Introducing The Black Mountain Conservancy

Black Mountain dominates the northern end of the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive [Read More]. The Black Mountain Conservancy is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) volunteer organization dedicated to preserving, in perpetuity, the undeveloped land on and around Black Mountain. The vision of the Conservancy is to protect, preserve, and restore for the public benefit, a unique mountain for current and future generations.

Why preserve Black Mountain?

Visible for miles around, Black Mountain is a dramatic valley landmark. It is home to deer, coyote, javelina, fox, bobcat, an occasional mountain lion, numerous smaller mammals and reptiles, a large variety of birds, and abundant species of the diverse Sonoran flora (for information about species of plants and animals found on Black Mountain refer to the Critter Guide and the Plant Guide). Rising more than 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain, this 3,398 foot mountain is a visual focal point for Carefree, Cave Creek, north Scottsdale - most of the surrounding Sonoran foothills area.

Why is the Black Mountain Conservancy necessary?

Generations of Arizonans have homesteaded its lower slopes and mined its upper slopes, but the Mountain is now being scarred by ugly roads and development which threaten to destroy the scenic beauty as well as natural habitat for wildlife and distinctive desert flora, including the saguaro "forest".

How can the Conservancy protect Black Mountain?

The Conservancy is a permanent repository of land donations and will assume long-term management of preserve lands. It will also help establish conservation easements on privately held land.

Will there be public access to Black Mountain?

Preserves are not parks, but habitats for native plants and wildlife that are being threatened by encroaching development and destruction of habitat. Because of the sensitive nature of the land and the private land surrounding the preserve, access is limited. Special arrangements with the Conservancy will permit appropriate use for scientific, educational, historical and charitable purposes.

What is the commitment of the Conservancy to the community?

To continue the efforts of those far-sighted citizens who 30 years ago banded together to set aside the first 250 acres. And to work together with other organizations such as the Desert Foothills Land Trust to do whatever is necessary to preserve, protect, and in some places, restore Black Mountain as a scenic and habitat treasure.

What can I do to help further the vision of the conservancy?

As a volunteer organization, Black Mountain Conservancy is dependent on financial and volunteer support to provide the resources to achieve its goals. Your contribution makes preservation possible.

How do I contact the Conservancy?

Postal: Black Mountain Conservancy at P.O. Box 7192, Cave Creek, AZ 85327
E-mail: bmc@cybertrails.com
Telephone: (480) 575-5835
Web:  www.blkmtnconservancy.org