The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy retains the federal identification status of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This status serves as a foundational guide as to how the organization is able to legally engage in various activities, including grassroots lobbying.

Grass roots lobbying is defined by the IRS as attempts to influence legislation by attempting to affect the opinion of the public with respect to the legislation and encouraging the audience to take action with respect to the legislation. In either case, the communications must refer to and reflect a view on the legislation.

Due to the risks and guidelines for nonprofit organization engagement, at no time shall the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy or a representative of the organization participate in lobbying activities pertaining to legislation and/or political candidate election/reelection.