Born from a vision and recognition of the importance of open space and realized by like-minded individuals banding together, advocating to protect the land with diligence and deep understanding, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy was formed to be a steward of the more than 30,500 acres of Sonoran desert habitat in Scottsdale. Funded by sales taxes, the acquisition of the land for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve was the first step by Scottsdale residents.

The next crucial step was for the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy to be self-sufficient by fundraising for its programming. Unlike a State park, which can generate money from the use of the land, we rely solely on the generous support of people like you who care about nature and understand that the threats to our natural world have never been greater.

The power to protect the Sonoran Desert for future generations is up to you. Our purpose is to empower awareness and actualize global preservation through science, research, learning, and teaching. Through the work of our scientific team and the dedication of more than 650 tireless volunteer stewards we care for and study the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and beyond.

With over 750,000 residents and visitors using the Preserve each year, the good works of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy and our volunteers have been vital to maintaining and patrolling trails, guiding hikes, mountain bikes, and equestrian rides, conducting leading-edge scientific studies on wildlife and plant species and providing interactive ecological education and outreach programs for adults and children of all ages.

Please consider a financial investment today to support the important works of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy.