2024 was a record year for the White Tank Mountains Conservancy. In partnership with the Howard Hughes Corporation, we raised funds for our very first Wild Day, cleaned up more than a thousand pounds of invasive species in the parks, and filled bag after bag with micro-trash from the trails. But perhaps the most important achievement of all was our continued efforts to engage the future conservationists of the world—our youth—and teach them the vital importance of keeping the White Tanks wild.
The Conservancy’s Youth to Mountain program, led by Science Mary, brings local students into nature by inviting them to experience the beauty of Skyline Regional Park. In 2024, Science Mary hosted 15 field trips and educational sessions with Buckeye Elementary School District and Parks & Recreation. For many students, these trips marked their first-ever visit to the park.
“Any time we can get kids into nature, I believe, it has an impact. I was quite surprised that the 6th graders are enjoying creating petroglyphs on scratch notes and pictograph drawings,” said Science Mary. “This year they have seen snakes and javelinas on their hikes. That makes a big impression on the students. It is great to see how excited they get.”
Michael Alvarez, Outdoor Recreation Programmer, City of Buckeye and Adam Melle, Recreation Coordinator have both expressed their gratitude for the help of the WTMC Volunteers and how important our volunteers are to making this program successful.
Science Mary’s favorite part of leading Youth to Mountain? “When I show a kid an obsidian sample, and they’re amazed to see it in real life after only seeing it in a video game, I know I’ve made a difference. I’ve always believed in the power of outdoor education—it’s not just about knowledge, but also about physical and emotional well-being. My goal is to spark a love of nature and a respect for the park in these kids. I hope they go home and share their excitement with their families.”
Science Mary continues, “Working with the volunteers has been such a joy, too. Steve (Rugh) has had more help with the hikes, which means smaller groups and more personal attention. It’s been wonderful to get so much support at the Petroglyph & Pictograph station. Being asked back for the 2024-2025 school year is a great sign that the program is making an impact.”
Looking ahead, the goal for 2025 is to expand the program to White Tank Mountain Regional Park and offer it to the students of Litchfield Elementary School District. This expansion will require a larger pool of volunteers, but it’s a fun and rewarding opportunity to connect with kids and inspire a love for the outdoors.
Science Mary is always looking for volunteers to assist with the field trips. If you are interested, please contact Science Mary at ScienceMary1@yahoo.com.
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