First published in 2015 the TCSS Field Guide to Cacti & Other Succulents of Arizona is now available in an updated third edition. Thomas Staudt conceived the original idea for the much needed field guide and has served as editor for all three editions. The program will cover a brief history on why and how the book was published. The program will address the process of preparing the field guide for publication including details on how the pages were formatted, layout, photos selected and the use of the species distribution maps. Additionally, adaptations and changes to the second and third editions will be covered with emphasis on the third edition. Overall, three new species have been included. There have been a combined 44 photo updates, 24 map modifications and several nomenclatural adjustments along with occasional copy corrections. 

Thomas is originally from Iowa and moved from Portland, Or. to Tucson in 1991. The Sonoran Desert and the bird life of SE Arizona were the attractions. He had little knowledge of native cacti/succulents at that time but like most of us was fascinated by the mighty saguaro. From the early 90's to 2005 Thomas spent parts of the year conducting bird and plant surveys in AZ, worked above the Arctic Circle and in Denali National Park, Alaska, guided bicycle tours across western and northern states including a cross country tour in 1993. In Winter Thomas would move south, working in the environmental field in McMurdo, Antarctica. One season included a two week stint at the South Pole. While there, Thomas pulled a bike out of storage and did three quick trips around the world in one day at minus 40 degrees. Since 2005 Thomas has remained close to Arizona continuing work with plant and wildlife surveys.

Thomas and his wife Maria Voris have been members of TCSS since 2007. Maria knew of the club and it's rescue activities and their xeriscape yard needed some cacti so... Thomas has served as a Board member for 8 years and is currently head of the Conservation Committee.