The White Tank Mountains are more than a beautiful backdrop to Arizona’s rapidly growing West Valley. They are home to diverse Sonoran Desert wildlife, provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and are an important part of our region’s natural heritage.
At the White Tank Mountains Conservancy (WTMC), we believe growth and conservation can coexist. And this year, we have plenty of conservation wins to celebrate.
Protecting Wildlife Connectivity
Through our Regional Connectivity Initiative, WTMC and our partners are studying how wildlife moves through and around the White Tank Mountains.
Using mule deer GPS collars, trail cameras, road mortality surveys, thermal surveys and other research, we are gathering data that can help identify important wildlife movement areas and potential barriers.
As development and transportation infrastructure expand throughout the West Valley, this science can help inform future land-use and conservation decisions.
Bringing Conservation to the Table
WTMC works with municipalities, developers, businesses, agencies and community partners to make sure wildlife connectivity and conservation are part of conversations about West Valley growth.
Our approach is collaborative and science-based: protect important natural resources while recognizing that our communities will continue to grow.
Creating the Next Generation of Conservationists
Conservation also starts with education.
Through Youth to Mountains, approximately 1,200 students annually have opportunities to experience and learn about the desert. Our Classroom Adventure program brings hands-on environmental education directly to schools, helping even more young people discover the wildlife and ecosystems of the Sonoran Desert.
Meanwhile, WTMC volunteers and Stewards put conservation into action through stewardship projects, education and programs such as Desert Defenders.
Help Create Our Next Conservation Win
These successes are possible because people throughout our community believe the White Tank Mountains are worth protecting.
On October 28, WTMC will bring our community together for Diamond in the Desert, our signature fundraising event at The Corral at White Tank Ranch.
It will be a night of country music, dancing, food, auctions and fun—but every ticket purchased, donation made and dollar raised supports something bigger: the future of the White Tank Mountains.
Together, we can continue advancing wildlife research, educating young people, engaging volunteers and building partnerships that help conservation and responsible growth move forward together.
Celebrate our conservation wins—and help us create the next one. Join us at Diamond in the Desert on October 28.
