Lessons Learned: Sonoran Desert Ecosystem Initiative
The document summarizes the lessons learned from The Nature Conservancy and Sonoran Institute’s multi-year collaborative project with the Bureau of Land Management and Department of Defense at the Sonoran Desert National Monument and Goldwater Training Range.
Subject Tags
- Conservation Planning
- Desert
Abstract
The Sonoran Desert Ecosystem Initiative (1998–2005), led by The Nature Conservancy and the Sonoran Institute, was a collaborative conservation effort addressing ecological challenges in the rapidly developing U.S. portion of the Sonoran Desert. Funded by the Department of Defense Legacy Resource Management Program and the Bureau of Land Management, the Initiative aimed to conserve native biodiversity and ecological processes through coordinated federal land management. It focused on three core program areas: site-based conservation planning, ecosystem monitoring, and invasive plant management. The Initiative fostered multi-agency partnerships, developed innovative technical tools, and engaged the public through outreach and education. This report synthesizes lessons learned across three domains—partnerships, results, and public involvement—highlighting the importance of mutual benefit, institutional support, clear communication, and adaptive timing in successful collaboration. It underscores the value of science-based, user-informed products and the need for holistic, cross-boundary approaches to ecosystem management.
Citation
Chambers, N and J.A. Hall. 2005. Lessons Learned: Sonoran Desert Ecosystem Inititive. The Nature Conservancy and the Sonoran Institute. 57 pp.
TNC Authors
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John A. Hall
Sonoran Desert Program Manager, TNC, Tucson, Arizona
The Nature Conservancy