Little did we know what the future had in store for us. What started as a request for volunteers to help with the Butte Creek Restoration project in the fall of 2024 blossomed into four capstone projects for Cohort 4 spanning technology, education, community gardens, and lots of getting hands dirty and shovels.
A hidden gem in downtown Prescott, the Butte Creek riparian area on the Prescott College campus invites students and community members to slow down, observe, and absorb nature. Mariana Altrichter, professor and project lead, had big plans for significant progress in 2025. Mariana’s vision and the opportunity to make a difference locally attracted Denise Powell, Jenn Sherman, Jim Presley, and Maddie Patterson to work with Mariana on a variety of project needs.
Maddie led the creation of a new pollinator garden with native plants and protective fencing to encourage the javelinas to look and smell elsewhere for a tasty treat.
Denise led the design and production of educational signage for the native trees and shrubs with interesting details about them and a fun question to entice them to learn more online.
Jenn led the expansion of a botanical area and walking path to enjoy and learn about the native trees and plants. She also solicited supply donations and designed a DIY irrigation stake.
Jim led the production of a new video and website to help tell the story of the Butte Creek Restoration project and provide educational content on the importance of riparians and details on the native plants.
The team along with other Master Naturalist volunteers planted hundreds of trees, shrubs, and flowers, removed many invasives, expanded the irrigation system, hauled rocks and supplies, and many other tasks to transform the area.
The riparian revitalization opened up our eyes and hearts to an opportunity to learn, grow, and develop new relationships and friendships.