50 of us hiked the Santa Ritas Mountains on March 16, 2024

We hiked the Santa Ritas.

Photo: Our intrepid hikers on March 16! If the Copper World project, Phases 1 and 2, are built, the Valley behind us in this photo would be covered with toxic tailings piles, including the spot where we're standing.

On Saturday, March 16, we were grateful to join the Sierra Club - Grand Canyon (Arizona) Chapter and local organizer Erick Meza with Sierra Club Borderlands they hosted a hike in the Santa Rita Mountains where we learned from experts about the impacts of mining on water and wildlife, as well as the latest news about the proposed mines in the area.

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We met at the Oak Tree trailhead and enjoyed a small section of the beautiful Arizona trail with majestic views in every direction.

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The incredible lineup included Sergio Avila, as well as representatives from the Arizona Trail Association, Patagonia Area Resource Alliance, Great Old Broads for Wilderness, and our very own Save the Scenic Santa Ritas Board President Tom Nelson, VP Steve Brown and Executive Director, Rob Peters.

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We have a long road ahead of us, but days like this remind us of what we’re fighting for, not just against.