Welcome to the Snyder Preserve

About the Snyder Preservation Area:

Located in the lush Tanque Verde Valley of Tucson, Arizona, the Snyder Preserve is a pristine 16.5-acre wildlife refuge established through the generous legacy gift of Dr. Richard G. Snyder to the University of Arizona's School of Natural Resources and the Environment (SNRE). Surrounded by the majestic Catalina, Agua Caliente, and Rincon Mountains, this unique area serves both as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and as a field school for aspiring conservation scientists.

Project Background:

The Snyder Preserve was once part of a larger 640-acre cattle ranch with historic ties to the Old West, including scenes filmed for the "High Chaparral" series. Today, it stands as a beacon of conservation, featuring three large ponds, an island, nearly 200 iconic Saguaro cacti, and a diverse array of resident fauna including bobcats, coyotes, javalinas, mule deer, rabbits, lizards, snakes, rodents and a multitude of bird species (>100). The property's layout includes six trails that allow for immersive educational experiences in a variety of ecological niches.

Our Vision:

The Arboretum Project at Snyder Preserve is designed to transform this vibrant ecosystem into a living classroom. The project's centerpiece is a Plant Walk featuring native flora, each identified by signage with QR codes linking to detailed web pages. These pages contain comprehensive information about the botanical characteristics, ecological roles, and ethnobotanical values of each species.

Goals of the UArizona Campus Arboretum Project:

Educational Outreach:

To provide a hands-on learning environment for students and visitors, enhancing their understanding of desert ecology and conservation practices.

Conservation Awareness:

To foster a deeper appreciation for Arizona's native plant species and their roles in local ecosystems.

Community Engagement:

To engage with the local and academic communities through interactive learning opportunities and collaborative conservation efforts.

Learn about the plant species at the Snyder Preserve:

Get Involved:

Whether you're a student, educator, researcher, or nature enthusiast, the Snyder Preserve offers a unique opportunity to explore and contribute to conservation science. We are developing program for visitors to enjoy guided tours, participate in workshops, and engage in citizen science projects. For more information on visiting, contributing to, or collaborating with the Snyder Preserve, please contact: Dr. Willem Van Leeuwen Associate Director, School of Natural Resources and the Environment Phone: 520-626-0058 Email: leeuw@arizona.edu

Acknowledgments:

We thank Dr. Snyder for his visionary gift and invite you to join us in preserving and learning from this extraordinary natural refuge. Donate to the Snyder Preserve Fund Your support helps us maintain the preserve and expand our educational programs. UA Students and employees involved in this project include: Addie Leimroth (BS, Natural Resources: Wildlife Conservation), Tanya Quist (Professor & Campus Arboretum Director), Brian Rasmussen (Campus Arboretum Curator), and Wim van Leeuwen (Professor SNRE)

This project was completed by University of Arizona Undergraduate student Addie Leimroth (shown in photo left). Addie is pursuing a B. S. degree in Natural Resources with an emphasis on Wildlife Conservation and Management with an expected graduation date in 2026.