The Ahakhav Tribal Preserve is a treasured outdoor space for the Colorado River Indian Tribes community. Located along the beautiful Colorado River in Parker, the Preserve offers a peaceful and educational environment where families can explore nature, relax, and learn about the land we call home.
Newly hired Project Administrator, Marisol Chavira, has been dedicated to the Preserve for more than 20 years. Born and raised in Parker, she’s passionate about caring for the land and helping future generations enjoy it. After serving as the Administrative Assistant for many years, she began acting as the Project Administrator in 2021 and officially stepped into the role in November 2025.
Marisol shared that her favorite part about working at the Preserve is the quiet and comfort it brings. “It’s green, beautiful, and peaceful,” she said. “There’s so much for people to enjoy here.” From walking trails and bird watching to designated playground areas for families, the Preserve is an inviting space for all ages.
A typical day for the Preserve team includes maintaining the park, trimming trees, caring for the natural habitat, and working on grants to continue improving the area. One of Marisol’s favorite spots is Willow Beach, a scenic area where families can enjoy the water, shade, and open spaces.
Fall is her favorite season at the Preserve because the changing leaves bring the area to life with color. She even recalled one memorable morning early in her career when a doe fell into a ditch. Without hesitation, she rushed in to help and ended up drenched but proud of what she did. It’s moments like these that show how much she cares for the wildlife and environment.
The Preserve is also home to important cultural resources. Marisol was surprised to learn just how many of the trees and plants hold cultural value and are monitored and preserved with great respect. Restoration continues to be a major focus. A recent grant supports the revegetation of native trees, including cottonwood, willows, and mesquite, helping to restore the natural habitat and strengthen the ecosystem for future generations.
Looking ahead, Marisol hopes to upgrade the playground area and add more spaces for families to gather. She also looks forward to reconnecting the educational program at the Preserve, including camps and field trips for youth. “There’s so much to learn here,” she said. “The Preserve is for everyone.”
She hopes visitors feel at peace when they arrive and encourages the community to help care for the space by picking up trash, respecting all plants and wildlife, and avoiding vandalism. Even small actions make a big difference in protecting this special place.
Whether you’re walking the trails, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking a moment to breathe, the Ahakhav Tribal Preserve is a place where the community can connect with nature and with each other. Marisol invites everyone to visit, explore, and appreciate everything the Preserve has to offer.
Come out, take a walk, and enjoy the beauty of the Ahakhav Tribal Preserve — your peaceful place along the river.
Article written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
Photography taken by CRIT Media Tech Naythen T. Lowe