The Preserves Management Plan evaluates and documents existing preserve conditions at Tempe’s Papago and Hayden Butte preserves and includes recommendations for the management and preservation of the natural open space. The plan also identifies potential opportunities for cultural, educational and recreational use of these special areas.

A final draft plan was presented to the Tempe City Council at the Work Study Session on April 24, 2025 at 4 p.m. at the Tempe City Council Chambers, 31 E. Fifth St.

Read the plan

The final plan is a high level vision for how Tempe's preserves should be managed and maintained. Some of the questions the plan seeks to answer include:

• What are the existing conditions of the preserves?
• What are protection and restoration best practices?
• What sort of recreational uses and activities should happen on land designated as preserve?
• Are there any educational opportunities?
• What sort of management and maintenance practices should city staff follow?
• What are some potential future activities or repairs that could be funded or implemented through grants or other sources?

The plan includes objectives, recommendations, success criteria and implementation considerations.

Many of the recommendations require additional studies and public input before any potential implementation. The plan does not put these recommendations into motion, but rather outlines the next steps the city should consider taking to operate and maintain the protected land.

The city will continue to reach out to any impacted user or community groups before moving forward on recommendations that may remove or change access to an existing amenity