McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

“The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy’s commitment to the community
is to champion the preservation of the Sonoran Desert and its mountains, facilitate their relationship with preserved land, and develop a local culture of stewardship. It is our goal to secure for future generations their unique environmental and archeological heritage.”
How does MSC accomplish its mission?
ADVOCACY
 Influence the community to establish open space for the preservation of native wildlife and historical resources while maintaining appropriate public access.
EDUCATION
 Offer community education focusing on
the science of the Preserve and the necessity to protect our natural environment.
STEWARDSHIP
Provide the City of Scottsdale with the human resources required to protect and maintain the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

 

Who are MSC's partners in stewardship of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve?

SCOTTSDALE CITY COUNCIL
Has ultimate authority and responsibility for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

PRESERVE COMMISSION
Advises the City Council about issues regarding the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT
City Staff responsible for the Preserve’s management and planning


What is special about MSC?

We are a unique model for preserving large natural open space within an urban environment through a public/private partnership with the city of Scottsdale.

We are the community's expert in land stewardship and conservation education.

We are the vehicle through which individuals can take action to effect positive change for the ecological sustainability of the area.

When the Preserve is completed, we will be Stewards of the largest urban Preserve in the country.
What are MSC’s primary messages for the community?

The Preserve, owned by the City of Scottsdale, needs to be accessible by all.

Management of the Preserve must minimize human impact and maximize safety.

Children need access to nature for healthy physical, intellectual and emotional development.

An increase in connectedness with ecological and cultural heritage positively impacts a community's health and development.

Research indicates a sustainable community must include natural open spaces.

Completion of the Preserve is important because it will provide an uninterrupted wildlife corridor from the McDowell Mountains to the Tonto National Forest, and is key to the survival of many of our diverse desert species.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department considers the McDowell Mountains and surrounding Sonoran desert as the most significant wildlife habitat in the Valley outside the Tonto National Forest.