Saturday, March 30, 2013

Gilbert Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch


 Gilbert Riparian Preserve 

     If you have never visited the Riparian Preserve, you sure are missing out on a beautiful spot right here in Gilbert!

     The preserve has about 7 man-made lakes which are not always filled. Last time I walked the entire place, only 3 had water.

     The lakes are stocked with fish and fishing is allowed in certain areas as long as you have a fishing license.
I've seen many people sitting or standing along the lake bank, catching some beautiful fish. One gentleman told me he fishes here everyday to catch his dinner!

     The area is home to plenty of wildlife. You can see various bird species (56 counted so far!), ducks, fish, turtles, butterflies, damselflies, dragonflies and more.

     The lake closest to the Gilbert Library, has a nice walking bridge which goes over the lake to another area to walk, explore, picnic or just sit and relax. The bridge is flat and wide so it is excellent for everyone to cross including wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. Kids cannot fall of this bridge unless they are climbing the sides so parents, be forewarned to keep an eye on the little ones!
     The preserve also has a 16" telescope which you can visit every Friday and Saturday evening at sundown. They also have presentations the 2nd Friday of the month.

     Please call the East Valley Wildlife if you see any injured animals on your visit! Call 480-814-92339. I don't expect you to take this number with you so be on the lookout for a sign like the one at right.

     A nice time to visit is right before sunset so you can see the ducks and wildlife and see the gorgeous Arizona sunsets. Early mornings in the hot summer are a good choice too. 

 Good Advice:
     Wear walking shoes
     Bring water for each walker/visitor
     Sunscreen and hat
     Camera
     Cellphone
     Binoculars
     Snack or picnic

   Please use trash receptacles and take out everything you take in! Do not disturb the wildlife or pick flowers. Just enjoy the view and or walk. Bikes and pets are allowed. Please pick up after your pet!

    To see the most recent calendar and public programs visit this page Riparian Preserve Events which will open in a new window.

    For maps and information visit this page Riparian Preserve maps and info


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Saturday, August 8, 2009

After the storm







I took this photo very quickly before the red light changed at Gilbert & Baseline Roads. A monsoon storm had just dumped rain here and moved west. This was an amazing site. Too bad Discount Tire and the poles had to be in the way. Taken July 3, 2009.

Down Town Gilbert, Arizona


Photo at the left was taken in down town from Joe's BBQ, at the intersection of Page & Gilbert Roads. A monsoon storm was rolling in and the sun was beginning to set. Looking south on Gilbert Rd. Liberty Market it in the far right corner. I love the "old west" look of down town Gilbert.