A guided family nature walk, outdoor educational displays and junior ranger programs will highlight a Beyond Tucson event in Sabino Canyon on Saturday, Jan. 9.
Day-use fees at the canyon will be waived for the event, which begins at 8 a.m. It’s part of a citywide Beyond Tucson observance commemorating those lost in a mass shooting on Jan. 8, 2011, and remembering the spirit of togetherness in the days and months following the tragedy.
People are welcome to simply come to the canyon, at 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road, and enjoy its natural beauty in the company of others.
Meanwhile, the Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalists group plans three organized activities, said Kenne Turner, the group’s president. The activities include:
- A family oriented nature walk, which will be an easy walk covering plants, birds and animals in the canyon. The naturalist leading the walk will learn a little about those interested in the nature walk and design the walk based on their input. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. and last about two hours.
- A demonstration table by the ramada in front of the canyon visitor center encouraging visitors to ask questions of a naturalist. Hours are 10 a.m. to noon.
- An hourlong presentation on mountain lions begins at 10 a.m. in the visitor center.
Junior ranger programs for youth will be available on request throughout the day.
“Many of the events, services, and programs provided on the (Coronado National) forest would not be possible without our dedicated partners and volunteers,” said Ken Born, Santa Catalina district ranger. “Groups like the Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalists, Santa Catalina Volunteer Patrol and the Friends of Sabino Canyon help to enhance the lives of our community. Beyond is a great example of this commitment.”
ADDITIONAL EVENTS
Other Beyond Tucson events scheduled for Jan. 9 in various parts of the metro area include hikes, a social run and walk, a family oriented bike ride and more.
Go online to http://www.beyond-tucson.org/events/ for times, locations and other details on the events.
