About FoMC
The Friends of Madera Canyon is a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer organization affiliated with the U.S. Forest Service. The organization provides informational brochures, clean-up crews, research and education programs for adults and school children, maintenance of trails for the handicapped, designs and maintains trail and nature signs, welcomes visitors, and finances the building of many of the facilities throughout the Canyon.
Members of the Friends of Madera Canyon are invited to attend any or all Board of Directors monthly meetings. Read Canyon Chatter for more news about FoMC activities, programs and educational articles.
History
As the unique environment of Madera Canyon began to be threatened by human encroachment and environmental degradation, local residents and businesses came together in 1987 to form the Friends of Madera Canyon as a response to the U.S. Forest Service’s appeal to the public for volunteers to help preserve and protect Madera Canyon.
The Friends of Madera Canyon assists in advancing historical, scientific, educational, and interpretive programs in Madera Canyon. Our 500-plus household members (about 1,000 individual members) volunteer to contribute on average 10,000 hours per year to guarantee that Madera Canyon remains one of Arizona’s premier destinations for nature lovers.
New challenges continue to face us. There are constant threats to the beauty of the canyon and our programs there. New housing developments and mining proposals can destroy the whole Santa Rita sky island ecosystem. Contact Save the Scenic Santa Ritas or the Sky Island Alliance for more information. Fire has been a realized threat during the past few years. The U.S. Forest Service is under great financial constraints and thereby limited in its support of recreational programs.
Mission Statement
To serve as stewards of Madera Canyon and to keep it open for the enjoyment and education of visitors. Our goals are to:
- Maintain reasonable public access to the Canyon.
- Serve as a steward for the Canyon, its animal and plant life, and its overall ecosystem.
- Offer programs of public education concerning the history and ecology of the Canyon.
Community Outreach
Friends of Madera Canyon participate in a number of activities to provide Adult Environmental Education to the local community, including Speakers, information tables at local Events and the White Elephant Country Fair. Our programs educate on a variety of topics, including public safety in the Canyon, and the importance of respect for Madera Canyon’s fragile ecosystem.
Kids Environmental Educational programs are available to local schools, for indoor and outdoor classrooms.
Is your service organization or club is interested in having a Friends’ member provide an stunning Madera Canyon presentation? Please contact: info@friendsofmaderacanyon.org.