Cattle Track Talks
Join us in the CattleTrack Gallery for a stimulating hour with creative and innovative members of our community. Presenters/performers will share their expertise and engage in lively conversation with the audience.
TUESDAY, December 9th, 2025
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
 Cattle Track Talks Presents:
Melanie Tluczek
Director of Science and Education, Parsons Field Institute,
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
Citizen Science:
The Force Behind a Healthy Preserve
The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a 30,100-acre living treasure right here in our backyards. It is not only the largest urban preserve in the United States but is also one of the most beautiful and diverse natural spaces in central Arizona. It takes many hands and minds to ensure that the Preserve remains beautiful and resilient in the face of environmental challenges. How do we care for this treasure with the threats of drought, fire, invasive plants, and urban pressure? The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy has harnessed a unique resource, citizen science volunteers! Come learn about how our volunteers work side by side with scientists to monitor the health of the Preserve and take action to conserve it in perpetuity, for all to enjoy!
Melanie has an M.S. degree in wildlife ecology from Arizona State University, studying pronghorn antelope in their natural habitat. They have been with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy for nearly 10 years, building the science programs that ensure the long-term sustainability of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Melanie is passionate about native plants, animals, and the beautiful Sonoran Desert that we call home. When they are not working, you can find them hiking, gardening, and spending time with their teenage daughter.
(Plan to stay after for a holiday treat and hear Janie Ellis share BIG news about the future of Cattle Track)
CattleTrack Arts and Preservation supports local artists, craftsmen, and students in our commitment to preserving Scottsdale’s unique cultural heritage. We look forward to seeing the CattleTrack family for this 2025-26 season of CattleTrack Talks.
upcoming events
Cattle Track Courtyard Concerts
Come check out Courtyard Concerts, enjoy the music.
November 15, 2025
Trio Rio
Saturday, November 15, 2025,
In concert from 3:00pm – 5:00pm
For all other information please visit Trio Rio’s website.
TUESDAY, January 13th, 2026
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
 Cattle Track Talks Presents:
Ryan Johnson
Co-Founder and CEO, of Culdesac Tempe
Come learn about the first car-free neighborhood in the U.S. Hear what it is like to live in a mixed-use, walkable neighborhood built for people not cars!
Connect
We would love to hear what’s on your mind.
Need more info on an upcoming event? Interested in a tour or possible renting the Gallery for a private function? Whatever the question or comment, here is the spot, just drop us a note.
Support
Cattle Track Arts and Preservation is a 501C3 (non-profit).
Our mission statement:
To recognize and celebrate Scottsdale’s authentic cultural heritage by providing opportunities for artists, craftsmen and students, visual and performing, individually and collectively, to encourage and enhance their art forms and to further the preservation of Scottsdale’s genuine past as a unique arts community in a desert environment.
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