the native riparian habitats of Arizona.
Of the 110 acres of the Riparian Preserve, 70 acres make up the seven water recharge basins that are filled on a rotating basis with treated liquid waste and allowed to percolate into the aquifer where it is stored for future use. One of the ponds has a unique distribution stream that mimics the action of an ephemeral desert stream. An additional lake is filled with reclaimed water and is designated as an urban fishing resource through the Arizona Game and Fish Department. More than 4.5 miles of trails weave through the park, and there are interpretive education panels on wildlife and vegetation throughout. Viewing blinds have been established at various locations near the edge of several ponds to further enhance the visitor’s experience. A floating boardwalk crossing the northern end of the lake allows visitors a close view of the fish and ducks on the water. Additional educational areas include an ethnobotanical garden, a paleontology dig site, gardens for pollinators including a hummingbird garden and butterfly garden, plus a state-of-the- art observatory and hilltop outdoor classroom. The preserve also includes restroom facilities, picnic ramadas, and a play area. The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory houses a 16-inch diameter Meade, modified Richey-Cretien scope, guided by a Paramount ME computer controlled German equatorial mount slaved to The Sky professional computer program. Observatory Ongoing Public Viewing Hours are on Friday and Saturday evenings from sunset to 9:30 p.m. (weather permitting). The Preserve is probably our favorite place to photograph birds. Approximately 298 species of birds have been identified onsite since its development in 1999, and many insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals have found homes there as well. With such abundant flora and fauna, there are always many wildlife photographers to befriend and share tips and stories with. This avian diversity allowed the Gilbert Riparian Preserve to be recognized as a part of the Arizona Important Bird Area Program through Birdlife International and the National Audubon Society. People from around the world travel to see the beautiful and sometimes rare birds. Interpretive signage throughout the park provides guidance for the identification of birds commonly seen.
Phainopepla, credit L. M. Whited
For a more guided experience, Desert Rivers Audubon offers free guided Bird Walks for guests of all ages every third Saturday, October through March, from 8:00 a.m. to noon, at the Dragonfly Ramada. They will loan binoculars and send small groups out with an expert birder for short walks. The Early Birds is a kid’s birding club open to ages 7-13 that meets immediately prior to the Family Bird Walks, at 7:30 a.m. Parents and grandparents are welcome to come along with this group. Where: 2757 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, AZ Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., trails open dawn to dusk Admission: Free. Details: 480-503-6299 www.gilbertaz.gov If you want to see more of the Sonoran Desert, plug Boyce Thompson Arboretum into your GPS. Your travel will take you higher past the jagged peaks and deep canyons of the Superstition Mountains, which are full of mysteries, legends, and natural wonders. The Arboretum is located near the town of Superior where you’ll enjoy lower temperatures and 343 acres of living beauty. The founder and namesake, Colonel William Boyce Thompson realized nearly 100 years ago that “All Life depends on plants.”
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