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Superstition Area Land Trust (SALT)
The Superstition Area Land Trust (SALT) was founded in 1993. This organization was founded in order to help plan for and protect open space that is State Trust Land adjacent to the Superstition Mountain Wilderness in the Tonto National Forest. Their key words of their mission: Educate, Stewardship and Advocacy.
In 1993 when housing developments started to pop up everywhere along the US 60 Corridor these concerned residents and lovers of open space formed and organization not to stop development, but to advocate for smart development that would preserve important open space, recreation and habitats. Over the years, the group has helped to develop the Lost Goldmine Trail; they have developed a trail stewardship program which helps to keep the trails maintained and managed; and a pathfinders program where volunteers help trail users with directions and other needs they may have. For instance, recently a hiker was out for a hike when their shoe broke. The pathfinder volunteer helped to repair the shoe with duct tape which was a quick fix.
SALT works closely with the Tonto National Forest Service, the City of Apache Junction and Pinal County. The area of the state trust land that they watch over is in unincorporated Pinal County. SALT has helped to provide input the Pinal County’s development and open space planning. While they help to monitor the trails, they do not provide enforcement; they may report things to various authorities but they are not park rangers on the trails.
SALT joined the Superior Chamber of Commerce to learn more about the activities going on in Superior.
“Superior is at the edge of our target area. We are all connected,” explained David Ochs, the acting Vice President and Treasurer. Their board has maintained a neutral position on the Resolution Copper Project but have written NEPA scoping letters to the Forest Service regarding the project.
Like any non-profit group they have an all volunteer board. They raise money through donations, a golf tournament and grants. Their volunteers help with everything from event planning, trail building and maintenance, stewardship and fundraising.
For more information on SALT or learn more about their events and programs visit their website at azsalt.com.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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