Locality: Cave Creek, Arizona (33.882000, -111.957000)

Abstract: This magnificent 26.6 acre parcel of land is a desert oasis filled with towering cottonwood and willow trees at the northern edge of the Town of Cave Creek bordering the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. This property holds one of the last remaining perennial streams in Maricopa County. The unusual year-round presence of water supports a myriad of plant and species. The lush riparian area was a priority property for permanent protection because of the water and botanical resources it provides. The Desert Foothills Land Trust had been searching for ways to acquire and permanently protect this sensitive and endangered property for several years. In 1997 the Desert Foothills Land Trust received conservation designation for the Jewel of the Creek. The Desert Foothills Land Trust was one of the first land conservation organizations in the state to purchase property under the Arizona Preserve Initiative. Among the first in the state, the Desert Foothills Land Trust, obtained funds under the Arizona State Parks Growing Smarter Land Acquisition grant program. Due to the generosity of the Charlotte Y. Martin Foundation and the community, the Desert Foothills Land Trust raised nearly $450,000 to match the Growing Smarter grant and purchased the Jewel of the Creek in 2001. The Jewel of the Creek Preserve has two loop trails: The Harry I. Dalton Trail and the Dragonfly Trail.

Notes: 2005 checklist; new sightings added over time (see Notes & Vouchers). Last amended 25 October 2012