Southern Galiuro Erosion Control Structures: December 3 – 5

Join SIA as we install rock structures on a formerly over-grazed property in the Galiuro mountains.

BACKGROUND:
SIA has partnered with the US Fish and Wildlife Service to install erosion control structures south of the nearby Muleshoe Ranch in the southern Galiuros. A few years ago we installed ponds for wildlife on this land and now we are returning to improve the site further. We will be creating loose rock structures to halt erosion, increase water absorption, and support plant growth in drainages throughout the property. These low-tech structures can make huge differences and are a great tool for transforming landscapes.

On this trip we have room for participants to camp out and join us for the full weekend, or for folks to come out and join us just for our work day on Saturday or Sunday. Day-trippers, please keep in mind that the work site is quite a drive from surrounding communities. Google the “Muleshoe Ranch” to figure out about how long a drive to expect, but keep in mind this is NOT THE WORK LOCATION.

COVID PRECAUTIONS:
To keep our volunteers and staff safe, we’re taking these precautions:

Limiting the overnight group size to 10 volunteers to avoid situations where physical distancing becomes difficult. If you’d like to bring kids, please contact us first.
Driving separately. You can either meet us there, or caravan with us from SIA’s office.
Camping, and having each household bring their own food, camping gear, and cooking gear.
You’ll get your own tool(s) to use for the duration of the weekend, and we’ll stay safely spaced out while working.
Keep a mask handy in your pocket at all times.
Working outside, of course!
Wearing masks inside the bathroom, and wiping down surfaces with sanitizer after each use.
Bring your own work gloves if you have them.
We’ll have a thermometer available in case anyone starts feeling off.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
The landowners of this beautiful property are providing us with plenty of great spots to set up tents since we’ll all be camping, but will have access to a bathroom and there is potable water available onsite.

Folks staying throughout the weekend should bring your own camping gear (or contact us if you need to borrow some) and meals for the weekend – a minimum of 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners, with snacks.

We will be building rock structures which will entail carrying, moving, and placing rocks of various sizes. Some heavy lifting will be required, though no one will be asked to lift more than they feel capable of. Be prepared for getting dirty as we will also be digging as a part of the building process.

Also, be prepared to unplug as cell phone service is spotty or non-existent out there.

WHAT TO BRING:
Water bottle(s), snacks, and food for 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
Binoculars – this is a fabulous birding spot!
Sturdy footwear (ex. hiking boots) that you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy
Sun Protection (ex. wide-brimmed hat, sunblock, long sleeved shirt and long pants)
Sturdy pants – we will be kneeling and working in the dirt, sand, and rocks: you’ll want pants that are up to the task (if you like working with kneepads and you have some, this would be a great opportunity to bring them as well)
SIA will provide all tools and work gloves, though if you have a pair of gloves you like, feel free to bring them.

PROJECT SCHEDULE & LOCATION
Friday: Meet at 2:30 pm at our office: 3127 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719 at the SW corner of Cherry Ave and Fort Lowell Rd. To carpool or caravan to the site (Covid permitting). There is parking in our lot off Cherry.
Friday/Saturday: If you’d prefer to meet us at the worksite, Please join us after 5:00 pm Friday or by 8:30 am Saturday for you day-trippers (directions will be sent to registered participants). Keep a lookout for our green SIA signs pointing the way.
Saturday: We will start work around 8:30 am (day-trippers should join us by then), work throughout the day with a break for lunch, and end by 5 pm.
Sunday: We will start work around 8:30 am (day-trippers should join us by then), work throughout the day with a break for lunch, and be wrapping up by 3:00 pm (or earlier).

Questions? Contact Bryon Lichtenhan at bryon@skyislandalliance.org