WTMC Blog
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September Steward Spotlight
Gary is a native Arizonan with deep roots in the state. His grandparents established a homestead farm in Tempe in 1893, and his parents—both graduates of Tempe Normal School, which later became Arizona State University—owned Miller’s Indian Store in Tempe. Gary earned his “Desert Rat” title early, exploring Arizona alongside his father, a rockhound and…
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Why Make a Will Month Matters for Conservation, Community, and Your Legacy
Written by Kristi Geiger, WTMC board member August is MakeAWill Month, a national reminder that planning ahead is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give the people and places you love. Yet despite its importance, most Americans still haven’t taken this simple step. According to recent national surveys, more than half of U.S. adults,…
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Why Thoughtful Planning Matters Around the White Tanks
The West Valley is one of the fastest-growing regions in Arizona. New neighborhoods, businesses, transportation corridors, and recreation opportunities continue to reshape the landscape around the White Tank Mountains. Growth is inevitable—but how we grow is a choice. Thoughtful land use planning isn’t about stopping development. It’s about ensuring that development strengthens communities while protecting…
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Desert Defenders: Why Invasive Species Threaten the White Tanks Ecosystem
Desert Defenders: Why Invasive Species Threaten the White Tanks Ecosystem The Sonoran Desert is one of the most diverse desert ecosystems in the world. From towering saguaros and colorful wildflowers to mule deer, javelina, and countless birds, reptiles, and pollinators, every species plays a role in maintaining the delicate balance of life in and around…
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Summer Survival in the White Tank Mountains: Resilience Matters!
Summer Survival in the White Tank Mountains: Resilience Matters! As temperatures rise across the West Valley, survival in the desert becomes more than a seasonal challenge. It becomes a lesson in resilience. The summer landscape of the White Tank Mountains may appear harsh at first glance. Dry washes, rocky terrain, soaring temperatures, and months without…
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Recreation and Respect
Recreation and Respect Late spring in the Arizona desert can be deceiving. Mornings are still comfortable. Wildflowers may be fading, but the landscape is still inviting. By early summer, though, the heat begins to settle in, often faster than people expect. The transition is subtle until it’s not. This is when recreation without awareness turns…
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White Tank Wild Day: Protecting What Makes the West Valley Wild
White Tank Wild Day: Protecting What Makes the West Valley Wild There’s something special about the White Tank Mountains. Maybe it’s the quiet moments on the trail at sunrise. Maybe it’s the wildlife moving through ancient desert corridors. Or maybe it’s the simple truth that in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, this…
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WHY THE WHITE TANK MOUNTAINS MATTER
WHY THE WHITE TANK MOUNTAINS MATTER A Haven for Wildlife and Biodiversity Beneath the rugged peaks and among the saguaros lies a thriving ecosystem. The White Tank Mountains are home to: Mule deer navigating desert washes Coyotes and bobcats moving quietly through the terrain A wide range of birds, reptiles, and pollinators Iconic desert vegetation…
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February Blog Post
Maricopa County continues to rank among the fastest growing regions in the nation, with much of that growth moving west. The land surrounding the White Tank Mountains remains largely undeveloped, offering a rare and time sensitive opportunity to guide growth responsibly while protecting the natural systems that make this landscape extraordinary. Wildlife corridors are essential…
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Diamond in the Desert: Keeping the Crown Jewel of the West Valley Alive and Wild
Diamond in the Desert: Keeping the Crown Jewel of the West Valley Alive and Wild More than 250 supporters of the White Tank Mountains Conservancy (WTMC) gathered at The Corral at White Tank Ranch on Thursday, October 29, for our second annual Diamond in the Desert celebration. The night was filled with community spirit, passion…
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Steward Spotlight: Randy Nawotka
Steward Spotlight: Randy Nawotka We are excited to introduce our Steward Spotlight of the month, Randy Nawotka! Randy has been an invaluable volunteer with the WTMC since 2018, contributing an impressive 758 hours of service to our cause. *This picture was taken at our Volunteer Awards event where Randy received an award for his…
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Connectivity Initiative Collaboration with AZGFD
Connectivity Initiative Collaboration with AZGFD By Dana Warnecke In 2016, WTMC launched its White Tank Mountains Regional Connectivity Initiative (CI) in support of our mission to inspire all to conserve and enjoy the natural and cultural resources of the White Tank Mountains. Critical to conserving the natural resources of the White Tanks is conserving wildlife…