White Mountains Land Trust

Why Protect Open Space?

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.

Open Space Benefits

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.