4H Highropes GreenLot!

The 4H High Ropes GreenLot is the result of an energetic partnership initiated by Elizabeth Sparks from the UA 4H extension and the steadfast support of the Southwest Conservation Corps. As of October 2011 over 400 individuals from across Tucson have helped design, construct and nurture the 4H High Ropes GreenLot. ITE began working with 4H on this property in 2009.

Already in use as a ropes course, the ropes course was drawing over 2000 youth and adults every year. Before our partnership the property had little in the way of natural vegetation or other natural features that could allow for a diverse experience. Elizabeth sought to remedy the situation and contacted ITE to include the development of a GreenLot as part of the high ropes course.

Each GreenLot takes on its own personality based upon location and the goals and objectives of the partners. The intention of the 4H High Ropes GreenLot is to enable diverse experiences that compliment ropes course activities and to beautify and restore some of the natural vegetation that occurred on the banks of the Santa Cruz River.

For ITE this property represented a great opportunity to work with passionate partners and to include natural features and activities that ITE teens suggested based upon their experiences in natural backcountry areas.

Thanks to ITE teen presentations we were awarded a $10,000 grant from Every Voice in Action. This money and in-kind contributions of material and labor resulted in a GreenLot that we are very proud of and a continuing work in progress!

All ITE youth EcoPrograms, GreenLots, and KidsCorridor offer opportunities for youth, and their families, to enhance their physical fitness, learn about nutrition, contribute to community improvements, and connect with the natural world.