Prescott 2050

Natural Area Preservation Interim Report

Prescott Vision 2050

Natural Area Preservation Study Group:

Interim Report

September 25, 2008

Presented by Committee Members:

Tom Pettit, Chair Nancy Maurer, Secretary

Charlene Craig Ed Parry

Paul Katan Jeri Smith-Fornara

Scope of Work

Members of the 2050 Natural Area Preservation Study Group outlined the group’s scope of work as follows:

1. Assess current definitions and understanding of Prescott Natural Area Open Space.

2. Identify current problems and trends/public perception.

3. Research existing partners and strategies for Natural Area Open Space acquisition and preservation (funding, legislation, awareness, etc.).

4. Recommend solutions for the future of Prescott Natural Area Open Space as identified by the study group.

Definition of “Natural Area”

The 2050 Natural Area Preservation Study Group defines “Natural Area” as:

An area of land that is valued for its natural processes, wildlife, and healthy ecosystems - which may include agricultural and recreational uses - for the benefit of all forms of life.

Synopsis of the Current State of Natural Area Preservation may be included, at this point, in our final report.

NAP Study Group Vision Statement
Surrounded by Granite, Mingus, and Bradshaw Mountains, Watson, Willow, and Goldwater Lakes, the Granite Dells, and the Prescott National Forrest, the City of Prescott is highlighted by its Natural Areas. Citizens of Prescott enjoy regularly the water, wildlife, and serenity that our natural areas provide.
It is the vision of this study group that, as our human population grows, so grows the need to preserve our natural areas. 
Natural Areas and related processes, such as wildlife and healthy ecosystems, benefit all forms of life. Recreation and agricultural uses may be easily included in Natural Area preservation. In addition to these fundamental benefits, our committee sees the following as necessary indicators, to ensure that Natural Areas are preserved as the population grows to 2050 and beyond.
- Natural Areas valued as an integral part of our community with commensurate funding in perpetuity.
- Increased connectivity between large Natural Areas, including trails, greenways and wildlife corridors to enhance preservation of existing biodiversity, wildlife species and habitats.
- Preservation of small Natural Areas – (i.e. neighborhood parks, trails, garden space).
- Convenient access to Natural Areas for recreational opportunities for all citizens regardless of age, ability, or income.
- Natural Areas utilized as buffers between developed areas.
- Open, dynamic, productive dialogue on Natural Area preservation between all governmental agencies.
- Emergence of a culture of collaboration surrounding Natural Area preservation.
- Preservation of Natural Areas that provide scenic backdrops, view-sheds and ridgelines.
- Broad understanding of Natural Area preservation as it relates protection of a healthty watershed.

Recommendations
This is a tentative outline of recommendations, to be justified for the study group’s final report. The version for the final report maybe structured to include a timeline. 
- The City of Prescott budgets for Natural Area Preservation, including acquisition and maintenance.
- The City of Prescott’s Open Space Master Plan is diligently followed and updated.
- The City of Prescott launches media campaign to educate citizens about the many benefits of Natural Area preservation.
- The City of Prescott promotes Natural Area preservation, in any of its related business, to foster a culture of collaboration.
- The City of Prescott organizes and or participates in bio-regional cooperation to preserve natural areas and their connectivity, beyond our city limits.