W DIAMOND RANCH AGRICULTURAL EASEMENT IN SKULL VALLEY
The W Diamond Ranch conservation easement donation was completed on December 19, 2007. Encompassing 4,296 acres of private ranchland in Skull Valley, Arizona, the W Diamond is an agricultural conservation easement that specifically provides for the protection of agricultural uses, wildlife habitats, and open space in perpetuity.Skull Valley and the W Diamond Ranch hold an important place in the human history of central Arizona. The area's unprecedented growth has endangered many family farms and ranches. Protecting these lands also preserves significant cultural values. The W Diamond shows that conservation easements can be used to help farm and ranch families transfer land to future generations with significant tax benefits. Conservation Purpose: The value of the W Diamond Ranch conservation easement to wildlife and water resource protection cannot be overstated. This expansive ranch contains an array of land types including semi-arid grasslands, chaparral, and verdant riparian areas and cienegas. This diversity supports habitats for numerous animal species, ranging from mountain lion, bobcat and deer to Neotropical birds, and birds of prey.
W Diamond Ranch, Skull Valley
W Diamond Ranch
Agricultural Conservation Easement
Thumb Butte
CENTRAL ARIZONA LAND TRUST
PAYNE AT GRANITE DELLS City of Prescott Open SpaceDonated Conservation Easement in 2004
In 2007 the Payne family donated a conservation easement on 32 acres in the Granite Dells. CALT in partnership with Trust of Public Land worked with the Payne Family to fulfill their desire to preserve a part of their family homestead for future generations of residents and visitors alike. This donation provides for long-term protection of the natural and cultural values embedded in the Granite Dells. The conservation easement applied to the land ensures that it will never be developed and will be maintained as part of Prescott's Open Space Program.Conservation Purpose: To protect and preserve an ecologically diverse and scenic natural area with the striking massive granite outcroppings known as the Granite Dells. Specifically, protection of the Cottonwood-Willow riparian corridor along Granite Creek and the habitat it provides for resident and migratory wildlife.
BOYLE-DEBUSK CONSERVATION EASEMENT
City of Prescott Open Space Preserve
Nestled in the historic Hassayama Mountain Club neighbor on Prescott’s west side, the Boyle-DeBusk Open Space Preserve reminds us of what Prescott was like prior to urban development. This parcel of land, almost 10 acres in size, was owned by Helen Marie Boyle and her family beginning in the 1950s. They spent many summers here enjoying their time at the family cabin that provided a cool respite away from the scorching summer heat of the Phoenix valley. In 2002, Helen and her son Wesley DeBusk asked CALT and the City of Prescott Parks and Recreation to consider options for long-term protection of their beloved property. Their desire to see the family land and cabin preserved resulted in the donation of a conservation easement to CALT and then conveyance of the property to the City of Prescott as open space in 2003. Today visitors can hike through this hidden treasure from the trailhead located just off Lumberlost Lane west of White Spar Road.
Conservation Purpose: To preserve and protect the open space condition of the Boyle-DeBusk property to provide habitat for wildlife, unique riparian plants, wooded hillsides, and the ephemeral drainage that contributes to Granite Creek (a major tributary to the Verde River).
CONSERVATION EASEMENTS
Payne Conservation Easement
Boyle-Debusk Cabin
THUMB BUTTE City of Prescott Open SpaceConservation Easement Dedicated in 1996
In 1989, a bulldozer carved out a home site at the foot of Thumb Butte, a cherished scenic and historic landmark overlooking Prescott. Alarmed citizens contacted the Trust for Public Land which assisted in establishing the first local land trust in northern Arizona in order to “Save the Butte.” Today, the Central Arizona Land Trust’s partnership with the City of Prescott continues this legacy of preservation and stewardship of publicly held open space.
Conservation Purpose: To protect the scenic values of Thumb Butte, a regional landmark containing outstanding recreational opportunities and a rich diversity of native flora and fauna.
Public Access: City of Prescott Parks, Trails, and Open Space maintains a hiking trail.
