The dedication of Pima Prickly Park on Saturday, September 22, will celebrate a cooperative partnership between Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation and the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society.

“This park shows what can be accomplished when a government agency and nonprofit group work together,” said Dick Wiedhopf, president of the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society. “The cooperation has been tremendous and Pima Prickly Park will be a wonderful educational experience for the public.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be at 9 a.m. at 3500 W. River Road, between Orange Grove Road and North Camino de la Tierra. The festivities will include a sale of rescued plants, tours of the park, and presentations by educational groups and vendors. Musician Teodoro “Ted” Ramirez, an Arizona Culture Keeper, will sing and play songs that illuminate indigenous, Mexican, Spanish, and Anglo cultures.

Pima Prickly Park is directly south of the Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation headquarters building. The area was originally a borrow, or excavation, pit that has been revegetated naturally and through the efforts of volunteer groups and county staff.

Members of the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society have invested hundreds of volunteer hours salvaging plants from areas slated for construction and relocated them in the park. They have also developed a plan for future gardens and demonstration areas. County staff have developed trails within the park and are responsible for irrigation and overall maintenance.

For additional information on the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society, visit http://www.tucsoncactus.org/.