This is a 50-percent increase from last year. The District's thorough preparation for and outstanding participation in the Local Work Group process was credited for helping obtain the high ranking. Parsons covered numerous items under Nursery Operations. The Arizona Boys Ranch pulled out of the valley and is unlikely to return anytime soon. Efforts are underway to determine if Adventure Discovery crews could assist harvest and planting.
Parsons is pessimistic about the application chances of being selected for funding.
However, he believes submission of the application will enhance successful local fund raising efforts for backhoe rental. Therefore it is a win-win situation, regardless of whether the grant is received. No ideas were forthcoming for the Urban and Community Forestry grant packet. Considerable discussion took place on the State Park's WHIP application. Parsons first described how the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Project application came about in early July.