The Ramada we are working on at Saguaro. An archival photo of it from the 1930s is on the right.
Stabilization of Historic Lime Kilns and Restoration of CCC-era Ramada in Saguaro National Park
PROJECT INFO
Location and Background
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park surrounds Tucson, Arizona in the Sonoran Desert. The park is split into two sections–the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East). Cornerstones is working on structures on both sides of the park.
Building History
Cornerstones is stabilizing six historic lime kilns in the park. These lime kilns were all built in the late 1800s as the city of Tucson, AZ was expanding. Lime mortars, plasters, and whitewashes depended on these kilns to fire local limestone.
In addition to this work, we are also restoring a 1930s ramada built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This was one of many shade structures built in the area to provide relief from the elements.
Scope of Work
Lime Kilns: Repairing historic stone masonry using traditional materials and methods. Clay and Natural Hydraulic Lime mortars will be used on the kilns.
Ramada: Repairing the stone and concrete columns built by the CCC.
VOLUNTEER INFO
Dates and Time
January 3–21, typically Monday-Sat from 8am-4:30pm
Housing and Camping
There is no housing or camping available in Saguaro National Park. Please reach out and we may be able to recommend nearby camping on BLM land or other housing options.
Site Access
This job requires a 1–2 mile hike each way to get to the jobsite. There is little to no access to amenities while on the job. Come prepared to hike in drinking water, lunch, and to follow Leave No Trace Principles.
Our Volunteer Needs
For Weeks 1 and 2 (Jan 3–15) we will only need 1-2 volunteers at a time. Week 3 (Jan 17-21) we will need 2-4 volunteers at a time. Typically it is best if people are able to come in full week intervals, but if you are unable to commit to that we can usually accommodate your schedule.
All final scheduling and details of location will need to go through the Project Manager, Alan Ash.
For more information, please email contact@cstones.org or call (505) 982-9521 x 100.