The Saguaro National park supports over 25 species of cacti, but the saguaro is the monarch of the Sonoran desert and has always been the suprene symbol of the American Southwest. Many have said that the Saguaro is a plant with personality. It is renowned for the variety of odd, all-too-human shapes it assumes-shapes that inspire wild and fanciful imaginings. Since 1933, this extraordinary cactus which reaches up to 250 years in age has been protected in Saguaro National Park.
BE A JUNIOR RANGER
On an educational note, the National Parks in this country offer a program called "BE A JUNIOR RANGER. "Through this program children who are Junior Rangers and their famiies explore the parks using activity booklets that are designed especially for them. When finished with their booklets, the children are sworn in as Junior Rangers and receive a patch or badge or certificate. The program is open to children ages 5-12 and is a great way for children to learn more about the nation's history, their own cultural heritage and the natural world. For more information go to www.nps.gov/webrangers