Field stated. She highlighted the importance of engaging residents through activities like "seed ball" workshops, where participants can help with reseeding efforts. "We’re planning events where people can come out, create seed balls, and be part of the restoration." By involving the community in hands-on efforts, the project will foster a sense of ownership and stewardship among residents, making the Preserve a source of pride for Oro Valley.
Move forward now
Field presented a plan that focuses on completing key work on the outer sections of the Vistoso Nature Preserve within the first year. The team expects measurable improvements in plant growth and community engagement efforts during this period. Specifically, the initial phase will focus on removing invasive species, including Bermuda grass, from targeted perimeter areas. This will be followed by replanting native vegetation, such as creosote and mesquite, chosen for their ability to outcompete invasives and restore the natural desert environment.
Tomorrow: Key Council and Resident Concerns
Move forward now
Field presented a plan that focuses on completing key work on the outer sections of the Vistoso Nature Preserve within the first year. The team expects measurable improvements in plant growth and community engagement efforts during this period. Specifically, the initial phase will focus on removing invasive species, including Bermuda grass, from targeted perimeter areas. This will be followed by replanting native vegetation, such as creosote and mesquite, chosen for their ability to outcompete invasives and restore the natural desert environment.
Tomorrow: Key Council and Resident Concerns
