The pictures accompanying this article show examples of illegal cutting in our common area. The dead branches that were left behind are not only unsightly but as they dry out they create a fire hazard and packrat hazard. Sadly, these pictures are not an isolated occurrence.
Besides being prohibited from cutting vegetation in our common areas, we are also prohibited from using the area behind our walls as a receptacle for plant debris (excess citrus from our trees for example), construction waste such as leftover bricks, broken pots, or other trash. It is easy to hope that this miscellanea will disappear over time but it is prohibited and it creates a problem with nuisance animals like packrats and javelina.
Did you know that you could be fined $250.00 and also have to pay the cost of the cleanup? Did you know that you might have to replant and irrigate vegetation that has been cut down? Did you know that your gardener could be prohibited from entering the SMVE private roads? These restrictions are in our Rules and Regulations because we are required to protect the Sonoran Desert by county, state, and federal statutes as well as by the CC&Rs. We are protecting not just the vegetation but also the habitat for our desert wildlife. We are very fortunate to have not only beautiful mountain and city views but also beautiful desert surrounding us. Please help keep it this way. Spread the word to your neighbors, stop them if you see them cutting down vegetation in the common area, and point them to the appropriate procedure. By working together we can ensure that we not only can continue to enjoy our mountain views but that we also preserve our beautiful desert.
✉ by Kathy Mitton, SMVE Landscape Chair Phone: (cell)
3185
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