Written by Dexter Kopas, Wild Stew Field Crew Leader.

Out in the field, Wild Arizona’s crews started just like any other hitch. We met up at our storage yard in Tucson, loaded the tools we needed into our trailers, and drove out to our two job sites, excited for a productive, fulfilling week. Chloe, Eric, Sam, Kile, Iman, and Max weren’t going far, targeting some improvements on a new loop of trail in Tucson’s backyard wilderness, the Pusch Ridge. Slightly further afield, Dexter, Sage, Foster, Charlotte, Viola, and Clay drove two hours to resume work on the popular Hackberry Spring Trail in the storied Superstition Wilderness. 

Up there in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, the crew was working to improve sections of the Pontatoc Trail ahead of the scheduled opening of the new connector trail that will form a loop between Pontatoc and the neighboring Finger Rock Trail. The main focus was improving safety in areas where large rocks caused difficult and dangerous step-ups, as well as removing smaller rocks that presented as tripping hazards, creating drainage where possible, and light brushing maintenance. Over at Hackberry, our trail aficionados touched up some steps from the last hitch, built a ramp to smooth out a scrambling section of rocky trail, constructed seven check steps, stacked five cairns to guide hikers across drainages, and dug in a drainage ditch. 

Unfortunately, it was here on the third day of hitch that some developments outside the dusty world of fieldwork reached us. A memo had been released from the White House Office of Management and Budget directing a freeze on federal funding of all grants and agreements. This directly impacts us, since we are under agreement with the U.S. Forest Service (a federal government agency) for both of these projects, in addition to over 80% of the work we do. Even though this memo was later rescinded and the funding freeze temporarily blocked by a Federal judge, the overall confusion raised concerns as to whether we would be able to get paid for our work.

Because of that concern, we decided to temporarily pull off federally funded projects mid-way through the hitch and shifted both crews to a State of Arizona-funded project nearby. The hardworking, dedicated, and adaptable crew we are so proud of packed up and drove to a familiar campsite outside Superior, AZ, to continue riparian restoration projects that we have been working on for nearly nine years in Arnett Creek and the past year in adjacent Queen Creek. 

From Saturday until Wednesday, we removed seven large Canary Island Date Palm trees, countless Mexican palo verde shrubs, some small Tree of Heaven regrowth, and two Chinese pistache trees. We filled five large bags of trash and carried them out of the creek, along with four old car tires. In addition to disposing of undesirable things, we began the next phase of planting native willow and cottonwood trees, bringing habitat, food, and shade to the area (shade being important for lowering the temperature of the creek so it is a better habitat for fish and other aquatic wildlife). We continued our scientific monitoring of the diversity of invertebrates in the ecosystem, a key indicator of the success of our efforts to improve the health of this crucial aquatic ecoystem in the desert. Along the way, we were assisted by our volunteer coordinator, Nizhoni, who helped to involve four local volunteers with us on Sunday. 

Yes, despite some setbacks, we managed to stay productive and pay our crew members for their valuable contributions. However, Wild Arizona is certainly not out of the woods yet. While the federal funding freeze has continued to be blocked by two Federal judges as the cases work through the court system, uncertainty remains regarding receiving payment from our Forest Service partners. For the time being, we are continuing to focus on projects that are privately or state-funded. Being a smaller non-profit, we do not have the pool of our own funds to justify taking the chance working on Federal projects that could end up unable to compensate us for our work. 

As we are often reminded when hikers thank us over a hundred times a day out on the trail, the service we provide is enjoyed freely by a wide swath of the public. Though nobody ever got into conservation work ’cause they wanted to make the big bucks, the truth is we can’t do it without reliable funding. We would love to continue doing this professional work that we find so rewarding. If you would like to help us continue making that happen, here are some ways to get involved. 

• Become a monthly supporter — monthly gifts provide steady income and give us the nimbleness to respond to emerging threats and opportunities.
• Join us at our volunteer events — make a difference directly out in the field. Volunteer time is an essential part of our agreements for project work and is used as match towards the overall grant, allowing our staff to get paid for their work and providing additional value to our partners with even more work completed per project. By volunteering with us, you are directly funding other Wild Arizona projects.
• Sign up for upcoming action alerts via our Wild on Wednesday and ActWILD enews series.

To close, and leave you as fired up as I am, here is a piece written by our Conservation and Wildlife Associate, Nico Lorenzen:

When we talk green, we’re not talking money. We instead speak of our forests and how to keep them resolute in the face of ever-worsening fires. When our Wilderness Stewardship crew talks bucks, they’re speaking about the antlered, woodland denizens. When we are making that scratch, we’re digging tread. We’re scratching in new trail with our crew and volunteers to ensure that there are safe and sustainable paths through our public lands.

If you ask about having a nest egg or stocks, you’re liable to get a litany of birds we have spotted or suppositions on which species of native fish occupy the nearby creek. And when we say freeze, we will tell you of winter’s frigid hitches in which headlamp light and the crunch of icy sleeping bags greet the crew each morning. This type of freeze we handle through a warmth encountered in smashing pick mattocks into trail, doublejack hammers into rock, or with wily smiles to our saw partner as we crosscut through a fallen tree.

Our work has met a new freeze. One that skews any meteorology. When we take on jobs we do so in locations of conservation importance, as outlined by clear scientific principle. Yet this current funding freeze that neglects pre-agreed contracts and a federal judge’s explicit restraining order reeks of something far more mercurial. 

We at Wild Arizona do not care about the color of the ticket you run on; we care about our wild lands and those who live and recreate on them. Whether it be in the silted sands of our desert arroyos or the sea of green sky island conifers, we ask that the funding freeze is lifted in name and in fact. Because, we have work to do and the will and calloused hands to do it.

The post wild stew field crew: The Federal Funding Freeze Hitch appeared first on Wild Arizona.

As 2023 comes to a close, it’s time for us at Wild Arizona to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had throughout this remarkable year. The historic triumphs and transformative challenges that filled 2023 orbited one constant—the unwavering and enthusiastic support we’ve received from our volunteers, followers, and donors. We first want to pause and express our deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed, in a myriad of ways, to support our initiatives and campaigns. In 2023, we’ve come together as a vibrant community to help move forward enduring protections; riparian restoration; and wilderness and trail stewardship projects, for Arizona’s gorgeous wild landscapes, natural waters, wildlife, and Native ancestral homelands.

This last week of December also marks the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, reminding us that the dynamic vitality of intact webs of life in natural habitats is increasingly threatened. In a time of accelerating loss and public division, the ESA stands as a beacon of hope and shared responsibility for life on Earth our one living planet. Enacted to safeguard our nation’s most vulnerable flora and fauna, this crucial legislation points to preservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage as not merely an option but imperative for a sustainable future, and as our most effective and just means to stabilize climate. The Endangered Species Act compels us to act with foresight and compassion for the natural world, recognizing that the health of our environment is inseparable from our own well-being, and that by this pathway we are securing a legacy of beauty and diversity for all generations.

Acknowledging the impact:

Our success is not just measured by the projects we undertake but by the collective impact we have achieved together. A big thank you goes out to the generous contributions and unwavering efforts of our supporters and crews. We have been able to make significant strides in preserving the natural beauty of Arizona. Whether it’s the restoration of ecosystems, the protections of endangered species, or the creation of spaces that foster a sense of community through the outdoors, every action taken this year has left a lasting imprint on the landscapes we hold dear.

A Special Thanks to Our Followers:

To our followers, who engage with our content, spread awareness, and amplify our message-your dedication is the heartbeat of Wild Arizona. Your enthusiasm and commitment inspire us to continue our mission with renewed vigor. We appreciate every like, share, and comment that helps us reach a wilder audience and create a stronger community united by the love for Arizona’s wild places.

Celebrating our donors:

To our generous donors, your financial support has been the fuel propelling our initiatives forward. Your belief in our vision and commitment to preserving the natural wonders of Arizona have allowed us to embark on ambitious projects that make a real difference. Whether through one-time contributions or ongoing support, your investment in the future of our landscapes is truly invaluable.

As we are about to step into a new year, our commitment to the conservation of Arizona’s wild and native landscapes remains steadfast. With your continued support, we aim to undertake even more ambitious projects, engage in meaningful community initiatives, and be at the forefront of the continued progress for a sustainable and thriving Arizona.

We are beyond grateful for each and every one of you who have been a part of the Wild Arizona family in 2023. Your love, dedication and support are the forces behind our successes. Let’s continue to work hand in hand, ensuring that the beauty and biodiversity of Arizona’s wild spaces endure for generations to come. Lastly, please join in and support us in 2024, another year full of urgent opportunities to save the humpback chub and beaches downriver along the Colorado River in Glen Canyon and Grand Canyon, keep Colorado River flows high enough through the Grand Canyon to sustain the Colorado River Ecosystem, seek landscape-scale protections for the amazing Sky Islands, and call for Wild and Scenic River designation to preserve the treasured upper Verde River. Thank you again for an incredible year, and cheers to a future filled with even greater achievements in conservation and community!

Check out some of our Wild Stew project locations and accomplishments in this End of Year Presentation.

The post celebrating a year of historic conservation wins and a wilder future! appeared first on Wild Arizona.

In the heart of Arizona’s Superstition Wilderness, a dedicated group of volunteers gathered on Saturday, December 2, 2023, for the first part of a three-part event aimed at restoring (naturalizing) and surveying/monitoring user developed trails-also known as “social trails”. The event was organized by our Wild AZ coordinator Nizhoni Baldwin, and kicked off at 9 am at the First Water Trailhead with an enthusiastic team ready to make some positive strides!

The morning began with a warm welcome as Nizhoni set the tone for the day by providing coffee, muffins, banana bread, and fruit for the volunteers to ensure their bellies were full and energy was high for a long day outside. Among the participants was Dave Kaubisch, a volunteer Wilderness Ranger, who briefly joined the group before heading out to assist fellow rangers in providing information and guidance to hikers along other trails.

Following a comprehensive safety meeting, nine volunteers embarked on the trail leading towards Garden Valley. Equipped with instructions, the team worked diligently to survey and monitor trails with minimal supervision. Unfortunately, two volunteers fell ill after covering a mile and had to turn back, reminding us of the challenges of the rugged terrain and the sometimes overwhelming intensity of sun.

The undeterred remaining seven volunteers pressed on, documenting 2.5 miles of the user-developed trails. The journey led them to Garden Valley by 1pm, where a unanimous decision was made to extend the effort by tackling the Hackberry loop to return to the trailhead. This loop had already been surveyed during a prior Wild Arizona hitch, providing an opportunity for the group to reflect on the significance of wilderness preservation through this type of public land agency led wilderness trail work and scoring, known formally as Wilderness Stewardship Performance.

Throughout the day, discussions among volunteers and coordinator Nizhoni centered around the importance of monitoring trails and preserving the natural beauty of the Superstition Wilderness. The passion for wilderness conservation fueled conversations, making the return hike an educational and inspiring experience.

Upon reaching the trailhead/parking lot at 3pm, the volunteers had successfully surveyed 2.5 miles of trails, meticulously inputting the collected data into the Field Map app. The dedication of the nine volunteers amounted to a collective contribution of 10 hours, making strides toward WSP goals and marking the first steps of a larger mission to restore and preserve the trails of the Superstition Wilderness—testament to the positive impact that community-driven initiatives can have on their public lands. Stay tuned for the next chapters in this three-part volunteer event as Wild AZ continues its commitment to the conservation of Arizona’s unique and precious wilderness.

The post wild stew volunteer crew: Monitoring and Surveying ‘Social’ Trails in the Heart of the Superstitions. appeared first on Wild Arizona.

Contributing Photographers: Nizhoni Baldwin, Luke Koppas, Volunteers: Robin Longacre, Robert Dayton, Linnea Cordts

Embarking on a journey of ecological stewardship, Wild Arizona’s intrepid Volunteer Coordinators Nizhoni and Luke came together to coordinate three wonderful volunteer events this fall. Our Coordinators and volunteers came together in fostering a shared love for Nature and a commitment to preserve Arizona’s native and wild flora. Let us delve into the warming experiences of these events where Wild Arizona volunteers connected with the land, and each other in the spirit of conservation.

Sonoran Insider Collaboration (October 20-21)

Under the scorching Arizona sun, volunteers from Sonoran Insiders converged at Boyce Thompson Arboretum to help the team retrieve trees and grasses for planting. Unfortunately, trees weren’t yet ready and the soaring temperatures made for truly unpleasant planting conditions. Thermometers were already reading 98 degrees by noon—making outside planting a little unbearable for the team and the plants. Despite a few minor setbacks the camaraderie was there to make the best out of the situation as Nizhoni and Luke led the volunteer group through a cooler option at the Arboretum, immersing themselves in the beauty of learning about native Cacti and other plants.

2. Empowering Women in Nature (Nov 3-5)

For this three-day event, Wild Arizona teamed up with BOW and B2B founder, Trica Hawkins and the Arizona Wildlife Federation. Nizhoni arrived at Oak Flat Campground for native planting in Arnett Creek on the evening of November 3rd. Upon her arrival and to her surprise, Apache Stronghold tribes were holding a sacred prayer ceremony. Traditionally, non-tribal members would be asked to leave, but graciously Trica gave Nizhoni and other volunteers the welcoming option to stay the night and join them for the prayer circle in the morning.

Nizhoni made everyone breakfast with B2B volunteers to ensure full bellies for a day of work! After breakfast, she and 3 other volunteers headed back to Boyce Thompson Arboretum to collect grasses. When they arrived back to camp, they were thrilled to see 2 more volunteers had shown up for the event. Everyone regathered and enjoyed lunch together followed by an archery lesson, instructed by a B2B instructor. After their lesson, the group headed to Picketpost Trailhead to do some planting along Arnett Creek. A total of five volunteers, Nizhoni and Trica collectively were able to plant 25 plots of grass in the burn scar area. After a very fun filled day everyone went back to camp to enjoy a nacho dinner provided by B2B volunteers followed by s’mores and shared stories around the campfire.

On the morning of the last day, everyone woke up early and enjoyed one more meal together, once again provided by B2B volunteers. The weekend culminated in sharing a love for restoring nature, yummy meals together, and campfire stories. Volunteers all said their goodbyes and exchanged numbers. What an amazing turn out they had and in total the 5 volunteers contributed over 150 hours in 3 days of hard work and restoration.

3. Grand Finale (Nov17-18)

The grand finale for planting at Arnett Creek brought forth an impressive turnout of 17 volunteers (including John Wotten and Sheila Shattuck from EVBCH) and Volunteer Coordinators Nizhoni Baldwin and Dexter Kopas were ready to transform the landscape. After a night of camping under the vast Arizona sky, the group planted 100 plots of grass, 9 native cacti, and 2 velvet mesquite trees. An unexpected rain shower helped nourish the new plantings. Luckily the showers didn’t dampen the spirits of our dedicated volunteers as water in the desert is always a blessing. The day ended with a warm spaghetti dinner and tales of the day well-spent, marking the culmination of a series of successful plantings.

Arnett Creek’s native planting events weren’t just about putting plants in the ground; they were about creating community, shared experiences, and a deep appreciation for the Arizona desert. Through the collaboration of passionate volunteers, these events not only contributed to the restoration of the Arnett Creek area but also cultivated a sense of harmony, friendship, and shared commitment to preserving the natural beauty of this area.

The post Wild Stew Volunteers: Harmony in Nature—Native Planting in Arnett Creek appeared first on Wild Arizona.

meet the people of Wild Arizona. interview series by WildAZ media associate Phoebe Stevens.

When Winnie Liang, recent Director of Scientific Operations at the Translational Genomics Institute, wasn’t busy working on one of many personalized medicine research projects, you might find her up in central Arizona’s Superstition Mountains. The mountains are just one of Liang’s favorite hiking spots due to their proximity and accessibility, but she has often found herself in awe of Arizona’s many wilderness areas since moving here from the east coast over 17 years ago.

As an avid hiker with an appreciation for Arizona’s unique beauty, it’s no wonder Liang has a running 12-year volunteer history with the Arizona Wilderness Coalition (AWC)–which predates the merger of AWC and the Grand Canyon Wildlands Council that launched Wild Arizona as we know it today. In 2008 she attended AWC’s annual film festival and discovered an organization whose conservation mission aligned with her intent to give back to the wilderness. AWC was there to answer her questions: who made these trails, and what efforts go into establishing trails and designating wilderness areas and parks?

After Liang’s initial exposure to the Arizona Wilderness Coalition, she participated in her first volunteer project–collecting trash in Fossil Creek in 2009– and has since been involved in many invasive species and solitude monitoring projects, which are now run by Wild Arizona’s Wilderness Stewardship (Wild Stew) volunteer program. Most recently, Liang attended Wild Stew’s tamarisk and oleander eradication volunteer weekend trip in Arnett Creek.

“It’s hard to verbalize [why someone should volunteer] because it seems so natural to me,” she says. According to Liang, her east coast upbringing couldn’t have shown her how beautiful Arizona is. Now that she’s experienced wilderness in Arizona, she can’t help but want to preserve it as an enriching environment for people and for future generations. Liang also attributes her opportunity to check out new hiking trails to her participation in the solitude monitoring program.

As for the future of Wild Stew, Liang hopes to have more visibility of the organization. “I hope more people recognize the need to to preserve the wilderness and just do something small to help,” she says. “I think a lot of people are afraid to commit, but even just a few activities in a year can help to educate.”

• Read more about Winnie Liang and the work she’s done for the TGen institute at https://www.tgen.org/news/2019/february/13/tgens-dr-liang-named-one-of-arizonas-outstanding-women-in-business/ and https://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2019/04/05/2019-outstanding-women-in-business-winnie-liang.html.
• For more information on how you can volunteer with Wild Stew, please visit https://www.wildarizona.org/projects/wild-stew/.
• If you are interested in completing solitude monitoring for Wild Stew, please visit https://www.wildarizona.org/volunteer-opportunities/.
• Wild Stew’s Meetup page can be found at https://www.meetup.com/Arizona-Wilderness-Stewards/.

The post Winnie Liang has wilderness in her DNA. appeared first on Wild Arizona.