Welcome to the Altar Valley, where about a dozen families have formed an alliance to care for a 600,000 plus acre working landscape. It all started back in 1995 when a couple of cowboys chatting at the Friday cattle sale did some dreaming and scheming. Their clear vision of gathering folks in the-valley to work on protecting.ranch land and continuing to enhance the health of the watershed has evolved into an ambitious work plan involving many partners.
Why is ranching in the Altar Valley important? Ranches are a vital part of the conservation solution in the American West. The West and its communities of people, plants and animals, and soil and water are at risk. Urban pressures and development are fragmenting the West. Ranches keep the country open, while producing food and ·other products from the land and conserving habitat, wildlife and recreation opportunities. The dark skies above the valley, another product of open country, are important for internationally recognized Kitt Peak National Observatory.
The Alliance gathers partners and ideas around this place, and the goals of keeping it healthy and open with a productive ranch economy. Our tools are sweat, science, policy, law, and most of all, the strength of our commitment to this beautiful valley where we work and live. We can”t do this work without partners.
We hope The Rainmaker inspires you to be part of the storm nourishing conservation in the Altar Valley. You’ll see project news, as well as on ongoing tour of watershed ranches, natural and cultural history, and issues. Most of all, thanks to all who have pitched in so far!