The White Tank Mountains, located in the West Valley of Phoenix, are among the best conserved natural areas in the metropolitan region. The mountains are abundant with wildlife including mule deer, mountain lions, bobcats, desert tortoises, javelinas, and other indigenous animals typically found in the Sonoran Desert. The mountains are also the site of two regional parks, the White Tank Mountain Regional Park and Skyline Regional Park, where in 2019 upwards of 700,000 residents and visitors came to enjoy the trails and breathtaking views.
Situated along the western edge of the urban environment, the White Tank Mountains stand in the path of continued growth in one of the nation’s fastest-growing communities. Many people are attracted to this part of Arizona because of its natural beauty and accessibility to the recreational activities that the mountains offer. However, as development continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, the White Tank Mountains could be in jeopardy unless steps are taken to ensure the natural corridors that animals rely on for forage, migration, and genetic diversity are not cut off.
The White Tank Mountains Conservancy was formed to bring together conservationists, developers, and cities to balance environmental concerns with impending development. Established with the help of a diverse coalition of key stakeholders and partners, and supported by a team of volunteers, the White Tank Mountains Conservancy strives to protect the mutually beneficial co-existence of humans and a robust wildlife population that thrives in the open spaces and corridors of the vibrant White Tank Mountains.