About Us

Our Mission

The study and protection of cacti and other succulents.

Knowing, Growing, Showing, and Conserving

History of Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society

Leadership Resources

Officers

President

  • President@TucsonCactus.org

    2024 marked the 64th year for the TCSS, and the 22nd consecutive year Dick has served as president.

    Under Dick's leadership, TCSS has grown to be the largest local cactus and succulent society in the world. He helped establish Pima Prickly Park and has been an active participant in making it a center point of our society's conservation and education efforts. The cactus rescue program he helped start has rescued over 137,500 plants and has expanded to include urban rescues. Dick considers his work with TCSS to be a privilege and has enjoyed every minute of it.

Vice-President

  • cactusdude1@yahoo.com

    Vonn has served as TCSS Vice President for over 18 years. As Program Director, he has arranged more than 300 speakers and workshop programs for the society including monthly meetins, Sonoran conferences and a national convention.

    Vonn is one of the founders of the TCSS cactus and succulent plant rescue program and Pima Prickly Park. He is an educational specialist on various species of Cylindropuntia, Grusonia and Opuntia and is one of the authors of the book, Field Guide to Cacti & Other Succulents of Arizona. Vonn created the TCSS logo and has been on the research committee for many years.

Secretary

  • Secretary@TucsonCactus.org

    Barb is a member of the Technology Committee working with Steve to re-develop our website membership portal into an interactive and dynamic database platform. This includes integrating software that will simplify and improve the recording and preparation of Board minutes. Given her role in the development of these tools, Barb believes it is a natural progression for her to take on the Secretary position where she can effectively manage both the technical and administrative aspects of this responsibility.

Treasurer

  • Treasurer@TucsonCactus.org

    Cactus@TucsonCactus.org

    I have been a member of TCSS for over 40 years. In addition to serving on the Board, I am the Cactus Rescue Coordinator and have recently stepped into the Treasurer position. As Cactus Rescue Coordinator since 2016, I follow up on leads for possible rescue sites. I correspond with developers, conduct scouting expeditions to evaluate potential sites, work with the State of Arizona to secure native plant removal permits and tags, and work with Rescue Field Manager Steve Watts to implement rescues. Rescues constitute one of the major fundraising and educational activities of the organization. My main goals as coordinator include making sure rescues are fun, safe, productive, and legal for the hardworking volunteers who help out.

Board of Directors

Terms expire December 31st of year indicated

Committees & Programs