We are fortunate to live in an area that possesses tremendous natural resources, including the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. Within our White Mountains communities, we have rivers, streams, wetlands, meadows, and forests. These areas are important links to our larger public and reservation lands; wildlife migrate from the lower elevation grasslands in winter to the high elevation forests in summer. Streams that flow through private, state, and federal land can be greatly impacted by development. Ensuring that wildlife needs are met and that our rivers continue to flow are just part of our goal. Our members believe our human residents want to maintain the quality of life here in the White Mountains, and that includes seeing wildlife, visiting and recreating in our streams and forests, and simply enjoying the view of our magnificent mountains.
Wildlife Habitat—Wildlife need all our diverse habitats of
forests, meadows, wetlands, and streams in large enough patches
to survive. Links from one habitat to another and migration corridors
are also important factors in maintaining healthy wildlife populations.
Clean Water—Protected streams and wetlands help filter pollutants,
recharge groundwater, and ensure that our water table does not diminish
due to overpumping.
Recreation Opportunities—Trails, parks and public access to streams and
lakes improve our quality of life by allowing us to enjoy the outdoors.
Fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and simply taking a family walk are important
reasons why people enjoy living in the White Mountains.
Greenbelts—Streams with running
water provide “riparian” habitat of cottonwoods, willows and other vegetation
that keep streambanks from eroding, create shade and cooler water temperatures
for fish and amphibians, and protect migratory corridors for birds and other
wildlife.
Specifics related to all of the land protection options can be found by
contacting the White Mountains Land Trust at nature@wmlandtrust.org , or by
clicking here
to send an e-mail. We can answer your questions, evaluate your land
for protection value, and help you with determining the future of your land
based on your desires. The White Mountains Land Trust is led by a Board of Directors; the
Trust also has subcommittees for land management, membership and outreach,
and specific projects, all of which encourage involvement by our members. The
Trust holds regular meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at the Pinetop-Lakeside
Town Council Chambers at 1360 Neils Hansen Lane in Lakeside. Meetings start at 7:00 p.m. Be sure
to check the Agenda for Next Meeting for possible changes in meeting time or place.
Economic
Benfits
As a non-profit organization, the
White Mountains Land Trust is able to purchase or accept donations of land,
conservation easements, or other assets to meet our mission. Our non-profit
status will benefit donors for income, estate, or charitable gift tax savings.
Our members are community-based and care about the planning of growth and land
conservation in the White Mountains. We can purchase land for permanent
protection; accept donations, bequests, estates, stocks, and other assets; and
acquire, receive, and hold conservation easements on land retained by the owner.